The Take

Join Reverend Munther Isaac, an Evangelical Lutheran Pastor and academic dean from Bethlehem, as he discusses the deep significance of Easter for Palestinian Christians. He highlights the parallels between Jesus’ crucifixion and the ongoing Israeli oppression faced by his community. Munther shares personal stories of resilience amid political struggles, the challenges of access to holy sites, and the role of religious leaders in advocating for justice. His insights reflect a poignant call for global Christian solidarity and a message of hope against adversity.

Nayna Gupta, Policy Director at the American Immigration Council, dives deep into the troubling deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who faced removal despite a protective court order. They discuss the alarming tactics employed by immigration authorities, including dubious gang affiliation claims. Gupta highlights the dangerous realities for Garcia in a notorious Salvadoran prison and critiques the political motivations behind U.S. deportation policies. The conversation raises vital concerns about legal transparency and immigrant safety during a constitutional crisis.

Walid Habbas, a researcher at the Palestinian Forum for Israeli Studies and a former prisoner, shares gripping insights into the plight of Palestinians in Israeli prisons. He discusses the alarming practice of detaining individuals without charges, including children. Habbas highlights the traumatic experiences endured by inmates, particularly the impact on youth like Ahmad Manazra. He also addresses the stark disparities in treatment under military law, emphasizing the significant human rights concerns and the political implications for Palestinian unity and rights.

Albert Mokhiber, an attorney specializing in international and immigration law, shares vital insights for travelers heading to the U.S. He discusses the harsh realities at borders, including intense scrutiny and unjust detentions. Mokhiber emphasizes the implications of increased device searches and the rising trend of student visa revocations. He highlights the importance of understanding legal rights, maintaining personal privacy, and underscores the need for a compassionate approach to immigration amidst evolving travel requirements.

Hiba Morgan, an Al Jazeera correspondent with two years of frontline experience in reporting Sudan’s civil war, shares her unique insights. She discusses the recent military shifts in Khartoum and the escalating violence in Darfur, particularly concerning displaced populations. Hiba also addresses the emotional resilience of civilians celebrating small victories amidst turmoil. Delving into the Sudanese government’s accusations against the UAE, she reveals the complex interplay of foreign involvement in the conflict. The podcast gives a raw look at the journalist’s struggle and the human cost of war.

Join Jonah Valdez, a reporter at The Intercept specializing in Israel-Palestine and social movements, as he sheds light on Betar US, a far-right group targeting pro-Palestinian activists. Valdez discusses the group's influence in Washington, including their alarming tactics of compiling arrest lists. He reveals how this affects university students and anti-war movements and highlights the perils faced by journalists covering these sensitive topics. It’s a gripping exploration of activism in a politically charged climate.

The podcast delves into the ongoing conflict in Gaza, highlighting a devastating Israeli airstrike on a hospital that exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. The grim situation unfolds with over 50,000 Palestinians reported dead, while 2.1 million face dire shortages of resources. It also touches on U.S.-Iran negotiations amidst rising tensions. Additionally, a legal case concerning the deportation of a Palestinian activist raises important questions about civil rights and due process, revealing the intricate ties between law and politics.

Lindsay Koshgarian, Program Director of the National Priorities Project, uncovers the unsettling truth about how much of Americans’ tax money fuels wars internationally. She explores the rising interest in tax resistance as a response to military spending, particularly in light of conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Koshgarian highlights the stark contrast between hefty military expenditures and the funding for social programs, advocating for ethical reflection on where taxpayer dollars go. She also discusses initiatives aimed at redirecting tax funding towards humanitarian efforts.

Lila Hassan, an independent investigative reporter stationed in Doha, sheds light on the alarming disappearance of evidence related to war crimes in Gaza. She discusses the vital role of local journalists like Saliman Hidji, who risk everything to document atrocities even as they face displacement. The conversation delves into the fragility of digital archives, where social media serves as an accidental vault, yet risks erasure. Hassan emphasizes the urgency of preserving these records amidst threats to safety and the need for international accountability.

Manuela Picq, a Professor of International Relations at Amherst College and a veteran observer of Latin American politics, dives into Ecuador's tumultuous political climate. She discusses the shocking rise in gang violence that has turned the nation into one of the deadliest in the region, linked to drug trafficking. The presidential race features incumbent Daniel Noboa, who has militarized the streets, versus Luisa Gonzalez, who advocates for social reform. Picq also addresses the implications of corruption and the challenges facing voters who seek credible leadership.