Podcaster and UFC commentator Joe Rogan has voiced strong criticism of President Donald Trump‘s recent decision to bomb Iranian sites, calling the move a dangerous escalation that could have far-reaching consequences for every American. During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience with comedian Bryan Callen, the podcast host discussed Trump’s foreign policy approach and the potential risks of military action in the Middle East.
While Rogan acknowledged Trump’s accomplishments in brokering peace agreements—including the recent release of Israeli hostages from Gaza and multiple peace deals between African nations—he expressed concern about the use of military force. “I think you had to,” Rogan said when discussing the Iran bombing, though his tone suggested unease with the decision.
The discussion comes at a time when Trump has been widely praised for negotiating the release of all 20 living Israeli hostages held in Gaza for two years. Rogan gave Trump credit for this diplomatic achievement, noting that the president “had to give up a lot” to secure their freedom, including the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners. “Whatever Trump had to do to do this,” Rogan said, acknowledging the difficult negotiations involved.
However, Rogan’s concerns about Trump’s military decisions reflect a broader anxiety about America’s role in Middle Eastern conflicts. He pointed to the long history of U.S. involvement in regime change operations, referencing a controversial memo allegedly detailing plans to overthrow governments in multiple countries. While Rogan’s guest Coleman Hughes later challenged the veracity of this memo in another podcast appearance, the underlying concern about American military interventionism remained.
The conversation also touched on the military-industrial complex and financial interests that profit from war. Rogan suggested that “this country is bought and paid for by huge financial interests who would like us to go bomb places because they make bombs.” This critique cuts across party lines, as Rogan noted similar issues during the Obama administration, including increased drone strikes and the prosecution of whistleblowers.
Rogan emphasized that while military strength is necessary—”you have to have weapons because the rest of the world is f**ked”—the goal should always be to avoid conflict. He celebrated Trump’s stated core principle of “no more war,” suggesting this approach represents a significant departure from previous administrations. Yet the bombing of Iran appears to contradict this philosophy, creating tension between Trump’s rhetoric and actions.
Rogan has consistently advocated for personal responsibility and skepticism of government overreach while supporting diplomatic solutions to international conflicts. While many conservatives applaud Trump’s willingness to use military force, voices like Rogan’s remind Americans that such actions carry serious risks that could impact everyone, regardless of political affiliation.