The Take

In this discussion, Dr. Gabor Maté, a retired physician and author renowned for his work on trauma and addiction, reflects on his journey from a Holocaust survivor embracing Zionism to a critic of Israeli policies. He discusses how collective Jewish trauma has shaped Zionism and the impacts of historical trauma on current events, particularly regarding Gaza. Maté interrogates the myth of Jewish nonresistance during the Holocaust, highlights the complex views on dehumanization, and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Palestinian voices in the ongoing conflict.

Hind Khoudary, an Al Jazeera correspondent based in Gaza, shares harrowing updates on recovery efforts in Khan Yunis. Kimberly Halkett provides insights into U.S. perspectives on the ongoing ceasefire. Ibrahim al-Khalili discusses the alarming humanitarian impact of unexploded ordnance, revealing the danger it poses, especially to children. Zeina Khodr describes recent confrontations along the Lebanese border and the Lebanese army's directive to respond to Israeli actions, highlighting escalating tensions in the region.

Alex Gatopoulos, Al Jazeera's Defence Editor, and Gerhard Mangott, Professor of International Relations, delve into the nuclear tensions surrounding Putin’s rhetoric. They break down the types of nuclear weapons and discuss potential scenarios for their use, including battlefield strikes in Ukraine. They explore the implications of nuclear engagement and how it could escalate rapidly. Mangott warns that while immediate nuclear use seems unlikely, a catastrophic military defeat could change that calculus, underscoring the high stakes in global security.

Dalia Mohamed Abdel-Munaym, a Sudanese political analyst and advocate residing in Egypt, shares her insights on the recent fall of el-Fasher to the Rapid Support Forces. She recounts her personal exile experience and the ignored warnings from the diaspora. Dalia elaborates on the geographical significance of el-Fasher and how local dynamics contributed to the army's loss. She also highlights the RSF's evolution, their financing through gold smuggling, and the scale of atrocities, calling for meaningful international action amidst skepticism about accountability.

Robian Williams, a dedicated broadcast journalist from Nationwide News Network, shares her firsthand experience during Hurricane Melissa. She recounts her terrifying survival story, detailing rescues and immediate community needs. The conversation covers the devastating impact on Jamaica’s southwestern parishes, the vulnerability of coastal towns, and the extensive damage to hospitals. Robian discusses search efforts for the missing, power outages affecting 500,000 people, and the government's efforts to support both tourists and locals equally amid this crisis.

In this captivating discussion, Anthony Conwright, a freelance journalist from Harlem, delves into the hard-hitting reality of AIPAC's financial ties to Black US politicians. He critiques the Congressional Black Caucus, questioning its commitment to represent Black Americans while receiving pro-Israel funding. Conwright discusses the historical evolution of the CBC, its relationship with Gaza, and how political pressures shape their stances. He warns that reliance on AIPAC funding could silence ethical positions, risking the caucus's progressive credibility.

In this discussion, Jeffrey J. Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University and expert on Japanese politics, analyzes the challenges faced by Japan's first female leader, Sanae Takaichi, as she meets with Trump. Hall highlights Takaichi’s unique rise to power and her admiration for Thatcher, revealing her nationalistic tactics. He delves into U.S.-Japan relations, potential trade negotiations, and public sentiment on China. With looming defense spending promises and economic crises, Hall offers insight into Takaichi’s political longevity amid these pressures.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Sawsan Zaher, a Palestinian human rights lawyer from Haifa, shares her insights on the complex emotions faced by Palestinians during a fragile ceasefire. She examines the Israeli public's perceptions and narratives surrounding ongoing violence and dissent. Zaher highlights the implications of annexation efforts and settler violence, while emphasizing the urgent need for accountability under international law. Her reflections on the future for Palestinians reveal deep-rooted legal inequalities and the ongoing struggle for rights.

This episode features Tareq Abu Azzoum, a field reporter in Gaza, and Nida Ibrahim, an Al Jazeera correspondent covering settler violence. They delve into the grim realities of ongoing attacks in Gaza, detailing new killings and mass burials. Nida highlights organized violence during the olive harvest in the West Bank, where settlers target farmers with brutality. Nour Odeh contributes insights on U.S. diplomatic pressure aimed at maintaining a ceasefire, revealing tensions between U.S. officials and Israeli leadership.

Youth across Nigeria mobilize against police brutality, igniting the #EndSARS movement. Personal accounts reveal the harsh realities of SARS's abuses, sparking outrage nationwide. A viral live stream brought global attention, while economic struggles intensified their fight. Eyewitnesses recount the tragic events at Lekki Tollgate, which transformed protesters' resolve. Mistrust of government reforms fuels their ongoing demands for accountability and change.