
The Rest Is Classified
Enter the secretive world of spies, espionage, and covert operations. Hosted by former CIA analyst turned spy novelist, David McCloskey, and veteran security correspondent, Gordon Corera, this podcast unravels real-life spy stories, intelligence secrets, and the hidden power struggles shaping global events. From Cold War espionage to modern-day intelligence agencies like the CIA, MI6, and Mossad, explore the world of double agents, classified missions, and the shadowy figures who operate in them. Whether you're a true crime addict, a thriller fan, or fascinated by spy stories, this is the show for you.
Latest episodes

24 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 10min
Former Head of MI5: 7/7, Putin, and Al-Qaeda (Eliza Manningham-Buller)
Delve into the intense world of MI5 as former head Eliza Manningham-Buller shares her firsthand experiences during the 7/7 attacks. Discover the shocking revelations about blind spots in intelligence and the emotional weight these events carry. Hear insights from a tense meeting with Vladimir Putin that shed light on national security. The discussion also uncovers the complex ties between Al-Qaeda, terrorism, and global geopolitical dynamics. Finally, explore how the legacy of 7/7 transformed MI5's operations in the fight against modern threats.

10 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 37min
65. Terror Strikes London: The Forgotten Attack (Ep 4)
Discover the gripping aftermath of the July 7th bombings in London, where a second wave of terror was narrowly avoided. Dive into the intense investigation using phone records and forensic clues, highlighting a dramatic manhunt for fleeing bombers. Learn about the tragic miscommunication that led to an innocent death, and unravel the connection to a notorious al-Qaeda figure. Finally, reflect on the ongoing legacy of these events on the UK’s counter-terrorism efforts and the moral dilemmas faced by intelligence agencies.

21 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 37min
64. Terror Strikes London: The Al-Qaeda Mastermind (Ep 3)
A chilling transformation takes place as two British men evolve from sympathizers to would-be suicide bombers. Their journey into radicalization unfolds in the lawless tribal areas of Pakistan, guided by a mysterious figure with al-Qaeda ties. The podcast reveals insights into the covert meetings and bomb-making training that prepare them for their deadly mission. Meanwhile, MI5 grapples with the complexities of tracking these threats and the challenge of preventing future attacks in a community grappling with extremism.

29 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 36min
63. Terror Strikes London: What did MI5 know? (Ep 2)
Dive into the shadowy world of intelligence failures leading up to the London bombings. Discover how MI5 had names and faces of the attackers long before the tragedy. The insights reveal a tangled web of missed opportunities, outdated practices, and critical tip-offs that could have altered the course of events. Hear about the complex ties to Pakistan and the crucial intelligence gaps that left authorities in the dark. This gripping narrative unravels both the motivations behind the attacks and the systemic flaws in counter-terrorism surveillance.

70 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 41min
62. Terror Strikes London: 7/7 (Ep 1)
On a bright summer morning, London's celebration over winning the 2012 Olympics quickly turned to horror as devastating explosions rocked the city. The podcast delves into the chaos as MI5 grappled with the unfolding crisis, raising questions about possible intelligence failures. As the investigation progressed, it revealed the shocking truth: the attackers were from within Britain. The episode not only recounts the tragic events of 7/7 but also explores the broader implications for national security and counterterrorism efforts.

21 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 42min
61. The Truth About UFOs: Whistleblowers, Warplanes, and Worlds Unknown (Ep 4)
Discover the shift in the UFO narrative as recent government reports unveil hundreds of UAP sightings, leaving experts confounded. Delve into U.S. Navy pilots' incredible testimonies and the implications for national security. A notable Chinese spy balloon incident raises tensions and questions. Explore the blurred lines between next-gen tech and potential non-human intelligence. Plus, enjoy a lighthearted discussion on public skepticism and Hollywood's last-minute casting decisions in 'Jaws'. It's an engaging mix of mystery and humor!

66 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 35min
60. The Truth About UFOs: The CIA's Alien Obsession (Ep 3)
In 1955, a senator's sighting of a mysterious orb sparked intrigue into the CIA's UFO investigations. The agency, fearing Soviet technology more than alien life, launched secretive programs that only stoked public fascination with conspiracies. The discussion reveals how the iconic U-2 spy plane inadvertently linked to UFO sightings, fueling a narrative of secrecy and cover-ups. Explore an unexpected UFO incident involving a Chicago tape and how Cold War tensions shaped perceptions of extraterrestrial encounters.

29 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 38min
59. The Truth About UFOs: Alien Sightings (Ep 2)
Dive into the bizarre world of the Roswell incident, where not just one but multiple alien crash sites allegedly emerged in the 1970s. Eyewitnesses share wild tales of small, strange beings with big heads and no bodies left behind. Explore the intriguing connections to 1950s military balloon experiments and the misinterpretations that sparked UFO hysteria. Discover how cultural attitudes towards aliens differ globally and how governmental secrecy has only fueled the fascination with extraterrestrial life.

55 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 36min
58. The Truth About UFOs: The Roswell Incident (Ep 1)
In 1947, the Roswell incident ignited a worldwide fascination with UFOs, starting with sensational headlines and eyewitness accounts of a flying saucer. The discussion dives into the tension between official narratives and conspiracy theories, revealing how government secrecy fueled speculation. The podcast also examines the cultural impact of UFOs, from early media frenzy to their depiction in films and shows. Listeners will explore the connections between military experiments, espionage, and this enduring mystery that continues to captivate imaginations.

132 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 48min
57. Why Israel Attacked Iran
Tensions mount as Israel strikes Iran, escalating their long-simmering conflict. The assassination of key nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, using advanced technologies, underscores the drastic tactics Israel employs to counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Delve into the ethics of targeted killings amidst murky moral dilemmas and the role of Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The dynamics of this shadow war are explored, revealing the complexities of modern espionage, military strategy, and the balance between covert operations and direct action.