Podcaster Joe Rogan questioned the direction of the U.S. military campaign against Iran in a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. Speaking with journalist Annie Jacobsen, Rogan expressed concerns over the conflict’s sustainability and the lack of a clear resolution. Rogan agreed with Jacobsen’s assessment of a ‘fundamental warping’ occurring within the U.S. military.
Rogan said, ‘And also, no clear way to resolve this—at all. And it seems like our stockpiles are running dry. You know, bases are getting blown up by drones.’ He added that the unprovoked military action could make America less safe, potentially giving Iran a reason to retaliate.
Newsweek reached out to the White House for comment. Additional inquiries to the State Department were redirected to the White House.
Rogan’s Criticism of Trump’s Iran Policy
Rogan’s comments add to his criticisms of President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict. Earlier, the podcast host questioned the administration’s strategy, labeling it nonsensical. During his discussion with Jacobsen, Rogan pointed to alleged drone attacks and concerns about dwindling weapon stockpiles as exposing vulnerabilities in U.S. military readiness.
Robert Y. Shapiro, a professor at Columbia, commented to Newsweek, ‘Normally I would say Rogan’s comments could have an impact of a couple percentage points or more on Trump’s support among his base.’
Shapiro considered Rogan’s comments a sign that Trump’s handling of the war has failed according to plan.
Public Opinion on Trump’s Iran Policy
Public support for Trump’s Iran policy has diminished. A Quinnipiac University poll shows 34% support for military action against Iran, while 60% oppose it. This reflects the highest opposition and lowest approval since initial polling began in March.
Among independents, 26% support military action, while 69% oppose it. Trump’s approval rating on Iran stands at 28%, with 66% disapproving. A previous poll showed a slight decrease in approval and an increase in disapproval ratings.
A YouGov/The Economist poll found Trump’s Iran policy approval at 31%, with a 59% disapproval rate. A June poll showed a 34% approval score and 55% disapproval.
Rogan’s criticism holds political weight as he has supported Trump in the past. Trump appeared on his podcast before the 2024 election.
Rogan previously remarked that the military actions against Iran ‘just didn’t make any sense unless we’re acting on someone else’s interest, like particularly Israel’s interests.’
Rogan highlighted a sentiment of betrayal among voters, noting Trump ran on a promise of no more wars, leading to conflict with unclear motives.
Rogan’s critique reflects broader debates among conservatives and independents about military alignment with Trump’s anti-war promises.
With public opinion divided, Rogan’s view that there is ‘no clear way to resolve this’ resonates beyond his audience.
Ongoing Military Tensions
Despite diplomatic efforts, the situation with Iran remains unstable. AFP noted no new U.S. strikes overnight, yet Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps targeted additional oil tankers, and Kuwait reported intercepting drones, highlighting regional tension risks.
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