Podcasts about Aleppo

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Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
Taking Three Steps Back for “Oseh Shalom” at the End of Kaddish

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026


Whereas some Kaddishim end with "Da'amiran Be'alma Ve'imru Amen," others consist of additional prayers and conclude with "Oseh Shalom Bi'mromav…" Is the one reciting Kaddish required to take three steps back for "Oseh Shalom" at the end of Kaddish, as we do for "Oseh Shalom" at the end of the Amida? The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), in his Od Yosef Hai, distinguished in this regard between the "Kaddish Titkabal" that the Hazzan recites following the repetition of the Amida, and other Kaddishim. For the Hazzan reciting "Kaddish Titkabal," the Ben Ish Hai writes, taking three steps back is required, because he needs to step back after repeating the Amida. When reciting the other Kaddishim, however, this is not necessary. The Ben Ish Hai cites this ruling in the name of earlier Poskim (Shalmeh Sibur, Mateh Yehuda). This is the view also of the Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakob Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939), who observed that this was the common practice, adding that this is consistent with the teachings of Kabbalah. Hacham Ovadia Yosef, however, disagreed, and ruled that it is proper to step back for "Oseh Shalom" at the end of every Kaddish. He refuted the Kaf Ha'haim's claim that Kabbalistic teaching does not require stepping back, noting that Rav Eliyahu Hamwe of Aleppo (1839-1915), a great Kabbalist, writes in his Peh Eliyahu that one must step back at the end of every Kaddish. Moreover, the Radbaz (Rav David Ben Zimra, Egypt, 1479-1573) maintained that one should take three steps back at the end of every Kaddish, and this is also the position of Maran, in Bet Yosef and Shulhan Aruch. Therefore, whenever one recites a Kaddish that ends with "Oseh Shalom," he should take three steps back. The proper procedure is to move the left foot back, then move the right foot behind the left foot, and then move the left foot next to the right foot. One then recites the words "Oseh Shalom Bi'mromav" while bowing to the left, "Hu Ya'aseh Shalom Alenu" while bowing to the right, and "Ve'al Kol Yisrael" while bowing frontward. He then stands upright for "Ve'imru Amen."

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
Reciting “Kodam Abuna De'bi'shmaya Ve'ar'a” in Kaddish Titkabal

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026


Our community's practice is to recite in Kaddish Titkabal the phrase "Kodam Abuna De'bi'shmaya Ve'ar'a" – asking that our prayers be accepted "before our Father who is in the heavens and the earth." Hacham Ovadia Yosef was of the opinion that this text is incorrect, as the word "Ve'ar'a" ("and the earth") does not belong. Several Rishonim omit this word from their text of the Kaddish, and, moreover, we cannot speak of G-d as our "Father on earth," as every person already has a father here on earth. Hashem is our Father in the heavens, in addition to our father here on earth. All Siddurim that bear a Haskama (letter of approval) by Hacham Ovadia omit the word "Ve'ar'a." Nevertheless, the custom among the communities in Aleppo, Syria was always to include the word "Ve'ar'a," and the work Yosef Haim justified the legitimacy of this text. Therefore, it is proper for Syrian Jews who follow the customs of Aleppo to add the word "Ve'ar'a." I am reminded of the time when, as a youngster, I became aware of Hacham Ovadia Yosef's ruling that the Beracha of "La'minim" in the Amida prayer should conclude with the words "U'machni'a Zedim," as opposed to the text which is customarily used in our community – "U'machni'a Minim." Hacham Ovadia advanced several compelling proofs to his ruling, and so I figured that this is the correct text. When I served as Hazzan in the synagogue, I recited "Zedim" in accordance with Hacham Ovadia's ruling. Hacham Baruch Ben-Haim approached me afterward and asked why I had changed the word from "Minim" to "Zedim," and I explained to him that I thought I should follow Hacham Ovadia's view. The Hacham reprimanded me, noting that notwithstanding Hacham Ovadia's ruling, it is improper to change the text that has been used in our community for generations. With regard to "Ve'ar'a," too, given the longstanding tradition among Syrian Jews to include this word in Kaddish, this is the custom that our community should follow. Summary: The custom in our community is to recite in Kaddish Titkabal the phrase "Kodam Abuna De'bi'shmaya Ve'ar'a," including the word "Ve'ar'a."

Coffee and a Mike
Kevork Almassian #1330

Coffee and a Mike

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 71:19


Kevork Almassian is an award-winning journalist, Syrian from Aleppo living in Germany, and host of Syriana Analysis, an independent political commentary channel. He shares his thoughts on Iran, Trump administration underestimating this regime, boots on the ground, rising oil prices, and much more. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE THIS PODCAST!!!    Watch Show Rumble- https://rumble.com/v770c9c-trump-administration-does-not-understand-what-iran-is-kevork-almassian.html YouTube- https://youtu.be/aEC4YbxNvh8   Follow Me X- https://x.com/CoffeeandaMike IG- https://www.instagram.com/coffeeandamike/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/CoffeeandaMike/ YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@Coffeeandamike Rumble- https://rumble.com/search/all?q=coffee%20and%20a%20mike Substack- https://coffeeandamike.substack.com/ Apple Podcasts- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-and-a-mike/id1436799008 Gab- https://gab.com/CoffeeandaMike Locals- https://coffeeandamike.locals.com/ Website- www.coffeeandamike.com Email- info@coffeeandamike.com   Support My Work Venmo- https://www.venmo.com/u/coffeeandamike Paypal- https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/Coffeeandamike Substack- https://coffeeandamike.substack.com/ Patreon- http://patreon.com/coffeeandamike Locals- https://coffeeandamike.locals.com/ Cash App- https://cash.app/$coffeeandamike Buy Me a Coffee- https://buymeacoffee.com/coffeeandamike Bitcoin- coffeeandamike@strike.me   Mail Check or Money Order- Coffee and a Mike LLC P.O. Box 25383 Scottsdale, AZ 85255-9998   Follow Kevork X-  https://x.com/KevorkAlmassian YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@SyrianaAnalysis Rumble- https://rumble.com/user/syrianaanalysis?e9s=src_v1_cmd Substack- https://kevorkalmassian.substack.com/   Sponsors Vaulted/Precious Metals- https://vaulted.blbvux.net/coffeeandamike McAlvany Precious Metals- https://mcalvany.com/coffeeandamike/

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
Kaddish – Should One Say “Le'almeh” or “U'l'almeh”?

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026


Different customs exist regarding the phrase "Le'alam U'l'almeh Almaya" in the "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" response to Kaddish. Some recite this phrase this way, whereas others omit the letter Vav from "U'l'almeh" and recite simply "Le'almeh." The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), in his work Od Yosef Hai, writes that the word should be pronounced "Le'almeh," without the letter Vav at the beginning. He explains that the "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" response is meant to consist of 28 letters, and if the Vav is included, this response consists of 29 letters. Therefore, the Vav must be omitted. This is the position also of the Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakob Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939). This argument assumes that the word "Shemeh" in "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" is spelled with a Yod (Shin, Mem, Yod, Heh). In some Siddurim, this word is spelled without the letter Yod, thus allowing for the Vav to be included in "U'l'almeh" without exceeding 28 letters. It is true that, as discussed in a previous installment, the Mahzor Vitri understood the phrase "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" as a prayer that the divine Name, which currently contains only the letters Yod and Heh, should become complete, and according to this reading, the word "Shemeh" is read as "Shem Yod-Heh" ("the Name of Yod-Heh"). However, as we saw, Halacha does not follow this opinion, and therefore it is acceptable to omit the letter Yod from the word "Shemeh." Moreover, Hacham Ovadia Yosef noted that Maran (author of the Shulhan Aruch), in Bet Yosef, clearly follows the opinion that the correct text is "U'l'almeh," and this is how the word appears in the texts of earlier Rabbis such as Rav Saadia Gaon, Rav Amram Gaon, the Rambam, and others. Hacham Ovadia asserts that in light of these sources, a Kabbalistic teaching involving the significance of the number 28 does not justify altering the text. By contrast, Rav Meir Mazuz (1945-2025), who was a renowned expert in grammar, maintained that the correct text is "Le'almeh." Rav Moshe Rahamim Shayo (contemporary), in his Mehkereh Aretz, writes that in the Bet Obed edition of the Siddur, which was used by the Jewish communities of Aleppo, Syria, the text reads "Le'almeh," without the letter Vav. This text also appears in the Siddur published by Rav Abraham Hamway, and this was the ruling of Rav Yeshayahu Dayan (1833-1903), head of Aleppo's Rabbinical court. There is also testimony that later, in the times of Aleppo's Chief Rabbi Moshe Mizrahi (1863-1955), Rav Mizrahi sharply reprimanded a member of the community who recited "U'l'almeh" instead of the "Le'almeh," which was the accepted custom in Aleppo. In the Kol Yaakob edition of the Siddur, which is used by many Syrian Jews, the word appears as "U'l'almeh," but this is a mistake, as the custom in Aleppo was clearly to say "Le'almeh." In practice, therefore, it is proper for members of the Syrian community to recite "Le'almeh," and not "U'l'almeh." Summary: In the "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" response to Kaddish, the word "Le'almeh" appears this way in some editions of the Siddur, and in others, "U'l'almeh," with the letter Vav at the beginning. The text that should be followed by members of the Syrian community is "Le'almeh."

Der Ostcast
Russlands verheerendster außenpolitischer Fehler

Der Ostcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 55:29


Wer im Nahen Osten oder in Lateinamerika mit Russland verbündet ist, scheint neuerdings gefährlich zu leben: In Syrien führte Wladimir Putin mit Baschar al-Assad Krieg gegen die Bevölkerung, die russische Luftwaffe bombardierte Krankenhäuser und Schulen, zerstörte Aleppo. In Venezuela hatte Moskau einen engen ideologischen Freund, investierte Milliarden und hatte Anteile an Ölfeldern. Und Iran war einer der wichtigsten Verbündeten, der Russland bei seinem Krieg gegen die Ukraine unterstützte. Die ehemaligen Machthaber in den drei Staaten sind inzwischen gestürzt, gefangen oder getötet worden.  Folgt daraus, dass die russische Außenpolitik gescheitert ist? Welche Prioritäten verfolgt sie überhaupt, wo kann sie doch noch Erfolge verzeichnen? Wie hat sich Russlands Verhältnis zu den USA und China verändert? Und wie wird der Krieg gegen den Iran Russlands Vorgehen in der Ukraine beeinflussen? Darüber sprechen Alice Bota und Michael Thumann in dieser Ostcast-Folge mit der Russland-Expertin Sabine Fischer. Sie ist Senior Fellow bei der Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik und Autorin des Buches Die chauvinistische Bedrohung, Russlands Kriege und Europas Antworten. Einer ihrer Schwerpunkte ist die russische Außenpolitik. Eines zeigt sich: Die russische Außenpolitik ist einer Priorität unterworfen, nämlich dem Krieg gegen die Ukraine. Alle drei Wochen sprechen wir im Ostcast über Politik und Gesellschaft der osteuropäischen Länder. Alice Bota berichtet von ihren Gesprächen und Erfahrungen in Osteuropa, Michael Thumann erzählt von seinen Begegnungen und Reisen in Russland und den Nachbarländern. [ANZEIGE] Mehr über die Angebote unserer Werbepartnerinnen und -partner finden Sie HIER. [ANZEIGE] Mehr hören? Dann testen Sie unser Podcast-Abo mit Zugriff auf alle Dokupodcasts und unser Podcast-Archiv. Jetzt 4 Wochen kostenlos testen. Und falls Sie uns nicht nur hören, sondern auch lesen möchten, testen Sie jetzt 4 Wochen kostenlos DIE ZEIT. Hier geht's zum Angebot. 

What's The Story? Hash Brown Glory
Tom & Lee invited the firefighters who saved the cafe round for some scran

What's The Story? Hash Brown Glory

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 44:40


Hello! Welcome back to What's The Story? Hash Brown Glory! With your hosts, Tom Bower and Lee Harding of The Rustic Kitchen & Deli!It's been a while since our last episode…We do have an excuse.Way back in 2025, RKD suffered a disastrous fire that destroyed a lot of the building, we were closed for months, but, we're now back up and running and we're delighted to welcome back the firefighters that attended!We wanted to do something to show our gratitude, so we did the thing we do best. We created a dish. After learning what their go to foods are, we created the THREE ZERO PAPA ONE. A stunning medley of poached eggs, roasted chorizo, toasted sourdough, Aleppo pepper flakes, avocado, spinach and cherry tomatoes with £2 from every dish going towards the firefighters charity.So, this week we hosted the firefighters that helped save Rustic for a breakfast they'll never forget, their very own THREE ZERO PAPA ONE. A few even got behind the mics and cameras and joined us to talk about how it went down when they got the call about RKD.We also have news!We entered into the Pie Awards and we won...well you'll have to find out what we won by listening to the episode!As ever, thank you for listening.You can find out more about the firefighters charity by heading here:https://www.firefighterscharity.org.ukYou can find RKD here:https://rustickitchendeli.comAnd as ever, thank you so much for tuning in!Tom and Lee x

Taverna do Lugar Nenhum
Teshub e o sincretismo religioso da Ásia menor

Taverna do Lugar Nenhum

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 8:01


Neste episódio da Taverna do Lugar Nenhum, Gabriel Vince nos conduz às montanhas e planícies do antigo norte da Mesopotâmia para explorar a figura de Teshub, o deus hurrita do clima e chefe do panteão sagrado.Senhor dos trovões, dos ventos e das chuvas, Teshub era ao mesmo tempo destruidor e fertilizador. Sua importância refletia uma realidade concreta: em regiões onde a agricultura dependia das chuvas, o deus da tempestade não era apenas uma divindade, mas uma necessidade existencial.O episódio mergulha em seu nascimento violento a partir do crânio de Kumarbi, nas disputas divinas pela realeza e nos paralelos mitológicos que ecoam na Grécia e no Egito. Também analisamos o casamento entre Teshub e Ḫepat, originalmente cultuada em Aleppo, como símbolo de um fenômeno mais amplo: o sincretismo religioso na Ásia Menor.Entre guerras impiedosas e civilizações erguidas sobre ruínas, os homens se enfrentavam. Mas os deuses, indiferentes às fronteiras políticas, misturavam-se, assimilavam-se e sobreviviam.Este episódio é uma reflexão sobre continuidade religiosa, intercâmbio cultural e sobre a surpreendente capacidade do sagrado de atravessar destruições históricas.

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour
The Proper Pronunciation of “Di Bera Chi'r'uteh” in Kaddish

Daily Halacha Podcast - Daily Halacha By Rabbi Eli J. Mansour

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026


One who recites Kaddish must ensure while saying the phrase "Be'alma Di Bera" to pronounce "Di Bera" as two separate words. If one recites this phrase too quickly, he will end up saying, "Dibera," as one word, which is incorrect. He must be careful to recite two separate words – "Di" and "Bera." Different opinions exist regarding the pronunciation of the word "Chi'r'uteh" in the phrase "Be'alma Di Bera Chi'r'uteh," as according to some views, the letter Chaf has a Dagesh (dot), such that it should be pronounced "Ki'r'uteh." The debate hinges on how to read this phrase. The basic rule is that when any of the letters Bet, Gimmel, Dalet, Kaf, Peh or Tav appears at the beginning of the word, it receives a Dagesh. The exception to this rule is when the preceding word ends with an Alef, Heh, Vav or Yod, in which case the word does not receive a Dagesh. In the case of "Chi'r'uteh," then, it would seem that since the previous word ("Bera") ends with the letter Alef, the Chaf at the beginning of "Chi'r'uteh" should remain without a Dagesh, and thus be pronounced "Chi'r'uteh." Indeed, this is how the word is punctuated in many editions of the Siddur. However, Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that the more correct pronunciation is "Ki'r'uteh." He explained that although the previous word ends with an Alef, that word – "Bera" – is not connected to the word "Ki'r'uteh." The word "Ki'r'uteh" means "in accordance with His will," and Hacham Ovadia explained, based on a passage in Masechet Sofrim, that this word modifies not the immediately preceding words, but rather the beginning of Kaddish, when we pray for G-d's Name to be glorified. We pray that His Name should be sanctified and praised "Ki'r'uteh" – in fulfillment of His will. Hence, the word "Ki'r'uteh" stands separate and apart from the words "Di Bera," and so the Heh at the end of the word "Bera" does not affect the letter Chaf at the beginning of the word "Ki'r'uteh." We thus apply the standard rule that a Chaf at the beginning of a word receives a Dagesh, such that the word should be pronounced "Ki'r'uteh." Rav Meir Mazuz (1945-2025) disputed Hacham Ovadia's position. He noted that the Abudarham (Spain, 14 th century) interpreted "Di Bera Chi'r'uteh" to mean, "that He created in accordance with His will." According to this reading, the word "Chi'r'uteh" indeed modifies the immediately preceding words – "Di Bera," such that the letter Chaf should not receive a Dagesh. Rav Mazuz conceded, however, that the passage in Masechet Sofrim indeed implies that "Chi'r'uteh" modifies the earlier part of the sentence, and not the words "Di Bera." In practice, different customs exist. Tunisian communities pronounce the word "Ki'r'uteh," whereas the custom among the communities in Aleppo, Syria was to pronounce it "Chi'r'uteh." Rav Yisrael Bitan writes that Hacham Ovadia, despite preferring the pronunciation of "Ki'r'uteh," acknowledged that those who pronounce it "Chi'r'uteh" have a legitimate basis for this practice. Therefore, each community should follow its custom. Summary: One who recites Kaddish must ensure while saying the phrase "Be'alma Di Bera" to pronounce "Di Bera" as two separate words, and not as one word ("Dibera"). Different customs exist regarding the next word – "Chi'r'uteh," as some pronounce the word this way, and others pronounce it "Ki'r'uteh." Each community should follow its custom.

Krieg in Europa – das Update zur Lage in der Ukraine
Krieg im Nahen Osten. Die Lage eskaliert weiter.

Krieg in Europa – das Update zur Lage in der Ukraine

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 11:05


Es gibt weitere Angriffe. Sowohl in Teheran, wie auch in vielen anderen Regionen im Nahen Osten. │ Syrien hat einen Luftkorridor von der nördlichen Stadt Aleppo zum Mittelmeer für ausländische Fluggesellschaften geöffnet und will damit den lahmgelegten Flugverkehr in der Region entlasten. Der Flugverkehr nimmt nach und nach wieder den Betrieb auf. Und auch die Bundesregierung plant weitere Rückhol- Flüge für Deutsche. │ Und Außenminister Wadephul erinnert daran, den Krieg in der Ukraine nicht zu vergessen │ Der ukrainische Präsident Selenskyj hat dem ungarischen Ministerpräsidenten Orban offen gedroht. Es geht um Ungarns Blockade von Krediten an die Ukraine.

Top Docs:  Award-Winning Documentary Filmmakers
"Birds of War" with Janay Boulos & Abd Alkader Habak

Top Docs: Award-Winning Documentary Filmmakers

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 26:23


What started out as a transactional exchange between Janay Boulos, a BBC journalist, and Abd Alkader Habak, a local activist and cameraperson in Aleppo during the Syrian war, later evolved into a mutual curiosity. Over time, texting, voice memos and phone calls became the currency of a deepening relationship... and eventually the two married and became film partners living in London. In their intense and gripping new Sundance documentary “Birds of War,” Janay and Habak create a moving assemblage of personal archival material and devastating wartime news footage that tells a universal story of war and love through a unique personal lens.   Following their film's world premiere in the Sundance World Cinema Documentary section, Janay and Habak joined Ken in his Sundance Park City podcast studio (i.e. condo) for a lively in-person conversation. From the trauma of Habak's last days in Syria to Janay's emotional return to Lebanon to cover a burgeoning rebellion, the twists and turns of their individual journeys are just as unpredictable as the love that brought them together.   The Presenting Sponsor of "Top Docs" is Netflix.   Follow: @janayboulos and abd_alkader_habak on Instagram @topdocspod on Instagram and X

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep532: Discussion focuses on how the Middle East conflict might divert US interceptor missiles from Ukraine, impacting the ongoing war of attrition against Russian forces. Guest: Bill Roggio, John Hardie. 14.

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 8:30


Discussion focuses on how the Middle East conflict might divert US interceptor missiles from Ukraine, impacting the ongoing war of attrition against Russian forces. Guest: Bill Roggio, John Hardie. 14.1921 ALEPPO

The Audio Long Read
Out of the ruins: will Aleppo ever be rebuilt?

The Audio Long Read

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 27:36


Years of civil war have turned whole areas of the city into rows of empty husks. But after the fall of Assad, Syrians have returned to their old homes determined to rebuild By Ghaith Abdul-Ahad. Read by Mo Ayoub. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod

Beyond the Headlines
What will happen to the thousands formerly held in Syria's Al Hol camp?

Beyond the Headlines

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 17:19


The notorious Al Hol camp in north-east Syria finally closed its doors this week. Thousands of alleged ISIS members and their families had been held there for years in inhumane conditions and without charge or trial.  Human rights groups had long advocated for the camp to be closed but the events that unfolded before it was emptied were described as chaotic. The disorganised handover of the camp from the Syrian Democratic Forces to government authorities created a power vacuum that allowed for thousands of residents to escape. Those remaining were moved to a new camp in Aleppo with better conditions. Some of them are children who have never known a life outside Al Hol. The hope is they will eventually be reintegrated into society. But there is a fear that those with hardline ideologies could be recruited by ISIS, which just declared war against President Ahmad Al Shara and his government. In this episode of Beyond the Headlines, host Nada AlTaher asks, 'what happens next after the closure of Al Hol and can an ISIS resurgence in Syria be contained?' We hear from The National's correspondent Nada Maucourant Atallah and Alexander McKeever, an independent researcher based in Damascus.

American Prestige
Bonus - The SDF After Bashar Al-Assad w/ Alexander McKeever (Preview)

American Prestige

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 9:37


Subscribe now for the full episode. Derek speaks with Alexander McKeever, publisher of This Week in Northern Syria, about the defeat of the Syrian Democratic Forces' (SDF) autonomous project and its integration into the new Syrian state. They discuss the fall of the Assad regime, the March 2025 integration agreement between Damascus and the SDF, the breakdown of negotiations and January fighting in Aleppo, the rapid collapse of SDF control in Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor, tribal defections and grievances against the autonomous administration, and the uncertain future for Kurdish rights under the centralized Syrian government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MomAdvice Book Gang
In the Shadow of the Brick Kilns of Pakistan (When the Fireflies Dance)

MomAdvice Book Gang

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 40:09


Aisha Hassan discusses her debut novel, When the Fireflies Dance, a moving family saga set in Lahore and the research inspired by real stories of bonded labor. In this week's episode of Book Gang, I'm excited to share my conversation with debut novelist Aisha Hassan about her first novel, When the Fireflies Dance. This moving family saga is set in Lahore and draws on real-life stories of bonded labor in Pakistan's brick kilns. The narrative follows one family's struggle for survival, dignity, and hope after the loss of their son. During our discussion, we explore Aisha's journey to publication, the intricate construction of her novel, and the important responsibility of addressing social injustices through fiction. In this informative conversation, we explore:

Numinosum Radio
aleppo

Numinosum Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 30:00


Who are the Big Hat Doctor People? Ask them that when you talk to them next.[for acoustic/electric guitar, nettles & synth] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit briancshort.substack.com

State of Ukraine
Syria's New Government Returns Property to Syrian Jews Who Left Decades Ago

State of Ukraine

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 6:55


Syria's Jewish community fled the country's repressive Assad regime. Now, a new government is encouraging their return by giving back ownership of synagogues and other property. Jane Arraf is there as one Jewish group turns the key on a synagogue's door in the northern city of Aleppo.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The New Arab Voice
Bending the Knee to Damascus: The Syrian Democratic Forces agree to integrate into the Syrian state

The New Arab Voice

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 41:01


A little over a year from the start of the new government in Syria, violence returned to Aleppo. In January, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the forces of the interim Syrian government clashed in the Aleppo areas of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah.The SDF came off worse and were forced to retreat back to the northeast; and such was the scale of the defeat, they were forced into signing a deal that will see the SDF integrated into the Syrian army.For almost a year, the SDF has been resisting such a deal. This week, we look at the fighting in Aleppo, the deal that has been signed, and why, the status of the SDF and Syria's Kurds, and what these event mean for the Syria that President al-Sharaa is building.We're joined by Dr. Rahaf Aldoughli (@r_aldoughli), senior editor at Cogent Social Sciences and fellow at the Arab Reform Initiative (@ArabReform_ARI), and also, Joseph Daher (@JosephDaher19), a Syrian academic and specialist on the political economy of the Middle East.This podcast is written and produced by Hugo Goodridge (@hugogoodridge).Theme music by Omar al-Fil with additional music from Audio Network.To get in touch with the producers, follow then tweet us at @TNAPodcasts or email podcast@newarab.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep438: Guests: Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggio. Al-Qaeda veteran Ahmed al-Shara's presidency in Syria highlights the group's diplomatic manipulation and Western naivety in accepting jihadists who adopt modern suits and polished personas.

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 7:51


Guests: Husain Haqqani and Bill Roggio. Al-Qaeda veteran Ahmed al-Shara's presidency in Syria highlights the group's diplomatic manipulation and Western naivety in accepting jihadists who adopt modern suits and polished personas.1924 ALEPPO

Fortune's Wheel: A Podcast History of the Late Middle Ages

SEASON 8: The First CrusadeEPISODE 205: Antioch & the Winter in HellWinter descends on Antioch like a verdict. Starvation, disease, and desertion hollow out the Crusader camps while Ridwan of Aleppo and Duqaq of Damascus circle like patient predators, turning every foraging run into a blood tax. This episode lives in the season where faith freezes, hope thins, and survival becomes the only prayer still answerable.No More Paywalls! How?If you believe in what's happening here – bringing our shared history to life, warts and all, free to the public with absolutely no more paywalls…ever…please consider donating to my caffeine-mediated research and writing through the website/app Buy Me A Coffee! With opportunities for one-time donations and even a monthly donation plan, you can voluntarily contribute to the continuation of this show. I would be eternally grateful!NOTE: DISREGARD ANY MENTION OF PATREON. That account has been closed in the process of tearing down any and all paywalls! Social Media:YouTube: Fortune's Wheel PodcastMeta: https://www.facebook.com/fortunes.wheel.3 X: https://twitter.com/WheelPodcastBuy Me A Coffee!

Israel News Talk Radio
Prophecy and the Iran Showdown - The Tamar Yonah Show

Israel News Talk Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2026 61:24


Four classical Jewish sources, spanning nearly two thousand years, foretell a cataclysmic war involving Persia (Iran) at the End of Days. These are not vague allusions. They are specific, detailed, and converging on the very geopolitical reality unfolding before our eyes. 1. Pesikta Rabbati, Piska 36 “Rabbi Yitzchak said: The year in which the King Mashiach is revealed, all the kings of the nations will provoke one another. The King of Persia will provoke the King of Arabia…and the entire world will be thrown into panic and confusion.” 2. Talmud Bavli, Yoma 10a The Gemara records a dispute regarding a prophesied war between Persia and Rome at the End of Days. One opinion holds that Persia will fall to Rome; the other holds that Rome will fall to Persia. The passage establishes that a decisive confrontation between these two civilizations must precede the arrival of Mashiach. 3. Tosafot, Avodah Zarah 2b The succinct 7 line Tosafot o details how Edom will squash Persia. Their downfall clears the stage for Redemption as this final event precedes Mashiach's imminent arrival 4. Kli Paz — Rav Shmuel Laniado (1603–1657), Commentary on Isaiah 34:6 Writing over four hundred years ago, this great Mekubal of Aleppo identified “Bozrah” in Isaiah's prophecy as the Hormuz. He declared that a “great slaughter” (Iran) would take place there at the End of Days, and sealed his words with a blessing: “Happy is the one who understands this sign before the Redemption.” On this show, Tamar speaks with Reb Doniel Stochel, author of the upcoming book: 'THE FINAL REDEMPTION' as he takes us through prophetic sources of what we might expect, especially concerning Iran, and the Final Redemption. You can visit his website at: TheFinalRedemption.net And you can find out more about keeping and celebrating Shabbat (the Sabbath) at: https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/484168/jewish/The-Shabbat-Basics.htm and https://aish.com/48971511/ The Tamar Yonah Show 08FEB2026 - PODCAST

The Light in Every Thing
Rev. Nora Minassian, the third interview in the series of Roadside Conversations

The Light in Every Thing

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2026 70:38


Jonah sits down with Rev. Nora Minassian (Sacramento) for a Roadside Conversation on spiritual biography: growing up Armenian Christian in Aleppo, questions that wouldn't let go, faith shaken in university, and the surprising ways anthroposophy reopened the Christian question. They talk about freedom, suffering, prayer, and what it means to “become” rather than simply “be” a priest. Nora closes with what's lighting her up right now: Paul's letters, Damascus, and how Christ may be encountered in a new way in our time.Support the showThe Light in Every Thing is a podcast of The Seminary of The Christian Community in North America. Learn more about the Seminary and its offerings at our website. This podcast is supported by our growing Patreon community. To learn more, go to www.patreon.com/ccseminary. Thanks to Elliott Chamberlin who composed our theme music, “Seeking Together."

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep413: Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley analyzes new talks involving Turkey and the UAE, noting U.S. reluctance to support Iranian civil society leaves the clerical regime breathing room despite weakness.

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 12:11


Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley analyzes new talks involving Turkey and the UAE, noting U.S. reluctance to support Iranian civil society leaves the clerical regime breathing room despite weakness.1890 ALEPPO

Revolutionary Left Radio
Manufacturing Syria: HTS, Rojava, Iran, and the Consequences of Regime Change

Revolutionary Left Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 167:11


Syria is entering a new and terrifying phase. In this episode Breht is joined by a panel of scholars and activists (Angie Bittar, Adam, Joma, Nur and Jalyssa) to take a clear-eyed look at what's unfolded over the last year and how it fits into the longer arc of the Syrian civil war, including the rapid collapse of the Assad-era order and the emergence of a new regime centered around HTS and Ahmad al-Sharaa (Jolani). Together, they break down the latest waves of mass violence and displacement across the coast, Suwayda, Aleppo, and Rojava, and ask what these events reveal about the new Syria. From there, they turn to the Kurdish question. They discuss the SDF, the long history of US imperial instrumentalization of Kurdish forces, the recurring pattern of abandonment, and the growing pressure now facing Rojava amid shifting regional and international priorities. They also examine ongoing kidnappings and sect-based killings, the breakdown of accountability, and what the allegations surrounding Syrian security institutions tell us about the direction of the new order. Finally, they zoom out to the information war. They map the propaganda narratives being pushed in Western and Zionist media, and offer practical "tells" for separating genuine reporting from information operations. Then, they close by asking what Syria teaches us about the current political moment: imperial strategy, proxy warfare, sectarian fragmentation, and what real solidarity demands. Access a full list of all the sources used for this episode HERE Donate to Jalyssa on Cash App: $JalyssaDugrot Or donate at: BuyMeACoffee/Jalyssa Check out Joma's great podcast: JDPOD Previous Episodes on Syria and Rojava:  "The Situation in Syria" Episode w/ Angie last year "On Syria: Civil War and US Imperialism" with Rania Khalek from 2018  "The Kurds and Revolutionary Rojava" with Dr. Redcrow from 2017 Interview with Murray Bookchin's Daughter on his Life and Legacy ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio https://revleftradio.com/    

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep377: Ahmad Sharawi reports that Al Sharaa continues attacking minorities in Syria, with Kurds being driven back while the U.S. stands aside. The Druze community also faces assault as the new regime consolidates power through ethnic persecution despit

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 8:47


Ahmad Sharawi reports that Al Sharaa continues attacking minorities in Syria, with Kurds being driven back while the U.S. stands aside. The Druze community also faces assault as the new regime consolidates power through ethnic persecution despite initial promises of inclusive governance.1924 ALEPPO

Kalam
Is Syria falling apart (again)? Kalam Digest 43

Kalam

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 21:19


In Syria localised clashes around Aleppo have deteriorated into all out war between Kurdish and government forces, as Perfidious Columbia declared that it's alliance with the former has "largely expired". So far the initiative seems to be squarely with the government, but will it be possible to reach an agreement which can stabilise Syria for the long term, or will disintegration and ethnic strife become permanent?Kalam Digest brings you the latest news from the Middle East.To listen to the full episode subscribe to our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/kalampodcastFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kalampodcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Middle East Focus
Emergency Podcast: Damascus and the Syrian Kurds Come to Blows

Middle East Focus

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 33:57


MEI Senior Fellow Charles Lister joins hosts Alistair Taylor and Matthew Czekaj to unpack the latest developments in Syria, as a tenuous cease-fire takes hold after several days of intense fighting between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Their discussion explores the drivers of the conflict, the prospects for a lasting deal that would integrate the SDF into the Syrian military, as well as the role and perspective of key external actors, including the US, Turkey, and Israel.    For more background on the Damascus-SDF conflict, please see Charles's recent article on the fighting in Aleppo in mid-January here.   Recorded on January 20, 2026.  

Coffee and a Mike
Kevork Almassian #1294

Coffee and a Mike

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2026 75:55


Kevork Almassian is an award-winning journalist, Syrian from Aleppo living in Germany, and host of Syriana Analysis, an independent political commentary channel. He shares his thoughts on Iran, how the rules-based order is broken, tech platforms picking sides, Syria, Venezuela, plans for Gaza, and much more. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE THIS PODCAST!!!    Watch Show Rumble- https://rumble.com/v74ijru-starlink-blackouts-and-modern-war-kevork-almassian.html YouTube- https://youtu.be/meq4C4Ngj2c   Follow Me X- https://x.com/CoffeeandaMike IG- https://www.instagram.com/coffeeandamike/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/CoffeeandaMike/ YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@Coffeeandamike Rumble- https://rumble.com/search/all?q=coffee%20and%20a%20mike Substack- https://coffeeandamike.substack.com/ Apple Podcasts- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffee-and-a-mike/id1436799008 Gab- https://gab.com/CoffeeandaMike Locals- https://coffeeandamike.locals.com/ Website- www.coffeeandamike.com Email- info@coffeeandamike.com   Support My Work Venmo- https://www.venmo.com/u/coffeeandamike Paypal- https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/Coffeeandamike Substack- https://coffeeandamike.substack.com/ Patreon- http://patreon.com/coffeeandamike Locals- https://coffeeandamike.locals.com/ Cash App- https://cash.app/$coffeeandamike Buy Me a Coffee- https://buymeacoffee.com/coffeeandamike Bitcoin- coffeeandamike@strike.me   Mail Check or Money Order- Coffee and a Mike LLC P.O. Box 25383 Scottsdale, AZ 85255-9998   Follow Kevork X-  https://x.com/KevorkAlmassian YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@SyrianaAnalysis Rumble- https://rumble.com/user/syrianaanalysis?e9s=src_v1_cmd Substack- https://kevorkalmassian.substack.com/   Sponsors Vaulted/Precious Metals- https://vaulted.blbvux.net/coffeeandamike McAlvany Precious Metals- https://mcalvany.com/coffeeandamike/ Independence Ark Natural Farming- https://www.independenceark.com/  

Al Jazeera - Your World
Over 3,000 people arrested in Iran, Syrians trying to flee east of Aleppo

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 3:39


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Al Jazeera - Your World
US-Iran tensions, Aleppo humanitarian corridor

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 2:09


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep313: Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sect

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 7:42


Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy.1979 TEHRAN

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep314: W 1-14-25 C Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentim

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 5:43


SHOW1-14-251671 Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists.  Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacre 7Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western.8 Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep310: SHOW SCHEDULE 1-13-25 1868 PUBLISHER'S ROW NYC Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as in

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 5:43


SHOW SCHEDULE1-13-251868 PUBLISHER'S ROW NYC Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacres. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

Popular Front
New Jihadi Attacks Against Kurds in Aleppo

Popular Front

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 86:51


Today we speak to writer and activist Karim Franceschi. He is also a former YPG International commander who fought in Kobanî and Raqqa. He talks to us about the wildlt under-reporter pogroms currently taking place in the Kurdish areas of Aleppo, Syria. The new jiahdi forces of the transitional government have launched a mission of ethnic cleansing and no one seems to care. No ads and all exclusives: patreon.com/popularfront Discounted 50% off the best internet privacy for all our listeners: proton.me/popularfront INFO | MERCH | NEWS | JAKE | SUBSTACK

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep308: THE COLLAPSE OF THE AXIS OF RESISTANCE Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown explains how the fall of the Iranian regime would devastate its regional proxies, including Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iraqi militias, which depend on IRGC fundi

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 6:06


THE COLLAPSE OF THE AXIS OF RESISTANCE Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown explains how the fall of the Iranian regime would devastate its regional proxies, including Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iraqi militias, which depend on IRGC funding and training. Without Tehran's "big brother" support, these groups would likely be forced to make accommodations with local governments. He also notes Hezbollah's role as an international drug cartel. NUMBER 141921 ALEPPO

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep307: ESCALATING CONFLICT BETWEEN SYRIAN FORCES AND KURDISH ALLIES Colleague Akmed Khari. Clashes have erupted in Aleppo between the Syrian government and the Kurdish SDF after a failed integration agreement. Akmed Khari notes the complexity of the US

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 10:45


ESCALATING CONFLICT BETWEEN SYRIAN FORCES AND KURDISH ALLIES Colleague Akmed Khari. Clashes have erupted in Aleppo between the Syrian government and the Kurdish SDF after a failed integration agreement. Akmed Khari notes the complexity of the US coordinating with Syrian security forces that remain riddled with jihadists. The conflict is expected to expand into other contested regions. Analogy: The situation in Syria is like a shaky alliance between rival firefighters who, while ostensibly trying to put out the same blaze, begin turning their hoses on each other while the fire continues to spread. NUMBER 81920 ARMENIAN ORPHANAGE ALEPPO

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep309: SHOW 1-12-26 THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW "The Making of the John Batchelor Show" is a live-streaming "beta" experiment launched by John Batchelor on Monday, January 12, 2026. The primary objective of this specifi

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 8:19


SHOW1-12-26"THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW""The Making of the John Batchelor Show" is a live-streaming "beta" experiment launched by John Batchelor on Monday, January 12, 2026. The primary objective of this specific program is to demonstrate "total transparency" by allowing the audience to see the behind-the-scenes process and technical "bumps" involved in producing the show.GLOBAL CHAOS AND THE EROSION OF STABILITY Colleagues Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani. The guests discuss worldwide instability, arguing that the US has abandoned its traditional role in maintaining global order. They examine conflicts in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela, suggesting US actions are often driven by whims rather than strategic planning, leading to a state of heightened chaos. NUMBER 1FICTIONS IN SYRIA AND THE RISKS OF INTERVENTION Colleagues Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani. The discussion focuses on the Syrian conflict, criticizing the US for maintaining "fictions" about local actors and security forces. Haqqani warns against military intervention in Iran, citing past failures like Vietnam and Iraq, noting that military force cannot solve misunderstood political problems. NUMBER 2CHINA'S GREAT HEIST OF AMERICAN SECRETS Colleagues David Shedd and Bill Roggio. David Sheddoutlines China's extensive cyber espionage campaigns, including "Salt Typhoon," which successfully hacked US Congressional committees. These operations aim to steal sensitive communications and embed sabotage tools within USinfrastructure, highlighting a critical failure in American defensive preparedness. NUMBER 3REGIME CHANGE AND SHIFTING POWER IN THE AMERICAS Colleagues David Shedd and Bill Roggio. Shedd details the removal of Nicolas Maduro and a regional shift toward center-right governments. This transition aims to end Russian and Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere. Furthermore, the US is demanding stricter security cooperation from Mexico to dismantle powerful drug cartels. NUMBER 4IRANIAN PROTESTS AND THE COLLAPSE OF REGIME CONTROL Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. Protests across Iran have turned deadly, with reports of hundreds killed by live fire and hospitals refusing wounded demonstrators. Malcolm Hoenlein highlights a communication blackout and a collapsing economy where the currency has plummeted. A new minority coalition of Baluchis and Kurds is now supporting rebellion. NUMBER 5THE SHIFTING BALANCE OF FEAR IN IRAN Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. As the regime faces potential implosion, discussions involve a return of the Shah's son as a symbolic figurehead, though no clear path to collective leadership exists. Revolutionaries are now tagging the homes of officials, signaling that the balance of fear has shifted from the people to the leadership. NUMBER 6RUSSIA'S ORESHNIK MISSILE AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DETERRENCE Colleague John Hardy. Russia is utilizing the Oreshnik missile to strike Ukrainian infrastructure, leaving thousands without heat. John Hardy explains these strikes serve as psychological intimidation to deter Western nations from providing security guarantees or ground troops. Recent strikes likely targeted an aircraft repair plant, not gas storage. NUMBER 7ESCALATING CONFLICT BETWEEN SYRIAN FORCES AND KURDISH ALLIES Colleague Akmed Khari. Clashes have erupted in Aleppo between the Syrian government and the Kurdish SDF after a failed integration agreement. Akmed Khari notes the complexity of the US coordinating with Syrian security forces that remain riddled with jihadists. The conflict is expected to expand into other contested regions. Analogy: The situation in Syria is like a shaky alliance between rival firefighters who, while ostensibly trying to put out the same blaze, begin turning their hoses on each other while the fire continues to spread. NUMBER 8THE US-MANAGED TRANSITION IN POST-MADURO VENEZUELA Colleague Ernesto Araújo. John Batchelor and Ernesto Araújo discuss the US-led operation that captured Nicolas Maduro. Araújo describes the current situation as a well-managed transition where the US is navigating internal power struggles among military factions and criminal gangs rather than allowing a power vacuum to form. NUMBER 9REGIONAL SHIFTS: COLOMBIA'S DIPLOMACY AND BRAZIL'S POLITICAL FUTURE Colleague Ernesto Araújo. The discussion focuses on Gustavo Petro's pivot toward the United States and the historical concept of "Grand Colombia." In Brazil, they evaluate Lula da Silva's potential re-election bid against the enduring popularity of the imprisoned Jair Bolsonaro and the influence of new nationalist political forces. NUMBER 10REGIONAL REACTIONS TO MADURO'S CAPTURE AND THE ISOLATION OF CUBA Colleague Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports that Venezuelans are celebrating Maduro's capture while the Trumpadministration halts oil shipments to Cuba. He explains that regional left-wing leaders fear a trial will reveal their corrupt ties to Maduro, while the Cuban regime faces collapse without Venezuelan energy. NUMBER 11THE FOUR FAMILIES OF CARACAS AND THE END OF THE REGIME Colleague Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Esclusa analyzes the four mafias currently competing for power in Caracas: the Rodriguez siblings, Diosdado Cabello, Padrino Lopez, and Maduro's remnants. He argues that overwhelming US military force has rendered local weapons irrelevant and that the dismantling of these groups is necessary for elections. NUMBER 12ESCALATING IRANIAN PROTESTS AND POTENTIAL US INTERVENTION Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Edmund Fitton-Brown describes the current Iranian protests as a movement that has shifted into a repression phase characterized by internet blackouts and rising casualties. He argues that US military force targeting repression organs could tip the balance in favor of the protesters, who are increasingly calling for a constitutional monarchy. The regime is reportedly attempting to negotiate following US strike threats. NUMBER 13THE COLLAPSE OF THE AXIS OF RESISTANCE Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown explains how the fall of the Iranian regime would devastate its regional proxies, including Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iraqi militias, which depend on IRGC funding and training. Without Tehran's "big brother" support, these groups would likely be forced to make accommodations with local governments. He also notes Hezbollah's role as an international drug cartel. NUMBER 14THE ZOMBIE REGIME AND STRATEGIC TARGETS Colleague Jonathan Sai. Jonathan Sai labels the Islamic Republic a "zombie regime" facing an existential threat despite its brutal crackdowns. He reports that the IRGC and foreign militias are using automatic weapons against protesters in cities like Tehran and Mashhad. Sai suggests that USintervention should prioritize striking repression centers and state-run propaganda machines to dismantle the regime's control. NUMBER 15HEZBOLLAH'S SURVIVAL AND THE LOSS OF REGIONAL LIFELINES Colleague David Daoud. David Daoud characterizes Hezbollah as an ideological extension of Iran currently in survival mode as its lifelines in Syria and Venezuela weaken. While Hezbollah wants the regime to survive for power projection, Daoud suggests Iraqi militias are more likely to be physically assisting Tehran's crackdowns due to their proximity and lower combat losses compared to Hezbollah. To clarify the current state of the Iranian government, Jonathan Sai uses the metaphor of a "zombie regime": it may appear to be moving and in control, but it is functionally dead because it can no longer sustain its support base or provide basic necessities for its people. NUMBER 161832 PERSIAN GIRL, SKETCHED ON STONE BY JAMES ATKINSON

Al Jazeera - Your World
Syrian army sends reinforcements to Aleppo, UN holds emergency meeting on Ukraine

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 2:45


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep304: PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY CONFLICT IN ALEPPO: US COUNTERTERRORISM PARTNERS CLASH IN SYRIA Colleague Ahmed Sharawi. Ahmed Sharawi examines fighting in Aleppo between Kurdish forces and the Syrian National Army. Despite both being US counterterroris

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 2:27


PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY CONFLICT IN ALEPPO: US COUNTERTERRORISM PARTNERS CLASH IN SYRIA Colleague Ahmed Sharawi. Ahmed Sharawi examines fighting in Aleppo between Kurdish forces and the Syrian National Army. Despite both being US counterterrorism partners, the Syrian government's forces remain riddled with jihadists. The US seeks stability and integration while conflict between these allied forces intensifies.1920 ALEPPO

The Take
What Aleppo's fighting reveals about Syria's fragile peace

The Take

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 21:17


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

Al Jazeera - Your World
Somalia-UAE relations, Aleppo fighting aftermath

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 2:12


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Al Jazeera - Your World
Iranians march to support government, Residents of Aleppo return after fighting

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 2:44


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The Times of Israel Daily Briefing
Day 828 - Iran threatens Israel as anti-regime protests hit 2-week mark

The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2026 21:29


Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Iran’s parliament speaker has threatened to attack Israel and US military and shipping targets, were the US to launch a strike on the country that is increasingly isolated from the world by the theocratic regime. As nationwide protests reached the two-week mark today, we discuss how Iran’s Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi is trying to position himself as a player in his country’s future and the nexus between the anti-regime protests and Israel. The US military said on Saturday that it had carried out multiple strikes in Syria targeting the Islamic State terror group as part of an operation that Washington launched in December after an attack on American personnel on December 13. At the same time, after talks in Paris last week, Israel and Syria agreed to create a mechanism that will facilitate de-escalation, diplomacy and commercial opportunities between the two countries, according to a joint statement from the two countries and the US that was released by Washington. We unwind what is happening on the ground. Under a military aid package negotiated in 2016, Israel receives some $3.8 billion annually from the US, mostly in the form of subsidies to buy American-made arms. The aid package, which took effect in 2018, is set to expire in 2028. Recently, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is making statements that add up to a growing interest for Israel to wean itself from this aid. Berman weighs in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Death toll in Iran protest crackdown said to pass 115; Trump reportedly considering strike As Iranian regime shuts down internet, even Starlink seemingly being jammed Iran’s exiled crown prince Pahlavi takes on leading role urging protests in former homeland US military says it carried out strikes across Syria targeting Islamic State Syria says Kurdish fighters being moved from Aleppo after days of deadly clashes Israel and Syria agree on mechanism to share intel, seek economic ties Netanyahu says he aims to end US military aid to Israel within a decade Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves and Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Protesters participate in a demonstration in Berlin, Germany, in support of the nationwide mass anti-regime protests in Iran, January 10, 2026. (AP/Ebrahim Noroozi)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Al Jazeera - Your World
Iran warns US against military intervention, Syrian army in control of Aleppo

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2026 2:50


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Newshour
Iran: Pahlavi calls for more protests

Newshour

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2026 42:23


After another night of nationwide protests, the exiled son of Iran's ousted shah has urged Iranians to go further and seize and hold city centres. We hear from Iran expert Sanam Vakil of Chatham House.Also in the programme: we hear from Aleppo after clashes between Syrian government forces and Kurdish militia; and a trip through David Bowie's London.(Picture: Protesters gather as vehicles burn, amid evolving anti-government unrest, in Tehran, Iran, in this screen grab obtained from a social media video released on January 9, 2026. Credit: Reuters)

Al Jazeera - Your World
Syrian army suspends military activity in Aleppo, Arrests in Tehran

Al Jazeera - Your World

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2026 2:00


Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep283: SECTARIAN WARFARE IN SYRIA Colleague Akmed Sharawari. Akmed Sharawari reports on escalating violence between Syria's Alawite minority and the central government led by former jihadist Al-Shara. He explains that regime remnants and Russian influ

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 12:27


SECTARIAN WARFARE IN SYRIA Colleague Akmed Sharawari. Akmed Sharawari reports on escalating violence between Syria's Alawite minority and the central government led by former jihadist Al-Shara. He explains that regime remnants and Russian influence are fueling Alawite defiance, while Druze and Kurdish factions also resist integration, complicating US hopes for a stable, unified post-Assad state. NUMBER 5 1921 ALEPPO

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep283: WESTERN AIRSTRIKES ON ISIS Colleague Akmed Sharawari. Sharawari discusses recent British and French airstrikes against ISIS weapons caches in Syria. He notes that despite opposing the central government, ISIS remains a universal threat. The chao

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 5:28


WESTERN AIRSTRIKES ON ISIS Colleague Akmed Sharawari. Sharawari discusses recent British and Frenchairstrikes against ISIS weapons caches in Syria. He notes that despite opposing the central government, ISIS remains a universal threat. The chaos following the Assad regime's fall has allowed ISIS cells to regroup in urban areas, necessitating Western intervention to destroy their stolen arsenals. NUMBER 6 1924 ALEPPO

The John Batchelor Show
S8 Ep289: Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Chaos persists in Syria with airstrikes against ISIS and factional fighting, prompting Israeli security concerns. In Gaza, Hamas refuses to disarm despite U.S. pressure and Israeli control over roughly half the territor

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 6:59


Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Chaos persists in Syria with airstrikes against ISIS and factional fighting, prompting Israelisecurity concerns. In Gaza, Hamas refuses to disarm despite U.S. pressure and Israeli control over roughly half the territory, signaling a continuation of conflict rather than a ceasefire or reconstruction.1920 ALEPPO

The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2025: Cuba Is On The Verge Of Total Collapse & Fighting Erupts In Syria

The President's Daily Brief

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 23:08


In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Cuba teeters on the edge of collapse, as a U.S. oil blockade targeting Venezuela cuts off critical fuel supplies to the island, triggering widespread blackouts, shortages, and a growing wave of Cubans fleeing the country. I'll have the details. The Trump administration orders nearly thirty U.S. ambassadors home, creating major gaps in the diplomatic corps—even as the White House pushes an aggressive diplomacy-first approach abroad. Instability grows inside Syria, with gun battles erupting in Aleppo while negotiations continue over folding Kurdish forces into the regime's control. And in today's Back of the Brief: Kim Jong Un cuts the ribbon on a luxury seaside resort, pitching high-end tourism in one of the most isolated countries on earth. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Birch Gold: Text PDB to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold Stash Financial: Don't Let your money sit around. Go to https://get.stash.com/PDB to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices