The Rest Is Classified 107. Hunting Al-Qaeda: The War On Terror (Ep 2)
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Dec 10, 2025 After 9/11, the U.S. pursued dangerous Al Qaeda operatives, leading to a complex situation involving a jihadist-turned-agent. The podcast dives into the controversial recruitment of Humam al-Balawi by Jordanian intelligence, exploring the challenges of trusting someone with a hostile past. Hear about Balawi's integration with the Taliban, his risky attempts to gather intelligence, and how his connections escalated CIA interests. The narrative unfolds the precarious balance between operational excitement and inherent risks in the War on Terror.
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Recruitment Through Care And Cash
- Humam al-Balawi sold his car and became increasingly religious after interrogation, showing deep behavioral change.
- Ali bin Zaid courted him with meals, groceries, and promises of work and money to recruit him as an asset.
CTC Takes The Case, Changing Oversight
- The case shifted from Jordanian control into the CIA's Counterterrorism Center once it promised access to Pakistan.
- CTC involvement meant faster operations and different oversight dynamics than Cold War-style CI checks.
From Blogger To Tribal Medic
- Balawi used his Abu Dujana persona to enter South Waziristan and pose as a medic, giving him instant credibility.
- He lived in Wana and reported back via internet cafés while treating drone strike victims.
