Podcasts about Hezbollah

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on September 18, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Lebanon is reeling after two days of coordinated attacks attributed to Israel that detonated thousands of pagers belonging to Hezbollah. The simultaneous explosions – in indiscriminate locations across the country – left deaths and thousands of injuries in their wake. Does this unprecedented attack signal a new reality? In this episode: Justin Salhani (@JustinSalhani), Al Jazeera Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Ashish Malhotra, Marcos Bartolomé, Khaled Soltan, Chloe K. Li, Phillip Lanos, Hagir Saleh, Shraddha Joshi, Duha Mosaad, Cole van Miltenburg, and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Aya Elmileik is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Jonathan Speyer reports on Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping and Israel, sustained by Iranian, Iraqi, Hezbollah, and even Chinese support. He describes the Houthis as fanatical, religiously and tribally motivated, aiming for "death to America, death to Israel, and curse the Jews." While cutting their supply chain and taking Hodeidah port is militarily feasible for a Western-backed force, a lack of political will currently prevents such aggressive action against their sophisticated smuggling operations. 1932

CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW SCHEDULE  9-11-25 GOOD EVENING: The show begins in Brussels at the Article Four meeting called by Poland. 1942 FIRST HOUR 9-915 McCausland: Jeff McCausland analyzes Russia's drone probes into Poland, viewing them as Vladimir Putin's attempt to intimidate NATO and gather military intelligence. He notes Dmitry Medvedev's aggressive rhetoric against Finland. McCausland also discusses Israel's strike against Hamas in Doha, impacting US-Qatar relations, and US military posturing near Venezuela to intimidate Nicolás Maduro. He warns against "gunboat diplomacy" and a "war on cartels," stressing the dangers of escalation and historical lessons. 915-930 CONTINUED McCausland: Jeff McCausland analyzes Russia's drone probes into Poland, viewing them as Vladimir Putin's attempt to intimidate NATO and gather military intelligence. He notes Dmitry Medvedev's aggressive rhetoric against Finland. McCausland also discusses Israel's strike against Hamas in Doha, impacting US-Qatar relations, and US military posturing near Venezuela to intimidate Nicolás Maduro. He warns against "gunboat diplomacy" and a "war on cartels," stressing the dangers of escalation and historical lessons. 930-945 Mary O'Grady analyzes Argentine President Javier Milei's significant election loss in Buenos Aires, attributed to a corruption scandal involving his sister and the slowing economy. His brash style, while initially appealing and celebrated internationally, now alienates potential congressional allies and conservative voters. O'Grady suggests this approach is ill-suited for governing, hindering his economic reforms, as he struggles with high inflation and cuts to public subsidies, impacting public perception.945-1000 Chris Riegel, CEO of scholar.com, counters AI doomsayers like Geoff Hinton, emphasizing AI's transformational potential as a tool. He highlights the  mmense investment, hundreds of billions, in building gigawatt-plus data centers across the United States. This infrastructure drive is creating new industries and jobs, establishing the US as a global leader in AI, while also noting Asia's keen interest in US AI technology and Europe's lack of a cohesive strategy. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 Jonathan Conricus observes Qatar's unprecedented move to engage beyond conventional tools, which Israel is closely monitoring. He suggests Israel's recent strike could signify a new deterrence doctrine, making Hamas leaders in Doha more vulnerable. This pressure might compel Hamas to accept Israel's terms for ending the conflict, which include releasing hostages and surrendering, thereby preventing further destruction and suffering in Gaza, despite the significant costs involved for Israel.1015-1030 CONTINUED Jonathan Conricus observes Qatar's unprecedented move to engage beyond conventional tools, which Israel is closely monitoring. He suggests Israel's recent strike could signify a new deterrence doctrine, making Hamas leaders in Doha more vulnerable. This pressure might compel Hamas to accept Israel's terms for ending the conflict, which include releasing hostages and surrendering, thereby preventing further destruction and suffering in Gaza, despite the significant costs involved for Israel.1030-1045 Ben Baird reveals US government agencies, under both Obama and Biden administrations, continuously funded extremist Muslim groups. Despite warnings and previous Trump administration cuts, over $25 million in grants went to organizations with alleged ties to terrorism, antisemitism, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Hamas. This included partnering with groups like CAIR, which also provided firearms training to radical mosques, raising serious questions about oversight and vetting standards for federal funds.1045-1100 Jonathan Speyer reports on Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping and Israel, sustained by Iranian, Iraqi, Hezbollah, and even Chinese support. He describes the Houthis as fanatical, religiously and tribally motivated, aiming for "death to America, death to Israel, and curse the Jews." While cutting their supply chain and taking Hodeidah port is militarily feasible for a Western-backed force, a lack of political will currently prevents such aggressive action against their sophisticated smuggling operations. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 Anatol Lieven explains that Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus is a Soviet loyalist, not a Putin stooge, but was driven to Russia by Western sanctions. He discusses Russian drone incursions into Poland, likely an intentional message to NATO to test air defenses and warn against deploying troops to Ukraine. Russia may also seek to maintain Belarus firmly in its orbit by disrupting its multi-vector foreign policy initiatives, particularly any attempts at détente with the West.1115-1130 CONTINUED Anatol Lieven explains that Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus is a Soviet loyalist, not a Putin stooge, but was driven to Russia by Western sanctions. He discusses Russian drone incursions into Poland, likely an intentional message to NATO to test air defenses and warn against deploying troops to Ukraine. Russia may also seek to maintain Belarus firmly in its orbit by disrupting its multi-vector foreign policy initiatives, particularly any attempts at détente with the West.1130-1145 Veronique de Rugy critiques US tax "carveouts," identifying them as inefficient special interest deductions that often fail to incentivize desired behaviors, citing employer health insurance and mortgage interest deductions. While a flat tax would streamline the system and boost economic growth by focusing on consumption, de Rugy emphasizes that no tax system alone can resolve the severe US debt crisis; crucial reforms to Social Security and Medicare are indispensable.1145-1200 Ronan Wordsworth addresses a persistent recruitment and retention crisis in Five Eyes militaries, spanning decades. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, favor STEM careers offering flexibility and better pay over military discipline. Militaries are responding with increased advertising, flexible service models, lateral entry for skilled professionals, and significant pay raises and bonuses. Low morale, stemming from unpopular past wars and perceived institutional guilt, also significantly impacts retention rates. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 Professor Evan Ellis details Peru's complex political landscape under unpopular President Dina Boluarte, its strategic importance due to mineral resources, and substantial economic ties with China, including the Chancay deepwater port. He also addresses the escalating Venezuelan situation, with a US Marine Air-Ground Task Force deployment and bounties on Nicolás Maduro, suggesting potential military action. Additionally, he touches on Bolsonaro's trial in Brazil and Guyana's newfound oil wealth amid Venezuelan threats.1215-1230 CONTINUED Professor Evan Ellis details Peru's complex political landscape under unpopular President Dina Boluarte, its strategic importance due to mineral resources, and substantial economic ties with China, including the Chancay deepwater port. He also addresses the escalating Venezuelan situation, with a US Marine Air-Ground Task Force deployment and bounties on Nicolás Maduro, suggesting potential military action. Additionally, he touches on Bolsonaro's trial in Brazil and Guyana's newfound oil wealth amid Venezuelan threats.1230-1245 CONTINUED Professor Evan Ellis details Peru's complex political landscape under unpopular President Dina Boluarte, its strategic importance due to mineral resources, and substantial economic ties with China, including the Chancay deepwater port. He also addresses the escalating Venezuelan situation, with a US Marine Air-Ground Task Force deployment and bounties on Nicolás Maduro, suggesting potential military action. Additionally, he touches on Bolsonaro's trial in Brazil and Guyana's newfound oil wealth amid Venezuelan threats.1245-100 AM CONTINUED Professor Evan Ellis details Peru's complex political landscape under unpopular President Dina Boluarte, its strategic importance due to mineral resources, and substantial economic ties with China, including the Chancay deepwater port. He also addresses the escalating Venezuelan situation, with a US Marine Air-Ground Task Force deployment and bounties on Nicolás Maduro, suggesting potential military action. Additionally, he touches on Bolsonaro's trial in Brazil and Guyana's newfound oil wealth amid Venezuelan threats.

WILL ISRAEL'S STRIKE ON HAMAS IN DOHA AFFECT THE ABRAHAM PEACE ACCORDS?HEADLINE 1: The Pentagon approved a new security assistance package for Lebanon.HEADLINE 2: Speaking of Hezbollah, guess who busted a Hezbollah cell? The Syrian army.HEADLINE 3: The Treasury Department rolled out fresh sanctions targeting Houthi financial networks.--FDD Senior Research Analyst Natalie Ecanow, filling in for Jonathan Schanzer, provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Hussain Abdul-Hussain, an FDD research fellow who specializes in the Gulf region and Yemen. Learn more at: https://fdd.org/fddmorningbrief--Featured FDD Articles:"Turkey Could Be Next in Israel's Cross-hairs After Qatar. The Consequences? Catastrophic" - Sinan Ciddi, Haaretz"Baghdad Has an Opportunity To Counter Illicit Iranian Activity in Iraq. Will the Government Take It?" - Bridget Toomey, FDD Policy Brief"From Playground to Classroom: The Spread of Antisemitism in K-12 Schools" - Brandy Shufutinsky, Congressional Testimony

Les États-Unis ont annoncé une aide militaire d'un montant de 14,2 millions de dollars à destination du Liban. L'objectif affiché est de renforcer l'armée libanaise afin qu'elle puisse affirmer son rôle comme seule force armée légitime du pays et réduire l'influence des groupes non étatiques, au premier rang desquels le Hezbollah

Andrew speaks with Jeffrey Feltman, former United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs and a distinguished fellow at the Brookings Institution. Jeffrey takes us inside the precarious state of post-civil war Syria, the deep-seated sectarian and geopolitical tensions that fueled the conflict, and the complex roles of the US and regional powers who want a stake. He also shares his insights on the ongoing threat from insurgent groups and the challenges of establishing a stable, unified government. 

Today's HeadlinesGen Z continues anti-government protests in NepalSchools remain shuttered as tensions continue in LebanonGod's sovereignty seen in shipping containers

This week, Roqayah and Kumars share some life updates and break down the latest developments in Lebanon as the government ramps up its campaign to disarm the Lebanese resistance and Israel's deadly violations of the November 2024 ceasefire with Hezbollah exceed the 4000 mark. They also discuss the relationship between Harekat Amal and Hezbollah as factions of the Lebanese resistance, the separation of powers in Lebanon's model of governance, the military's detention of journalist Laith Marouf, and more before previewing a clip from Kumars's interview on The Colony Archive with friend of the show Navid Zarrinnal.  Check out The Colony Archive on YouTube to watch Kumars's full interview as well as a freshly-released bonus segment. If you want to support the show and receive access to tons of bonus content, including Roqayah's new weekly column “Last Week in Lebanon,” you can subscribe on our Patreon for as little as $5 a month. Also, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show on Apple Podcasts. We can't do this show without your support!!!

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. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following yesterday morning's Hamas attack on an IDF camp near Gaza City that killed four soldiers, Fabian describes the attack at the entrance to the encampment, in which an explosive device was hurled into a tank that caught fire, killing all members of the team. The IDF has been carrying out strikes on high-rise towers in Gaza City, on buildings of 10 to 14 floors, which Israel says are being used by Hamas for surveillance in preparation of the army's planned offensive in Gaza City, says Fabian. The army has begun telling Gazans to evacuate Gaza City ahead of the upcoming IDF ground offensive, discusses Fabian, which he doesn't believe will begin until more Palestinians have left the area. Following Monday's deadly terror attack at the Ramot junction in Jerusalem, the IDF began operating in the two villages where the two terrorists came from, on the outskirts of Ramallah. In addition to possible plans to demolish the terrorists' families' homes, there are civil sanctions against the relatives of the attackers, and residents of their hometowns, a kind of collective punishment, discusses Fabian. Fabian also talks about IDF airstrikes on Monday against military compounds belonging to Hezbollah's Radwan force, and IDF strikes in Syria. Fabian notes that Israel has not yet commented on the reason for the Syrian strikes. The Houthis launched drones at Israel on Monday, and all three were shot down, reports Fabian, including one near the Ramon Airport and one near the southern city of Dimona. Fabian says that the Houthis have launched more than 150 drones since the beginning of the war and 98% of them have been shot down. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Four soldiers killed in Hamas attack on army camp near Gaza City, IDF says Air Force levels Gaza buildings after Katz vows ‘hurricane in skies of Gaza City’ Six killed, 6 seriously injured in Jerusalem as terrorists open fire on bus, pedestrians Katz orders crackdown on work permits for those living in same town as Jerusalem attackers At least five said killed as Israel hits Hezbollah sites in northeast Lebanon IDF intercepts 3 Houthi drones launched at south, day after attack on Ramon Airport 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. IMAGE: IDF surveyors take measurements at the homes of the two Palestinian terrorists who carried out a deadly shooting attack in Jerusalem on September 8, 2025 to prepare their potential demolition (IDF Spokesperson)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 103-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,650 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market closed at a new high on Monday - with buying focused on the semiconductor sector as investors remain upbeat about global demand ahead of the opening tomorrow of SEMICON Taiwan. VP highlights need to bolster defense as new patrol cutter delivered Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is underscoring the importance of strengthening national defense in the pursuit of peace and prosperity. Hsiao made the comment while overseeing (監督) the delivery to the Coast Guard Administration of the fourth 1,000-tonne class patrol cutter. Speaking at a handover ceremony at C-S-B-S's Keelung shipyard for the vessel - which has been named the "Hualien" - Hsiao underlined the importance of a modernized Coast Guard fleet amid geopolitical uncertainties. Hsiao also christened the fifth 1,000-tonne patrol cutter the "Penghu," at the ceremony. That vessel will be delivered to the Coast Guard Administration at a later date. Germany debuts at SEMICON Taiwan for stronger chip ties with Taipei And,Germany will be setting up its first ever national pavilion at SEMICON Taiwan - when the event opens tomorrow in Taipei. Semiconductor investment expert at Germany Trade & Invest, Martin Mayer says his country is looking to raise its profile (形象) and strengthen semiconductor ties with Taiwan as global chip demand accelerates. According to Mayer, Taiwan is seen as a crucial (至關重要的) partner in developing Germany's semiconductor ecosystem … … and Germany's first ever appearance at at the international semiconductor exhibition in Taipei is intended to "show presence" and signal its commitment to semiconductors, while building trust with Taiwanese companies, government and industry associations. Israel Strikes on Lebanon Kills Hezbollah Members Israel has launched airstrikes on the outskirts of northeastern Lebanon, killing five people, including four Hezbollah members. An Israeli military spokesperson said the air forces targeted Hezbollah positions and infrastructure. This comes as global pressure mounts to disarm (解除武裝) the Lebanese militant group. Since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire ended a war between Hezbollah and Israel in November, Israel has struck southern Lebanon almost daily, targeting the group. The Lebanese government has recently backed a plan to gradually disarm Hezbollah, which the group opposes. Hezbollah has not fired at Israel since November. It maintains it no longer has an armed presence south of the Litani River, but refuses to discuss disarmament until Israel stops its attacks and withdraws from five hilltop points that it captured during the war. US Supreme Court rules LA immigration raids are legal The Supreme Court has cleared the way for the Trump Administration's immigration agents to resume what critics call indiscriminate sweeps in Los Angeles. The unsigned ruling lifted a lower-court order that had blocked (封鎖，阻止) stops based on race, language, or type of work. Ira Spitzer reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 中國信託聯手統一集團推出uniopen聯名信用卡 2025年12月31日前消費享最高11%回饋 完成指定任務加碼每月免費跨行轉帳10次，ATM存領外幣各1次免手續費 了解詳情> https://sofm.pse.is/84pk5e 謹慎理財 信用至上 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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For review:1. A drone launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels evaded Israeli air defenses and smashed into the Ramon Airport terminal in southern Israel on Sunday. The unmanned aerial vehicle struck the passenger terminal at the airport north of Eilat, causing damage, according to airport authorities.2. President Trump Warns Hamas to Accept Terms for Hostage - Ceasefire Deal.According to the reported proposal, Hamas would release all 48 hostages, living and dead, on day one, while Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian terrorists with blood on their hands, and thousands of other prisoners.In addition, the IDF would call off its conquest of Gaza City and would remain outside the city, according to the report.The two sides would engage in talks over the end of the war under the personal oversight of President Trump, and the ceasefire would continue as long as negotiations last.3. Lebanon's cabinet on Friday welcomed a plan by the Army that would disarm Hezbollah and said the military would begin executing it, without setting a timeframe for implementation and cautioning that the Army had limited capabilities. But it said continued Israeli military operations in Lebanon would hamper the Army's progress. 4.  President Zelensky Responds to Russian President Putin: "He can come to Kyiv."5. China said Saturday that its military monitored the passage of Australian and Canadian warships through the Taiwan Strait, criticizing their presence in the sensitive waterway as “causing trouble.”6. Marines from the 3rd Marine Division trained with the Navy/Marine Corps Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) in recent weeks after the system arrived July 10 in Japan, the Marine Corps said. 7. The Air Force and Sierra Nevada Corporation have started flight tests on the service's next-generation “doomsday plane.”Flight tests for the E-4C Survivable Airborne Operations Control, or SAOC, are being held at the Aviation Innovation and Technology Center in Dayton, Ohio, the company said in a Wednesday release.

Original air date: September 25, 2024 Escalating to de-escalate might not be Israel's goal in Lebanon after all. But as strikes between Israel and Hezbollah continue to intensify, we have to wonder — what is Israel's goal? Rosa Brooks, Kori Schake, and Ed Luce join David Rothkopf to examine the situation in the Middle East, discuss the results from UNGA, predict the outcome of the Vice Presidential debate, and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Original air date: September 25, 2024 Escalating to de-escalate might not be Israel's goal in Lebanon after all. But as strikes between Israel and Hezbollah continue to intensify, we have to wonder — what is Israel's goal? Rosa Brooks, Kori Schake, and Ed Luce join David Rothkopf to examine the situation in the Middle East, discuss the results from UNGA, predict the outcome of the Vice Presidential debate, and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly two years into Israel's devastating war in Gaza, ceasefire negotiations remain stalled, the humanitarian toll continues to mount, and international divisions are deepening. Despite mounting global pressure, Israel has resisted calls for a permanent ceasefire, insisting on unfeasible conditions. During this week's Middle East Report, James M. Dorsey analysed the faltering ceasefire efforts. Dorsey outlined the core of the impasse: a mounting divergence between Israeli and much of the international community, and Hamas's demands on the other. In August, Hamas accepted an Israeli-endorsed US proposal for a 60-day ceasefire. Yet, Israel and US envoy Steve Witkoff shifted the narrative, insisting any truce be permanent and linked to full hostage release—effectively changing the negotiated goalposts. Dorsey warned that this tactical shift by Israel and the United States amounts to deliberate undermining of ceasefire momentum. “So, in effect, what Israel is doing is sabotaging a ceasefire,” Dorsey said. The Trump administration has enacted sweeping punitive measures against Palestinians: preventing Palestinian officials—including President Mahmoud Abbas—from attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York; barring Palestinian passport holders from US entry; and sanctioning Palestinian human rights groups supporting South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Dorsey observed that diplomatic and economic pressure on Israel remains insufficient—yet potentially poised to escalate. “Private sector and limited government sanctions are troubling Israelis, but not enough to push Prime Minister Netanyahu to reconsider his policies,” Dorsey said. At the same time, civil society in Europe and elsewhere are campaigning for sanctions against Israel. “If and when sanctions start to kick in by the Europeans, serious sanctions that start to hit where it hurts, that's something that Israel is going to have to take account of,” Dorsey said. Dorsey also spotlighted the latest flotilla of 50 ships from 44 countries—including activists from Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar—that has set sail to break the siege of Gaza. He flagged the unprecedented involvement of Gulf nationals as “remarkable,” given the suppression of pro-Palestinian expression of support in much of the Middle East. Finally, Dorsey touched on Lebanon's entanglement: the Lebanese government, under US pressure, has committed to disarming Hezbollah, though the group has refused to comply. On paper, this move is framed as a step toward consolidating state sovereignty by ensuring the monopoly of arms rests with the state. But in practice, it places Beirut in an impossible bind. Hezbollah, still reeling but not broken from its latest confrontation with Israel, has declared it will not give up its weapons as long as Israeli forces occupy Lebanese land. This creates a standoff between Hezbollah, which commands loyalty across significant sections of Lebanese society, and the fragile Lebanese state. For ordinary Lebanese, this uncertainty compounds daily struggles. The country is still reeling from years of financial crisis, the 2020 Beirut port explosion, and one of the world's worst currency devaluations. Analysts warn that pressure to confront Hezbollah militarily could trigger fresh conflict in a society exhausted by instability. At the same time, Washington insists that Lebanon must show it can rein in armed groups operating independently of the state. As Dorsey put it, this leaves Lebanon “between a rock and a hard place,” trying to navigate American demands without igniting a civil confrontation that could spiral into another round of violence.

Both parties agree in principle that health policy should be driven by facts and science, not by politics. But translating science into policy involves human judgments. And an uproar this week around vaccines shows rising tension over public health. Also: today's stories, including how some Latin Americans are embracing U.S. intervention amid record violence; whether current laws designed to stop potential gun violence by people deemed a threat to themselves or others could have prevented a recent shooting in Minnesota; and how Lebanon's government is facing a new test in disarming a weakened Hezbollah. Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

The Israeli army's killing of several Houthi government officials, including the prime minister, marks another serious escalation in the region. Until now, the army had mostly attacked infrastructure in Yemen, hitting power plants and ports, but the latest strike was different. The Houthis have pledged to retaliate. The Iran-backed group has already fired back with missiles toward Israel. It has been doing this periodically since the start of the war in Gaza, in what it says is solidarity with Palestine. These attacks have mostly caused only superficial damage, but it has also been attacking Red Sea shipping, disrupting global trade. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu boasted of delivering a severe blow to the Houthi leadership in the assassination strike but experts say it is the group's military figures, not politicians, that have real influence on the ground. In this episode of Beyond the Headlines, host Nada AlTaher compares the Israeli army's operations in Yemen to its attacks on Hezbollah and Hamas. She speaks to Baraa Shiban, associate fellow with the Royal United Services Institute, Jovan Ilijev from the Terrorism Research and Analysis Consortium (TRAC), and Elisabeth Kendall, president of Girton College at Cambridge University.

This conversation delves into the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israel's military strategies, the political dynamics in Lebanon, the economic crisis in Iran, and the governance issues faced by the Palestinian Authority. The speakers discuss the implications of these factors on regional stability and international relations, emphasizing the challenges and potential paths forward.We want to hear from YOU! If you would like to submit a question or comment for further discussion, please email us at: questions@abideministries.com.

In Part 2 of the gripping Mike Drop Podcast featuring Wes Tabor, a former DEA agent, listeners are taken deeper into the intense world of drug enforcement and high-stakes operations. Wes shares riveting stories from his recovery after a life-altering accident, his relentless pursuit of justice against the odds, and his experiences tackling major cases involving the Sinaloa Cartel and Hezbollah. From confronting criminals in the field to navigating the challenges of corruption within law enforcement, this episode dives into the raw realities of DEA work, including undercover operations, massive cash seizures, and the evolving threat of cryptocurrency in narco-terrorism. Expect unfiltered accounts of danger, sacrifice, and the moral fortitude that defined Wes's career. Tune in for an unflinching look at the front lines of the war on drugs! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hezbollah is under pressure to lay down its arms, as part of a US-backed plan. Lebanon’s government has asked the army to draft a proposal by the end of the year. Facing continued Israeli strikes and the aftermath of the assassination of much of its leadership, including Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah refuses to disarm, calling the effort a trap. With no trust and no guarantees, where will Lebanon go from here? In this episode: Ali Harb (@Harbpeace), Al Jazeera journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, and Tracie Hunte, with Manny Panaretos, Phillip Lanos, Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Kisaa Zehra, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Reports coming from Lebanon are, in many ways, encouraging – the Lebanese government, it seems, is done with Hezbollah and the wreckage of a once-beautiful and prosperous country. The question is, can the government carry out the mandate to remove Hezbollah, its weapons and its influence and create peaceful relations with Israel? Hussain Abdul-Hussain, research fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, walks us through the disparate threads of Lebanese politics – from the comforting and hopeful to the skeptical, cynical, and despairing. A Crumbling but Shifting Status Quo Hussein Abdel-Hussain cautiously celebrated what he called one of the most consequential developments in Lebanon's modern history: the weakening of Hezbollah following the reported assassination of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, and what he described as Israel's “crushing” of Hezbollah's operational capabilities. This surprising turn of events has opened what he characterizes as a “window of opportunity” for the Lebanese state to reclaim sovereignty and redefine itself as more neutral and nationally focused. Although Hezbollah and its Shia political partner Amal initially agreed to a cessation of hostilities in late November 2024, they have since moved the goalposts. Specifically, Hezbollah now demands Israeli withdrawal from strategic hilltops before it will even consider discussions on disarmament, thus reverting back to old patterns of negotiation delay and defiance—strategies previously employed by figures like Yasser Arafat. Legal and Political Breakthroughs Despite Hezbollah's resistance, the Lebanese government has achieved a historic milestone. For the first time since 1969, the Cabinet passed a resolution asserting that only state institutions are authorized to bear arms inside Lebanon. This directly challenges Hezbollah's decades-long extralegal military presence. Even more remarkably, the decision was made with Hezbollah-affiliated ministers still in the temporary caretaker government, giving the resolution additional political weight. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have been officially tasked with drafting a plan to disarm Hezbollah—a move that underscores a shift from rhetorical opposition to potential enforcement. A meeting to review the military's disarmament plan is set, though the LAF has indicated that a full disarmament could take 15 months, well beyond the end-of-the-year deadline set by the Cabinet. The Struggle of the Lebanese Armed Forces The Lebanese military, although increasingly seen as the backbone of national unity and sovereignty, faces severe logistical, operational, and financial challenges. Salaries have plunged to poverty levels due to the economic collapse, and the rank-and-file soldiers struggle with basic needs—including fuel and clean drinking water. Many soldiers hold second jobs to survive, and troop numbers are insufficient to handle complex disarmament tasks. While the United States once provided $144 million annually to support the LAF, this aid has intermittently lapsed due to political friction and has recently been replaced by funding from Qatar, which raises concerns about foreign influence. Qatar and Turkey: External Influences and Islamist Ambitions Abdel-Hussain expressed discomfort with growing Qatari—and increasingly Turkish—influence in Lebanon, particularly within the Sunni community in the north and in Beirut. These nations, he warned, are promoting Islamist factions aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood. This power vacuum, created by Saudi Arabia's retreat from Lebanon since 2017, has allowed pro-Qatar and pro-Turkey candidates to gain municipal influence. Worse yet, Turkey is replicating strategies previously demonstrated by Iran—investing in loyalist militias and seeking political hegemony in Syria and Lebanon alike. Abdel-Hussain emphasized that Turkey's intelligence chief-turned-foreign minister Hakan Fidan could become the “new Qassem Soleimani” in terms of aspiring for regional dominance. The Role of the United States: Mixed Messaging, Diplomatic Fumbles The conversation took a critical turn when examining America's diplomacy. Abdel-Hussain strongly criticized US Ambassador to Turkey Thomas Barak for bypassing Israel while presenting a policy paper outlining the roadmap to disarm Hezbollah. That paper was approved by the Lebanese cabinet and included commitments from Israel—commitments that Israel had never actually seen or endorsed. This misstep wasted valuable diplomatic capital, undermined credibility, and gave Hezbollah a new talking point. High-level U.S. diplomacy in the region, Abdel-Hussain argued, has become imbalanced and bureaucratically overloaded—with the same officials covering Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon. He emphasized the importance of restoring proper diplomatic structure and cautioning against over-centralized decision-making. Hezbollah's Deep Systemic Risk While there are Shia soldiers in the Lebanese army, there is scant evidence of systemic Hezbollah infiltration in the senior ranks, according to Abdel-Hussain. He cited funerals of Shia Lebanese soldiers killed in ammunition depot incidents potentially connected to Hezbollah, emphasizing that the community—especially its younger members—showed signs of divergence from militant loyalty. He dismissed the idea that Hezbollah's weapons are essential for Shia security, explaining that Lebanon's Shia are one-third of the population and not an embattled minority like the Syrian Alawites. The rationale for armed militancy, he said, is increasingly seen as a cover for political control, not existential protection. UNIFIL: An Expired Mandate UNIFIL, the UN force stationed in southern Lebanon since 1978, received sharp criticism. Abdel-Hussain blasted it as ineffective, politically unwieldy, and financially wasteful. He accused the French of prolonging its life to maintain influence and jobs, describing it as a “sacred cow” that enables Hezbollah by acting as a passive buffer while spending over $500 million annually. The recent decision to terminate UNIFIL's mandate was hailed as long overdue, with a final 16-month extension granted as a political compromise with France.  Iran's Declining Influence—But Stay Vigilant While not declaring Iran fully out of the picture, Abdel-Hussain argued that its effectiveness is waning. Much of the infrastructure and political capital Iran built in Lebanon and Syria through Hezbollah and the Assad regime is significantly diminished. However, vigilance is required, lest Hezbollah regroups or Iran seeks to finance a resurgence. Currently, he sees Iran's threat limited mostly to missile capabilities from within its borders or via Yemeni Houthis. France: Their Influence Viewed as Destructive Hussein Abdel-Hussain sharply criticized French involvement in Lebanon, alleging that it has become a source of obstruction and incoherence. The French approach, he argued, is economically motivated, opportunistic, and inconsistent with the best interests of the Lebanese people or with stability in the region. The Final Question: Can Lebanon Become Unitary and Neutral Again? Wrapping up on a cautiously optimistic note, Abdel-Hussain argued that history provides the answer: from 1943 to 1975, Lebanon was a neutral, largely self-governed and pluralistic society that emphasized commerce, leisure, and coexistence. The key to its rehabilitation lies in a return to a small, libertarian-minded state that stays out of regional power struggles. He asserted that, if left alone, the Lebanese people would opt for peace and prosperity. However, foreign intervention—especially from Iran, Turkey, and Qatar—must be firmly resisted, and Hezbollah's grip must weaken to restore national unity. Conclusion There's no hiding the uphill nature of Lebanon's path forward, but for the first time in decades, there may exist a genuine foundation for change. If internal unity can hold—and external pressure can be strategically curtailed—following through on disarming Hezbollah could pave the way for constitutional stability and regional reintegration. Is peace possible? Perhaps not yet—but for Lebanon, neutrality might just be the first great victory. Summary prepared by a LLM. 

What if Gaza didn't rebuild as a terror base but as a smart city under U.S. trusteeship? What if Iran, Hezbollah, and the Houthis are falling faster than anyone admits? What if October 7 changed the prophetic clock forever?In this MidEast & Beyond, Amir Tsarfati and Pastor Barry Stagner break down a cascade of global developments: Gaza's final siege phase, the elimination of Hamas' top propaganda leader, the dismantling of the Houthi government, Trump's revolutionary Gaza reconstruction proposal, and Iran's looming confrontation. They will also expose why young Americans are siding with Hamas, how fake famine campaigns manipulate the world, and why the enemy fears October 7 will become a date of redemption, not shame.Connect with us on social:Telegram: @beholdisraelchannelInstagramFacebookXYouTube

LEBANON AND SYRIA: Jonathan Schanzer: Jonathan Schanzer reports on Israel's challenging but successful operation in Gaza City, which has neutralized key Hamas leaders and recovered hostages, significantly weakening the group, with only ten senior leaders remaining. He critically notes Qatar's role as a major patron of Hamas, not acting in good faith during hostage negotiations. Shanzer also highlights Israel's "remarkable operation" in Yemen, demonstrating enhanced intelligence capabilities against Houthi leadership, severely impacting the Iran-backed group. In Lebanon, efforts to disarm Palestinian camps and Hezbollah present a "generational opportunity" for the state to restore sovereignty. 1898 LEBANON

GAZA AND YEMEN: Jonathan Schanzer: Jonathan Schanzer reports on Israel's challenging but successful operation in Gaza City, which has neutralized key Hamas leaders and recovered hostages, significantly weakening the group, with only ten senior leaders remaining. He critically notes Qatar's role as a major patron of Hamas, not acting in good faith during hostage negotiations. Shanzer also highlights Israel's "remarkable operation" in Yemen, demonstrating enhanced intelligence capabilities against Houthi leadership, severely impacting the Iran-backed group. In Lebanon, efforts to disarm Palestinian camps and Hezbollah present a "generational opportunity" for the state to restore sovereignty. 1950 GAZA BEERSHEBA

CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW SCHEDULE  9-2-2025 GOOD EVENING: The show begins in the markets, watching Fed Chairman Jerome Powell prepare for the September 16-17 Open Market meeting. 1840 BANK OF LONDON FIRST HOUR 9-915 #MARKETS:   LIZ PEEK THE HILL. FOX NEWS AND FOX BUSINESS: Elizabeth Peek: Elizabeth Peek examines the persistent tension between the White House and the Federal Reserve, observing that Chairman Jay Powell's actions are often perceived as politically motivated. She attributes high inflation during the Biden years to belated rate hikes and points to a "bound up housing market" due to past low mortgage rates and current high rates, making housing unaffordable. Peek highlights the underestimated, rapid impact of AI, noting its widespread adoption (700 million weekly ChatGPT users) indicates genuine, impactful companies rather than a bubble. She also supports Trump's proposal for addressing homelessness via dedicated facilities. 915-930 CONTINUED #MARKETS:   LIZ PEEK THE HILL. FOX NEWS AND FOX BUSINESS Elizabeth Peek: Elizabeth Peek examines the persistent tension between the White House and the Federal Reserve, observing that Chairman Jay Powell's actions are often perceived as politically motivated. She attributes high inflation during the Biden years to belated rate hikes and points to a "bound up housing market" due to past low mortgage rates and current high rates, making housing unaffordable. Peek highlights the underestimated, rapid impact of AI, noting its widespread adoption (700 million weekly ChatGPT users) indicates genuine, impactful companies rather than a bubble. She also supports Trump's proposal for addressing homelessness via dedicated facilities. 930-945 EU: JUDY DEMPSEY, SENIOR SCHOLAR, CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE IN BERLIN. Judy Dempsey: Judy Dempsey analyzes Europe's political instability, including a wobbly French government facing a potential no-confidence vote and President Macron's struggles with reforms, while the far-right National Rally prepares for snap elections. Germany's Chancellor Merz also faces domestic opposition to reforms balancing social welfare and defense spending. Dempsey warns about the rise of anti-Ukraine, pro-Russian, Eurosceptic populist parties across Europe, which pose a significant challenge to regional stability and Washington's foreign policy, despite calls for a European-centric military force. 945-1000 CONTINUED; EU: JUDY DEMPSEY, SENIOR SCHOLAR, CARNEGIE ENDOWMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE IN BERLIN. Judy Dempsey: Judy Dempsey analyzes Europe's political instability, including a wobbly French government facing a potential no-confidence vote and President Macron's struggles with reforms, while the far-right National Rally prepares for snap elections. Germany's Chancellor Merz also faces domestic opposition to reforms balancing social welfare and defense spending. Dempsey warns about the rise of anti-Ukraine, pro-Russian, Eurosceptic populist parties across Europe, which pose a significant challenge to regional stability and Washington's foreign policy, despite calls for a European-centric military force. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 #STATETHINKING: @MARYKISSEL FORMER SENIOR ADVISER TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. EXECUTIVE VP STEPHENS INC. Mary Kissel: Mary Kissel critiques China's military parade, labeling Xi Jinping's claim of sole WWII victory a "complete fiction" aimed at promoting a "new world order" and expanding influence. She expresses concern over India's presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, viewing it as a potential move towards neutrality that could undermine US efforts to counter China's regional militarization. Kissel also attributes the rise of Eurosceptic, pro-Russian populist parties in Europe to the failure of mainstream political parties to adequately address citizens' economic realities, leading to cynicism and a challenge to US policy. 1015-1030 CONTINUED: Mary Kissel: Mary Kissel critiques China's military parade, labeling Xi Jinping's claim of sole WWII victory a "complete fiction" aimed at promoting a "new world order" and expanding influence. She expresses concern over India's presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, viewing it as a potential move towards neutrality that could undermine US efforts to counter China's regional militarization. Kissel also attributes the rise of Eurosceptic, pro-Russian populist parties in Europe to the failure of mainstream political parties to adequately address citizens' economic realities, leading to cynicism and a challenge to US policy. 1030-1045 GAZA AND YEMEN: Jonathan Schanzer: Jonathan Schanzer reports on Israel's challenging but successful operation in Gaza City, which has neutralized key Hamas leaders and recovered hostages, significantly weakening the group, with only ten senior leaders remaining. He critically notes Qatar's role as a major patron of Hamas, not acting in good faith during hostage negotiations. Shanzer also highlights Israel's "remarkable operation" in Yemen, demonstrating enhanced intelligence capabilities against Houthi leadership, severely impacting the Iran-backed group. In Lebanon, efforts to disarm Palestinian camps and Hezbollah present a "generational opportunity" for the state to restore sovereignty. 1045-1100 LEBANON AND SYRIA: Jonathan Schanzer: Jonathan Schanzer reports on Israel's challenging but successful operation in Gaza City, which has neutralized key Hamas leaders and recovered hostages, significantly weakening the group, with only ten senior leaders remaining. He critically notes Qatar's role as a major patron of Hamas, not acting in good faith during hostage negotiations. Shanzer also highlights Israel's "remarkable operation" in Yemen, demonstrating enhanced intelligence capabilities against Houthi leadership, severely impacting the Iran-backed group. In Lebanon, efforts to disarm Palestinian camps and Hezbollah present a "generational opportunity" for the state to restore sovereignty. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 #LONDONCALLING:  @JOSEPHSTERNBERG @WSJOPINION Joseph Sternberg: discusses the alarming speculation that the UK and France might require IMF bailouts due to their enormous debt piles and fiscal deficits, and a political inability to implement austerity measures. He notes the UK is exhibiting "precrisis" signs with a weakening pound and rising long-term borrowing costs, reflecting a loss of investor confidence in its economic growth. Sternberg concludes that these major economies are too large for a traditional IMF bailout, implying they must address their fiscal challenges internally to avoid a financial crisis. 1115-1130 CONTINUED: #LONDONCALLING:  @JOSEPHSTERNBERG @WSJOPINION Joseph Sternberg: Joseph Sternberg discusses the alarming speculation that the UK and France might require IMF bailouts due to their enormous debt piles and fiscal deficits, and a political inability to implement austerity measures. He notes the UK is exhibiting "precrisis" signs with a weakening pound and rising long-term borrowing costs, reflecting a loss of investor confidence in its economic growth. Sternberg concludes that these major economies are too large for a traditional IMF bailout, implying they must address their fiscal challenges internally to avoid a financial crisis. 1130-1145 Professor John Cochrane: Professor John Cochrane addresses the fervent debate over the Federal Reserve's independence, with critics from both political extremes advocating for more accountability. He points to the Fed's expanded activities since 2008, including "subsidizing Wall Street," and alleged missteps that contributed to inflation and a problematic housing market. Cochrane argues for a more limited Fed, focused strictly on inflation, to preserve its independence and public trust, suggesting that its broadened scope jeopardizes its core mission and credibility. 1145-1200 CONTINUED:Professor John Cochrane: Professor John Cochrane addresses the fervent debate over the Federal Reserve's independence, with critics from both political extremes advocating for more accountability. He points to the Fed's expanded activities since 2008, including "subsidizing Wall Street," and alleged missteps that contributed to inflation and a problematic housing market. Cochrane argues for a more limited Fed, focused strictly on inflation, to preserve its independence and public trust, suggesting that its broadened scope jeopardizes its core mission and credibility.. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 GREGORY COPLEY, DEFENSE & FOREIGN AFFAIRS     Gregory Copley: Gregory Copley discusses China's military parade, calling its claim of sole WWII victory a "breathtaking fiction" meant to boost the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) collapsing credibility amidst widespread anti-CCP protests and a disrupted military. He highlights India's strategic aim for dominance in Central and South Asia, leading to its presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, but not the parade. Copley also notes Europe's fiscal crises, exemplified by France and the UK, which face speculation of IMF bailouts due to political unwillingness to implement spending cuts and a growing reliance on the US for defense. 1215-1230 continued; Gregory Copley: Gregory Copley discusses China's military parade, calling its claim of sole WWII victory a "breathtaking fiction" meant to boost the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) collapsing credibility amidst widespread anti-CCP protests and a disrupted military. He highlights India's strategic aim for dominance in Central and South Asia, leading to its presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, but not the parade. Copley also notes Europe's fiscal crises, exemplified by France and the UK, which face speculation of IMF bailouts due to political unwillingness to implement spending cuts and a growing reliance on the US for defense. 1230-1245 CONTINUED Gregory Copley: Gregory Copley discusses China's military parade, calling its claim of sole WWII victory a "breathtaking fiction" meant to boost the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) collapsing credibility amidst widespread anti-CCP protests and a disrupted military. He highlights India's strategic aim for dominance in Central and South Asia, leading to its presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, but not the parade. Copley also notes Europe's fiscal crises, exemplified by France and the UK, which face speculation of IMF bailouts due to political unwillingness to implement spending cuts and a growing reliance on the US for defense. 1245-100 AM CONTINUED: Gregory Copley: Gregory Copley discusses China's military parade, calling its claim of sole WWII victory a "breathtaking fiction" meant to boost the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) collapsing credibility amidst widespread anti-CCP protests and a disrupted military. He highlights India's strategic aim for dominance in Central and South Asia, leading to its presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, but not the parade. Copley also notes Europe's fiscal crises, exemplified by France and the UK, which face speculation of IMF bailouts due to political unwillingness to implement spending cuts and a growing reliance on the US for defense. R

The Lebanese government approved a U.S. plan to disarm Hezbollah, the group whose military wing was recognized by previous governments as a parallel security structure to Lebanon’s armed forces. The agreement calls for Hezbollah’s disarmament by the end of the year, in return for Israel’s withdrawal and cessation of hostilities. Special correspondent Simona Foltyn reports from Beirut. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

The Lebanese government approved a U.S. plan to disarm Hezbollah, the group whose military wing was recognized by previous governments as a parallel security structure to Lebanon’s armed forces. The agreement calls for Hezbollah’s disarmament by the end of the year, in return for Israel’s withdrawal and cessation of hostilities. Special correspondent Simona Foltyn reports from Beirut. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

The organisers behind Greta Thunberg’s Gaza flotilla exposed with links to Hezbollah, the Minns government rips out shark nets, how dangerous is it really? Plus, Albanese shows his glass jaw after farmers chased him out of Ballarat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Amir Tsarfati, Pastor Barry Stagner, and Pastor Mike Golay for a powerful CONNECT Q&A live from Galilee. They address urgent developments in the Middle East, including Israel's strikes on Yemen, the threat from Hezbollah, and the situation in Gaza. The discussion also addresses key Bible prophecy questions, including Ezekiel's dry bones, Israel's rebirth, end-time deception, and the perilous rise of replacement theology.Discover why Israel's modern survival is undeniable proof of God's promises, how propaganda fuels hatred against the Jewish people, and what Scripture says about the rapture and the end times.Connect with us on social:Telegram: @beholdisraelchannelInstagramFacebookXYouTube

Captagon, an illicit amphetamine, has earned the nickname “the jihad pill” for its unique role in modern conflict. Fighters across the Middle East, including ISIS during the height of the Syrian Civil War, have used the drug for stamina, fearlessness, and psychological detachment—turning it into a battlefield weapon as much as a narcotic. Reports have linked its use to Hamas militants during the October 7th attacks, reinforcing its association with both heightened aggression and religious militancy. The drug's stimulant effects keep combatants awake for days, enabling relentless violence while deadening physical and emotional inhibitions.More critically, Captagon has become a multi-billion-dollar revenue engine that sustains jihadist movements and authoritarian regimes alike. Syria, under the Assad regime, has become the epicenter of Captagon production, with military and political elites orchestrating its mass manufacture and export. Hezbollah acts as a key facilitator, protecting production lines and trafficking corridors, ensuring supply reaches lucrative markets in the Gulf, Europe, and Asia. The trade not only dwarfs much of the region's traditional economy but also provides a steady stream of funding to groups and governments otherwise strangled by sanctions—turning Captagon into both the financial backbone of jihad and a destabilizing force across the Middle East.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:How did Europe help Syria become a bigger drug dealer than Mexico's cartels? | Euronews

A ZDF German Television interview hosted by Golineh Atai Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:38 Why is sub-state disarmament so important? 2:36 What do you want Hezbollah not capable of anymore? 5:21 Is it an issue of domination of the country through weapons? 6:42 How can you measure Lebanese support for Hezbollah's armed role today? 12:02 How do you reply to those who say without Hezbollah there is no challenge to Israel? 15:09 What options does Hezbollah have? 17:32 Would Iran ever let go of Hezbollah? 18:56 Are Naim Qassem's threats just a ploy? 20:53 How feasible is it to avoid violence? 24:24 What do current Israeli attacks mean for the stability of the Lebanese government? 26:58 What does Ali Larijani's recent visit indicate? 28:10 Does Hezbollah have to create a new identity? 30:23 How can the state fulfill social and economic roles without Hezbollah?

After years of terrorising shipping in the Red Sea, disrupting global trade and firing missiles at Israel, the anti-Semitic Houthi leadership of northern Yemen has been wiped out in an Israeli airstrike. Today - chief international correspondent Cameron Stewart on how Mossad’s network of spies called in the strikes. Find out more about The Front podcast here. You can read about this story and more on The Australian's website or on The Australian’s app. This episode of The Front is presented and produced by Claire Harvey and edited by Joshua Burton. Our team includes Kristen Amiet, Lia Tsamoglou, Tiffany Dimmack, Stephanie Coombes and Jasper Leak, who also composed our music. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Le Liban commémore cette année 50 ans du début de la guerre civile. Mais une guerre en chasse une autre dans ce petit pays de 4 millions d'habitants qui compte presque autant de Libanais que de réfugiés syriens et palestiniens. Guerre entre Israël et le Hezbollah qui perdure malgré le cessez-le-feu, les drones israéliens survolent toujours le sud du pays et les bombes pleuvent par intermittence. Et cela sans compter l'effondrement bancaire dans un pays réduit à fonctionner avec du cash et une explosion dans le port de Beyrouth équivalente à une bombe nucléaire qui a laissé la capitale exsangue. Et malgré toutes ces catastrophes la créativité libanaise est à son apogée. Beyrouth fourmille d'expositions, pièces de théâtre, festivals de toutes sortes cinéma, musique et le public est au rendez-vous. On vous propose de vous emmener dans cette vitalité tous les dimanches de ce mois d'août. « Liban : la culture malgré tout », une série proposée par Muriel Maalouf à la réalisation Diego Tenorio. Aujourd'hui rendez-vous avec la danse.

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: President Trump sparks heated debate with his proposal to allow 600,000 Chinese students to study in the United States. Frank Gaffney of the Institute for the American Future joins us to break it down. Is Hezbollah finally down for the count? Lebanon is floating a plan to persuade the militant group to disarm, while Israel signals it might pull its forces back. We'll get analysis from David Daoud of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com.Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief.YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Jacked Up Fitness: Get the all-new Shake Weight by Jacked Up Fitness at https://JackedUpShakeWeight.comCBDistillery: Visit https://CBDistillery.com and use promo code PDB for 25% off your entire order!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

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she was “disgusted” after altered photos of her and other women were found on an Italian pornographic website. Also, a look at the Lebanese government's plans to disarm Hezbollah. And, New Orleans is still learning from the lessons of Hurricane Katrina 20 years later, finding some help from Dutch engineers. Plus, a conversation about the latest album of Chilean band Calle Mambo.Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

I answer press-related questions on the government's political decisions and security condiserations needed for sub-state disarmament. The podcast is only made possible through listener and viewer donations. Please help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut Or donating through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan Subscribe to our YouTube channel and your preferred audio platform. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @thebeirutbanyan And check out our website: www.beirutbanyan.com Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:03 What do you make of current American engagement? 2:30 What are America's intentions towards Lebanon? 4:54 Is the lack of Israeli withdrawal playing into Hezbollah's hands? 7:09 Is there any threat of civil war? 9:13 Do sanctions against the Iranian regime impact behavior towards Lebanon? 11:47 Are there factions within Hezbollah that want to turn the group into a political party, only? 13:14 Was Hassan Nasrallah the only Hezbollah figure that could bring about the group's transition? 14:18 Does Israel want the complete disarmament of Hezbollah? 16:25 Is it possible that the current status quo remains long-term? 21:38 How linked is Hezbollah to the Palestinian cause? 24:27 Is Hezbollah's disarmament a political decision that cannot be rolled back?

US envoys Tom Barrack and Morgan Ortagus were in Lebanon this week to restate a key demand: Hezbollah must disarm. The latest push from Washington came with economic incentives as Mr Barrack proposed the US becomes a “substitute” to Iranian influence. The Lebanese government agreed to disarm non-state groups this month but it wants guarantees that Israel will withdraw militarily from the country. Israel says it will not de-escalate until the disarmament process begins. This puts Lebanon in a difficult position. On the one hand it wants US financial support and for the Israeli attacks to end. On the other, it must convince a defiant Hezbollah and its sponsor Iran to lay down weapons. Without a strategic plan, the consequences could be grave for the country and the wider region. In this episode of Beyond the Headlines, host Nada AlTaher speaks to The National's foreign editor, Mohamad Ali Harisi, and Nicholas Blanford, an Atlantic Council analyst in Beirut. They discuss the challenges of disarming Hezbollah and whether the US and Israel would hold up their end of the bargain.

The conversation delves into the ongoing conflict in Gaza, focusing on the Israeli military's plans, the hostage crisis, public sentiment in Israel, and the implications of a potential Palestinian state. The discussion highlights the challenges of aid distribution in Gaza, the control exerted by Hamas, and the broader geopolitical ramifications of the situation. We want to hear from YOU! If you would like to submit a question or comment for further discussion, please email us at: questions@abideministries.com.

Joel Goldberg is the Founder and CEO of Netivah Youth Ministries in Israel. During this episode of the Blessors of Israel Podcast, Joel shares with Dr. Matthew Dodd the impact of October 7, 2023 on the Messianic youth, IDF soldiers, and families and how the Lord is using Netivah to make an eternal impact on the Messianic Community in Israel. Netivah's website: https://www.netivah.com/en Visit the Blessors of Israel Website: https://www.blessors.org/ Thank you for supporting Blessors of Israel. Donate Online: https://blessors.org/donate/Please Subscribe and Like our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUfbl_rf8O_uwKrfzCh04jgSubscribe to our ⁠Spotify Channel⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blessorsofisrael Subscribe to our Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blessors-of-israedl/id1699662615Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlessorsofIsrael/Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlessorsIGettr: https://gettr.com/i/blessorsofisrael Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1670015Thank you for watching. Please like and share this video.We would love to hear your comments.Those who bless Israel will be blessed (Genesis 12:3).Pastor Rich JonesPastor Matthew DoddDr. Matthew DoddRich Jones Blessors of IsraelMatthew Dodd Blessors of IsraelBlessors of IsraelBlessers of IsraelTags:Pastor Rich JonesPastor Matthew DoddRich JonesDr. Matthew DoddRich Jones, Blessors of Israel, Rich Jones, Blessers of Israel, Matthew Dodd, Blessors of Israel, Matthew Dodd, Blessers of Israel, Blessers of Israel, Blessors of Israel, Two-State Solution, Palestine, Modern Palestinian Problem, Israel, Jesus Christ, Anti-Semitism, Prophecy Update, End Times Prophecy, Latter Days, Bible Prophecy, The Great Tribulation, Hamas, Gaza Strip, Terrorism, Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, Persia, Gog and Magog, BRICS, China, CCP, Persia, Iran, Turkey, Russia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, India, Yahya Sinwar, Nasrallah, Ismail Haniyeh, Deif, United Nations, Terrorism, Antisemitism, Syria, Bashar al Assad, HTS, Damascus, Mount Hermon, Erdogan, Netanyahu, Trump, Putin, Ceasefire, Hostages, al Jolani, al Sharaa, Holocaust Day of Remembrance, China, Egypt, Iran Nuclear Deal, Trump, War, WWIII, Fordow, Natanz, Isfahan, Hamas, Anti-Semitism, Netivah Youth Ministries, Joel Goldberg

In this episode of the Contours Lebanese Logic Podcast, host Faysal Itani sits down with Non-Resident Senior Fellow Dania Arayssi. Together, they discuss the recent effort by the Lebanese government and military to disarm Hezbollah, including how likely the effort is to succeed, and what the future landscape of power looks like in the country.

Jewish Policy Center Senior Director Shoshana Bryen hosted Professor Mark Meirowitz, a foreign policy and Turkey expert from SUNY Maritime College, for a deep dive into Ankara's growing regional role, its involvement in Syria's evolution, and its increasingly fraught relationship with Israel. With characteristic clarity and urgency, Prof. Meirowitz broke down the labyrinth of regional alliances and rivalries, calling the situation “literally mind-boggling” and comparing Syria to a “petri dish for chaos.” HTS, Al-Shara, and the Shake-up in Syria The ousting of Bashar Assad by the jihadist group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led by Ahmed al-Shara (also known as al-Jolani), marks a significant shift in Syria's power structure—and possibly the region's. Once associated with al-Qaeda and ISIS, al-Jolani now wears suits and promotes a veneer of moderation. “Maybe the Turks provided him with some of these outfits,” Meirowitz quipped, questioning the authenticity of his transformation. Al-Jolani was “boosted by” Turkish support, Meirowitz explained, calling him a Turkish client rather than an independent actor. HTS's limited control—bolstered by foreign fighters like Uyghurs—has led to violent, sectarian repression, particularly against Alawites, Druze, Christians, and Kurds. “We're with al-Shara, and a lot of people are depending on him,” Meirowitz said ominously. Turkey's Interests: Stabilizing Syria to Serve Domestic Needs Turkey's involvement, Meirowitz stressed, is strategic. With over 3 million Syrian refugees inside its borders, Ankara is pressuring Damascus to stabilize and repatriate them. “The Turks want them back to Syria,” he said, noting the domestic strain and political sensitivity of the refugee crisis. Turkey has walked a fine line—signing infrastructure and defense agreements with HTS-controlled Syria while avoiding giving it full military autonomy. “Turkey's position is that Al-Shara is the go-to person… Let al-Shara unify the country,” Meirowitz explained. But internal Kurdish dynamics—particularly involving PKK, now in peace talks with Erdogan's government—make full alignment with HTS and Syrian Kurds tenuous. Will Turkey's NATO Membership Complicate It All? One of the more sobering insights from Meirowitz was the hypothetical scenario of Turkey, a NATO power, declaring a no-fly zone over Syria—potentially triggering Article 5 protections if hostilities break out with Israel. “That, to me, is the number one worry… that Israel and Turkey would come to conflict,” he warned. He emphasized the ongoing “deconfliction meetings” between Israel and Turkey, and Israel and Syria—possibly triangulating with al-Jolani himself. But of all the moving parts, Meirowitz emphasized Turkey's NATO status remains a critical leverage point: “Let's be realistic here. If there was a skirmish…Article 5 could be on the table.” Humanitarian Crises and Jihadi Control: Who is Really Running Syria? The ongoing massacres of minorities, particularly the Druze in Suweida, raise urgent questions about al-Jolani's power. “Has he lost control over the jihadis in his own ranks?” Meirowitz pondered, highlighting the grim possibility of Syria spiraling toward becoming a full-blown jihadi state. “The optics are totally opposed to [the idea of moderation],” he said, noting public executions and forced beard-shaving of Druze men as disturbing parallels to Nazi visual propaganda. “Clearly, this is reprehensible. The United States isn’t going to stand for it,” he added, referring to conditional American Congressional support for lifting sanctions on Syria.  Erdogan's Domestic Calculations: Kurds, Elections, and Power Turning inward, Turkey's President Erdoğan is eyeing another term in 2028. Despite constitutional term limits, he may seek early elections or amendments—with the support of Kurdish parliamentarians. “He’s very popular in Turkey,” Meirowitz said, crediting Erdoğan's projection of Turkey as a global power broker. “Turkey's been made into a player on the world stage.” However, he noted Turkey's lira is down, inflation is high, and economic growth is tenuous beneath the surface. This tension is compounded by Erdoğan's crackdown on political opponents, including jailing rivals and invalidating degrees to prevent candidacies. The Bigger Stage: Turkey in Africa, NATO, and the UN Turkey's ambitions extend far beyond Syria. From military expansion in Africa to attempting alignment with BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Ankara aims to diversify its global relevance. “They see themselves as undervalued,” noted Meirowitz. “It's not aggrandizement—it's coming from a feeling of being ignored.” Erdogan's call that “the world is bigger than five” is a veiled critique of the UN Security Council's permanent members—hinting at Turkey's desire for global restructuring that reflects its new stature. “They're trying to flex their muscles,” as one webinar participant insightfully noted.  Israel, Hamas, and the Limits of Pragmatism Meirowitz criticized Turkey's staunch support for Hamas and Hezbollah, calling it “a rabbit hole of disaster.” While support for Palestinian causes earns Erdogan domestic points, it's constraining Turkey's global relationships. “If everybody's a freedom fighter, that doesn't fly,” he said. At times, Israel and Turkey have found pragmatic partnership—like continued trade and oil transits during Syria's civil war—but the anti-Israel posture, sanctions, and rhetoric place those gains at risk. “We need to get together,” Meirowitz relayed from a Turkish businessman. “We like the same things… same food… same values.” Final Thoughts: Cautious Optimism, But Beware the Fault Lines In his closing remarks, Prof. Meirowitz struck a “guarded optimism” tone for Turkey's trajectory. “I believe Turkish leadership is going to give further thought to these directions,” he said, hoping Ankara will reconsider its Hamas alliance for more fruitful cooperation with Israel and the West. Bryen offered sober context: “Israel and Iran were friends once, too—until they weren't.” As Prof. Meirowitz put it, “Hamas is not a future for Turkey.” As the region’s political tectonics keep shifting, one question looms: Will Turkey's pragmatism prevail over ideology—or will ambition lead it down a path of strategic overreach? The answer, as Bryen put it, remains a moving thread.

An episode discussing David Schenker's latest policy analysis titled "Lebanon's Moment of Truth" and the multiple variables needed to line up for Hezbollah's disarmament to succeed and for Israel's full withdrawal to take place. With David Schenker, former United States Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs and Senior Fellow at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy. The article mentioned in this piece is available here: https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/lebanons-moment-truth The podcast is only made possible through listener and viewer donations. Please help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut Or donating through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan Subscribe to our YouTube channel and your preferred audio platform. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @thebeirutbanyan And check out our website: www.beirutbanyan.com Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:49 Slip-up 3:18 Moment of truth 5:42 Variables lining up a 9:01 Under immense pressure 12:06 Israeli obstacles to US position 14:17 Pending Lebanese army proposal 18:24 Iranian leverage today 21:42 Beirut's commitment & int'l attention 26:01 Vulnerability following war 29:53 Israel's reaction towards progress 33:25 Five hilltops

Hezbollah’s Secretary General Naim Qassem has said his organization would refuse to surrender its weapons, even at the risk of civil war in Lebanon. The Lebanese army, meanwhile, has been infiltrated by Hezbollah, according to a new report by the Alma Research and Education center. Reserve IDF major Avraham Levine of the Alma Research and Education center, said that the infiltration has been so great even if weapons are confiscated, they would likely be returned later. He told reporter Arieh O’Sullivan that even though Hezbollah has lost some of it support from Iran, it would still not surrender its weapons since it was their rasion d’etre. (photo: Mohammad Zaatari/AP) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lebanon: Disarming Hezbollah. Jonathan Schanzer, FDD https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-865408 1980 BEIRUT

Preview: Lebanon. Colleague Jonathan Schanzer comments on the sudden weakness of Hezbollah and its perhaps 20,000 fighters. More later. 1969 LEBANON

In thie episode of The Thompson Show, Todd traces the Red–Green Alliance from London to Minneapolis — exposing how Marxists and Islamists fuse identity politics, anti-Western rhetoric, and insurgent tactics into a permanent political front. Broadcast August 25, 2025 (WBCQ 7490 kHz), this episode takes a deep dive into the Red–Green Alliance — the unofficial but very real cooperation between far-left revolutionaries and Islamist movements. Todd unpacks how this alliance has played out in Europe and America: In England: from Ken Livingstone welcoming Muslim Brotherhood clerics into City Hall, to the Respect Party's fusion of Trotskyists and Islamist activists, to Jeremy Corbyn calling Hamas and Hezbollah his “friends.” These examples show how segments of the British Left traded legitimacy to Islamists in exchange for turnout and street power. On campuses and in media: post-colonial narratives reframed Islamist extremists as victims, while far-left academics embraced “decolonizing knowledge” and dismissed facts as tools of Western domination. In France: activists openly strategize about building “Muslim communist cadres,” treating mosques as political cells — a clear blueprint for how the Red–Green project embeds itself. In the U.S.: Minneapolis emerges as a revolutionary laboratory — from BLM protests to Ilhan Omar's megaphone, from refugee demographics to DSA insurgents like Omar Fateh. Todd dissects how every loss becomes “proof of rigging,” every setback becomes martyrdom fuel, and how DSA uses Democratic Party infrastructure as a Trojan horse. The episode also examines the limits of fusion: how clerics always outlast Marxist activists, why experiments in “Christian socialism” risk repeating the Jim Jones disaster, and how the Democratic Socialists of America fuse Palestinian solidarity with domestic insurgency. Todd's warning is clear: this is not ordinary politics. It is an insurgency hidden inside institutions, weaponizing identity grievance and class agitation against Western civilization itself. Like it? Rate and review it!    Broadcast times: WBCQ 7490 kHz — Mondays, 10 PM Eastern / 0200 UTC Tuesday WWCR 4840 kHz — Fridays, 11 PM Central / Midnight Eastern / 0400 UTC Saturday More: https://toddzillax.substack.com/

Despite the statement by the Prime Minister’s office indicating Israel's willingness to reduce IDF presence in southern Lebanon if Beirut takes real steps to disarm Hezbollah, there is no pledge by Israel to actually remove its military deployment in Lebanon. This, according to Gerald Steinberg, professor emeritus of Political Science at Bar Illan University. He told reporter Arieh O’Sullivan that changes in Lebanon and Syria - which is seeking its own security arrangement with Israel - were positive developments resulting from the blow to Iran’s “ring of fire.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AP correspondent Naeun Kim reports on Lebanon calling on Israel to uphold a ceasefire agreement which could see the withdrawal of Israeli troops in southern Lebanon.

It's been a dramatic week for Irish artists, activism and the UK's terrorism law. Sally Rooney — one of Ireland's most prominent literary voices — has made headlines for her vocal support of Palestine Action, a group recently designated a terrorist organisation by the UK government. The Normal People author has pledged to donate earnings from her books and BBC adaptations to the group — a move that could place her at risk of arrest under UK anti-terror legislation. Her stance came in the same week that Kneecap rapper Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh appeared in a London court on terrorism charges, accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah. Meanwhile, back home, another protest is gathering momentum — this time in the world of sport. A letter signed by around 800 GAA players — including stars from football, hurling and camogie — was delivered to Croke Park, calling on the association to cut ties with Allianz, one of its biggest sponsors. The call comes after a UN special rapporteur's report named Allianz, through its asset-management arm Pimco, as a significant buyer of Israeli government bonds. On today's Indo Daily, Tessa Fleming is joined by TRT World presenter Enda Brady and Conor McKeon, sports journalist with the Irish Independent, to look at the high-profile costs and consequences of speaking out on Israel and Palestine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European leaders appeared cautiously optimistic after holding a virtual meeting with Donald Trump on Wednesday, before he meets his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. He reportedly said his goal for the summit was to obtain a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv. We also take a look at the strange history of Alaska. Plus: we report on the devastating hunger crisis in the Sudanese city of el-Fasher; the plusses and minuses of artificial intelligence -- enabling your glasses to help you hear better, but perhaps also leading doctors to being de-skilled; why hundreds of Peruvian military and police officers are being pardoned; Iran tries to help its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon; and why the British foreign secretary is in a spot of hot water over a fishing trip with the vice-president of the United States.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk