Making sense of the world, one story at a time. Every Friday, host Malika Bilal and journalists from Al Jazeera's international bureaus share their take on the news.
Listeners of The Take that love the show mention: around the world, journalists, reporting, journalism, news, depth, experience, stories, quality, fantastic, excellent, amazing, great, best, thank, show, listen, al jazeera.
The Take podcast is an exceptional source of information and news about the Middle East and beyond. This podcast sets a high standard for journalism, providing reporting that is both informative and humanizing. Led by host Malika Bilal and a talented team, The Take offers rational, nuanced coverage without sacrificing empathy. This podcast has quickly become a favorite for many listeners over the past two years.
One of the best aspects of The Take is its ability to present a wide range of international stories using sane, rational journalism. The episodes cover various topics and provide deep insights into global events. The guests invited to the show are highly informed about their respective topics, and the host does an excellent job in conducting interviews. Even if you think you know about a news story, The Take manages to dig deeper and teach you something new, often featuring reporters who are on the ground for Al Jazeera.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its commitment to unbiased reporting and providing up-to-date information. Rather than relying on opinionated guests or pundits, The Take features local reporters who give unbiased updates on current issues. This approach allows listeners to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand, along with historical context that ties everything together.
It's hard to find any notable flaws in The Take podcast, given its well-rounded approach to reporting. However, some listeners may find that the frequency of episodes (three times a week) can be overwhelming or too much to keep up with. Reducing it to once or twice a week might make it more manageable for some individuals.
In conclusion, The Take is an outstanding podcast that sets itself apart from other news discussion podcasts by offering informative yet empathetic coverage of global events. Its dedication to unbiased reporting and use of local reporters make it a reliable source of information. If you're looking for a podcast that keeps you up-to-date with world affairs while providing in-depth analysis from diverse perspectives, The Take is definitely worth a listen.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, US President Donald Trump announced that a “framework” for a future deal on Greenland is taking shape. Tied to missile defense and mineral rights, the framework eases concerns about Trump's earlier threats of tariffs and military intervention. So, how would an eventual deal affect the future of Greenlanders and US-Europe relations? In this episode: Jonah Hull, Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Melanie Marich, Marcos Bartolomé, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The Oscars are planning a move to YouTube, ending a decades-long run on broadcast television in 2029. Audiences are continuing to change how they watch even the biggest cultural events. But reports of ‘the death of live TV’ have been premature before – so how will it survive? In this episode: Angela Palumbo (@angelapalumbo98), Technology Reporter, Barron’s Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili and Fatima Shafiq, with Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, Tracie Hunte, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. 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

A billion dollars buys a seat at the table shaping Gaza’s future, and Palestinians aren’t invited. As the US moves into phase two of a ceasefire, a so-called “Board of Peace” promises reconstruction while conditions in Gaza remain unchanged and control stays firmly in outsiders' hands. In this episode: Nour Odeh (@nour_odeh), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Melanie Marich with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Sari el-Khalii, 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

US President Donald Trump is threatening to annex Greenland, framing it as protection against China and Russia, but the autonomous Danish territory holds strategic Arctic value as climate change opens new shipping routes and mineral access. Its 57,000 Inuit residents are rejecting his threats as insulting and colonial. How do Greenlanders see their future amid this geopolitical storm? In this episode: Sara Olsvig, International Chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Council Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolome, Tamara Khandaker, and Melanie Marich, with Noor Wazwaz, 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-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

Nobel Laureate Dr. Omar Yaghi joins The Take after winning the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for developing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), materials that can capture carbon and store hydrogen. Born to a Palestinian refugee family in Amman, Yaghi tells the story of how hardship shaped his imagination, from getting fresh water only once a week to inventing systems that pull water from desert air. In this episode: Dr. Omar Yaghi, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, Professor at University of California, Berkeley and Atoco Founder Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Melanie Marich with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Sarí el-Khalili and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Melanie Marich, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 109 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 646 Palestinians in Gaza. The US announced phase 2 of the Gaza ceasefire deal. Israeli forces kill a young boy in the Occupied West Bank. Israel has killed more than 71,548 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Osama Bin Javid, (@osamabinjavaid), Al Jazeera Correspondent Michael Appel, (@TheMikeAppel), Al Jazeera Senior Producer Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nidaibrahim) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was voiced by Nida Ibrahim, and producer 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 29, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Unit 8200, Israel’s elite cyber-intelligence division, has long been compared to the US National Security Agency. Its veterans are now embedded in US tech companies, shaping how the world’s data is managed, and making deals worth billions. What does it mean for privacy and security? In this episode: Murtaza Hussain (@mazmhussain) Journalist, Drop Site News Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Noor Wazwaz, Diana Ferrero, Sarí el-Khalili, Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Kisaa Zehra, Amy Walters, and our guest host, 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. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Back in 2022, protests in Iran were bolder than at any time since the 1979 revolution — and that time, it was teenage girls leading the way. Gen Z used their TikTok and Instagram skills to draw the world’s attention to their demand for freedom. But with almost 300 hashtags under #MahsaAmini, their movement was also being co‑opted for others’ purposes. How could anyone tell which was which? This is a story from the archives. It originally aired on October 19, 2022. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time has been changed. In this episode: Holly Dagres (@HDagres), The Atlantic Council Nonresident Senior Fellow & MENASource and IranSource Editor Marc Owen Jones (@MarcOwenJones), Assistant Professor of Middle East Studies, Hamad bin Khalifa University Episode credits: This episode was produced by Amy Walters with Negin Owliaei, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Ruby Zaman, Ashish Malhotra and our guest host, Halla Moheiddeen. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Tim St. Clair mixed this episode. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

US President Donald Trump says removing President Nicolas Maduro is about reclaiming Venezuela’s oil. But as Washington pushes for access, major oil companies are hesitating. Why is Venezuela being labeled “uninvestable,” and what does that skepticism reveal about power, instability and the future of Venezuela’s vast oil reserves? In this episode: Anneke Ball (@annekeball), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Melanie Marich, with Tamara Khandaker, and our host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Ney Alvarez and Noor Wazwaz. 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.

Iran’s protests started with economic demands. Now, the Iranian government says it’s ready for war. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has told Iranian protesters that “help is on the way,” as Washington discusses military options. Could tension spread far beyond Iran? In this episode: Negar Mortazavi (@NegarMortazavi), Center for International Policy Senior Fellow and Host of The Iran Podcast Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Chloe K. Li, and Melanie Marich with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Noor Wazwaz and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Ney Alvarez. 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

A ceasefire in Aleppo has halted days of deadly fighting, after clashes between Syrian forces and Kurdish fighters. With civilians displaced and trust deeply shaken, questions are growing about whether Syria’s post-war transition can survive long term. In this episode: Bernard Smith (@JazeeraBernard), Correspondent, Al Jazeera Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Melanie Marich, with Tamara Khandaker, David Enders and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang and Ney Alvarez. 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

A deadly ICE operation in Minneapolis has sparked protests and political conflict. US officials say a federal immigration agent acted in self-defense, while local leaders, citing video evidence, reject that narrative and demand accountability. With investigations ongoing and trust fractured between federal and local authorities, what does this moment reveal about who controls oversight when federal force turns lethal? In this episode: Jon Collins (@JonSCollins), Senior Reporter, Minnesota Public Radio Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili and Chloe K. Li, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Sarí el-Khalili, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Melanie Marich, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 102 days into a cease fire, Israel has killed at least 439 Palestinians in Gaza. Weather continued to threaten the lives of displaced Palestinians in Gaza. Israel issued demolition orders for a playground in the occupied West Bank. Israel has killed more than 71,409 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Hind Khoudary, (@hindkhoudary) Al Jazeera Correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Correspondent Resul Serdar, (@ResulSerdarAtas) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nidaibrahim) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on July 7, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. When AI data centers come to town, companies promise jobs and opportunity. But what about all the water needed to keep data centers running? In one drought-stricken community in Brazil, residents must weigh the choices. How do communities balance the economic boost and environmental cost of hosting water-reliant data centers? In this episode: Laís Martins (@laismartins.com), Investigative Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Marcos Bartolomé, Haleema Shah, Remas Alhawari, Manny Panaretos, Mariana Navarrete, Kylene Kiang, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. 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, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Iranians have taken to the streets in nationwide protests against the country's economic crisis. During a police crackdown on protesters, dozens of people have been killed and more have been arrested. US President Donald Trump has warned Iran that if the brutality continues, Iran would be “hit very hard by the United States.” Why is the US threatening intervention? In this episode: Narges Bajoghli (@nargesbajoghli), Associate Professor of Middle East Studies, Johns Hopkins University Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Melanie Marich, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In the three months since the US unveiled a 20-point Gaza plan, more than 400 Palestinians have been killed and thousands injured in near-daily Israeli attacks. Gaza has been fragmented, with Israel controlling over half its territory. Is this "peace plan" truly about peace? In this episode: Mohammed Mhawish (@mohamhawish), Journalist and Writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Noor Wazwaz, and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Fatima Shafiq, and our host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Artificial intelligence is moving fast - from chatbots to autonomous systems and physical machines. As investment surges, so do concerns about job losses, surveillance, warfare and whether the boom can last. We take a look at where AI is headed in 2026 and the growing resistance against unchecked technological power. In this episode: Brian Merchant (@bcmerchant), Writer of Blood in the Machine newsletter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker and Chloe K. Li with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Fatima Shafiq, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Israel has become the first country in the world to recognize the breakaway region of Somaliland since it declared independence in 1991. What does the move mean for regional tensions around the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, and what will aligning with Israel mean for Somaliland? In this episode: Faisal Ali (@FaisalAHAli), Journalist, Al Jazeera English Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tracie Hunte, Sarí el-Khalili, and Melanie Marich, with Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, and our guest host Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Kylene Kiang. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

What happens when the US says it will “run” a country? President Donald Trump says the US will take control of Venezuela after arresting President Nicolas Maduro. The move has few modern parallels and raises urgent questions about sovereignty, oil, and regional stability. Why now? In this episode: Lucia Newman, Al Jazeera’s Latin America editor Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and David Enders with Farhan Rafid and our host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Diana Ferrero, Tracie Hunte, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Melanie Marich, Catherine Nouhan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our editorial interns are Farhan Rafid, and Kisaa Zehra. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 95 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 418 Palestinians in Gaza. Israel placed new restrictions on NGOs operating in Gaza. As a new year began, Palestinians in Gaza continued to put hopes in a fragile ceasefire. Israel has killed at least 71,384 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Correspondent Sinem Koseoglu, (@sinemkoseoglu) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 19, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. With nearly 3 million Twitch followers, Hasan Piker is one of the internet’s biggest political streamers. He blends humor, culture and masculinity talk with sharp political commentary, drawing young men away from the US alt-right. And on Gaza, he has become one of the loudest US voices for Palestine. In this episode: Hasan Piker, @hasanthehun, online streamer Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Tracie Hunte, Sonia Bhagat Chloe K. Li, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Julia Muldavin, Kisaa Zehra, Farhan Rafid, Sarí el-Khalili, 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, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

We’re looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on November 19. None of the dates or references have been changed. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is operating in an unprecedented way during US President Donald Trump’s second term. The agency has existed for over 20 years, but now operates as a masked force. Imposters posing as agents have committed crimes such as kidnapping and sexual assault. The FBI has urged ICE officers to unmask and identify themselves. How did the agency get here? In this episode: Hannah Allam (@HannahAllam), Reporter, ProPublica Episode credits: This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, Sarí el-Khalili and Diana Ferrero, with Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq, Tamara Khandaker, and our guest host, Natasha Del Toro. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Kylene Kiang. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

We’re looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on September 11. None of the dates or references have been changed. Shot while answering a question about mass shootings, outspoken gun-rights advocate and conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed on a university campus. What does this moment signal for escalating political violence and the state of US politics? In this episode: Matthew Boedy (@MatthewBoedy), Professor of Rhetoric, University of North Georgia Episode credits: This episode was produced by Amy Walters, Sarí el-Khalili, Diana Ferrero and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Chloe K. Li, Farhan Rafid, Kisaa Zehra, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Kylene Kiang. Special thanks to Negin Owliaei. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

We’re looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on September 3. None of the dates or references have been changed. Inside Gaza City, as the Israeli military escalates its takeover, Al Jazeera continues to report from the ground on the day-to-day reality for more than a million Palestinians still there. As top scholars declare that Israel is committing genocide and US plans for a "Gaza Riviera" continue to circulate, how are Palestinians bracing for what comes next? In this episode: Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Amy Walters, Tamara Khandaker, Sarí el Khalili and Diana Ferrero, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Kisaa Zehra, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. 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 Youmna ElSayed. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As the year wraps up, we're looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined our year at The Take. This originally aired on August 28. None of the dates, titles, or other references has been changed. Thousands of US troops are on warships stationed near Venezuela. President Donald Trump says the move is to fight drug cartels that the US has labelled “terrorist” organizations. In response, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has ordered troops to the border and called on citizens to mobilize to defend the country. Is Trump’s mission about fighting drugs, or is it a signal of broader US intervention? In this episode: Alessandro Rampietti (@rampietti), Al Jazeera Reporter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Noor Wazwaz, Kylene Kiang, Diana Ferrero and Tracie Hunte, with Manny Panaretos, Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Kisaa Zehra, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Amy Walters 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

We’re looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on January 30. None of the dates or references have been changed. Are AI chatbots dulling our brains? A new MIT study suggests critical thinking skills are at risk from tools like ChatGPT. What does scientific research say about what happens to brains that rely on artificial intelligence? And how can you use AI tools while protecting your ability to think for yourself? In this episode: Celia Ford (@cogcelia), Science Journalist and Neuroscientist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, Sonia Bhagat and Tamara Khandaker, with Marcos Bartolomé, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Kisaa Zehra, Remas Alhawari, and our guest host, Manuel Rapalo. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 88 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 411 Palestinians in Gaza. Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet Donald Trump. Palestinians mourned actor and director Mohammad Bakri. Israel has killed more than 71,266 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Ibrahim Al Khalili, (@_ibrahimalkhalili) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nida Ibrahim, (@nida_journo) Al Jazeera Correspondent Zeina Khodr, (@ZeinakhodrAljaz) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As the year wraps up, we're looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined our year at The Take. This originally aired on June 24, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references 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 of Iranian Studies, Columbia University Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat, and Haleema Shah, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Ashish Malhotra, Tamara Khandaker, Mariana Navarrete, and our host, Manuel Rápalo. It was edited by Kylene Kiang and Noor Wazwaz. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As the year wraps up, we're looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on June 27. None of the dates, titles, or other references have been changed. Thirty-three years old, socialist, Muslim and now, the likely Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani was barely known a few months ago. Today, he may be the most popular political voice of a generation. How did he get here, and could he be here to stay? In this episode: Max Rivlin-Nadler (@MaxRivlinNadler), co-owner and reporter, Hell Gate NYC Episode credits: This episode was produced by Ashish Malhotra, Sonia Bhagat and Amy Walters, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Remas Al Hawari, Kisaa Zehra, Mariana Navarette, and our host, Manuel Rapalo. It was edited by Kylene Kiang and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editor is Hisham Abu Salah. 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

As 2025 wraps up, we're looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined our year at The Take. This originally aired on May 8. None of the dates, titles, or other references have been changed. It’s the biggest military escalation between India and Pakistan in decades. Missile strikes, drone attacks and deadly shelling have struck on both sides of the border in the disputed region of Kashmir. With dozens of civilians dead and both countries trading blame, can the two nuclear powers contain the dispute? In this episode: Charu Kasturi (@CharuKasturi), Senior Editor and Writer, Al Jazeera Episode credits: This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, Marcos Bartolome and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Kingwell Ma, Mariana Navarette, Kisaa Zehra, and our guest host, Manuel Rapalo. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

As 2025 wraps up, we're looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined our year at The Take. This originally aired on March 21. None of the dates, titles, or other references have been changed. Backlash to Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s alliance is hitting Tesla hard. The company is facing boycotts, protests, and attacks on cars, showrooms and charging stations. Tesla stock is plummeting. The US attorney general and Trump called the attacks “domestic terrorism”. In this episode, we look at what is driving public opposition to Tesla. In this episode: Bobby Allyn (@BobbyAllyn), Tech Correspondent, NPR Jen Cousins, Tesla Takedown Activist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Sonia Bhagat, and Tamara Khandaker, with Ashish Malhotra, Hanah Shokeir, Melanie Marich, Remas Alhawari, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editor is Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. 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

We’re looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on February 10. None of the dates or references have been changed. Bad Bunny’s new album, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, became the number-one streamed album worldwide. It mixes different Puerto Rican music genres and touches on themes of gentrification and a loss of cultural identity. How is the album bringing the Puerto Rican fight for survival to the world? In this episode: Jorell Meléndez-Badillo (@jorellmelendezb), Author of “Puerto Rico: A National History” Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, with Hanah Shokeir, Hagir Saleh, Melanie Marich and our guest host, Natasha Del Toro. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

We're looking back at 10 of the episodes that defined 2025 at The Take. This originally aired on January 30. None of the dates or references have been changed. Bodies are lining the streets of Goma and hospitals are overwhelmed after an escalation in the long-simmering conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Rwandan-backed M23 group claims it took control of the city, and the DRC has called it a declaration of war by Rwanda. But why is Rwanda involved and what are its interests? In this episode: Kambale Musavuli (@kambale), Analyst, Center for Research on the Congo-Kinshasa Episode credits: This episode was produced by Ashish Malhotra, Sonia Bhagat and Chloe K. Li, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Hagir Saleh, Hanah Shokeir, Melanie Marich, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. 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. We’ll be back tomorrow. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 81 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 394 Palestinians in Gaza. Palestinians in Gaza continued to struggle to find food. Israel further expanded its presence in Syria. Israel has killed more than 70,925 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Correspondent Gabriel Elizondo, (@elizondogabriel) Al Jazeera Correspondent Gemma Nash, (@GemmaNash10) Al Jazeera Presenter Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 6. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Are US tariffs about to end the “add to cart” era? United States President Donald Trump’s move to end the de minimis exemption closes a loophole used by Shein, Temu and others to ship duty-free. With costs likely passed to shoppers, consumers are starting to rethink the real price of ultra-cheap clothing. In this episode: Aja Barber (@ajabarber), author, Consumed Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tracie Hunt. The original production team was Noor Wazwaz, Amy Walters, Sonia Bhagat and Sarí el-Khalili, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Marya Khan, Melanie Marich, Kisaa Zehra and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. 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

Beset by food shortages, blackouts, and severe inflation, a growing number of Cubans are leaving the island. What’s driving them, where are they going, and why is the government no longer trying to stop it from happening? In this episode: Andrés Pertierra (@ASPertierra), historian Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad el-Melhem. 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

Why does the public understanding of disability lag so far behind reality? TikTok influencer and disability activist Imani Barbarin lays this out for her audiences on social media, where she has amassed nearly a million followers across platforms. In this episode, Barbarin shares her perspectives on disability at the intersection of issues, including COVID and the genocidal war on Gaza. In this episode: Imani Barbarin (@Imani_Barbarin), Disability Advocate Episode credits: This episode was produced by Melanie Marich and Haleema Shah, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tracie Hunte, Diana Ferrero, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang and Noor Wazwaz. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Christmas lights are back on in Bethlehem for the first time since Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza began. Yet behind the celebrations, deep economic hardships and mounting pressure from Israeli military incursions and settler violence continue to shape daily life for Palestinian Christians across the occupied West Bank. In this episode: Rev Dr Fares Abraham (@faresabraham), Founder and President, Levant Ministries Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tracie Hunte and Sarí el-Khalili, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Haleema Shah, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

A Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach ended with a mass shooting when two gunmen opened fire, killing 15 people. In a country with some of the world’s strictest gun laws, how were a father and son able to carry out an attack that sent shockwaves across Australia? In this episode: Danielle Robertson (@Danielle_Rob), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Melanie Marich, with Sarí el-Khalili, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq, Diana Ferrero, Tamara Khandaker and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have seized the Heglig oilfield, a critical site located on the border of Sudan and South Sudan. The capture of vital oil infrastructure is part of the RSF's latest push to dominate the country's Kordofan region. What will this takeover mean for the next stage of Sudan's war? In this episode: Hiba Morgan (@hiba_morgan), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, Sarí el-Khalili, and Melanie Marich, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Diana Ferrero, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, and our host Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Diana Ferrero, Tracie Hunte, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Melanie Marich, Haleema Shah, and Noor Wazwaz. Our editorial interns are Farhan Rafid and Fatima Shafiq. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 67 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 383 Palestinians in Gaza. A winter storm killed at least 14 Palestinians in Gaza. Israel approved further settlements in the occupied West Bank. Israel has killed more than 70,656 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Ibrahim Al Khalili, (@_ibrahimalkhalili) Al Jazeera Correspondent Hind Khoudary, (@Hind_Gaza) Al Jazeera Correspondent Nour Odeh, (@osamabinjavaid) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on January 18, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. The Palestinian national football team is at the AFC Asian Cup happening right now in Qatar. They played the United Arab Emirates today and played Iran on Sunday, where Palestinian pride echoed throughout the stadium. We head to the pitch for a look at the team’s challenges and achievements as the cup goes on. In this episode: Abdullah Al-Arian, Georgetown University Associate Professor of History, School of Foreign Service in Qatar Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tracie Hunte. This episode was produced by Khaled Soltan and Chloe K. Li with our host Kevin Hirten. Miranda Lin fact-checked this episode. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik and Adam Abou-Gad is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Warner Bros Discovery, the Hollywood studio and media company, is up for grabs, and Netflix and Paramount are battling to own it. Both Netflix and Paramount are media giants with competing views of the future of the industry. So how could a media merger involving one of the most iconic Hollywood studios change entertainment as we know it? In this episode: Rani Molla (@ranimolla), Senior Tech Correspondent, Sherwood News Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Noor Wazwaz, and Tracie Hunte, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Diana Ferrero, Melanie Marich, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

When Gaza militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab was killed last week, few Palestinians mourned his death. After Israel's genocidal war in Gaza began in 2023, Abu Shabab and his Israel-backed Popular Forces group attempted to present themselves as an alternative to Hamas, but Palestinians instead viewed him as a traitor. What did his rise reveal about Israel’s strategy for Gaza? In this episode: Muhammad Shehada (@muhammadshehad2), fellow, European Council on Foreign Relations Episode credits: This episode was produced by Melanie Marich, Noor Wazwaz, and Haleema Shah, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Tracie Hunte, Diana Ferrero, and our guest host Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The US military is increasing its presence in Puerto Rico as the Trump administration prepares for a possible clash with Venezuela over alleged drug trafficking. Ten thousand troops, advanced jets, drones and the USS Iwo Jima now sit on an island still scarred by decades of military pollution. What does this new buildup mean for Puerto Rico’s future? In this episode: Israel Melendez Ayala (@IsraelAyala144), Writer and Historian Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tracie Hunte, Noor Wazwaz, and Sarí el-Khalili, with Diana Ferrero, Haleema Shah, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, and our guest host, Natasha Del Toro. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Each winter, Delhi is smothered in a toxic smog that chokes its residents, sending many to hospitals for acute respiratory ailments. The government has pledged to tackle the air pollution crisis, but the reality remains difficult. Amid fears that India’s capital is becoming unlivable, residents are now demanding real action after a decade of breathing the world’s dirtiest air. In this episode: Yashraj Sharma (@yashjournals), independent journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker and Haleema Shah, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, and our guest host Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

One year after Bashar al-Assad’s fall, Syrians are returning home and trying to rebuild their lives. But questions over transitional justice and minority protections are testing whether this new Syria can become more than just another chapter of survival. In this episode: Leila Nachawati (@leila_na), writer and professor Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Noor Wazwaz, Melanie Marich, and Haleema Shah, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Diana Ferrero, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq Tamara Khandaker, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Diana Ferrero, Tracie Hunte, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Melanie Marich, Catherine Nouhan, Haleema Shah, and Noor Wazwaz. Our editorial interns are Farhan Rafid, and Kisaa Zehra. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: 60 days into a ceasefire, Israel has killed at least 367 Palestinians in Gaza. Israel said it would reopen Gaza's border with Egypt. Despite ongoing violence, Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank sought to find some normalcy. Israel has killed more than 70,354 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7th, 2023. In this episode: Hind Khoudary, (@Hind_Gaza) Al Jazeera Correspondent Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Nour Odeh, (@osamabinjavaid) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. 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. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on xx, 20xx. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Since the American-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the US has trained thousands of Afghan security forces. Among them are militias that were backed by the US Central Intelligence Agency. For years, activists and journalists have documented civilian killings that took place by their hand. How will that legacy affect the current fight ahead for the country? In this episode: Emran Feroz (@Emran_Feroz), Journalist Patricia Gossman (@pagossman), Human Rights Watch Associate Asia Director Episode credits: This episode was updated by Noor Wazwaz. The original production team Negin Owliaei with Dina Kesbeh, Priyanka Tilve, Ney Alvarez, Alexandra Locke,Tom Fenton , Stacey Samuel and Amy Walters and our host, Malika Bilal. Tom Fenton is our story editor. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. Aya El-Mileik is our engagement producer. 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, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

South African authorities are investigating how at least 17 men ended up on Russia’s front lines in Ukraine. Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of ex-president Jacob Zuma, is accused of luring the men with promises of job training. She denies it, and says she was also duped. What's next for the Zuma family and for the men still trapped in Ukraine? In this episode: Rachel Savage (@rachelmsavage), Southern Africa correspondent, The Guardian Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tracie Hunte, Haleema Shah, Noor Wazwaz, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Diana Ferrero, Farhan Rafid and Fatima Shafiq, Tamara Khandaker, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The US is ramping up military threats and rhetoric against Venezuela. With 15,000 US troops deployed in the Caribbean Sea, strikes on alleged drug boats, and more than 80 alleged traffickers killed, the escalating military presence in the region has Venezuelans on edge. What's really driving these two countries closer to war? In this episode: Alejandro Velasco (@AleVelascoNYU), Associate Professor of Latin Studies, New York University Episode credits: This episode was produced by Melanie Marich, Haleema Shah, Tracie Hunte, and Diana Ferrero with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, and our guest host, Manuel Rapalo. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. 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. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube