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Aimen Dean

Former MI6 spy who spent eight years infiltrating Al-Qaeda. Author of "Nine Lives: My Time as the MI6’s Top Spy Inside Al-Qaeda."

Top 5 podcasts with Aimen Dean

Ranked by the Snipd community
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17 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 1h 12min

The Gaza Peace Deal: Behind the Scenes with Aimen Dean

Aimen Dean, a former intelligence and counterterrorism operative, returns to discuss the recent Gaza peace deal. He reveals the behind-the-scenes diplomacy involving Saudi Arabia and France, aimed at preventing Israel's West Bank annexation. Aimen analyzes Israel's military actions and the implications of a controversial airstrike in Doha. The conversation covers nuclear concerns with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the future of Hamas, and the vital role of technocratic governance in Gaza's reconstruction. It's a deep dive into a ceasefire that may just be a temporary pause in ongoing tensions.
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17 snips
Jul 30, 2020 • 1h 24min

384: Aimen Dean | Nine Lives of a Spy Inside Al-Qaeda Part Two

Aimen Dean, a former Al-Qaeda bomb-maker turned MI6 spy and author of 'Nine Lives,' shares his gripping journey. He discusses the radicalization that led him to extremism, his early doubts spurred by witnessing tragic violence, and the intricate world of financing terrorism. Dean reveals chilling insights on torture techniques and the complexities of espionage, including near-death experiences and the ethical dilemmas spies face. This candid reflection provides a unique glimpse into the life of a man who once served both sides of a dangerous conflict.
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6 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 46min

The Spy Who Betrayed Bin Laden (Encore) | Aimen Dean talks about his time as MI6's Top Spy Inside Al-Qaeda | 5

Aimen Dean, a former MI6 spy with eight years inside Al-Qaeda and author of "Nine Lives," shares his gripping journey from undercover operative to counter-terrorism. He reveals why he chose to work for Britain over the U.S. and reflects on the harrowing moment his cover was blown. Dean humorously contrasts real-life espionage with its glamorous portrayals in media. He also delves into the emotional toll on spies and the delicate balance of compassion in hostile environments, while navigating the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life.
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5 snips
Jul 28, 2020 • 1h 25min

383: Aimen Dean | Nine Lives of a Spy Inside Al-Qaeda Part One

Aimen Dean, a former MI6 spy and author, reveals his harrowing journey from respected Al-Qaeda bomb-maker to double agent. He discusses the radicalization that shaped his early years, including a brutal massacre he witnessed. Aimen shares insights on the logistics of financing terrorism and his chilling experiences in Afghanistan, including his allegiance to Osama bin Laden. He also reflects on the moral complexities of war and personal loss, providing an unfiltered look at his life undercover within a terrorist organization.
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Aug 6, 2025 • 2h 9min

Episode 34: My life in Al-Qaeda, a conversation with Aimen Dean

Aimen Dean, a former Al-Qaeda member turned MI6 spy, shares his gripping transformation from a fervent jihadi to a government informant. He discusses his recruitment by Bin Laden and his disillusionment with jihadist ideology. The conversation dives into his childhood experiences in Saudi Arabia, the geopolitical influences in Bosnia, and the complexities of Middle Eastern politics. Dean also offers insights on modern Islam and the potential for peace in Gaza, questioning Western governance approaches and suggesting a return to traditional monarchy structures.

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