The Take

Max Rivlin-Nadler, co-owner and reporter at Hell Gate NYC, delves into the remarkable rise of Zohran Mamdani, a young Democratic socialist and likely New York City mayoral nominee. They discuss Mamdani's innovative campaign strategies that transformed him from obscurity to a political sensation. Rivlin-Nadler highlights the impact of social media in grassroots engagement and the significance of personal connections in modern elections. They also touch on the complexities of identity politics, especially regarding Mamdani's pro-Palestine stance and its repercussions.

Diana Buttu, a human rights lawyer and analyst, bravely delves into the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst the global spotlight on Israel and Iran. She sheds light on the devastating death toll as Palestinians struggle to secure basic aid. Buttu contrasts the safety measures available to Israelis with the peril faced by Palestinians during conflicts. She also discusses alarming public sentiments in Israel that support expulsion of Palestinians, exposing the unsettling normalization of violence and dehumanization within society.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Gatopoulos, Al Jazeera English Defence Editor, dives into the shaky ceasefire between Israel and Iran following Trump's bombastic declaration. The conversation reveals the complexities of military strategies amidst escalating tensions and mutual accusations. Gatopoulos analyzes the U.S. military's presence in the region, including the implications of a third carrier group's deployment. They also explore advancements in warfare technology, highlighting the impact of hypersonic missiles and the nuclear threat, shedding light on the path to peace.

Hamid Dabashi, a Professor of Iranian Studies at Columbia University, delves into Iran's complex historical narrative shaped by foreign interventions and its current quest for sovereignty. He critiques Israel's claims about Iran's nuclear ambitions and discusses the sensitivity of labeling foreign attacks as liberation. Dabashi emphasizes the significance of internal movements, especially women’s roles in protests, and advocates for respectful dialogue rather than external regime changes, reflecting on how history continues to influence Iran's identity and geopolitical dynamics.

Senior Diplomatic Correspondent for HuffPost, Akbar Shahid Ahmed, sheds light on the U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the ensuing geopolitical turmoil. He dives into the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal and the rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, raising alarms about the risk of a regional war. The discussion also tackles the legal implications of Trump's actions, contrasting isolationist and interventionist views, and the potential shifts in power dynamics as younger lawmakers challenge traditional military authority.

The podcast dives into the escalating conflict in Gaza, revealing staggering casualties and the impact of military actions. It discusses recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear sites and the regional fallout, including missile exchanges. The dire humanitarian situation for Palestinians searching for food amidst chaos is highlighted. Additionally, the release of activist Mahmoud Khalil, facing legal hurdles after protests, showcases the struggles for activism amid escalating violence. Eyewitness accounts paint a vivid picture of despair in affected areas.

In this engaging discussion, aviation analyst Alex Macheras, who hosts the podcast On Air, dives into the controversies surrounding Boeing’s 737 MAX. He highlights a recent emergency landing of an Alaska Airlines flight, drawing attention to its troubled history. Macheras examines the safety culture at Boeing and the scrutiny from the FAA, revealing how past incidents continue to taint the company’s reputation. The conversation also touches on public confidence issues and potential industry repercussions stemming from these ongoing safety concerns.

Ali Harb, a Washington-based journalist for Al Jazeera, dives into the notable split within the MAGA movement regarding U.S. intervention in the Israeli-Iranian conflict. He discusses how figures like Tucker Carlson oppose Trump's potential military action, challenging the 'America First' ideology. Harb explores the implications of a possible U.S. strike on Iran for Trump’s legacy, emphasizing the shifting perspectives among supporters. The episode also highlights the grim humanitarian crises in Iran and Gaza, urging a deeper acknowledgment of the ongoing suffering.

Juanita Goebertus Estrada, the Americas division director for Human Rights Watch, dives into the shocking attempted assassination of Colombian politician Miguel Uribe Turbay by a 15-year-old. She highlights the unsettling resurgence of political violence in Colombia and the implications for future elections. Goebertus discusses societal issues surrounding child recruitment by armed groups and stresses the urgent need for peace and protective measures to ensure democracy amid growing political polarization.

In this discussion, Steve Woolford, a Counselor with the GI Rights Hotline, explores the controversial deployment of troops to Los Angeles amid protests. He highlights the legal and moral dilemmas faced by service members ordered to confront citizens they’re meant to protect. Woolford shares insights on the rising concerns from veterans about the implications for democracy and civil rights. He also addresses the challenges of communication within the military, emphasizing empathy and understanding between troops and the public.