Podcasts about Afghan

It's a brand-new series launch! Marvel Mondays are officially here, and we're kicking things off with the movie that started it all.ABOUT IRON MANAfter being held captive in an Afghan cave, billionaire engineer Tony Stark creates a unique weaponized suit of armor to fight evil.AIR DATE & NETWORK FOR IRON MANMay 2, 2008 | TheatersCAST & CREW OF IRON MANRobert Downey Jr. as Tony StarkGwyneth Paltrow as Pepper PottsTerrence Howard as RhodeyJeff Bridges as Obadiah StaneBRAN'S IRON MAN SYNOPSISWe meet playboy Tony Stark. He's in the back of a military Humvee, answering all their questions about how cool he is, when they're suddenly attacked by Stark Industries explosives. He passes out—and when he comes to, he realizes he's being held captive.Cut back 36 hours earlier. Tony is supposed to be receiving an award… except he doesn't show up. He's too busy “working.” After the event, a journalist confronts him about selling weapons to terrorists. He denies it—and then they hook up. So that's Tony.We meet Pepper Potts, Tony's hyper-competent personal assistant; “Happy” Hogan, his bodyguard and chauffeur; and most importantly, J.A.R.V.I.S., his personal AI system.Tony heads to Afghanistan to show off his flashy new “Jericho” missile. It's a big deal. It's also very bad.Now we're back at the beginning. Tony was critically wounded in the ambush, but fellow captive Yinsen built an electromagnet to keep shrapnel from reaching Tony's heart and killing him. Problem… temporarily solved.Tony's captors are the Ten Rings terrorist organization, and they demand he build a Jericho missile. If he doesn't, he won't be set free. Instead of building the missile, Tony secretly builds a weaponized suit to help them escape. The Ten Rings discover his plan, and Yinsen sacrifices himself to distract them while the suit powers up. Tony fights his way out of the cave, finds Yinsen dying, and—furious—destroys the terrorists' munitions before flying away. He eventually crashes in the desert, destroying the suit.After being rescued by Rhodey, Tony returns home and announces that Stark Industries will no longer manufacture weapons. Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges), his father's old partner and the company's acting manager, warns him this could destroy the company and its legacy. Tony reveals he has built a new miniaturized arc reactor—one capable of providing clean energy to the entire planet.In his workshop, Tony builds an improved Iron Man suit and a more powerful arc reactor for his chest. Pepper places the original reactor in a glass display case. When Stane presses for details, a now-suspicious Tony keeps his work to himself.At Tony's first public appearance after his return, reporter Christine Everhart reveals that Stark Industries weapons—including the Jericho—have been delivered to the Ten Rings and used to attack Yinsen's home village. Tony also learns Stane is attempting to remove him as head of the company. Enraged, Tony suits up and flies to Afghanistan, saving the village and dealing a devastating blow to the Ten Rings. On his way home, he's targeted by two F-22 fighter jets and calls Rhodey, revealing his identity to stop the attack.Meanwhile, the Ten Rings recover pieces of Tony's original suit and meet with Stane. Stane eliminates the terrorists and has his own suit reverse-engineered from the wreckage. To track the weapons supply, Tony sends Pepper to hack into company files from Stane's office. She discovers that Stane has been supplying terrorists and hired the Ten Rings to kill Tony—only for them to fail. Pepper then contacts Agent Phil Coulson of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division (S.H.I.E.L.D.).Stane's scientists can't replicate Tony's arc reactor, so Stane ambushes Tony at home using a sonic device, paralyzes him, and steals his reactor. Left for dead, Tony crawls to his workshop and installs the original reactor. As Pepper and S.H.I.E.L.D. agents try to arrest Stane, he attacks in his Iron Monger suit. Tony fights him but is outmatched without his upgraded reactor. He lures Stane to the top of Stark Industries and instructs Pepper to overload the massive arc reactor. The resulting surge knocks Stane into the reactor, killing him.The press dubs the armored hero “Iron Man.” Agent Coulson provides Tony with a cover story, but at a press conference, Tony abandons it entirely and admits: “I am Iron Man.”In the post-credits scene, S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Nick Fury visits Tony and reveals that Iron Man isn't the only superhero in the world—introducing the Avengers Initiative. Watch the show on Youtube - www.deckthehallmark.com/youtubeInterested in advertising on the show? Email bran@deckthehallmark.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 2 of my conversation with Irish cyclist Tomas Mac An T-Saoir, we continue his nine-year journey around the world by bicycle. We begin in Syria and Afghanistan, where Tomas shares what it was like to travel through regions affected by conflict and have frank, human conversations with the people who live there. One powerful story includes an Afghan woman who was permitted by local authorities to guide him through her city, offering him a rare window into daily life under restrictive laws.From the Middle East, our conversation shifts right back to New Zealand, where this chapter of Tomas's journey actually began, and where Covid lockdowns meant he ended up staying far longer than he ever expected. His time in New Zealand eventually led to Australia,  and onward to Timor Leste and Indonesia, where he dealt with blistering heat, remote roads and even a major earthquake on the Indonesian side of Timor.We also explore something many long-term travellers quietly struggle with: finishing. After nine years of life on the road, how do you return home? What happens to your identity when the bike stops moving? And how do you make sense of everything you have seen and experienced along the way?If you are interested in bikepacking, long-term travel, culture, human stories and round-the-world cycling, this episode offers an honest look at both the extraordinary and the everyday parts of life on the road.Follow Tomas on Instagram - @anbotharfada

In 2005, a new show was launched on television in Afghanistan to find new musical talent – it was called Afghan Star and was inspired by formats like American Idol and the X-Factor. The programme came after the music industry in Afghanistan had been decimated under the Taliban between 1996 and 2001. Music has been culturally important in Afghan history, however, playing music and musical instruments had been banned whilst the Taliban were in power. Jahid Mohseni was the development producer for Afghan Star, he has been speaking to Tim O'Callaghan. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: The first season of Afghan Star. Credit: MOBY Media Group)

Afghan war veteran Laura Jedeed never thought ICE would hire her as a deportation officer. She thought she failed the drug test, and she knew an internet search would reveal plenty of reasons for the agency not to hire her. As she writes for Slate Magazine, ICE didn't perform a background check ... and it sent her an offer. We discuss the process of joining ICE and concerns about the conduct of some of its officers. Our guests: Laura Jedeed, freelance journalist and writer at FirewalledMedia.com Marv Stepherson, retired police sergeant, military veteran, and Monroe County Legislator for District 3 ---Connections is supported by listeners like you. Head to our donation page to become a WXXI member today, support the show, and help us close the gap created by the rescission of federal funding.---Connections airs every weekday from noon-2 p.m. Join the conversation with questions or comments by phone at 1-844-295-TALK (8255) or 585-263-9994, email, Facebook or Twitter. Connections is also livestreamed on the WXXI News YouTube channel each day. You can watch live or access previous episodes here.---Do you have a story that needs to be shared? Pitch your story to Connections.

10 January 2026Host: Jo BrewYal & Afghan WomenAfghanistanAfghan women from inside Afghan will share their situation under the control of the talibanLierre Keith and Joni ZanderUSAWoLF LawfareKate RamsdenScotlandWhy I signed the Declaration on Women's Sex-Based Rights

Author Neha Lund discusses the article, "Making the Case for Afghan Adjustment: The Racial Politics of Post-War Status Adjustment" published in the January 2026 issue of Sociology of Race and Ethnicity.

When the Taliban banned girls from attending school beyond Grade 6, Hazrat Wahriz knew what was coming and quietly began preparing. A former Afghan diplomat and educator now living in Canada, Wahriz helped launch Daricha, a network of underground schools run from homes and supported by local communities across Afghanistan. In this conversation, he talks about teaching under constant risk, why real change has to come from within a society, and what keeps him hopeful even as he knows he may never see the full results of his work.

Mohammad Sahil, executive director of the Nebraska Afghan Community Center, shares a journey that moves from refugee beginnings and work as an interpreter for the US military to life in America, ultimately building community infrastructure for Afghan and other immigrant families in Nebraska. It's a conversation about home, dignity, moral responsibility, and what it looks like to pursue the American Dream.Sahil is a former combat interpreter who served alongside the U.S. military in Afghanistan for nearly a decade before immigrating to the U.S. with his wife through the Special Immigrant Visa program. For almost nine years, he's supported refugee and immigrant communities through case management, education work, and interpretation, including service with Omaha Public Schools, where he received a 2021 Excellent Service Award. He now leads the Nebraska Afghan Community Center and serves in key community leadership roles, including Chair of the Omaha Refugee Task Force.*************************Today's show and others are supported by the generous membership of Amy and Tom Trenolone.*Bonus content* for Lives members only features exclusive content and more. Find a Lives membership tier that fits you - support link here.

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This episode focuses on the potential of sports in supporting inclusion and mental health.  Khalida Popal is an award-winning Afghan football pioneer and activist and the founder of the Girl Power organisation. Khalida joined us for a training in Copenhagen under the Sport Coach+ initiative, implemented in a partnership between the MHPSS Hub and the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF). The initiative aims to create trauma informed and healing centered sports environments for young athletes between the ages of 10 and 24 with a focus on those with a background of displacement and adversities.Khalida and the Girl Power team have vast experience and expertise in using sports as a tool for empowerment, inclusion and mental well-being with a focus on women from marginalized groups. We invited Khalida to share some of the insights and learnings from her work.  Read more about Girl Power: https://www.girlpowerorg.com/   Read more about Sport Coach+ : https://www.sportcoachplus.org/   

In this episode of Gums & Gossip Podcast, we dive into the inspiring work of a global advocate for Afghan women, Mursal Kakar , exploring the intersection of healthcare, dental wellness, education, and empowerment. From her humanitarian efforts in Germany to advocating for women's rights on the international stage, she shares powerful stories of resilience, hope, and cultural pride.We discuss the challenges Afghan women face, the importance of access to healthcare and dental care, and how advocacy and diplomacy can create real change. This episode is a reminder that even in the toughest circumstances, hope and empowerment can thrive.✨ Listen to learn:How Afghan women are overcoming barriers to education and healthThe link between wellness, dental care, and empowermentStories of resilience and inspiration from humanitarian effortsHow you can support global women's rights initiativesDon't forget to subscribe, share, and join the movement for hope, wellness, and empowerment.Follow IG @Mursalmkakar @gumsngossip

For Navy veteran Shawn VanDiver, a 2021 call from Afghanistan sparked the creation of AfghanEvac, now one of the most successful refugee advocacy organizations. In this season premiere, VanDiver discusses his path from getting his GED to military service, his work with the Truman National Security Project, and how a single emergency became a mission supporting more than 195,000 Afghan refugees. He explains his community-first approach, why this work extends beyond Afghanistan, and concrete ways veterans can advocate for allies worldwide.Plus: Tango Alpha Lima hosts warn about predatory VA claim services, explore the Together We Served veteran network, and honor WWII veteran and Beetle Bailey cartoonist Mort Walker.LINKSThe War Horse: VA Warned These Companies They May Be Breaking the Law. Most Are Still in BusinessNPR: Congress calls for a crackdown on companies charging disabled vetsJoin The American Legion Family USA250 ChallengeAfghanEvac WebsiteAfghan Allies Vetting processHow you can help AfghanEvacAfghanEvac StoreThe American Legion Junior Shooting Sports Program Learn more about Together We ServedRemembering Beetle Bailey creator Mort WalkerLegion calls for Congress to include Fulfilling Promises to Afghan Allies Amendment in 2025 NDAA

VLOG Jan 6 US v Maduro; Delcy Rodriguez was questioned by Inner City Press at UN before @AntonioGuterres threw the Press out https://matthewrussellleeicp.substack.com/p/extra-maduro-and-wife-plead-not-guilty crypto Roman Storm to April 22, Chastain retrial? Habeas Guayana murder, Afghan. UN book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GDJJMN4L

In this episode of Hope in the Good Life, John Soukup revisits a story of welcome that still matters today. In the aftermath of the 2021 evacuation of Afghanistan, CSS Volunteer Jeff Kanger opened his home to an Afghan family seeking safety and security, hosting them until Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska helped secure a permanent home through its refugee resettlement efforts. As the new year begins, this conversation reminds us that welcoming the stranger isn't a one-time response to crisis, but an ongoing commitment to mercy, dignity, and Hope in the Good Life.

Officiellement, les frontières des Balkans sont fermées et tellement bien gardées que les exilés ne tenteraient presque plus de les franchir. Mais dans les faits, les migrants sont surtout devenus indétectables et entièrement à la merci des passeurs prêts à tout pour maximiser leurs gains. Un reportage à retrouver en entier dans l'émission Accents d'Europe. De notre correspondant à Belgrade, Personne ne sait combien d'exilés empruntent actuellement la route des Balkans, notamment parce que la plupart évitent les camps officiels où ils sont identifiés. Shaheer, un jeune Afghan de 21 ans, préfère lui la jungle d'Obrenovac, au sud de Belgrade. « J'espère qu'on va finir par me laisser entrer en Hongrie. Ce n'est pas une vie ici, c'est dangereux. On doit se cacher de la police, des gens. Aujourd'hui, il y a un type d'ici, un Serbe, qui m'a frappé. Il m'a dit : "Dégage, tu n'as rien à faire ici". On doit toujours fuir. Ça me rend fou, littéralement », témoigne le jeune homme qui vit dans la rue depuis un mois et demi, n'ayant plus d'argent pour poursuivre son périple vers l'Union européenne. Sur la route des Balkans, les prix flambent depuis l'entrée de la Croatie dans l'espace Schengen et le déploiement des gardes frontières de Frontex dans le pays. Les trafiquants font leur pub ouvertement sur TikTok et sont aussi prêts à tout -  même aux pires exactions - pour maximiser leurs profits. Les risques pris par les sans-papiers se matérialisent dans les cimetières « Dans les Balkans, les gangs sont surtout tenus par des Afghans, tandis qu'en Libye, ils le sont par des Libyens. Mais le système est le même : ils kidnappent, torturent, violent, brisent les os et envoient des vidéos aux familles pour leur réclamer des rançons de 3 000 ou 4 000 euros. Cela peut paraître peu, mais pour eux, c'est beaucoup d'argent. Une fois que les familles ont payé, les personnes sont libérées. Les transferts se font par Western Union ou MoneyGram », détaille Silvia Maraone, une humanitaire italienne basée de longue date en Bosnie-Herzégovine. Dans les Balkans, les risques toujours plus grands pris par les sans-papiers se matérialisent concrètement dans les cimetières. Les tombes portant l'inscription « N. N. », pour « Nomen nescio » (« Nom inconnu », en latin), se multiplient dans ceux qui se trouvent près des frontières. Régulièrement sollicitée par des familles de disparus, l'ONG serbe KlikAktiv a lancé cette année un projet pour tenter de les identifier, comme l'explique Milica Svabic. « Des dizaines de personnes sont mortes noyées dans la rivière Drina, entre la Serbie et la Bosnie-Herzégovine. Malheureusement, personne n'en parle et ces victimes sont mal identifiées », déplore-t-elle. Aujourd'hui, les ONG de la route des Balkans font ce qu'elles peuvent pour continuer à porter assistance à ceux qui la rejoignent, alors que les autorités les ignorent. Un reportage à retrouver en entier dans l'émission Accents d'Europe.

Poetry about love between a man and a woman was banned by the Taliban in September 2025. For many Afghans, poetry is something which is very much a part of everyday life and has often been passed down in the oral, folk-law tradition. It weaves in and out of conversation effortlessly and is an important way of connecting with one another. In this episode of The Fifth Floor, we discuss one of the most venerated female love poets in Afghan culture – Rabia Balkhi. Rabia wrote her poetry in the 10th century, and the story goes that she fell in love with her brother's servant. When her love poetry for him was discovered, she was imprisoned, but even as she lay dying, she continued to write her poems in her own blood. Her determination to express her true feelings makes her a symbol of inspiration to people, and especially women, in Afghanistan today. We are joined by three BBC Afghan journalists Shekiba Habib, Aalia Farzan and Abdullah Shadan to tell us more about Rabia Balkhi's story and Afghanistan's love for poetry. This episode of The Documentary comes to you from The Fifth Floor, the show at the heart of global storytelling, with BBC journalists from all around the world. Presented by Faranak Amidi. Produced by Hannah Dean, Laura Thomas and Caroline Ferguson. (Photo: Faranak Amidi. Credit: Tricia Yourkevich.)

On Saturday, January 3, 200 people gathered in Townsend Park in Albany to demand the immediate release of all FOUR members of the Bakhtani family from ICE detention. In early December, the Bakhtanis, refugees from Afghanistan, had their family ripped apart after two targeted kidnappings by immigration enforcement agents. At the rally, we heard that 2 of the family members had been released so far. We first hear from Jahaira Roldan of the NY Immigration and Capital District Solidarity Committees, followed by various activists and elected officials.

Twenty years after Operation Red Wings, Marcus Luttrell walks us through the brutal firefight, the seven‑mile crawl, the Afghan villagers who saved him, and the chaotic night rescue the movie couldn’t show. A raw, riveting, first‑person account you won’t hear anywhere else.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

//The Wire//2300Z December 30, 2025////ROUTINE////BLUF: SAUDI ARABIA BOMBS EMIRATI WEAPONS SHIPMENT IN YEMEN. RAIL DELAYS SPREAD AROUND EUROPE AFTER INCIDENT IN CHANNEL TUNNEL. CROWBAR ATTACK REPORTED AT BRITISH HOSPITAL.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE----- -International Events-Yemen: Overnight tensions escalated sharply between several nations as the conflict in Yemen threatens to become more serious. Colonel Turki Al-Malki, the Saudi Air Force Colonel that serves as the spokesman for the Saudi mission to Yemen stated that two vessels departed the UAE without permission this morning, and sailed without turning their AIS transponders on before arriving in Yemen. Onboard these vessels were weapons and armored vehicles that the UAE was allegedly trying to smuggle to the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a faction that threatens the Saudi border.As a result, Saudi Arabia conducted a few airstrikes within the Yemeni port of Mukalla, targeting the combat vehicles to be used by the STC. After the strikes, Saudi Arabia also called for the UAE to leave Yemen entirely. A few hours after this morning's scuffle, the UAE announced a cessation of their already-reduced mission in Yemen, and are withdrawing all public support for the STC, per Saudi demands.United Kingdom: This morning an Afghan migrant was arrested for conducting an attack at the Newton-Le-Willows Hospital in Merseyside, a small village halfway between Liverpool and Manchester. The attack began after the man was denied an appointment after entering the lobby with a crowbar in hand. After being told there were no appointments, the man began attacking staff with the crowbar. 5x people were wounded during the attack.Europe: This morning a "major disruption" was reported in the Channel Tunnel, halting train services between London and Paris. The cause of the disruption was two-fold, resulting from several power lines being downed in one tunnel, and a train stuck in the other tunnel, blocking service both ways under the English Channel.Analyst Comment: This sounds like it wouldn't be that big of a deal, but due to the importance of this one tunnel (and the nature of rail logistics), passenger train services were halted from Amsterdam to Paris, all during one of the most heavily-trafficked travels season of the year. Delays have been reported all day, and EuroStar has recommended travelers to avoid trains which use cross-Channel routes until repairs are made.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: The situation in Yemen has always been a tangled web of factions, and thing's aren't as simple as "the enemy of my enemy is my friend". This latest development is no different, and throughout the day the statements from all parties reflect more of the plot of a soap opera than traditional diplomacy.The STC is a separatist movement in Yemen that is opposing the Houthi's, but also opposing the Saudis. The Saudis know that if the STC were to win the Civil War in Yemen and actually dominate the Houthis, the STC would probably sidestep the formal Yemeni government and succeed in their goal of creating a new state (what they call South Arabia), which the STC has been working toward for some time. The UAE provides materiel support to the STC for several reasons. For one, the UAE and the Saudis have bad-blood between them on cultural grounds, but both the Emirates and the Saudi royal family also don't want the Houthi's to control most of Yemen, thus the reason for both nations teaming up to form the security coalition in Yemen.However, the Saudis also don't want the Houthi's adversaries (the STC) to get too much control either...which the UAE *does* want so as to apply pressure to the Saudis because the UAE and Yemen don't share a land border, so they don't care.In short, the Saudis and Emirates don't actually like each other, but work together to control the dozens of

The Codification of Gender Apartheid, the Afghan and Iranian Resistance Movements and Global Gender-Based Violence Online and OfflineDiscussion with Heather Barr on gender apartheid in Afghanistan and Iran and efforts to codify it as a crime against humanity in international law. We explore why codification matters, how to support these efforts, and why challenging gender apartheid is critical. We discuss the concerning normalization of the Taliban regime and the Afghan and Iranian resistance movements. We also discuss gender-based violence, including acid attacks, rape during war, and digital abuse. Finally, we discuss the global rollback of women's rights, from attacks on reproductive healthcare to leadership disparities and discrimination against female leaders.For More Info: https://thegravity.fm/#/episode/69

Note: new mailing address below... THIS WEEK's BIRDS: Marshall Allen w. Neneh Cherry; new Myra Melford; Webber/Morris Big Band; Gurmeet Singh & Sardur Surjeet Singh (mystical vocal music Punjab); new music from Noah Franche-Nolan; Sima Bina sings Afghan music; Steve Swell, Warren Smith, Chad Taylor & David Taylor;  vintage John Handy;  Billy Hart w.  Tired & Tickled Trio; Taha Suliman (pop from Sudan): Saudi vocalist Mohammed Abdu; Ethiopian vocalist  Kuku Subside; Italian pop vocalist Nada;  much, more.... Catch the BIRDS live on Friday nights, 9:00pm-MIDNIGHT (EST), in Central New York on WRFI, 88.1 FM Ithaca/ 88.5 FM Odessa;. and WORLDWIDE online via our MUSIC PLAYER at WRFI.ORG. 24/7 via PODBEAN: https://conferenceofthebirds.podbean.com via iTUNES: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conference-of-the-birds-podcast/id478688580 Also available at podomatic, Internet Archive, podtail, iheart Radio, and elsewhere. Always FREE of charge to listen to the radio program and free also to stream, download, and subscribe to the podcast online: PLAYLIST at SPINITRON: https://spinitron.com/WRFI/pl/21701834/Conference-of-the-Birds and via the Conference of the Birds page at www.WRFI.ORG https://www.wrfi.org/wrfiprograms/conferenceofthebirds/  Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/conferenceofthebirds/?ref=bookmarks Find WRFI on Radio Garden: http://radio.garden/visit/ithaca-ny/aqh8OGBR   NEW MAILING ADDRESS:  Stephen Cope  @ Conference of the Birds, POBOX 428, Tivoli, NY, 12583, USA. 

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Mandana Hendessi about her career in human rights advocacy and international development across Iraq and Afghanistan, with a particular focus on her novel, The Almond Garden of Kabul (https://www.afsana-press.com/the-almond-garden-of-kabul). Drawing from her real-life experiences providing legal aid and counseling at the Badam Bagh women's prison, Hendessi explores the systemic oppression of women through the lens of "moral crimes" and the contradictions between national law and conservative judicial interpretations. The interview delves into the harrowing realities of sexual abuse and trafficking within the prison system, while also highlighting the profound sense of sisterhood and resilience found among a diverse group of incarcerated women. Ultimately, the conversation examines themes of trauma, institutionalization, and the complexities of translating Western concepts of mental health and empowerment into the cultural and linguistic nuances of Afghan society. Mandana Hendessi (https://www.afsana-press.com/mandana-hendessi) (OBE) is a writer and women's rights advocate whose thirty years in gender equality and humanitarian work have taken her from the corridors of Westminster to the crowded refugee camps of the Middle East and the dimly lit cells of Afghan prisons. These encounters – layered with resilience, grief, and defiance – have given her a rare insight into the human cost of injustice, an insight that continues to infuse her fiction. Lived at the intersection of politics, war, and survival, these experiences shape her writing, which seeks to give voice to those too often silenced.

Code Pink Women for Peace co-founder Medea Benjamin: Trump Marching to War with Venezuela Unless Congress IntervenesPalestinian anti-apartheid activist Mazin Qumsiyeh: Israel Increases Repression and Attacks on the Local Economy in Occupied Palestinian West BankFree Speech for People co-founder and President John Bonifaz: Impeachment: The Antidote to Trump's Authoritarian PresidencyBob Nixon's Under-reported News Summary• One Afghan emigré's alleged crime causes crackdown on all Afghan immigration• Globally, land mine casualties and injuries highest ever since 2020• Family Dollar, Dollar General's shelf prices may not be the same at checkoutVisit our website at BTLonline.org for more information, in-depth interviews, related links, transcripts and subscribe to our BTL Weekly Summary and/or podcasts. New episodes every Wednesday at 12 noon ET, website updated Wednesdays after 4 p.m. ETProduced by Squeaky Wheel Productions: Scott Harris, Melinda Tuhus, Bob Nixon, Anna Manzo, Susan Bramhall, Jeff Yates and Mary Hunt. Theme music by Richard Hill and Mikata.

From November 20, 2023: Over the past few weeks, the country of Pakistan has pursued an aggressive wave of deportations targeting thousands of Afghan refugees, some of whom have been in Pakistan for generations. Many fear that this move will add to the already precarious and humanitarian situation facing Afghanistan. But the Taliban regime, for one, has reacted in a way few expected.To talk through these refugee removals and their ramifications, Lawfare Senior Editor Scott R. Anderson sat down with Madiha Afzal, a Fellow in the Foreign Policy program at the Brookings Institution. They talked about the origins of the Afghan refugee population in Pakistan, how this latest action intersects with concerns over terrorism, and where the crisis may be headed next.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Massive welfare fraud in Minnesota by Somali immigrants was not supposed to happen because of government “guardrails.” Political violence by an Afghan refugee was not supposed to happen because such people were vetted before being allowed into the US. And voter fraud won't be a problem because there are safeguards to prevent it. Those three separate issues all prompt us to ask… What happens when those “guardrails” are missing, the “vetting” is left undone, or the “safeguards” ignored?

From May 16, 2022: Today, Lawfare and Goat Rodeo released the first two episodes of Allies, a podcast series that traces the U.S.'s efforts to protect Afghan interpreters, translators and other partners through the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program. That effort culminated in the U.S. evacuation from Afghanistan in August 2021, when thousands of the U.S.'s local partners were left behind. In seven episodes, Allies will take listeners through the decade-long effort to honor America's promises to its Afghan partners.Episode 1: “Faithful and Valuable Service” opens at the Kabul airport this past August, where the failure of the SIV program contributed to the chaos. Then, we rewind to just before 9/11, when the U.S. government had little regional, let alone linguistic, expertise on Afghanistan. After the invasion, that knowledge gap needed to be filled rapidly, so the U.S. began hiring local partners through military contractors. They became essential partners, and it was nearly impossible for any U.S. platoon, provincial reconstruction team or diplomat to operate without interpreters and translators. They were the U.S.'s eyes and ears. To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Deception Regarding Afghan Troop Strength: Colleagues Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson detail how the administration misled the public with inflated Afghan troop numbers, hiding the reality of "ghost units" and police forces, adding that removing essential contractors guaranteed the military's failure, yet officials maintained optimistic rhetoric that trapped American citizens and allies behind Taliban lines. 1919 KABUL BOMBED

Visa Failures and the Refusal to Plan a NEO: Colleagues Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson explain that the refusal to address Special Immigrant Visa bottlenecks or declare a Non-combatant Evacuation Operation early forced a chaotic evacuation surrounded by the Taliban, noting that despite military warnings, the State Department halted visa processing for health protocols, ignoring the imminent collapse of the Afghan government. 1910 KABUL-DARUM TRAMWAY

1. National Security Concerns We open with alarming claims that 18,000 known or suspected terrorists have entered the U.S. during the Biden administration, allegedly due to lax border security. The source cited is testimony from Joe Kent, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, during a House Homeland Security Committee hearing. Specific examples include Afghan nationals linked to terrorist organizations who entered under the Operation Allies Welcome program. The conversation emphasizes the risks posed by "got-aways" (migrants who evade border patrol) and criticizes the administration for prioritizing politics over security. 2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and U.S. Leadership The second segment focuses on President Trump’s executive order aimed at centralizing AI regulation to prevent fragmented state-level rules. Senator Cruz frames AI as the “economic battle of the 21st century”, comparing it to the U.S. winning the internet race in the 1990s. Whoever leads in AI will shape global values—either American principles of liberty or China’s model of surveillance and control. Trump’s remarks highlight the need for a single federal approval system to accelerate AI development and maintain U.S. dominance. 3. Designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a Terrorist Organization Senator Cruz advocates for legislation to designate the Muslim Brotherhood and its affiliates as terrorist organizations. He explains a shift from a top-down approach (targeting the global organization) to a bottom-up strategy (starting with affiliates like Hamas). The discussion notes bipartisan support but criticizes the House for weakening the bill. Cruz stresses that allies such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have already designated the group as a terrorist organization. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They survived some of the Afghanistan War's most grueling and treacherous missions. But once they evacuated to the U.S., many Afghan fighters who served in "Zero Units" found themselves spiraling. Among their ranks was Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the man charged with killing one National Guard member and seriously injuring a second after opening fire on them in Washington, D.C. on Thanksgiving Eve.NPR's Brian Mann spoke to people involved in Zero Units and learned some have struggled with mental health since coming to the U.S. At least four soldiers have died by suicide. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Erika Ryan and Karen Zamora. It was edited by Alina Hartounian and Courtney Dorning.Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Dive into Part 2 of Episode 269 of the Mike Drop Podcast, hosted by Mike Ritland, a former Navy SEAL and renowned dog trainer. In this riveting conversation, Mike sits down with guest Matthew Brunnemann, a former U.S. Marine Corps intelligence specialist and author, to explore the raw realities of combat during the U.S. drawdown in Afghanistan. Listeners will find gripping firsthand accounts of high-stakes patrols in Kajaki, the heartbreaking loss of a corpsman to an IED, tense encounters with elusive Taliban snipers and bomb makers, and the moral dilemmas faced on the ground—including the abuse of local children used as informants and controversial medical evacuation decisions. Brunnemann shares unfiltered insights into the chaos of extended deployments, base infiltrations, and the psychological toll of war, offering a poignant look at the human side of military service in one of the world's most unforgiving environments. Whether you're a history buff, veteran, or simply interested in stories of resilience and sacrifice, this episode delivers powerful narratives that highlight the complexities of counterinsurgency and the enduring impact of the Afghan conflict. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump insists the economy is thriving. So, how does he explain why so many voters view the economy negatively? Also, the Federal Reserve considers whether to cut interest rates today. Will concerns over inflation keep rates as is or will unemployment worries prompt another cut? Plus, the unraveling of the Afghan man accused of gunning down two National Guard members. How are other Afghans in the US who fought for the CIA navigating the stress and despair that commonly haunt frontline soldiers?Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, Luis Clemens, Alice Woelfle, and Arezou Rezvani.It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh StrangeAnd our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In this gripping episode of the Mike Drop podcast, host Mike Ritland sits down with Matthew Brunnemann, a Marine Corps veteran who spent over 500 days in Afghanistan's volatile Helmand Province. Brunnemann shares raw, firsthand accounts from his deployments, including intense combat operations, opium interdiction raids, and the harsh realities of counterinsurgency warfare. As the author of "War Business: The Hired Guns of Helmand Province," he offers a unique perspective on the cultural clashes and strategic failures that defined America's longest war. The conversation delves into Brunnemann's experiences as an on-the-ground Intel operator, from tracking Taliban commanders and installing covert devices to partnering with local forces amid a chaotic drawdown. He recounts heartbreaking losses, like the IED attack that killed "Doc" Beauchamp, and the moral dilemmas faced when dealing with Afghan civilians and children caught in the crossfire. Brunnemann's stories highlight the ingenuity of the enemy, the frustrations of limited resources, and the unbreakable bonds formed among Marines in the face of relentless danger. Brunnemann discusses his transition to civilian life, his faith journey, and his master's thesis on potential terrorist threats to U.S. homeland security. This three-hour discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in military history, intelligence operations, and the human cost of modern conflict, blending tactical insights with profound reflections on war's enduring impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The DC Shooter, the Zero Units, and the Tragedy of the Afghan Withdrawal: Colleagues Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggio discuss recent violence in Washington, D.C. involving an Afghan immigrant that has drawn attention back to the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021; the shooter, Ramanula Lakanal, was a member of the elite "Zero Units" of the Afghan National Army, a force that demanded priority evacuation for their families in exchange for providing security at the Kabul airport during the U.S. retreat, and while these units were stalwart allies against enemies like al-Qaeda and ISIS, they fought a "dirty war" and were accused of human rights violations, highlighting the broader failure of the withdrawal which occurred because political will faded across multiple administrations. 1878 KHYBER

SHOW 12-8-2025 CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR 1895 KHYBER PASS THE SHOW BEGINS IN THE DOUBTS ABOUT THE FEDERAL RESERVE  BOARD OF GOVERNORS. FIRST HOUR 9-915 The DC Shooter, the Zero Units, and the Tragedy of the Afghan Withdrawal: Colleagues Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggio discuss recent violence in Washington, D.C. involving an Afghan immigrant that has drawn attention back to the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021; the shooter, Ramanula Lakanal, was a member of the elite "Zero Units" of the Afghan National Army, a force that demanded priority evacuation for their families in exchange for providing security at the Kabul airport during the U.S. retreat, and while these units were stalwart allies against enemies like al-Qaeda and ISIS, they fought a "dirty war" and were accused of human rights violations, highlighting the broader failure of the withdrawal which occurred because political will faded across multiple administrations. 915-930 The Vetting Failure and the Lack of an Exit Strategy in Afghanistan: Colleagues Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggioexplain that the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan was exacerbated by the lack of a methodical exit strategy, unlike the British who organized their departure and evacuation lists well in advance; critics argue that the U.S. imported significant security risks by rushing the evacuation, bringing in over 100,000 Afghans without adequate vetting, and while there was a moral obligation to help those who served, experts suggest that wholesale importation of citizens from a war-torn country was not the only solution and that better vetting or resettlement in third countries should have been considered. 930-945 Martial Law in South Korea and the Shadow of the North: Colleagues Morse Tan and Gordon Chang discuss South Korea facing severe political turmoil following President Yoon's declaration of martial law, a move his supporters argue was a constitutional response to obstructionist anti-state forces; the opposition, led by figures previously sympathetic to North Korea, has been accused of attempting to paralyze the government, while accusations of "insurrection" against President Yoon are dismissed as nonsensical, with the political infighting fracturing the conservative party and leaving South Korea vulnerable to the North Korean regime in a way not seen since the Korean War. 945-1000 Japan Stands Up for Taiwan While Canada Demurs: Colleagues Charles Burton and Gordon Chang report that Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi recently declared that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would be a "survival threatening situation" for Japan, authorizing the mobilization of self-defense forces; this statement has triggered a massive propaganda campaign from Beijing demanding a retraction, as a successful invasion of Taiwan would likely require violating Japanese sovereignty, while in contrast Canada remains reluctant to support Tokyo or criticize Beijing, hoping to secure trade benefits and diversify exports away from the U.S., leaving Japan isolated by its allies. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 The Survival of UNRWA and the Flow of Terror Finance: Colleagues Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotterreport that despite investigations revealing corruption and ties to terrorism, the UN has renewed the mandate for UNRWA for another three years; the organization's facilities have been used by Hamas and its schools have been implicated in radicalizing children, yet international efforts to replace it have stalled, while Hamas leadership refuses to disarm or accept international oversight, demanding a Palestinian state as a precondition for any change, with financial support for terror groups continuing to flow through networks in Europe and the Middle East. 1015-1030 Greece's "Achilles Shield" and Israel's Iron Beam Laser Defense: Colleagues Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter report that Greece is undertaking a historic modernization of its armed forces, unveiling a new national defense strategy focused on long-range missiles and a modernized air defense system dubbed "Achilles Shield," allowing Greece to project power more flexibly in the Eastern Mediterranean and counter threats from Turkey; in Israel, a major defensive breakthrough is imminent with the deployment of the "Iron Beam," a laser defense system capable of intercepting threats at approximately $50 per shot, expected to rewrite the rules of air defense by effectively countering drone swarms and missiles. 1030-1045 Hezbollah's Quiet Regeneration Under Naim Qassem: Colleagues David Daoud and Bill Roggio report that since the ceasefire began, Hezbollah has received at least $2 billion from Iran and is actively rearming and regenerating its forces in Lebanon; the terror group is focusing on acquiring drone swarms and other asymmetrical weapons that are cheap to produce and difficult for Israel to counter, while Hezbollah's new leader Naim Qassem is leveraging his "bookish" and underestimated persona to lower the temperature and allow the group to rebuild without attracting the same level of scrutiny as his predecessor. 1045-1100 Fragmentation in Yemen: The Southern Transitional Council Advances: Colleagues Bridget Tumi and Bill Roggio report that the civil war in Yemen is fracturing further as the Southern Transitional Council, which advocates for southern secession, advances into eastern governorates to secure territory and combat smuggling; this move has heightened tensions within the anti-Houthi coalition, as the STC is backed by the UAE while other government factions are supported by Saudi Arabia, weakening the collective effort against the Houthis who control the capital Sanaa and maintain ambitions to conquer the entire country. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 The Druze National Guard and Internal Strife in Southern Syria: Colleagues Ahmad Sharawi and Bill Roggio report that instability is growing in Syria's Druze-majority Suwayda province, where a newly formed "National Guard" militia has begun arresting and killing political opponents; the militia is spiritually guided by Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, who has consolidated power by sidelining other Druze leaders who were open to reconciliation with the Assad regime, with Turkey expressing support for the anti-Assad Druze factions against both the Syrian government and Kurdish forces, while recent violence suggests a hardening of anti-regime sentiment. 1115-1130 The "Variable Geometry" of the Muslim Brotherhood and Its Global Affiliates: Colleagues Edmund Fitton-Brown and Bill Roggio explain that the Muslim Brotherhood operates as a "mothership" for various Islamist movements, utilizing a strategy of "variable geometry" to adapt to local political environments while aiming for a global caliphate; Hamas functions as the Palestinian branch of the Brotherhood and despite being severely damaged by the war with Israel remains the dominant force in Gaza, with the Brotherhood finding state sponsorship primarily in Qatar, which provides funding and media support via Al Jazeera, and Turkey, where President Erdogan acts as a leader for the organization. 1130-1145 Ukraine Negotiations Hit a Cul-de-Sac Amidst Infiltration Tactics: Colleagues John Hardie and Bill Roggio report that peace talks regarding Ukraine are currently at a standstill, with the U.S. and Ukraine at odds over Russia's demands for territory in the Donbas versus Ukraine's need for meaningful security guarantees; while the U.S. has pressured Ukraine to concede territory, the security assurances offered are viewed skeptically by Kyiv, and Russia refuses to accept any Western military presence in Ukraine, while on the battlefield Russia employs infiltration tactics using small groups, sometimes single soldiers, to penetrate deep into Ukrainian positions. 1145-1200 The Trump Corollary: Reviving the Monroe Doctrine in Latin America: Colleague Ernesto Araújo discusses a new "Trump corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine reshaping U.S. policy in the Americas, signaling a more assertive stance against foreign influence and authoritarian regimes; this shift is evident in Venezuela, where President Maduro appears to be negotiating his exit in the face of U.S. pressure, while in Brazil the administration of Lula da Silva faces significant instability due to a massive banking scandal linking the government to money laundering and organized crime, with the new application of the Monroe Doctrine suggesting the U.S. will favor political figures aligned with its security strategy. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 Devil's Advocates: Robert Stryk, Rudy Giuliani, and the Business of Influence: Colleague Kenneth P. Vogel discusses how in the power vacuum created by Donald Trump's arrival in Washington, unconventional lobbyists like Robert Stryk rose to prominence by marketing access to the new administration; Stryk, described as an "anti-hero" with a checkered business past, hosted a lavish event at the Hay-Adams Hotel to legitimize the regime of Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo, successfully delivering Rudy Giuliani as Trump's personal attorney, signaling a new informal channel for foreign diplomacy and highlighting how foreign regimes utilized large sums of money and unconventional intermediaries to seek favor. 1215-1230 The Accidental Diplomat: Robert Stryk and the New Zealand Connection: Colleague Kenneth P. Vogel explains that Robert Stryk's rise in the lobbying world was fueled by serendipity and bold bluffs, exemplified by a chance encounter with a New Zealand diplomat at a cafe; the diplomat revealed that New Zealand, having prepared for a Clinton victory, had no contacts within the incoming Trump team and could not arrange a congratulatory call between their Prime Minister and the President-elect, and Stryk, leveraging a connection to a former Trump campaign field director, provided a phone number that successfully connected the embassy to Trump's team, establishing his credibility and launching his career in high-stakes foreign lobbying. 1230-1245 Hunter Biden, Chinese Spies, and the Monetization of Political Connections: Colleague Kenneth P. Vogel reports that following his father's departure from the vice presidency, Hunter Biden faced financial pressure and sought lucrative foreign clients, leading to risky entanglements; one venture involved a corrupt Romanian real estate magnate who hired Hunter along with former FBI Director Louis Freeh and Rudy Giuliani to resolve his legal troubles, with the proposed solution involving selling land including the site of the U.S. Embassy in Romania to a Chinese state-linked fund, and Hunter Biden was aware of the nature of his associates, referring to one as the "spy chief of China." 1245-100 AM FARA: From Fighting Nazi Propaganda to Modern Transparency: Colleague Kenneth P. Vogel explains that the Foreign Agents Registration Act was originally enacted in 1938 to counter Nazi propaganda in the United States before World War II; at the time, the Third Reich was paying well-connected American consultants to whitewash Hitler's image and keep the U.S. out of the war, operating without public knowledge, and Congress passed FARA to create transparency, requiring those paid by foreign principals to influence the U.S. government or media to register their activities, with the law remaining today the primary vehicle for accountability in foreign lobbying

Recent attacks & immigration/vetting Ben and Senator Cruz link a shooting of National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C. to failures in vetting Afghan nationals admitted under “Operation Allies Welcome,” asserting a broader pattern of violence from inadequately vetted immigrants. They cite a TikTok bomb-threat arrest in Texas and connect these incidents to Biden administration policies. Border security and terrorism risk They argue that an “open” southern border has allowed individuals on terror watch lists to enter the U.S., warning of sleeper cells and describing human trafficking and violent crime as predictable outcomes of lax enforcement. Critique of Democratic officials & protests The conversation criticizes Rep. Rashida Tlaib for not condemning “Death to America” chants reportedly heard at a Dearborn, Michigan rally, framing this as emblematic of ideological refusal to confront radical Islamic terrorism. AI: geopolitical race & domestic skepticism The senator argues the U.S. must “win” the AI race against China to ensure global AI reflects American values. They note polling shows public anxiety about AI (job loss, distrust), and discuss local resistance to data center construction, energy needs, and the prospect of white‑collar job displacement. Auto policy: CAFE standards and EV mandates Ben and the Senator praise actions attributed to “the President” (portrayed as Donald Trump) to rescind tailpipe emissions standards, zero out CAFE standards via a “one big beautiful bill,” and roll back EV mandates—arguing these moves lower car prices, improve safety (heavier/steel cars vs. “plastic”), and boost U.S. auto jobs. They reference planned Senate Commerce Committee hearings with major automakers and Tesla. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From April 5, 2024: A new report from the POPVOX Foundation focuses on a little-known and hugely under-appreciated congressional effort: that of congressional staffers helping Afghan allies flee the country during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Lawfare Executive Editor Natalie Orpett sat down with the report's author, Anne Meeker. They talked about what staffers did to help, the challenges they faced, and how the experience exposed both weaknesses and strengths in how Congress functions. To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration is using the tragic shooting of two National Guard members by an Afghan national as justification to close the door on immigration, refugees, and asylum seekers trying to enter the US. This week, Alex speaks to an Afghan aid worker who now fears for his family's safety, and then is joined by Joy Reid to talk about how this is all part of a larger MAGA plot to Make America White Again. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A U.S. official contradicts the White House account of who ordered the deadly boat strike in the Caribbean, while President Trump considers his next moves with Venezuela.U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff heads to Moscow for high-stakes talks after revising the peace agreement with Ukrainian negotiators. And new details about the Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard soldiers point to a long-running mental health crisis rather than radicalization.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Metzler, Miguel Macias, Alina Hartounian, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Our Senior Supervising Producer is Vince Pearson.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Trump responded to last week's Afghan terror attack by pledging a total shutdown on migration from nearly 20 countries, and new policies to encourage low-value immigrants to return home. Rich Baris thinks this framing of the issue will fire up the president's base while luring Democrats into promoting unpopular policies. Heather Mac Donald punctures the "over-incarceration myth" and explains why putting far more criminals in prison is a quick ticket to making American life better across the board. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is President Trump weaponizing the National Guard shooting in Washington, D.C., to further his immigration agenda? In an excerpt from this week's Insider episode, Preet Bharara and Joyce Vance break down Trump's latest plan to pause all migration from what he's calling “third world countries,” after an Afghan man shot two members of the West Virginia National Guard, killing one of them. In the full episode, Preet and Joyce discuss: – A federal judge's inquiry into whether the Trump administration defied his orders when it carried out deportation flights to El Salvador; and – The legal challenges to Texas's new gerrymandered congressional map. CAFE Insiders click HERE to listen to the full analysis.  Not an Insider? Now more than ever, it's critical to stay tuned. To join a community of reasoned voices in unreasonable times, become an Insider today. You'll get access to full episodes of the podcast and other exclusive content. Head to cafe.com/insider or staytuned.substack.com/subscribe.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel. This podcast is brought to you by CAFE and Vox Media Podcast Network.  Executive Producer: Tamara Sepper; Supervising Producer: Jake Kaplan; Associate Producer: Claudia Hernández; Audio Producer: Matthew Billy; Deputy Editor: Celine Rohr; CAFE Team: David Tatasciore, Nat Weiner, Jennifer Indig, and Liana Greenway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Megyn Kelly is joined by Brian L. Cox, Cornell Law professor, to talk about the new reporting casting doubt on the Washington Post narrative about Sec. Hegseth and the deadly "second strike," the significance of a potential intercepted conversation between a survivor and a narco-terrorist, and more. Then Rich Lowry and Charles C.W. Cooke of National Review join to discuss the reality of the drug boat strike story, why the press is itching to slam the Trump admin and sacrificing objectivity, Kash Patel's exclusive comments reacting and pushing back against the anonymous report aimed at his work at the FBI, what could really be behind the smears coming out now, disgusting reactions from the media on the shooting of National Guard members in DC, their choice to blame Trump for the actions of the Afghani national, and more. Then Elliot Ackerman, writer, "The Free Press," joins to discuss the truth about the CIA-backed “Zero Unit,” the Afghan involvement he experienced, his decorated military career, why he began his series about what "A Man Should Know," how young boys need positive role models in today's culture, the importance of intentionality and doing the little things, and more.  Cox- https://x.com/briancox_rltw/status/1995406709737607440?s=42Cooke- https://twitter.com/charlescwcookeLowry- https://www.nationalreview.com/Ackerman- thefp.com/Elliot10 Riverbend Ranch: Visit https://riverbendranch.com/ | Use promo code MEGYN for $20 off your first order.Geviti: Go to https://gogeviti.com/megynand get 20% off with code MEGYN.Done with Debt: https://www.DoneWithDebt.com & tell them Megyn Kelly sent you!Byrna: Go to https://Byrna.com or your local Sportsman's Warehouse today.  Follow The Megyn Kelly Show on all social platforms:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/MegynKellyTwitter: http://Twitter.com/MegynKellyShowInstagram: http://Instagram.com/MegynKellyShowFacebook: http://Facebook.com/MegynKellyShow Find out more information at:https://www.devilmaycaremedia.com/megynkellyshow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Trump administration has announced more restrictions on the country's refugee and asylum programs after a shooting of two National Guard members last week in Washington, D.C., allegedly by an Afghan immigrant. How do these changes advance Trump's immigration policy agenda and his vision of what it means to be an American?This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, immigration policy correspondent Ximena Bustillo, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Attack Incident We begin with the recent violent attack of two National Guard members that were shot by an Afghan national who allegedly entered the U.S. through Biden’s resettlement program. One guard member died, and the other was critically injured. Criticism of Biden Administration The administration prioritized political optics over security during the Afghanistan withdrawal. Accusations of incompetence and ideological blindness to radical Islamic terrorism. Suggests that the administration lied about vetting refugees. Historical Context The chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, including abandoning Bagram Airfield and conducting evacuations from Kabul Airport. Mentions the drop in Biden’s approval ratings after the withdrawal. Predicted Consequences The speakers argue that they warned of these risks in 2021, predicting terror attacks and humanitarian issues. Quotes past tweets and op-eds as evidence of prior warnings. Humanitarian Concerns Discusses cultural practices in Afghanistan such as child marriage and domestic abuse. Raises concerns about Afghan men arriving with child brides and cases of sexual abuse in intake centers. Ideological Critique Frames the administration’s approach as driven by left-wing ideology, claiming Democrats ignore radical Islamic terrorism and prioritize political goals over safety. Mentions Rashida Tlaib’s refusal to condemn “Death to America” chants at a rally in her district as an example of ideological extremism. Additional Security Risks Notes other incidents, such as an Afghan national arrested in Texas for making terroristic threats. Links refugee resettlement issues with broader border security concerns, including illegal immigration and potential terrorist infiltration. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump rolls out a "permanent pause" on immigration from Third World countries after an Afghan national allegedly ambushed two National Guard soldiers in Washington, DC, killing one and critically injuring the other, as well as mounting Somali fraud scandals in Minnesota. Two weeks after six Democrat lawmakers urged troops to ignore hypothetical illegal orders, the Washington Post and CNN report an alleged "second strike" order tied to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth that some say could be illegal. Senator Cory Booker caps off the holiday weekend with a surprise wedding to Alexis Lewis after a short, highly enthusiastic, engagement. Walmart: Learn how Walmart is fueling the future of U.S. manufacturing at https://Walmart.com/America-at-work All Family Pharmacy: Don't miss All Family Pharmacy's Black Friday BOGO—buy one get one free at https://AllFamilyPharmacy.com/MEGYN before December 2. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Allie confronts toxic empathy head-on by addressing the recent "hit pieces" by Axios and Salon where she is portrayed as a "cold-hearted" woman fueling MAGA's war. She uncovers the tragic shooting of National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., by an Afghan refugee, Minnesota's Somali welfare corruption scandals, Trump's vow to vet all immigrants, Silicon Valley wives bankrolling progressivism, and Tennessee's December 2 election between Republican Matt Van Epps and radical Aftyn Behn. Biblical love demands truth, not delusion. Buy Allie's book "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.toxicempathy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Timecodes: (00:00) Intro (06:00) Addressing Recent "Hit Pieces" (21:30) D.C. Attack on Service Members (27:30) Who is the Afgan Suspect? (35:50) Illegal Criminals (41:50) Importance of Vetting Immigrants (50:50) Minnesota's Corruption (59:45) Interview with Nicole Shanahan (01:05:00) Upcoming Election in Tennessee --- Today's Sponsors: Good Ranchers — Give a reason to gather. Visit ⁠goodranchers.com⁠ to start gifting, and while you're there, treat yourself with your own subscription to America's best meat. And when you use the code ALLIE, you'll get $40 off your first order. Fellowship Home Loans — Visit  ⁠⁠fellowshiphomeloans.com/allie⁠ and start with a free consultation. You'll even get a $500 credit at closing. Terms apply. See site for details. We Heart Nutrition — Go to ⁠⁠⁠weheartnutrition.com⁠⁠⁠ to learn how their products always use the most bioavailable, research-backed forms while also prioritizing ingredients from nature, from the world God created. Use the code ALLIE for 20% off! Crowd Health — Visit ⁠⁠⁠joincrowdhealth.com⁠⁠⁠ and get started today for $99 for your first three months, using the code ALLIE.  PreBorn — Would you consider a gift to save babies in a big way? Your gift of five, ten or fifteen thousand will be used to save countless babies for years to come. To donate, dial #250 & say the keyword BABY or donate securely at ⁠preborn.com/allie⁠. --- Episodes you might like: Ep 1270 | Who's Funding the Christian Genocide in Nigeria? | Judd Saul ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098?i=1000737836595⁠ Ep 1159 | Nicole Shanahan on Christianity, Vaccines & the Lies of Leftism ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1159-nicole-shanahan-on-christianity-vaccines-the/id1359249098?i=1000700656721⁠ Ep 1077 | No, Tim Walz. Jesus Doesn't Support Illegal Immigration | Guest: Josh Hammer ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1077-no-tim-walz-jesus-doesnt-support-illegal-immigration/id1359249098?i=1000671593142⁠ Ep 909 | The Left Is Falling in Love with Osama bin Laden | Guest: James Lindsay ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-909-the-left-is-falling-in-love-with-osama-bin/id1359249098?i=1000635088760⁠ --- Buy Allie's book "You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love": ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.alliebethstuckey.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Relatable merchandise: Use promo code ALLIE10 for a discount: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A JetBlue plane plunged uncontrollably last month prompting the parent company to issue an order to inspect all Airbus A-320 jets. It's bad timing for holiday travel. Afghans waiting for asylum say they are in limbo after the Trump administration paused all asylum decisions. This comes after an Afghan national killed a National Guard soldier and wounded another. Tips on how to tell a real video from one generated by AI.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

One of the two National Guard members allegedly shot by an Afghan man in Washington, D.C. has died. In response, President Trump says he wants to permanently suspend immigration from certain countries.With the holiday season in full swing, consumer confidence in the U.S. has dropped to its lowest level in months. Yet, despite these worries about the economy retail sales this holiday season are expected to top $1 trillion for the first time.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Julia Redpath, Emily Kopp, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Andie Huether. Our technical director is Stacey AbbottAnd our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Two national guard members are in critical condition after being shot near the White House. President Trump says the suspect came to the U.S. from Afghanistan. He now calls for a re-examination of all Afghan nationals.There will also be no legal consequences for Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. A federal judge dismissed the last outstanding election interference case against the president in Georgia.Also, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is set to arrive in Moscow next week, where do things stand in the ongoing peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine?Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Ben Swasey, Robbie Griffiths, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Incident Details Location: Near Farragut West Metro Station, close to the White House. Victims: Two National Guardsmen (one female shot in chest and head, another hit in the neck). Suspect: 29-year-old Afghan national, entered U.S. in 2021 during evacuation, overstayed visa. Attack: Ambush-style, suspect fired multiple rounds, seized a guard’s weapon, and was subdued after being shot. Political Framing President Biden and Democratic immigration policies IS to blame for the attack. “SHUT DOWN” immigration programs and stricter vetting. There are systemic failures in vetting Afghan evacuees, citing DHS admissions of “derogatory information” on thousands of entrants. Ideological Tone The attack is part of a pattern of jihadist violence. The phrase “Allahu Akbar” is a battlefield cry linked to global terrorism. The event is evidence of open-border policies endangering national security. Media and Rhetoric Mainstream media is downplaying the terrorist angle. Fox News coverage and political reactions (Trump, Schumer, JD Vance). Democrats are dehumanizing our men and women in uniform Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.