CONFLICTED

Jakub Jaitzai, a former Slovak Army officer and volunteer infantryman in Ukraine, shares gripping insights from his 18-month frontline experience. He reveals the stark realities of trench warfare, blending fear, boredom, and adrenaline. Jakub contrasts NATO training with Ukrainian military realities and discusses the challenges of modern warfare, including the role of drones. He critiques popular misconceptions in Western media and reflects on the morale and motivations of Ukrainian fighters, all while contemplating the complex dynamics of potential peace negotiations with Russia.

The hosts dive into the Nativity story, comparing accounts from the Gospels and the Qur’an. They explore the identities of the Magi, debating their origins as Zoroastrian priests or nomads. Differences in the nativity narratives reveal unique theological meanings. A controversial theory suggests local Christian traditions influenced the Qur’anic version. They also discuss Jesus' 'unfinished business' in Islam, focusing on his return and the battle against the Antichrist. The conversation concludes with festive banter and warm wishes for the holidays.

Geary Rajendran, a political and financial analyst based in Singapore, shares insights on the 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy. He highlights its departure from the old liberal order and the shift towards prioritizing economic security and industrial competition, especially with China. Rajendran argues that the U.S. is moving to deepen economic ties in the Middle East while reconsidering Russia as a potential ally. The discussion also covers NATO’s burden-sharing challenges in Europe and the implications of multipolarity in global governance.

Aimen Dean, an ex-Al Qaeda jihadi turned MI6 spy, shares his unique insights into Middle Eastern geopolitics. He discusses the complexities of forecasting, emphasizing the unpredictability of Black Swan events. Aimen predicts that a potential peace in Ukraine could shift U.S. focus towards the Gulf. He foresees a 70% chance of U.S. involvement in Yemen against the Houthis and warns of renewed hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. With Iran's nuclear ambitions at play, Aimen highlights the strategic risks facing the region by 2026.

Lorenzo Vidino, Director of the Program on Extremism at George Washington University and a leading expert on the Muslim Brotherhood, shares his insights on this influential ideological movement. He discusses the Brotherhood's entry into the U.S. in the 1950s, the formation of early networks, and the controversies surrounding organizations like CAIR. Vidino emphasizes the differences between extremism and terrorism, critiques the Brotherhood’s governance plans, and highlights the significance of its links to Hamas, while urging a nuanced understanding of its impact on U.S. politics.

Discover the game-changing implications of Saudi Arabia's recent rare-earth discoveries and how they influence U.S.-Saudi relations. Explore the tensions between India and Pakistan, and the potential for Kashmir talks involving major powers. Delve into Afghanistan's ongoing humanitarian challenges and Iran's vulnerabilities amid domestic unrest. Unpack how these geopolitical dynamics shape the future of the region and the delicate balance of power among nations.

Tom Tugendhat, a Conservative MP and former Security Minister with a rich background in Arabic and Middle East affairs, shares insights on the Muslim Brotherhood. He discusses his experiences during the Arab Spring and the Brotherhood's infiltration in the UK. Tugendhat reveals institutional blind spots within British security and why the government struggles to address the group's influence. He also explores the complexities of dealing with the Brotherhood legally while emphasizing the need for financial transparency and protecting youth from radical influences.

The hosts celebrate the return with a bold new vision and a recap of their impactful journey. They address the rise of multipolarity, discussing China's innovative shift and its implications for global alliances. The conversation critiques media polarization and emphasizes the importance of nuanced perspectives. Aimen and Thomas reflect on their core mission to complicate conflicts and highlight the show's educational value. Exciting new formats are introduced, promising more engaging content for their global community of listeners.

Martin Plaut, a distinguished journalist and author, shares his expertise on Ethiopia’s Tigray War and its significance for the Horn of Africa. He reflects on his upbringing in apartheid South Africa and his journey into journalism amid political activism. The conversation delves into the complex history of African slavery, highlighting misconceptions and the extensive regional dynamics involved. Plaut explains the Eritrean influence on the Tigray conflict and the humanitarian catastrophes stemming from it, revealing the fragile nature of ceasefire agreements and the region's ongoing instability.

In this engaging conversation, T.V. Paul, a Distinguished Professor at McGill University and expert on international relations, discusses India's emerging role in a multipolar world. He introduces the concept of 'soft balancing' as a diplomatic alternative to military alliances. Paul explores the dual nature of American hegemony, the impact of globalization on the global middle class, and India's quest for recognition amid regional tensions. He also addresses the future of the liberal international order and the importance of coexistence in a changing global landscape.