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Palestinian-American comedian Mo Amer has spent years using humor to face pain, break silence, and speak for a people under fire. In a moment of deep loss, he turns to the stage again. What can comedy still cut through? This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on November, 7 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. In this episode: Mo Amer (@realmoamer), Comedian, Actor & Writer Episode credits: This episode was updated by Noor Wazwaz. The original production team was Melanie Marich, Sonia Bhagat, Marcos Bartolomé and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Amy Walters, Haleema Shah, Sarí el-Khalili, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is the Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Israel and Iran may have stepped back from the brink for now, but Lebanon is still under fire. As families remain displaced and Israeli strikes continue, why do Lebanese civilians remain caught in the crossfire with no end in sight? In this episode: Ali Hashem (@Alihashem), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Tamara Khandaker with Spencer Cline, Sonia Bhagat, Jana Dabliz and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest in history, with controversies to match. From the US mass deportation campaign and travel restrictions to the war with Iran, football’s biggest stage is raising questions far beyond the game. In this episode: Ashish Malhotra (@amalhotra2), Host, The Soccernomics Podcast Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. Rick Rush mixed this episode. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Jana Dabliz. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on May 21, 2021. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Los Angeles, California is home to the second largest unhoused population in the United States. As an end to the pandemic and eviction moratoriums draw nearer, we’re asking: what will it take to resolve LA’s crisis of homelessness? In this episode: Amina Waheed (@atwaheed), Al Jazeera Journalist Sammy Sumpter, LA Resident Joe Buscaino (@JoeBuscaino), LA Councilman Martha Escudero (@ReclaimingHomes), Activist, Reclaiming our Homes Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Priyanka Tilve, Amy Walters, Negin Owlieai, Ney Alvarez, Dina Kesbeh, Alexandra Locke, Stacey Samuel and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A fast-growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has crossed borders, raising alarms far beyond Central Africa. This time, the virus is a strain with no approved vaccine or treatment. As cases rise and governments scramble to respond, can the outbreak be contained before it spreads further? In this episode: Catherine Soi (@cate_soi), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Jana Dabliz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Getting a visa can be expensive, frustrating, and for many people, unsuccessful. So what happens when governments outsource that process to private companies? An investigation by Lighthouse Reports examines VFS Global, the world’s largest visa processing firm, revealing how billions in applications generate enormous profits, even when visas are denied. In this episode: May Bulman (@maybulman), Investigative Editor, Lighthouse Reports Episode credits: This episode was produced by our guest host, David Enders, Sarí el-Khalili, and Catherine Nouhan. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A video showing Israeli soldiers raping a Palestinian prisoner has shaken Israel’s military and judiciary, leading to the arrest of the prosecutor who leaked it. But as the fallout centers on the leak, and not the events in the video, what does it mean for the victim of the so-called Sde Teiman affair? This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on November 10th, 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. In this episode: Nida Ibrahim (@nida_journo), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Tracie Hunte, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq and our host, Malika Bilal. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Alexandra Locke and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on November 18th, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. The Australian government is set to implement the world’s strictest ban on social media for children. The law would prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing sites like TikTok, X, and Facebook. It will be introduced to parliament in the coming weeks, but wouldn’t be implemented until next year. What’s behind it – and how could it work? In this episode: Tama Leaver, (@tamaleaver) Professor of Internet Studies, Curtin University Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Tamara Khandaker, Ashish Malhotra, Sonia Bhagat, Duha Mosaad, Cole van Miltenburg, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke and our guest host, Natasha Del Toro. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
In an episode of the LRB podcast Aftershock recorded live at the London Review Bookshop, Daniel Soar and contributors discussed the long aftermath of 9/11 and the War on Terror, from Iraq and Afghanistan to drone strikes, mass surveillance and the weaponisation of the financial system. What is the legacy of Bush and Cheney's ‘forever war' in today's White House? Joining Daniel Soar were Patrick Cockburn, Laleh Khalili and Tom Stevenson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Canada is facing a separatist push unlike anything it has seen in decades. In Alberta, after hundreds of thousands signed a petition demanding a vote, a once fringe movement is now headed toward a government-backed referendum. Prime Minister Mark Carney warns this could become Canada’s Brexit moment. But how far could this movement really go? In this episode: Jason Markusoff (@markusoff), CBC Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili with Marcos Bartolomé, Catherine Nouhan and our guest host, Tamara Khandakar. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
US President Donald Trump is tightening the screws on Cuba, with an indictment against former Cuban President Raul Castro and military threats that echo Washington’s playbook in Venezuela. But after surviving decades of US pressure, Cuba is preparing. As blackouts spread and tensions rise, is this just political theater, or the beginning of a major confrontation? In this episode: Lucia Newman (@lucianewman), Al Jazeera Senior Latin America Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Catherine Nouhan and our guest host, Tamara Khandaker. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on March 28, 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. Palestinians in Gaza are preparing to mark the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr. The holiday is happening during the escalation of Israel's war on Gaza, with aid blocked and families forced to flee again. Even focused on avoiding starvation, people are finding a way to mark the holiday during war. In this episode: Laila el-Haddad (@gazamom), Author & Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Sarí el-Khalili, Sonia Bhagat, and Chloe K. Li, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Kylene Kiang, Kisaa Zehra, Remas Alhawari, Melanie Marich, Marcos Bartolomé, Hanah Shokeir, Alexandra Locke and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube
US President Donald Trump claimed a deal with Iran was “largely negotiated”, before later saying talks were still ongoing. A draft US-Iran memorandum of understanding has sparked backlash in Washington, alarm in Israel and fresh questions over sanctions, nuclear talks and the shaky ceasefire. So how close are the two sides to a real agreement? In this episode: Ali Hashem (@alihashem), Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Sarí el-Khalili with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 19, 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. With nearly three million Twitch followers, Hasan Piker is one of the internet’s biggest political streamers. He blends humor, culture, and masculinity talk with sharp political commentary, drawing young men away from the US alt-right. And on Gaza, he has become one of the loudest US voices for Palestine. In this episode: Hasan Piker (@hasanthehun), Online Streamer & Political Commentator Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Tracie Hunte, Sonia Bhagat, Chloe K. Li, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Julia Muldavin, Kisaa Zehra, Farhan Rafid, Sarí el-Khalili, and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
We hear how San Diego’s Muslim community is grieving, supporting one another, and trying to move forward after an attack that shattered their sense of safety. How does a community begin healing after unimaginable loss? In this episode: Sarah Hassaine (@shassaine), Community Leader Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
From mosques to temples, old religious battles are back in India’s courts. A law passed after the Babri Masjid dispute was meant to stop exactly this. But new claims are moving forward again, as Hindu nationalism grows and many Muslims fear the protections once promised to them are slipping away. In this episode: Yashraj Sharma (@yashjournals), Al Jazeera Reporter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Noor Wazwaz, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing the biggest crisis of his leadership after Labour’s bruising election losses sparked panic inside the party. As Nigel Farage and Reform UK gain ground, we examine why Starmer’s authority appears to be slipping before any formal challenge has even begun and whether Britain is entering another period of political instability. In this episode: Kieran Andrieu (@kieran_andrieu), Political Economist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandakar. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
America Out Loud PULSE with Dr. Angelina Farella – Women, Life, Freedom is about human dignity, protecting women and children, and the courage to stand against oppression. The murals are intended to spark a conversation. The first one in the United States is in Webster, Texas. As the World Cup approaches, Khalili hopes to place 100 of these banners all across America. Through the universal...
Two views of the US–Israeli war on Iran: Laleh Khalili and Mouin Rabbani. Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global.
Ghassan Kanafani, born in Acre in 1936, displaced by the Nakba in 1948 and assassinated in Beirut in 1972, was one of the leading Palestinian writers of his generation. In an event to mark a new edition of his masterpiece Men in the Sun (Verso) British-Palestinian writer Isabella Hammad (Enter Ghost) was in conversation about his work, both literary and political, with Laleh Khalili, Professor of Gulf Studies at Exeter University and author, most recently, of Extractive Capitalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Three people have died after a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, which provoked global concern and revived memories of COVID-19. Experts stress it is not the same virus, but after the pandemic, trust is fragile. What does this cruise ship outbreak reveal? In this episode: Dylan Scott (@dylanlscott), Senior Correspondent for Vox Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili with Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Welcome to another episode of the best Arsenal podcast out there! This week Seun, Lewis and Khalili run through the latest Arsenal news including: Vibe check RB conundrum Mateus Fernandes links Listener's questions Be sure to follow us on Twitter to keep up to date with all the latest AFC and TG news - https://twitter.com/TLGunners Love what you hear? Want more Touchline Gunners content? Join our Patreon - www.patreon.com/touchlinegunners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
US President Donald Trump returns to Beijing after nine years to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. The trade war, conflict in Iran, and rising fears over Taiwan shape the talks. With global tensions mounting, can the two leaders find common ground, or will rivalry push the world further into crisis? In this episode: Erin Hale (@erinhale), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, Alexandra Locke, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
As Kamala Harris weighs another run in 2028, the Democratic Party faces a split over Israel policy. A new report suggests it may have cost votes in 2024. With a base that has shifted dramatically, can the party keep up with what its voters now expect? In this episode: Omar Baddar (@OmarBaddar), Political Analyst Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Chloe K. Li, David Enders and Tuleen Barakat, with Spencer Cline, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
It’s been four years since Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was killed by Israeli forces. In those years, her family has pushed the United States government for one thing: an independent investigation into her killing that leads to real accountability. The Take looks into the push for justice in the US, and why it's been so difficult to achieve. This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on September 5, 2022. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. In this episode: Lina Abu Akleh (@LinaAbuAkleh), Niece of Shireen Abu Akleh Katherine Gallagher, Human Rights Attorney, Center for Constitutional Rights Said Arikat (@SMArikat), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Negin Owliaei, Amy Walters, Ruby Zaman, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, and our guest host, Halla Mohieddeen. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Israel’s opposition is uniting to try to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in upcoming elections. Former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid are joining forces, but deep divisions remain over the war with Iran and Israel’s future direction. As pressure mounts on Netanyahu after months of war and political turmoil, can the opposition really take power? In this episode: Mairav Zonszein (@MairavZ), Senior Israel Analyst, International Crisis Group Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Welcome to another episode of the best Arsenal podcast out there! This week Seun and Khalili run through the latest Arsenal news including Atleti Review Gyokeres & MLS
Piracy is rising again near Somalia. Since April 20, at least three ships have been hijacked off Somali waters and one near the Yemeni coast. A sailor’s voice note from a seized vessel has spread online. As the Iran war shakes the region, is it fueling attacks on key shipping routes? In this episode: Mohamed Gabobe (@Mohamed_Gabobe), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Iran has attacked a UAE petroleum site in Fujairah, just days after the United Arab Emirates announced it was leaving OPEC. As the Strait of Hormuz crisis deepens and oil prices keep rising, could this accelerate the shift to renewables, or are we heading into an era of energy volatility? In this episode: Jim Krane (@jimkrane), Co-director of the Middle East Energy Roundtable, Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Sarí el-Khalili with Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Is the rise of prediction markets unstoppable? Companies like Polymarket and Kalshi have boomed and so have the controversies that surround them. US Senators are now banned from using such sites, and a US soldier has been charged over bets placed on the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. How is it already changing our reality? In this episode: Bobby Allyn (@BobbyAllyn), NPR Tech Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Noor Wazwaz with Spencer Cline, Marcos Bartolome, Catherine Nouhan, and our guest host, Tamara Khandaker. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on June 11, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. The seizure of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla in international waters has not deterred other aid convoys from heading towards Gaza. Palestinian-American writer Ahmad Ibsais explains how humanitarian aid has become a politically charged weapon of war. In this episode: Ahmad Ibsais, Writer of ‘State of Siege’ Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Amy Walters, Sonia Bhagat, Chloe K Li and Haleema Shah, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Mariana Navarette, Kisaa Zehra and our guest host, Manuel Rapalo. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer.
A new estate-backed film, Michael, tells the story of Michael Jackson’s rise from Gary, Indiana to global fame, highlighting hits like Thriller and his record-breaking success. But it ends before major scandals, and it leaves out the US musician's race and politics, including his solidarity with Palestine. What story is being told, and what is being erased? In this episode: Sherry Zane, Historian Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Explosions rocked Mali's capital on April 25 as rebels carried out coordinated attacks across the country. Mali’s defence minister was killed along with his wife and children when an attacker struck their home. With Bamako under siege and the military leadership briefly disappearing from view, who is really behind the violence in Mali? In this episode: Beverly Ochieng, Senior Analyst, Control Risks Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, with a US naval blockade still in place. Around 3,000 Iran-bound containers are stranded in Pakistan as costs rise and Washington’s signals shift. Iran is pushing diplomacy from Moscow to Islamabad. Can talks to end the US-Israel war still move forward? In this episode: Osama Bin Javaid (@osamabinjavaid), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Chloe K. Li with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, Sarí el-Khalili, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Gunshots shattered the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, throwing Washington’s biggest night into chaos. We unpack how it happened, who the suspect is, how security responded, and what US President Donald Trump said afterward. We also examine the fallout and what it reveals about a White House under pressure. So what happens next? In this episode: Chris Sheridan (@ChrisSheridan34), Senior White House Producer, Al Jazeera English Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sarí el-Khalili, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on February 25, 2025. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. More than a million children in Haiti are caught in a nightmare, trapped in gang-controlled areas, recruited as soldiers and spies, and subjected to unthinkable abuse. With no president, no parliament, and no protection, their futures hang in the balance. So, who will step up and fight for Haiti’s children? In this episode: Rawya Rageh (@RawyaRageh), Senior Crisis Advisor, Amnesty International Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Marcos Bartolomé, Chloe K. Li, Sarí el-Khalili, Kylene Kiang, Melanie Marich, Hanah Shokeir, and our guest host, Natasha del Toro. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Twelve elite British universities are accused of hiring a private security firm with military intelligence ties to track pro-Palestine student protests. Students were reportedly flagged through social media monitoring without their awareness, sparking debate over surveillance and free speech in UK higher education. Learn more about the campus accountability mapping project. In this episode: Aaron Walawalkar (@AaronWala), Investigative Reporter, Liberty Investigations Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The United States has pulled its troops out of Syria, ending a decade-long presence. But the fight isn’t over. As power shifts on the ground, Kurdish forces, regional tensions, and fragile negotiations are reshaping the country’s future. What’s behind the decision, and what comes next? In this episode: Natacha Danon (@natacha_danon), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Tamara Khandakar. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Kharg Island is the heart of Iran’s oil trade and now a front-line target in the war. The US has struck military sites on the island and is enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports. But 8,000 people live there. What is life like when bombs fall and the ships stop moving? In this episode: Seamus Malekafzali (@Seamus_Malek), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, Noor Wazwaz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. It was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Israel and Lebanon have held their first direct talks in more than 30 years, and now there are signs of a possible ceasefire. But months of fighting have reshaped parts of southern Lebanon. As people begin to return, what will they find? And can diplomacy hold while the reality on the ground remains fragile? In this episode: Justin Salhani (@JustinSalhani), Al Jazeera Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, David Enders, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
On Tax Day, trillions flow into the United States government. But new analysis shows a significant share is directed toward war, defense contractors, and border enforcement, while healthcare and food assistance face mounting pressures and cuts. As deficits grow and everyday costs rise, what do these budget choices reveal about who the system is built to serve, both in the US and beyond? In this episode: Lindsay Koshgarian (@lindsaykosh), Program Director, National Priorities Project Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and David Enders with Tamara Khandaker, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, Adhil Veetil, Firas Yateem, Michel Bou Dagher, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Why is Sudan still at war? The answer starts with the powers fuelling the conflict. Three years into the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, millions are displaced and famine continues. With the US-Israeli war on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz driving up fuel and food costs, what will it take to put an end to the conflict? In this episode: Dallia Abdelmoniem (@dalliasd), Political Analyst Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, with Noor Wazwaz, Sarí el-Khalili, Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The brothers welcome University of Exeter Professor Laleh Khalili to the show to discuss the geopolitical and geoeconomic contexts of the US-Israeli war of aggression on Iran, including the role of Iran and the Gulf in global energy and trade markets and circuits; shifts in international trade and finance away from circuits controlled by the US and its coercive mechanisms of financial and trade sanctions; the gradual dismantling of US sanctions regime; Iran's destruction of US bases, radar systems and other military infrastructure in and around the Gulf; the role of the Arab Gulf states; the reshaping of Gulf and regional politics; strategic waterways such as Bab el Mandan and the Straits of Hormuz, the prospect of Iran generating income from tolls on ships passing through Hormuz and, at that, insisting on payment in renminbi rather than dollars, and, finally, the quest for energy sources driving various Israeli projects of war and occupation. Watch the video edition on our YouTube channel https://youtu.be/2maPDsQ0quo Date of recording: April 2, 2026 Follow us on our socials: X: @MakdisiStreet YouTube: @MakdisiStreet Insta: @Makdisist TikTok: @Makdisistreet Music by Hadiiiiii Sign up at Patreon.com/MakdisiStreet to access all the bonus content, including the latest Q&A
As Pakistan tries to mediate between the United States and Iran, another conflict is growing closer to home. What gives Pakistan leverage in the Iran crisis, and with violence is rising on the Afghan border, how long can it balance playing mediator in one conflict while being pulled deeper into another? In this episode: Osama Bin Javaid (@osamabinjavaid) , Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sarí el-Khalili, Chloe K. Li with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
As oil flows come under threat due to the Iran war, parts of Asia are already under strain. Fuel supplies are tightening, prices are rising, and some countries warn stocks may run out. Far from the battlefield, the impact is immediate. What does this reveal about just how fragile the global energy system is? In this episode: Vina Nadjibulla (@VinaNadjibulla), Vice-President of Research & Strategy, The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Melanie Marich, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial interns are Maya Hamadeh and Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on March 29, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Easter holds special meaning for Christian Palestinians. For Good Friday, we speak to a Palestinian pastor raised in Bethlehem who underlines the parallels between the Israeli oppression of his people and the crucifixion of Jesus at the center of his faith. In this episode: Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac (@MuntherIsaac), Evangelical Lutheran Pastor in Bethlehem Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Khaled Soltan, Zaina Badr, Miranda Lynn, Amy Walters, Ashish Malhotra, Chloe K. Lee, David Enders, Faranisa Kampana, Nigeen Oliyai, Sarí el-Khalili, Sonia Bagat and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Before Israeli occupation, there was British colonialism. We speak to director Annemarie Jacir about Palestine 36, her epic film about the 1936 Palestinian revolt that almost succeeded, the often-forgotten roots of today’s crisis, and why this history still feels painfully present. In this episode: Annemarie Jacir (@AnnemarieJacir), Filmmaker and Writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sonia Bhagat, and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The war on Iran is spreading into classrooms and campuses. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened American universities in neighboring countries, after attacks on two Iranian universities over the weekend. Since the start of the war, at least 21 Iranian universities have reportedly been damaged. Why has education become a target of the US-Israeli war on Iran? In this episode: Setareh Sadeqi (@leelako), Assistant Professor at University of Tehran Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Strikes on Iran have killed senior figures, raising questions about who still holds power. We take a closer look at the key players inside Iran’s system and explain how it works, who shapes decisions and what the loss of top figures could mean for the country’s response to the war. In this episode: Ali Hashem (@alihashem), Senior Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, David Enders and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube