The Take

Mosab Abu Toha, an award-winning Palestinian poet, uses his art to express the grief and resilience of Gaza amid conflict. He shares personal stories of loss, highlighting how poetry helps articulate both individual trauma and collective suffering. Reflecting on wrongful detention, he discusses the emotional impact of violence on communities. Mosab emphasizes the power of language in understanding Gaza's humanitarian crisis, using poetry not only as a medium of grief but also as a means of advocacy and preserving cultural memory.

Arwa Damon, former CNN senior international correspondent and founder of INARA, provides powerful insights into the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria. She discusses the emotional landscape of a nation celebrating newfound freedom, yet grappling with a fractured identity. Damon highlights the demoralization of the Syrian army and the political complexities ahead, including the challenges of governance and the plight of refugees yearning to return home. Her reflections offer a poignant look at Syria's uncertain yet hopeful future.

Syrian opposition forces claim a pivotal victory as they enter Damascus, marking a significant shift in the civil war. The conversation dives deep into the underlying protests that led to this moment and the challenges faced in maintaining essential services amidst public turmoil. Shifting focus, the podcast also examines the severe aftermath of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict in Nabatiya, Lebanon, where residents grapple with destruction and the urgent need for international aid to rebuild their lives.

Viktorija Mickute, Senior Producer at AJ Contrast, shares insights on urban accessibility for individuals with disabilities. She discusses the stories of three women overcoming daily challenges in Mumbai, Lagos, and New York City. The conversation highlights societal perceptions of disability and the necessity for infrastructure improvements. Mickute emphasizes advocacy and the empowerment of voices within the disability community to create inclusive storytelling and raise awareness about ongoing injustices in urban settings.

Léopold Lambert, Architect and editor-in-chief of The Funambulist, dives into the grand reopening of Notre Dame after its $1bn restoration. He questions why some cultural treasures are prioritized over others and reflects on the emotional impact of the 2019 fire. The discussion addresses global responses to heritage preservation and contrasts Notre Dame with the destruction of sites in Gaza and Lebanon. Lambert provocatively examines the politics of space and the inequalities surrounding cultural heritage, urging listeners to consider what history truly deserves to be maintained.

Se-Woong Koo, a journalist and founder of Korea Exposé, dives into the chaos following South Korea's unexpected martial law declaration by President Yoon Suk-yeol. He explores the swift parliamentary pushback and the implications for the president's political future. Koo discusses the historical context of martial law, public reaction, and the potential unconstitutionality of the move. The conversation reveals underlying political tensions, the polarized political climate, and how generational experiences shape public perceptions amid North Korea's looming threat.

Cláudio Silva, a journalist and political analyst based in Luanda, delves into Biden's historic visit to Angola, highlighting its significance for U.S.-Angola relations. He discusses the competition with China, stressing the intricacies of economic dynamics and the $3 billion U.S. investment boost. Silva also explores China’s dominance post-civil war, revealing how it impacts Angola’s infrastructure and local economy. The podcast offers a captivating look at the shifting allegiances and the strategic importance of Angola in the larger geopolitical landscape.

In this discussion, Qutaiba Idlbi, Director of the Syria Initiative at The Atlantic Council and a former Syrian refugee, unpacks the recent gains by opposition forces in Aleppo and their implications for the war's trajectory. He explains the complexities of the Syrian conflict, from its origins in protests to the current power dynamics, highlighting external influences like Turkey and Russia. Idlbi also stresses the urgent need for global attention to Syria, warning against the dangers of neglecting this critical humanitarian crisis.

Filmmaker Rhana Natour shares the heartbreaking yet inspiring story of 13-year-old Leyan, a young amputee from Gaza who seeks medical treatment in the U.S. They discuss the emotional turmoil Leyan faces as she leaves her family, juxtaposed with her resilience amid tragedy. Rhana highlights the urgent need for support for child amputees, portraying their struggles with not just physical loss but psychological trauma as well. The conversation sheds light on the courageous journeys of many children affected by war.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensifies as winter approaches, with urgent calls for aid amid devastating conditions. Meanwhile, Lebanon holds a poignant memorial for Hassan Nasrallah, a fallen leader, impacting the community significantly. In a surprising turn, Syrian rebels gain ground in Aleppo, adding to the region's ongoing tensions. The podcast delves deep into these pressing issues, making a powerful connection between local struggles and broader geopolitical dynamics.