The Thinking Muslim
Muhammad Jalal
A platform for the elevation of thinking and a call to enlightened action.Linktreehttps://linktr.ee/thinkingmuslimpodcastSupport Our WorkBecome a member: Sustain the podcast with a monthly contribution and enjoy exclusive benefits - https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipMake a one‑time donation: Help us continue producing high‑quality content - https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/donateStay ConnectedNewsletter - Subscribe to host Muhammad Jalal’s reflections and show updates - https://jalalayn.substack.comMerchandise: Grab our signature Thinking Muslim mug - https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/merchFollow UsWebsite & archive: https://www.thinkingmuslim.comX (Twitter): https://x.com/thinking_muslimLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-thinking-muslim/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Thinking-Muslim-Podcast-105790781361490Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingmuslimpodcast/Telegram: https://t.me/thinkingmuslimConnect with the HostX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/jalalaynInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalalayns/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 16, 2026 • 1h 12min
The Ceasefire Delusion | Daniel Levy
Daniel Levy, a former Israeli negotiator and current critic of Israeli policy, provides a compelling insider view of the Gaza ceasefire dynamics. He discusses the myth of the ceasefire amidst ongoing violence and military control, critiques the UN's 20-point plan for its implications on Palestinian rights, and argues Israel's actions suggest a form of ethnic cleansing. Levy also sheds light on the impacts of U.S. politics on Israel, the need for accountability in Gaza, and the radicalization within Israeli society, urging for Palestinian resilience and coordinated leadership.
97 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 2h 8min
Power Play: Venezuela, the New MBS and Trump’s World | Sami Hamdi
Sami Hamdi, a political analyst specializing in Middle East affairs, dives into the complexities of global politics. He explores Nicolás Maduro's kidnapping in the context of U.S. intervention, revealing the interconnectedness of oil geopolitics and electoral calculations. Hamdi also examines the evolving Saudi-UAE dynamics, questioning whether Mohammed bin Salman is emerging as an independent leader. The conversation is rich with insights on Iran, Trump's transactional politics, and Israel's recognition of Somaliland, making for a compelling discussion on shifting power dynamics.
29 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 58min
The Saudi–UAE Rift: Yemen and the End of an Alliance? | Dr Andreas Krieg
Dr. Andreas Krieg, an expert in Middle Eastern politics, dives into the complex dynamics between Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Yemen. He highlights Yemen's strategic significance and the origins of the Saudi–UAE split due to diverging goals. The discussion reveals how the UAE's agile, networked approach contrasts with Saudi Arabia's hierarchical methods. Krieg also examines the implications of emerging alliances, such as the UAE-Israel axis, and reflects on possible regional realignments, revealing the shifting tides of power in the Gulf.
59 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 10min
Can Muslims live up to Malcolm X's radical legacy? | Professor Butch Ware
In this enlightening discussion, Professor Bilal Butch Ware, a scholar and activist known for his insights on race and political strategy, reflects on the radical legacy of Malcolm X. He delves into Malcolm's evolving ideas on justice and political action, emphasizing the importance of moral clarity in activism. Ware critiques traditional party politics, urging Muslims to embrace independent movements for effective change. He also warns against the hidden dangers of white liberalism and explores the necessity of building multiracial solidarity in the fight against systemic oppression.
34 snips
Dec 27, 2025 • 1h 37min
Why is the British government arresting thousands of grandmothers? - Dr Asim Qureshi
Dr. Asim Qureshi, Research Director at CAGE International and a passionate human rights advocate, delves into the complexities of Palestine Action. He discusses the UK’s role in suppressing pro-Palestine activism through legal and police measures. Asim sheds light on the tactics employed by activists and the impact of direct action on companies like Elbit Systems. He also critiques the use of terrorism laws to silence voices and emphasizes the moral obligation of British Muslims amid ongoing global injustices.
8 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 1h 25min
Is Saudi-Israeli normalisation over? | Dr. Abdullah Salman Alaoudh
Dr. Abdullah Salman Alaoudh, a Saudi dissident and son of jailed scholar Sheikh Salman Al-Auda, dives into the complexities of Saudi politics and regional relations. He discusses the facade of reform under the Saudi regime, emphasizing a disconnect between governmental rhetoric on Palestine and popular sentiment. Abdullah critiques MBS's approach to Syria and the risks of rising authoritarianism, while reflecting on his father's plight. He also addresses the superficial nature of Vision 2030 and the geopolitical implications of Israel's actions, warning of mounting dissent amidst ongoing repression.
10 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 1h 10min
Why Shadi Hamid Defends American Power | Hats Off with Imam Tom
Shadi Hamid, a political analyst and author of The Case for American Power, dives into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy. He discusses why he believes America is still worth defending and the regenerative potential of democracies. The conversation explores how moral objectives require political power, America's appeal to immigrants, and the impact of U.S. hegemony on global democracy. Shadi also tackles criticisms from the Muslim community and highlights the importance of civic engagement for policy change.
34 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 50min
How Big Tech Feeds Israel’s War Machine | Ibtihal Aboussad
Ibtihal Aboussad, a software engineer and activist, takes a bold stand against Microsoft for its role in enabling surveillance in Gaza. She shares her viral protest experience and highlights the company's use of Azure for targeting and surveillance. Ibtihal emphasizes the need for ethical tech practices and encourages building alternative Muslim tech ecosystems. She also discusses the importance of collective action within the Muslim community to oppose complicity in systems of oppression.
57 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 56min
The Bloodied Emirates II: How the UAE failed in Sudan with Dr. Andreas Krieg
Dr. Andreas Krieg, an expert on Middle Eastern and African geopolitics, dissects the UAE's controversial role in Sudan's turmoil. He delves into the UAE's covert networks supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), exposing the connections to arms and financing via Dubai. Krieg further reveals the complex dynamics between the RSF and Sudan's army, tracing their brutal history and the ethnic violence it perpetrates. His insights shed light on the UAE’s strategic ambitions and the implications for regional stability.
50 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 1h 40min
Exclusive: Sami Hamdi Speaks After His ICE Detention
Sami Hamdi, a British journalist and activist focused on Palestinian issues, shares his gripping experiences after being detained by ICE. He discusses how the U.S. political landscape has shifted towards an America-first versus Israel-first divide. Sami elaborates on the role of pro-Israel lobbying in shaping policies and reflects on the conditions inside ICE facilities. He highlights the collective community efforts that led to his release and calls for support for others still detained, emphasizing the importance of mobilizing for justice.
