

The Take
Al Jazeera
The Take is a daily interview-driven international news podcast hosted by award-winning journalist Malika Bilal. Each episode focuses on conversations with journalists and people directly impacted by the news of the day, offering our listeners the context necessary to understand what's in the headlines.
With millions of global listens, it's clear the conversations we're having on The Take are worth hearing. And critics think so too. The show has won the Online Journalism Awards, the Signal Awards, Lovie Awards, and Anthem Awards, among others.
With millions of global listens, it's clear the conversations we're having on The Take are worth hearing. And critics think so too. The show has won the Online Journalism Awards, the Signal Awards, Lovie Awards, and Anthem Awards, among others.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 5, 2024 • 17min
At Israel’s 'Guantanamo Bay', protesters defend soldiers accused of abuse
Nida Ibrahim, an insightful Al Jazeera Correspondent specializing in Middle Eastern issues, discusses the protests at Sde Teiman detention center following the arrest of Israeli soldiers accused of abusing a Palestinian detainee. She sheds light on the far-right support for the soldiers, raising concerns about Israel's treatment of Palestinian prisoners. The conversation also touches on the harrowing conditions within detention centers, including testimonies of torture, and the ethical implications surrounding the military's actions in conflict zones.

Aug 4, 2024 • 6min
Brief: Israel kills two more Al Jazeera journalists after assassinations
Anas Al Sharif, Hind Al Khoudary, and Hamdah Salhut, all Al Jazeera correspondents with firsthand experience in Gaza, shed light on the ongoing violence and the tragic loss of journalists in the conflict. They discuss the chilling toll of war, including the devastating impact on civilians and the press. The conversation highlights the dire humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza, personal stories of sacrifice, and the implications of escalating military actions on peace negotiations. Their insights offer a powerful perspective on a heartbreaking situation.

Aug 3, 2024 • 22min
Another Take: After the Maui fires, has more Hawaiian heritage been lost?
The podcast delves into the devastating impact of the Maui wildfires, which ravaged historic Lahaina and have resulted in significant loss of life and heritage. It discusses the intertwined effects of climate change and colonial land practices that contributed to these catastrophic events. Experts highlight the role of invasive species and extreme weather in intensifying the fires. A pressing call for sustainable action and community-led recovery efforts resonates throughout the conversation, emphasizing the need for resilience as Hawaii looks to the future.

Aug 2, 2024 • 21min
Is Silicon Valley going MAGA?
JD Vance, a key figure linked to Donald Trump, joins Paris Marx, host of Tech Won't Save Us, to discuss the intriguing alliance between Silicon Valley and Trump’s political rise. They dive into how tech billionaires are financially backing Trump, with Elon Musk leading the charge. The conversation explores the intertwining of faith, politics, and power in Silicon Valley, shedding light on Vance's ascent and the potential implications for tech policies under a Trump presidency. What could this mean for America's tech future and global standing?

7 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 18min
Who was Ismail Haniyeh?
Imran Khan, a Senior Correspondent at Al Jazeera English, delves into the significant aftermath of Ismail Haniyeh's assassination. He discusses the rising tensions between Hamas and Israel and how this incident complicates peace efforts and ceasefire negotiations. The conversation highlights the growing geopolitical complexities, particularly U.S. involvement and reactions from key players like Iran. Khan also explores the implications of escalating violence in the region, including recent military actions involving Lebanon and Israeli strategies in the Golan Heights.

Jul 31, 2024 • 19min
Why Bangladeshi students say protests aren’t over
Nazifa Zahnat, Prapti Taposhi, and Tasneem share their gripping experiences as student protesters in Bangladesh. They discuss the brutal crackdowns and police harassment they face while advocating for justice. Despite internet blackouts, their resolve remains unshaken. The conversation reveals how the protests have evolved from specific job quota demands to a broader call for political reform and accountability. These students express deep frustration with the government's response, underscoring their commitment to fighting for democracy and societal change.

Jul 30, 2024 • 18min
The aftermath of Venezuela’s contested election results
Ana Vanessa Herrero, a Washington Post reporter, and Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, the opposition candidate in Venezuela, dive into the chaos surrounding the recent election. They detail allegations of fraud and voter intimidation that marred the voting process. Ana shares her firsthand account of a tumultuous election day filled with tension and violence. Edmundo discusses the disturbing challenges the opposition faces in asserting their claims of victory and the critical need for transparency and electoral integrity. Together, they highlight the desperate call for change in Venezuela.

Jul 29, 2024 • 18min
Why a China-brokered deal is uniting Palestinians
Diana Buttu, a lawyer and former spokesperson for the PLO, dives deep into the historic unity deal signed by 14 Palestinian groups, including Fatah and Hamas. She discusses the cautious optimism surrounding this agreement despite past failures and external influences, particularly from the U.S. Buttu also highlights China's emerging role as an inclusive mediator in the Middle East, offering a contrasting approach to Western powers. Finally, she addresses the complexities of rebuilding Gaza and the crucial need for Palestinian self-determination moving forward.

Jul 28, 2024 • 6min
Brief: Golan strike kills 12 Israelis, Israel attacks Khan Younis
Zeina Khodr and Patty Culhane, both Al Jazeera correspondents, dive into the urgent realities of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. They discuss a recent rocket strike in the Golan Heights that tragically killed 12 Israelis, while Israel intensifies its offensive in Khan Yunis, trapping many civilians. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is highlighted, revealing the dire circumstances faced by displaced families. Moreover, they touch on the possibility of indirect peace talks between Hamas and Israel, amid rising tensions and escalating violence.

Jul 27, 2024 • 18min
Another Take: Venezuela voted to take over part of Guyana. Could it happen?
Alessandro Rampietti, a seasoned commentator on Latin American affairs, dives into Venezuela's contentious referendum aimed at claiming the oil-rich Essequibo territory from Guyana. He discusses how President Maduro’s move may be a strategic ploy ahead of the upcoming elections, rather than a genuine intention for annexation. Tensions between the two nations are escalating, with nationalistic fervor among Guyanese citizens in response to the claims. The podcast uncovers the intricate ties between political maneuvering and regional stability in Latin America.