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
20 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.
20 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 54min
How Pakistan’s Generals Sold Out Dr Aafia | Clive Stafford Smith
Clive Stafford Smith, a dedicated human rights lawyer and campaigner, delves into the harrowing case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. He uncovers the troubling role of Pakistani authorities in her abduction and the devastating impact on her family. Clive shares shocking allegations of torture and new evidence revealing state complicity. The conversation also highlights legal obstacles Aafia faces and the ongoing intimidation against her family. Listeners learn about efforts to reunite Aafia with her children, and how they can contribute to this crucial cause.
50 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 1h 3min
Is the Kaaba safe in Saudi Hands? | Omar Abdulaziz
Omar Abdulaziz, a Saudi dissident and activist, shares his experiences challenging the Saudi regime and its human rights abuses. He reveals the threats to the Kaaba's safety under current leadership and critiques Vision 2030 as a facade for consolidating power rather than genuine reform. The conversation delves into the regime's manipulation of religious narratives, the repression of dissent, and the chilling effects of surveillance, including his own experience with Pegasus spyware. Despite these challenges, Omar expresses hope for change and the possibility of returning to Saudi Arabia.
11 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 14min
Judaism Is Not Zionism | Rabbi Elhanan Beck
Rabbi Elhanan Beck, an Orthodox Jewish rabbi from Palestine, offers a unique critique of Zionism and advocates for Palestinian rights. He discusses the distinction between Judaism and Zionism, arguing that the former is a religious faith while the latter is a secular nationalism. Rabbi Beck highlights how Muslim-majority countries historically protected Jews and criticizes the conflation of anti-Zionism with antisemitism. Ultimately, he envisions a post-Zionist Palestine where Jews and Palestinians coexist peacefully.
7 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 13min
This is Why AIPAC Had Sami Hamdi Arrested
Sami Hamdi, a political analyst and commentator specializing in US politics and Middle East policy, dives into the heated debate of America First versus Israel First. He passionately argues that Americans should prioritize their domestic issues over foreign lobbying efforts. Sami highlights how social media has reshaped public sympathy towards Palestinians, influencing the views of prominent figures. He also points out politicians distancing themselves from AIPAC amid changing voter sentiments, framing the upcoming elections as pivotal for America's foreign policy direction.
