CONFLICTED

Nour Salam, a human rights and women's rights activist from Suwayda, Syria, shares her insights on the complexities facing the Druze community amid ongoing violence. She discusses her family’s struggles under the Assad regime and her involvement in the revolution, revealing the evolving identity of the Druze amidst conflict. Nour sheds light on the response to ISIS attacks and the emergence of local factions, as well as the intricate relationship between the Druze and Israel. She envisions a future of governance and unity for Syria, despite the prevailing challenges.

Listeners dive into U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the real impact of 'Bunker Buster' bombs. The discussion veers towards conditions needed for a Middle East peace deal, including Iran's nuclear ambitions. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is examined alongside the rise of Israeli-backed forces. Complex negotiations within Syria and Lebanon point to possible non-aggression pacts despite ideological barriers. The podcast also expands to the troubling situation in the Sahel region, where jihadist groups are increasingly gaining power.

Dive into the harrowing insights of a personal journey through the Syrian Civil War. Aimen shares his heart-wrenching story of his nephew, Ibrahim, who chose to fight at just 19, exploring the deep emotional impacts of such radicalization. The discussion broadens to cover Syria's post-war challenges, including food security and power struggles, while also reflecting on the role of foreign fighters and the complexities of integrating them into society. Finally, the conversation expands to Africa's evolving position in a multipolar world, highlighting globalization's ripple effects.

In July 2005, London faced an unprecedented tragedy as four coordinated bombings transformed a typical morning into chaos. Survivors recount their harrowing experiences while a former jihadist turned spy shares insights on the implications for national security. The contrasting emotions of celebration and fear highlight the day's impact on the city. Emergency responders displayed incredible courage amidst the devastation, fostering unity in the face of adversity. This poignant narrative sets the stage for exploring the long aftermath of the attacks and the evolution of domestic terrorism in the UK.

The discussion dives into the devastating 7/7 terrorist attacks in London, examining its profound impact on security, societal integration, and local perceptions of terrorism. Insightful interviews with security officials reveal how the event reshaped national security policies. The host also highlights the unique perspective of Aimen Dean, a former spy for Al-Qaeda, who played a crucial role in the UK’s response to these threats. This introspective narrative offers a gripping look at two decades of evolving security challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Nour Salam, a Druze human rights and women's rights activist from Suwayda, shares her compelling insights. She reflects on the unique identity of the Druze community amid the challenges of the Syrian civil war. Nour recounts her family's struggles under the Assad regime and highlights her activism during the revolution. The conversation delves into the complexities of local power dynamics, the impact of ISIS, and the ongoing quest for autonomy and stability in Suwayda. Her personal stories amplify the human experiences behind the war.

Dive into the riveting showdown between the Ayatollah and the Shah during the 1979 Iranian Revolution. Explore the intense struggle between modernization and tradition that shaped Iran's future. Discover the indoctrination of children in Qom, steeped in apocalyptic fervor. Unpack the Shah's dilemmas as he attempted to modernize amidst rising dissent. Delve into the complexities of leadership lineage in Islam, and see how the Mahdi concept influenced post-revolutionary governance. Witness the historical roots that stirred this seismic shift in the Middle East.

Recent military actions have escalated tensions between Israel and Iran, with Israel’s strategic strikes targeting Iranian nuclear sites. The podcast dives into the implications of Operation Rising Lion and its potential to disrupt Iran's nuclear ambitions while debating the likelihood of regime change in Iran. The discussion also highlights shifting dynamics between regional powers, particularly Saudi Arabia's evolving stance. With the looming question of Iran's counterattacks, the geopolitical landscape remains on edge.

Wassim Nasr, a journalist from France 24 and fellow at the Soufan Centre, returns to discuss Syria's evolving landscape. He tackles the recent lifting of sanctions and its implications for President Ahmad Al-Shara's government. The conversation digs deep into Franco-Syrian relations, while exploring how regional dynamics with Turkey and the remnants of ISIS are impacting governance and stability. Nasr also sheds light on the complexities of post-war society, particularly the social dynamics amidst the lingering shadows of radicalism.

Rania Ali, a filmmaker and public speaker, shares her gripping experiences living in Raqqa during the rise of ISIS. She recounts her childhood in a historically rich city that turned into a hotbed of conflict. Rania bravely details her involvement in protests against oppressive regimes, the liberation by the Free Syrian Army, and the harsh realities of daily life under ISIS's brutal control. She highlights the resilience of her community, especially women who resisted oppression, and shares her harrowing escape amidst chaos.