The Take

Twelve elite British universities are accused of hiring a private security firm with military intelligence ties to track pro-Palestine student protests. Students were reportedly flagged through social media monitoring without their awareness, sparking debate over surveillance and free speech in UK higher education. Learn more about the campus accountability mapping project. In this episode: Aaron Walawalkar (@AaronWala), Investigative Reporter, Liberty Investigations Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The United States has pulled its troops out of Syria, ending a decade-long presence. But the fight isn’t over. As power shifts on the ground, Kurdish forces, regional tensions, and fragile negotiations are reshaping the country’s future. What’s behind the decision, and what comes next? In this episode: Natacha Danon (@natacha_danon), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Tamara Khandakar. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This is The Flotillas, a three-part documentary series from The Take. Part One: It was just a few boats and a radical idea – break the maritime siege of Gaza imposed by Israel. Today, that spark has grown into a defiant global movement, but Huwaida Arraf has been confronting Israel on land and at sea for more than two decades. In 2025, she once again prepared to sail to Gaza on the ship Handala. This time, the stakes were different. As a mother of two, Huwaida navigated not only the risks of confronting a naval blockade, but also what it means to continue the fight while raising a family. This is the story of how a small, unlikely mission at sea grew into an international movement, and what keeps its earliest leaders going despite the personal cost. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 200 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 773 Palestinians in Gaza. Tensions continue in the Strait of Hormuz. Israel draws yellow line in Lebanon. Palestinian Prisoner Day with 10,000 imprisoned. Israel has killed more than 72,549 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Ali Hashem (@alihashem), Al Jazeera correspondent Heidi Pett, (@heidipett_) Al Jazeera Correspondent Obaida Hitto, (@obaida.hitto) Al Jazeera Correspondent Dalya Al Masri, (@dalya_masri) Al Jazeera Journalist Nour Odeh, (@nourodeh) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Andrew Greiner and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 16, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Farmers forced to leave their fields, children out of school, and white phosphorus devastating lives – all this hangs over life in southern Lebanon, where the ongoing threat of escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah has been a constant presence for decades. How do residents continue to cope with these challenges? In this episode: Sara Salman (@sara_salman), AJ+ Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Tamara Khandaker, Ashish Malhotra, and Sonia Bhagat, with Manahil Naveed, Veronique Eshaya and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Kharg Island is the heart of Iran’s oil trade and now a front-line target in the war. The US has struck military sites on the island and is enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports. But 8,000 people live there. What is life like when bombs fall and the ships stop moving? In this episode: Seamus Malekafzali (@Seamus_Malek), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, Noor Wazwaz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. It was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Israel and Lebanon have held their first direct talks in more than 30 years, and now there are signs of a possible ceasefire. But months of fighting have reshaped parts of southern Lebanon. As people begin to return, what will they find? And can diplomacy hold while the reality on the ground remains fragile? In this episode: Justin Salhani (@JustinSalhani), Al Jazeera Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, David Enders, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

On Tax Day, trillions flow into the United States government. But new analysis shows a significant share is directed toward war, defense contractors, and border enforcement, while healthcare and food assistance face mounting pressures and cuts. As deficits grow and everyday costs rise, what do these budget choices reveal about who the system is built to serve, both in the US and beyond? In this episode: Lindsay Koshgarian (@lindsaykosh), Program Director, National Priorities Project Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and David Enders with Tamara Khandaker, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, Adhil Veetil, Firas Yateem, Michel Bou Dagher, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Why is Sudan still at war? The answer starts with the powers fuelling the conflict. Three years into the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, millions are displaced and famine continues. With the US-Israeli war on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz driving up fuel and food costs, what will it take to put an end to the conflict? In this episode: Dallia Abdelmoniem (@dalliasd), Political Analyst Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, with Noor Wazwaz, Sarí el-Khalili, Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

 US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after talks between Iran and the US failed to produce an agreement. Israel continued to attack Lebanon ahead of planned talks between those two countries on Tuesday. It has been 45 days since the US and Israel attacked Iran. In this episode: Heidi Zhou Castro, (@HeidiZhouCastro) Al Jazeera Correspondent Tohid Asadi, Al Jazeera Correspondent Heidi Pett, (@heidipett) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Alexandra Locke is the Take's Executive Producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week, 193 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 749 Palestinians in Gaza. US and Iran fail to reach a deal. Gaza’s humanitarian crisis deepening. Israel bombs Lebanon 100 times in 10 minutes. Israel has killed at least 72,328 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Kamel Hyder, Al Jazeera Correspondent Heidi Pett, (heidipett_) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nida_journo) Al Jazeera Correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Rodan. Alexandra Locke is the Take's Executive Producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on May 26, 2021. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Obaida Akram Jawabra grew up outside of Hebron in the occupied West Bank and dreamed of growing up to be a chef. When he was 15, his dreams were put on pause for the first time when he was arrested and imprisoned by the Israeli military. He was later acquitted but spent two months in jail. On May 17, as many Palestinians were protesting against Israeli air strikes on Gaza and Israelis were taking over Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem, Obaida, at 17 years old, was shot and killed by Israeli forces. At least 66 Palestinian children were killed by Israeli forces in the past month. Today, we take a look at the life of one Palestinian child. In this episode: Farah Bayadsi (@DCIPalestine), Human Rights Lawyer, Defense for Children International – Palestine Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Amy Walters, Priyanka Tilve, Negin Owliaei, Alexandra Locke, Ney Alvarez, Dina Kesbeh and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

How do we make sense of the last 40 days? After the threat to wipe out a civilization, the scars of the war so far are only just becoming visible. As the US moves on from language that’s been condemned for genocidal intent, what does it mean for both Iranians and Americans? In this episode: Negin Owliaei (@neginowl), Editor-in-Chief, Truthout Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat, and Noor Wazwaz with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

After US President Donald Trump's incendiary rhetoric pushed tensions toward the brink, Washington and Tehran have agreed to a ceasefire in the US-Israel war on Iran. But the deal is fragile, and key fronts like Lebanon remain tense, as Israel intensifies its attacks. What does this pause really change on the ground? In this episode: Imran Khan (@imranism), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

‘A whole civilization will die tonight’ was the latest in US President Donald Trump’s escalating threats to Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. As the stakes rise, what potential does this brinkmanship have to reshape global power? In this episode: Trita Parsi (@tparsi) , Executive Vice President, Quincy Institute Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Chloe K. Li, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, David Enders, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As Pakistan tries to mediate between the United States and Iran, another conflict is growing closer to home. What gives Pakistan leverage in the Iran crisis, and with violence is rising on the Afghan border, how long can it balance playing mediator in one conflict while being pulled deeper into another? In this episode: Osama Bin Javaid (@osamabinjavaid) , Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sarí el-Khalili, Chloe K. Li with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As oil flows come under threat due to the Iran war, parts of Asia are already under strain. Fuel supplies are tightening, prices are rising, and some countries warn stocks may run out. Far from the battlefield, the impact is immediate. What does this reveal about just how fragile the global energy system is? In this episode: Vina Nadjibulla (@VinaNadjibulla), Vice-President of Research & Strategy, The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Melanie Marich, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial interns are Maya Hamadeh and Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 186 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 713 Palestinians in Gaza. Trump sets new deadline for Iran. Israel passes death penalty for Palestinians. Gaza yellow line continues to extend. Israel has killed at least 72,289 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Tohid Asadi, Al Jazeera Correspondent Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent John Hendren, (@johnhendren)Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nida_journo), Al Jazeera Correspondent Malik Traina, Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Andrew Greiner and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on March 29, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Easter holds special meaning for Christian Palestinians. For Good Friday, we speak to a Palestinian pastor raised in Bethlehem who underlines the parallels between the Israeli oppression of his people and the crucifixion of Jesus at the center of his faith. In this episode: Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac (@MuntherIsaac), Evangelical Lutheran Pastor in Bethlehem Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Khaled Soltan, Zaina Badr, Miranda Lynn, Amy Walters, Ashish Malhotra, Chloe K. Lee, David Enders, Faranisa Kampana, Nigeen Oliyai, Sarí el-Khalili, Sonia Bagat and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Before Israeli occupation, there was British colonialism. We speak to director Annemarie Jacir about Palestine 36, her epic film about the 1936 Palestinian revolt that almost succeeded, the often-forgotten roots of today’s crisis, and why this history still feels painfully present. In this episode: Annemarie Jacir (@AnnemarieJacir), Filmmaker and Writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sonia Bhagat, and Sar​​í el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Strikes on Iran have killed senior figures, raising questions about who still holds power. We take a closer look at the key players inside Iran’s system and explain how it works, who shapes decisions and what the loss of top figures could mean for the country’s response to the war. In this episode: Ali Hashem (@alihashem), Senior Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, David Enders and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The war on Iran is spreading into classrooms and campuses. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened American universities in neighboring countries, after attacks on two Iranian universities over the weekend. Since the start of the war, at least 21 Iranian universities have reportedly been damaged. Why has education become a target of the US-Israeli war on Iran? In this episode: Setareh Sadeqi (@leelako), Assistant Professor at University of Tehran Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Iran appears to believe it can survive this war. That calculation may be shaping its stance on a ceasefire, even as strikes continue and talk of US troops on the ground is growing. Why does Iran think it’s winning, and what would Tehran need to agree to stop fighting? In this episode: Alex Vatanka (@alexvatanka), Senior Fellow, Middle East Institute Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Tamara Khandaker with Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

A vision long embedded in Israeli politics is coming into clearer view. We look at the "Greater Israel" project – where it comes from, how it has shaped Israeli policy and territorial ambitions over time, and what it helps explain about Israel’s actions across the region. In this episode: Nour Odeh (@nour_odeh), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker and Chloe K. Li, with Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 179 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 692 Palestinians in Gaza. Yemeni Houthis launch missile attacks on Israel. Israel expands ground offensive in Lebanon. Israeli soldiers accused of torturing toddler. Israel has killed at least 72,268 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Tohid Asadi, Al Jazeera Correspondent Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Zeina Khodr, (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nida_journo), Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Andrew Greiner and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on February 27, 2023. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Why have the people of the Chagos Islands not been allowed to go home? The archipelago in the Indian Ocean was home to Chagossians until the 1960s. As decolonization swept the globe, the United Kingdom created one last African colony. Slowly, and then all at once, it forced people to leave their homes, then leased the land to the United States for a military base. Chagossians have been fighting – and sometimes winning – in court to return to their home islands. Now, Human Rights Watch says what the UK and the US did amounts to crimes against humanity. In this episode: Clive Baldwin (@cliveabaldwin), Senior Legal Advisor, Human Rights Watch Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Negin Owliaei, Miranda Lin, and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The US is mobilizing ground troops, while saying it has a 15-point plan to end the US-Israel war on Iran. Tehran denies negotiations and continues to control the Strait of Hormuz. So what does reality spell for the US strategy - and what would it take to end the war rather than escalate it? In this episode: Alex Gatopoulos (@AlexGatopoulos), Al Jazeera Defence Editor Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Chloe K. Li, with Catherine Nouhan, Marcos Bartolomé, Tuleen Barakat, Monah Hamade, Ibrahim Abdelfattah, Adhil Veettil, Sreechand Sugathan, Gerard Baladad, Shreshtha Sanghvi, Hanna Nasser, Adlan Abdalla, Mile Trifunovski, and our guest host, David Enders. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

War has spread into Iraq, where strikes by the United States and Israel hit Iran-backed groups, and the militias fire back. Oil has stopped flowing through the Strait of Hormuz, and the state’s grip on power is already fragile. As the war rages on, what will it mean for Iraq? In this episode: Abdulla Hawez, Researcher Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Tamara Khandaker with Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

International convoys are bringing aid to Cuba to protest the US fuel blockade, as Cuba continues to fend off US threats of a takeover. With Cubans continuing to live under prolonged blackouts and the government preparing for military confrontation, can the Cuban government again survive the latest US effort to overthrow it? In this episode: Ed Augustin (@EdAugReporter), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Sarí el-Khalili, with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Black rain fell over Tehran after oil depot strikes in the US-Israel war on Iran filled the sky with toxic petrochemical smoke. The contamination can seep into lungs, soil and water, with long-term risks from cancer to lasting environmental damage. What happens when the air people breathe becomes part of the battlefield? In this episode: Narges Bajoghli, Cultural Anthropologist, Johns Hopkins University Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Tamara Khandaker. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Strikes on gas sites are now part of the US-Israel war with Iran. But its effect will echo far beyond the Gulf, hitting power, food, and prices worldwide. As gas supply shrinks and costs rise, who will feel it most, and how far could the shock spread? In this episode: Justin Dargin (@justindargin), Energy Expert, Middle East Council on Global Affairs Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Tamara Khandaker, Sarí el-Khalili, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 172 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 677 Palestinians in Gaza. Trump has given Iran a 48-hour ultimatum. Israel is intensifying attacks on Gaza. Israel has launched an incursion into Lebanon. Israel has killed more than 72,253 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Mohamed Vall, Al Jazeera Correspondent Zein Basravi, (@virtualzein) Al Jazeera Correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Zeina Khodr, (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nida_journo), Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Andrew Greiner and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on June 2, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Elon Musk may have resigned from the Department of Government Efficiency, but few believe he’s stepping away from power. In under a year, DOGE brought Silicon Valley-style disruption to Washington, consolidating federal data and dismantling oversight. Now, Musk is expected to channel what he gained into a private AI venture – with public systems still in reach. In this episode: Matt Binder (@mattbinder), Writer of Disruptionist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Tamara Khandaker, Sonia Bhagat, Chloe K. Li, Sarí el-Khalili, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Kisaa Zehra, Mariana Navarrete, Alexandra Locke, and Natasha Del Toro. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement and Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As US President Donald Trump pushes deeper into war with Iran, Europe is keeping its distance, calling it “not our war”. But as strikes on Gulf energy facilities send oil and gas prices soaring, that distance is being tested. In a rare joint move, leaders from across Europe and Japan have pledged to help stabilize energy markets and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Can Europe stay out of the fighting while being pulled in by its economic consequences? In this episode: Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff, Former EU Diplomat Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Chloe K. Li, with Spencer Cline, Sonia Baghat, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Drone attacks are reaching deeper into Pakistan, hitting sensitive areas and raising alarm. Officials call them rudimentary, but analysts warn their impact could far exceed their sophistication. What do these low-cost drones reveal about the country’s vulnerabilities, and what comes next as tensions with Afghanistan continue to grow? In this episode: Abid Hussain (@abidhussayn), Al Jazeera Digital Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

A United States missile strike destroyed a primary school in Minab, Iran. It killed more than 170 people, most of them young children. An Al Jazeera investigation suggests the attack may have been deliberate. As US officials deny responsibility and launch an internal probe, can Americans hold the US accountable? In this episode: Hoda Katebi (@hodakatebi), Writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As bombs hit cities across Iran, thousands take to the streets in defiance. From Tehran University to the protests in the capital, how Iranians are responding to US and Israeli attacks, and what it reveals about the next generation’s view of the world. In this episode: Foad Izadi (@IzadiFoad), Associate Professor, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sonia Bhagat with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As the Iran war continues, attention is fixed on missiles flying across the region. But in the occupied West Bank, missile shrapnel falls on Palestinian towns while deadly settler attacks, Israeli military raids and strict limits on daily life continue. With the world looking elsewhere, how do Palestinians in the West Bank view the Iran war, and what does life look like on the ground now? In this episode: Nour Odeh (@nour_odeh), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li with Adhil Veettil Sreechand, El Houssein Chouikhat, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, David Enders. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. David Enders and Alex Roldan mixed this episode. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 165 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 658 Palestinians in Gaza. Iranian missiles hit central Israel. US bombs critical Iranian oil facility. Israel continues to carry out strikes on Gaza. Israel has killed more than 72,234 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Nida Ibrahim, (@nida_journo), Al Jazeera correspondent Zeina Khodr, (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) Al Jazeera Correspondent Tohid Asadi, (@Htohid_._asadi) Al Jazeera Correspondent Ibrahim al-Khalili, (@vhemaalkhalili1) Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Mahmoud Abdelwahed, Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Andrew Greiner and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on May 24, 2019. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. It seemed like a recipe for conflict: Take the Iran nuclear deal, add a dash of US National Security Advisor John Bolton and some US warships, and top it off with the mysterious sabotage of oil tankers near one of the most sensitive stretches of water in the world. This week on The Take, we go to the Strait of Hormuz to examine just how close the US and Iran have come to the edge of war. In this episode: Zein Basravi (@virtualzein), Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Kimberly Halkett (@kimberlyhalkettdc), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Alexandra Locke, Morgan Waters, Priyanka Tilve, Dina Kesbeh, Ney Alvarez, Amy Walters, Seth Samuel, Graelyn Brashear, and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement and Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

China is more affected than any country outside the Gulf by the US-Israel war due to its energy reliance on Iran. But as the war reshapes global trade and alliances, it also stands to benefit. As Donald Trump prepares for a rare visit to Beijing, could this crisis reshape the balance of power? In this episode: Katrina Yu (@Katmyu), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sarí el-Khalili and Chloe K. Li, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei as the Islamic Republic’s new supreme leader after his father was killed in US-Israeli strikes. Little-known publicly but influential behind the scenes, he takes power during a rapidly escalating regional war. Who is Mojtaba Khamenei, and what could his leadership mean for the country and the conflict ahead? In this episode: Ali Hashem (@alihashem), Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, David Enders and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As missiles strike across Israel and Iran, what are we really allowed to see? With strict censorship and limited access, journalists and the public are seeing only part of the story: Who decides what information gets out, and what does that mean for truth in a war affecting millions? In this episode: Diana Buttu (@dianabuttu), Human Rights Lawyer and Analyst Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The price of oil has soared over $100 a barrel globally as a result of the US-Israeli war on Iran. Iran has effectively shut down shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, while Israel has attacked critical Iranian oil depots. Despite public pressure and outrage, all parties seem prepared to continue the war. What will it mean for the global economy and the people caught in the crossfire? Listen to more about the Strait of Hormuz here. In this episode: Zein Basravi (@virtualzein), Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, with Sarí el-Khalili, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, Spencer Cline and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Special thanks to Sheila H. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Israel’s latest attacks on Lebanon come after decades of conflict with Hezbollah. Wars, assassinations and pressure have failed to break the group, which continues to launch rockets and fight Israeli forces. Why has Hezbollah endured, and what does the latest escalation reveal about the long war between Israel and Hezbollah? In this episode: Hala Jaber (@HalaJaber), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Tuleen Barakat with Monah Hamade, Gerard Baldadad, Adhil Veetil, Shreshtha Sanghvi, and our guest host, David Enders. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 158 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 640 Palestinians in Gaza. Israel and US continue to strike in Iran, Israel closes all Gaza crossings. Lebanon’s central Beirut bombed by Israel. Israel has killed more than 72,123 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Mohamed Vall, Al Jazeera Journalist Zeina Khodr, (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) Al Jazeera Correspondent Hind Al Khoudary, (@Hind_Gaza) Al Jazeera Correspondent Zein Basravi, @virtualzein) Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by Marthe van der Wolf. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Andrew Greiner and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on June 23, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Israel claims Iran is closer than ever to building a nuclear weapon. But as it targets Iran, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says his nation’s attacks will also “liberate” Iranians. In a civilization shaped by millennia of empire and resistance, those words land differently. What does liberation mean to Iranians as the US and Israel call for regime change? In this episode: Hamid Dabashi (@dabashihamid), Professor, Columbia University Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat, Haleema Shah, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Mariana Navarrete, Noor Wazwaz, Kylene Kiang, and our guest host, Manuel Rápalo. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement and Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Tools from Anthropic and OpenAI are being used by the Pentagon to make military decisions in Iran, guiding decisions could cost lives. Fast, powerful, or flawed, how have AI systems already changed how wars are fought? In this episode: Heidy Khlaaf (@hak90), Principal Research Scientist, AI Now Institute Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sarí el-Khalilí, Chloe K. Li, and Noor Wazwaz, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

From inside Iran to the diaspora, Iranians are deeply divided about their country’s future. With Ayatollah Ali Khamenei gone and Reza Pahlavi, the son of the former shah, waiting in the wings, what do conversations about regime change reveal about the spectrum of what Iranians really think? In this episode: Yara Elmjouie (@yelmjouie), AJ+ Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Marcos Bartolomé, and Catherine Nouhan, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Maya Hamadeh, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Inside the Washington bubble, we look inside the chaos shaping the US-Israeli war on Iran, from celebrations at DC power dinners and the Secretary of State admitting US defense of Israel to the Epstein files fading from public view. With low popular support for the war, can American voters do anything to stop it? In this episode: Patty Culhane (@PattyCulhane), Al Jazeera English Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sari el-Khalili, and Catherine Nouhan, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Maya Hamadeh, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Special thanks to James Hamilton. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

With Iran’s supreme leader killed and retaliation unfolding, the US and Israel appear to be testing the durability of the Islamic Republic. But Iran’s political system was designed to survive leadership loss and outside pressure. What does Washington misunderstand about Tehran’s structure, and how far is Iran prepared to go? In this episode: Ali Hashem, Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sarí el-Khalili, David Enders, and Tamara Khandaker, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, Maya Hamadah, Noor Wazwaz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube