Podcasts about Kurdish

Former Marine Force Recon veteran Kirk Spradely, call sign “Tadpole,” shares his powerful life story...from surviving a brutal childhood and orphanage violence, to becoming a Marine Force Recon operator, working for Blackwater in Iraq, serving in OGA special programs, flying Blackhawk and Apache helicopters, and later supporting the Kurdish military.In this episode of Urban Valor, Kirk opens up about the day his teammate Tommy Jenner was killed by an enemy sniper in Ramadi. Kirk says the sniper was likely Juba, one of the most feared enemy snipers in Iraq. He describes watching Tommy fall beside him, hearing his teammate yell “sniper, get down,” and realizing a follow-up round had just cracked over his head.Kirk also talks about Marine Force Recon training, combat diving, counter-narcotics operations, Blackwater convoy work, OGA special programs, the moment he met a Taliban-contracted assassin, flying medevac missions for wounded troops, and attempting to help build a Kurdish Air Force before the referendum fallout. 

This plenary session, delivered as part of the 2026 Kurdish Studies Conference by Marlene Schäfers, University of Utrecht and Kurdish Studies Journal and Welat Zeydanlıoğlu, Kurdish Studies Network, was a conversation about the state of Kurdish Studies as a scholarly field. The session was moderated by Veli Yadirgi. Marlene Schäfers is associate professor at the Department of Cultural Anthropology at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. Her research focuses on the impact of state violence on intimate and gendered lives, voice and memory, and the politics of death and the afterlife. She specializes in the anthropology of the Kurdish regions and modern Turkey. Her first monograph, Voices that Matter: Kurdish Women at the Limits of Representation in Contemporary Turkey (University of Chicago Press, 2022), is based on long-term ethnographic research with Kurdish female singers and poets and sets out to theorise the voice as an object of aspiration, resistance, and cooptation. It was awarded the annual Book Prize of the Ottoman and Turkish Studies Association in 2024. Welat Zeydanlıoğlu is the founder and coordinator of the Kurdish Studies Network(KSN), a global academic research network. He is also the founder of Kurdish Studies, an international, peer-reviewed academic journal. He was the managing editor of the journal between 2013-2022. He is known for his work in the field of Kurdish studies, particularly regarding the Kurdish question in Turkey. For more information about the Kurdish Studies Conference, follow this link: https://www.lse.ac.uk/middleeastcentre/news/kurdish-studies-conference-2026

Visit us at Network2020.org. Recent hostilities with Iran have once again highlighted the role of the Kurds as a key player in regional conflicts. While seen as a threat by governments in Ankara, Tehran, Damascus, and Baghdad, the world's largest stateless group of people continues to be considered by Washington as potential allies when convenient. As the region faces new waves of destabilization, particularly with the war with Iran and the new Syrian government consolidating its territory, what will the role of the Kurds be across the region? How will the disparate views of 30-40 million people spread over four countries impact dynamics in this volatile region as well as for their own quest for independence? .Join us for a discussion with Bill Park, Visiting Research Fellow in the Defence Studies Department, King's College, London, where we will examine how today's rapidly shifting regional dynamics are creating both new opportunities and new vulnerabilities for Kurdish communities and whether potential support from the U.S. will be strong and sustainable or easily abandoned.Music by Aleksey Chistilin from Pixabay

Hear this raw and personal update from Israel. Avi Abelow woke up at 7:09 AM to a massive explosion overhead. An Iranian ballistic missile was intercepted directly above our home in the Judean Hills. No sirens sounded because it wasn't targeting us directly; it was just another Iranian attack flying through Israeli skies.Iran has attacked Israel again. While the world focused on President Trump telling Iran they had “shot enough,” Israel responded forcefully. This latest Iranian missile barrage comes amid growing tension and raises the critical question: Will Trump and Netanyahu finally have the courage to finish the job and bring down the Islamic regime of Iran?In this video, Avi breaks down what really happened last night and this morning, the strategy behind Trump and Netanyahu's moves, and why the Iranian regime remains the greatest threat to Israel, the Middle East, and the free world. For over 40 years, Iran has funded global jihad, built nuclear weapons, oppressed its own people, and called for the destruction of Israel and America.The time for negotiations and weak responses is over. The Iranian people deserve freedom. Israel deserves security. The world deserves to be rid of this jihadi regime.Topics covered: Iran attack on Israel, Iranian ballistic missiles, Israel Iron Dome, Trump Netanyahu Iran strategy, ending the Islamic regime of Iran, Kurdish opposition in Iran, Turkey threat to Israel.If you want the unfiltered truth about what's really happening in Israel during this critical time, watch until the end.Iran attacks Israel, Iranian missiles Israel, Israel Iran war, Trump Iran, Netanyahu response, Islamic regime Iran, ballistic missile intercept, Judea Hills, Middle East conflict, ending Iran regime.Support truthful reporting from Israel and the biblical heartland: Am Yisrael Chai!!!Join Our Whatsapp Channel: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GkavRznXy731nxxRyptCMvFollow us on Twitter: https://x.com/AviAbelowJoin our Telegram Channel: https://t.me/aviabelowpulseFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pulse_of_israel/?hl=enPulse of Israel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IsraelVideoNetworkVisit Our Website - https://pulseofisrael.com/Donate to Pulse of Israel: https://pulseofisrael.com/boost-this-video/

In this episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we examine the opening moves of the Ottoman Empire's war against Britain – a desperate, audacious campaign to seize the Suez Canal that has been largely forgotten but which revealed the fragility of the British Empire and the resilience of the Ottoman army.At the outbreak of the First World War, the Ottoman Empire saw itself surrounded by enemies: the British in Egypt, the Russians to the north, a hostile Habsburg Empire to the west, and a recently hostile Italy in the Mediterranean. The Young Turk government initially hoped to stay out of the war. But when they looked at Britain, France, and Russia, they saw voraciously hungry powers intent on dismembering their empire. Germany offered a security guarantee – unreliable, but the best available.The German High Command placed a high priority on cutting the Suez Canal. Between August and December 1914, 376 transport ships carried nearly 164,000 Allied troops through the canal. It was the vital artery connecting the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean – the lifeline of Britain's Asian empire. If the Ottomans could pinch it off, they could deal Britain a mortal blow and perhaps inspire a pan‑Islamic jihad against British rule.The man chosen to lead the attack was Cemal Pasha. In November 1914, he stood in Istanbul's central train station and publicly proclaimed his intention to conquer Egypt. The British dismissed his pledge as empty rhetoric. They did not believe he could raise an army large enough or cross the waterless, hostile Sinai desert.But Cemal assembled a heterogeneous, multi‑ethnic force – regular soldiers from the Arab provinces, volunteers from Bedouin, Druze, Circassian, Kurdish, Albanian, and even Jewish communities. He wrote to the Sharif of Mecca, Hussein ibn Ali, asking for troops under one of his sons. Hussein's son Ali went no further than Medina – a warning sign Cemal chose to ignore.Against all odds, Cemal's force marched across the Sinai in 12 days, losing neither a man nor a beast. They carried light rations of dates, biscuit, and olives, water carefully rationed, marching through the freezing nights and resting by day. British aerial surveillance initially failed to detect them – early aircraft lacked the range to reach central Sinai.By late January 1915, the British realised the impossible was happening. They withdrew all troops to the western shore of the canal, chained guard dogs on the east bank, and waited. The odds were stacked against the Ottomans – 25,000 attackers against 50,000 dug‑in defenders, backed by warships, armoured trains, and the canal itself. But Cemal had achieved surprise. What happened next would shape the course of the war in the Middle East.Drawing on Eugene Rogan's *The Fall of the Ottomans*, this episode explores the political context of the Ottoman decision to enter the war, the challenges of mobilising a multi‑ethnic army, the incredible logistics of the Sinai crossing, and the early use of aerial reconnaissance in desert warfare.**Topics covered:**- The Ottoman Empire's strategic dilemma in 1914- The alliance with Germany and the promise of jihad- The importance of the Suez Canal to the British war effort- Cemal Pasha and his public proclamation- The composition of the Ottoman expeditionary force- Sharif Hussein's reluctant cooperation- The 12‑day march across the Sinai- British aerial reconnaissance and its limitations- The defence of the canal: warships, armoured trains, and guard dogs- The moment of surprise before the attack---*If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting us – we are migrating from Patreon to Substack. Details in the show notes.*Explaining History helps you understand the 20th Century through critical conversations and expert interviews. We connect the past to the present. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and share.▸ Support the Show & Get Exclusive ContentBecome a Patron: patreon.com/explaininghistory▸ Join the Community & Continue the ConversationFacebook Group: facebook.com/groups/ExplainingHistoryPodcastSubstack: theexplaininghistorypodcast.substack.com▸ Read Articles & Go DeeperWebsite: explaininghistory.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(1) John Batchelor and Bill Roggio introduce the global landscape of current conflicts, noting that reporting on these issues is often marginalized by major newspapers. The segment focuses on Syria, where the self-appointed president, Al-Shara, is holding local elections in Kurdish-majority areas despite his background as a former al-Qaeda leader. Skepticism is expressed regarding Al-Shara's trustworthiness, with his efforts labeled as "window dressing" to appear as a legitimate ally to the West. Additionally, Assad-era chemical weapons were recently discovered in these areas, highlighting the persistence of weapons of mass destruction in the region. Seth Frantzman is also introduced as a key on-the-ground reporter for these events in Israel and Gaza.1701

(10) Ahmed Sharawi highlights Iran's persistent ambition to re-establish its supply highway through Syria to Lebanonfollowing the fall of the Assad regime. Sharawi reports that Iran continues to target Kurdish groups in Iraq, making Iraqi Kurdistan the second most targeted area by Iran after the UAE. In Syria, the government's recent local elections are described as a "selection" process aimed at showcasing a false political process to the West. This centralization of power under President Al-Shara is criticized for failing to represent the actual needs of the Syrian people and refugees.1914

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-1-2026.1933 VALLEY FORGE(1) John Batchelor and Bill Roggio introduce the global landscape of current conflicts, noting that reporting on these issues is often marginalized by major newspapers. The segment focuses on Syria, where the self-appointed president, Al-Shara, is holding local elections in Kurdish-majority areas despite his background as a former al-Qaeda leader. Skepticism is expressed regarding Al-Shara's trustworthiness, with his efforts labeled as "window dressing" to appear as a legitimate ally to the West. Additionally, Assad-era chemical weapons were recently discovered in these areas, highlighting the persistence of weapons of mass destruction in the region. Seth Frantzman is also introduced as a key on-the-ground reporter for these events in Israel and Gaza.(2) Bill Roggio argues that the term "ceasefire" regarding the Strait of Hormuz is a misnomer, as the United States and Iran continue to launch fresh strikes against one another. Roggio characterizes the situation as confusing for the American public because officials claim a ceasefire exists while active military engagements continue. Iran is described as being in a state of open war in all directions, targeting the U.S., Europe, and regional neighbors. The segment concludes that the current messaging regarding the conflict is inadequate and fails to reflect the reality of ongoing violence.(3) Jonathan Sayeh reports that the U.S. blockade has caused a sharp decline in Iranian oil exports, though it has not yet reached a level of total economic catastrophe. The Iranian regime is demanding the total elimination of all sanctions and access to frozen assets in Qatar as a prerequisite for any behavioral changes. Sayeh notes that there is no longer a significant "reformist" camp within the government; instead, the IRGC and the Supreme Leader hold absolute decision-making power. The regime remains confident that it can absorb external pressure and continue funding its proxies and missile programs.(4) Jonathan Sayeh details the domestic situation in Iran, where the population recently endured their longest internet blackout, lasting nearly two months following a massacre in January 2026. Once connectivity was partially restored, citizens used social media to memorialize approximately 40,000 people allegedly killed by the regime during the unrest. Sayeh suggests that the Iranian people feel abandoned by Washington's claims that the goal of regime change has already been achieved. Consequently, the population is hesitant to mobilize without a clear signal and external backing for an armed resistance.(5) Samuel Ben-Ur assesses that Hamas's military wing has been degraded to the point of acting primarily as an internal police force in Gaza. The group's command structure has been "wiped out" following years of war and recent Israelidecapitation strikes, leaving only one pre-war senior leader, Immad Ael, remaining. To replenish its ranks, Hamas is increasingly recruiting child soldiers as young as 16 or 17. Despite these losses, Hamas continues to pay approximately 50,000 staff members and maintains control over the shrinking portion of Gaza not held by the IDF.(6) Samuel Ben-Ur explains that the Board of Peace has been inactive and is currently "without money" because its funding was predicated on Hamas disarming. Hamas immediately rejected a disarmament plan presented by the board, asserting that its weapons are an essential part of its "resistance." The group's political leadership remains protected in Doha, Qatar, due to U.S. security guarantees provided after a failed Israeli assassination attempt. Because Hamasrefuses to make any concessions, the $17 billion pledged for the reconstruction of Gaza remains withheld.(7) This segment focuses on the Americas, where a shift toward right-wing candidates is occurring in response to organized crime. In Colombia, presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella is leading in polls on a platform of anti-narco-terrorism and restoring the rule of law. In Brazil, the U.S. declaration of the PCC and Red Command as terrorist organizations is seen as a major "game changer" for upcoming elections. Candidates who advocate for close cooperation with the U.S. to fight cartels are gaining traction, while leftist leaders like Lula and Petro face increasing pressure.(8) Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports on a "slow-motion coup" attempt in Bolivia led by Evo Morales, whose supporters have placed the capital under siege. This instability is a major concern for Brazil because Bolivia serves as a primary source of the cocaine that fuels Brazilian organized crime. Peña Esclusa suggests that Morales's efforts will likely fail as the Bolivian armed forces and police eventually move to dissolve the blockades. Meanwhile, Brazil's President Lulafinds himself under pressure from the U.S. and internal factions, limiting his ability to support Morales.(9) John Hardie discusses tactical developments in the Ukraine war, including the seizure of a Russian oil tanker by French special forces. Ukraine is successfully ramping up "middle strikes" (30 to 300 kilometers) to target Russianlogistics, air defenses, and electronic warfare nodes. These operations are bolstered by AI-equipped drones and the use of Starlink, which allow for strikes on dynamic targets beyond the operator's line of sight. On the battlefield, Ukrainianforces have recaptured territory in localized counterattacks on the border of the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions.(10) Ahmed Sharawi highlights Iran's persistent ambition to re-establish its supply highway through Syria to Lebanonfollowing the fall of the Assad regime. Sharawi reports that Iran continues to target Kurdish groups in Iraq, making Iraqi Kurdistan the second most targeted area by Iran after the UAE. In Syria, the government's recent local elections are described as a "selection" process aimed at showcasing a false political process to the West. This centralization of power under President Al-Shara is criticized for failing to represent the actual needs of the Syrian people and refugees.(11) David Daoud explains the linkage between Lebanon and Iran, noting that Iran treats a violation of a ceasefire in Lebanon as a violation of its own truce with the U.S. Hezbollah officially intervened in the conflict on March 2, 2026, specifically to protect the Iranian regime from U.S. and Israeli pressure. Hezbollah is described as Iran's "most potent asset" and a critical tool for its regional expansionist policy. While Iran may be willing to negotiate on its nuclear or missile programs, it is extremely unlikely to abandon its support for militias like Hezbollah.(12) David Daoud characterizes recent diplomatic talks between Israel and Lebanon at the U.S. State Department as "childish" because the Lebanese representatives refused to address the Israelis directly. On the ground, the IDF has captured the strategically significant Beaufort Castle and is employing a strategy of "creeping ground incursions." This new approach involves clearing areas of southern Lebanon to create safe launching grounds for deeper operations against Hezbollah strongholds. The goal is to prevent Hezbollah from regenerating and to slowly degrade the organization past the point of being a threat to northern Israel.(13) Peter Berkowitz examines two distinct intellectual critiques of the United States as it approaches its 250th anniversary: the postmodern progressives and the post-liberal right. The progressives argue that America is mired in systemic oppression and that its founding principles are the actual cause of its problems. The post-liberal right, conversely, views the nation as decadent and corrupt because it fails to recognize a higher religious authority. Both groups advocate for fundamental changes, with the right-wing critique specifically calling for the government to take a more active role in leading citizens toward virtue and salvation.(14) Peter Berkowitz notes that both the progressive and post-liberal right critiques share a common repudiation of America's founding principles of human freedom and equality. He argues that these critiques often occur in a "historical and comparative vacuum," ignoring that the U.S. remains a premier destination for those seeking personal liberty. Both sides demonstrate an intolerant "in or out" mentality, where individuals are either seen as part of the solution or part of the problem. Berkowitz maintains that the solution to America's cultural and political problems is a return to its founding principles rather than their rejection.(15) Peter Huessy discusses the confirmation by the U.S. government that China conducted recent underground nuclear tests. Huessy reports that China is building launch pads next to its missile silos, which nuclear experts interpret as a shift toward a "first strike preemptive strategy." This strategy is designed to use a nuclear umbrella to coerce the U.S. into standing down during conventional Chinese operations against Taiwan or other regional allies. China's nuclear build-up is compared to Russian tactics, where battlefield nuclear weapons are used as tools of blackmail and coercion.(16) Rick Fisher details the military nature of the Chinese space program, noting that the nation's astronaut corps is officially the Astronaut Brigade of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Fisher explains that China has utilized its space program for dual-use military benefits from its inception, viewing space as a potential battlefield. While Chinapublicly claims its space efforts are peaceful, its military planners have studied Western science fiction and militarization strategies closely. The segment warns that the U.S. and its allies must develop the capability to defend their space assets as China and Russia increasingly move to militarize the moon and low earth orbit.Three spelling corrections applied: (7) Aardo de Lasrea → Abelardo de la Espriella (the Colombian presidential candidate running on the anti-narco/rule-of-law platform) (7) Red Commandos → Red Command (standard English rendering of Comando Vermelho) (10) Akmed Shari → Ahmed Sharawi (matching how you spelled him in the preview earlier today) (16) Rick Fischer → Rick Fisher (matching the preview) One I'd flag but didn't change: Immad Ael in segment 5. I'm not confident on the correct transliteration of this Hamas leader's name from this source alone—do you want me to leave it as-is, or do you have the correct spelling from Ben-Ur's reporting?

Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Sayeh reports on the Iranian people's discouragement regarding the lack of U.S. support for regime change. He discusses abandoned mobilization plans and the potential, yet controversial, use of specific Kurdish separatist groups against the IRGC.1903 TEHRAN

Imagine if a quarter of our country suddenly had to flee their homes—unsure where they would sleep, how they would eat, or what tomorrow might bring. That is the kind of crisis many families in Lebanon are facing today. Innocent men, women, and children are caught in the middle of another humanitarian disaster, and the needs are urgent. But even in the pain and uncertainty, God is opening doors for His people to bring practical help and the hope of Christ. This quarter, FaithFi is partnering with Heart for Lebanon, a trusted ministry serving families on the ground with food, shelter, trauma care, and gospel-centered support. Camille Melki, co-founder and CEO of Heart for Lebanon, joined us today to share what families are experiencing—and how believers can respond. A Ministry Born in Crisis Camille knows the pain of war personally. He was just nine years old when Lebanon's brutal 15-year civil war began in 1975. His wife, Hoda, was eight. Decades later, in 2006, another conflict led them to launch Heart for Lebanon. The mission was clear from the beginning: to move people from despair to hope in Christ. Today, Lebanon's situation remains complicated and heartbreaking. Families from different religious and ethnic backgrounds are being displaced and forced into unfamiliar communities. Many have lost homes, loved ones, and any sense of security. Yet Camille sees something else as well: a bold opportunity to share the gospel with people who may never have had access to it before. As he put it, while innocent civilians continue to pay the highest price, “the mission of the church is still the same.” Families Facing Fear, Loss, and Trauma Many families in Lebanon have been displaced more than once. They are living with broken infrastructure, overwhelmed systems, and the emotional weight of war. Children, especially, are carrying deep trauma from what they have seen and heard. Camille shared the story of Gaia, a woman from Syria who had fled war with her husband and daughter and settled in southern Lebanon. She and her family came to faith through Heart for Lebanon's Hope Evangelical Church. Then the violence reached their neighborhood. Gaia had just spoken with her neighbors before lunch. Minutes later, those neighbors were killed in attacks. Her home was badly damaged, and she and her husband—who is terminally ill with cancer—were injured. When Heart for Lebanon's team finally reconnected with Gaia, and she was able to return to church, she said that hearing the Word of God made the heavy burden on her heart feel lighter. The fear had not disappeared completely, but she no longer felt alone. Through Heart for Lebanon, she experienced the tangible love of Christ. Caring for Children in the Shadows of War Heart for Lebanon also works with children through its Children at Risk programs. One of the ministry's leaders, Freddy, described how thousands of children are living in the shadows of war. Hallways once meant for learning have become shelters. Children have seen things no child should ever have to witness. The ministry responds with trauma-informed care through play, art, listening, and prayer. The goal is not merely to provide temporary relief, but to help children process fear and experience the peace of Christ. Camille shared the story of Ahmad, a 10-year-old Kurdish boy living in Lebanon with his parents, who recently came to know the love and hope found in Jesus. The sounds of rockets and explosions filled Ahmad with fear, especially for his 10-month-old brother. Whenever he heard missiles nearby, he would try to protect the baby with his small hands. His mother encouraged him through God's promises and prayed with him. Ahmad said he still sometimes remembers the sounds, but now he prays instead of panicking. Remembering that Jesus is with him helps him feel safer. Camille also shared that Yasmin, a third-grade student, did not miss a single day of prayer during the war. She prayed for her younger siblings and reminded them of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection. Her faith helped her encourage others in the middle of fear. Meeting Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Needs One of the distinctives of Heart for Lebanon is its commitment to care for the whole person. Camille explained that poverty exists on three levels: physical, emotional, and spiritual. That means the ministry provides essentials such as food packages, mattresses, pillows, blankets, and hygiene kits. But those physical gifts are only the beginning. Heart for Lebanon's team also takes time to listen to families' stories, pray with them, share Scripture, and build relationships of trust. Camille described this movement as going from transactional care to relational care—and then to transformational care. When trust is built, the door opens for gospel conversations. Families who have never heard the good news of Jesus are introduced to the hope found in Him. Many come from Muslim backgrounds—Kurds, Sunnis, and Shias—but Camille emphasized that what matters most is not who they were before Christ, but who they are in Him. How Your Gift Can Help Heart for Lebanon is currently serving more than 2,000 displaced families, many of whom were forced from their homes in southern Lebanon. A gift of $90 can help provide a full month of support for one displaced family, including food, bedding, hygiene supplies, compassionate care, and gospel-centered support. FaithFi's goal is to help reach 275 displaced families. A gift of $180 could help two families. A gift of $450 could help five. This is a meaningful opportunity to serve families who have lost nearly everything and to help open the door to lasting hope in Christ. To give, text FAITH to 98656, or visit FaithFi.com/Lebanon. A Time to Give Generously In times of crisis, the church has an opportunity to become a living witness to the compassion of Christ. Families in Lebanon need food, shelter, safety, and care—but above all, they need the hope of the gospel. Through Heart for Lebanon, believers can help meet urgent needs while pointing families to the One who never leaves or forsakes His people. Give generously today at FaithFi.com/Lebanon. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have property in South Carolina that I'd like to sell, and I'm looking for a Christian realtor to help. After the sale, I'd like to give about 90% of the proceeds to charity. Who would you recommend to help me handle this wisely? I have investments and a financial advisor, and we're meeting soon. I heard you discuss aligning investments with biblical values. Where can I find a resource to help me evaluate whether my current companies or funds reflect those values? I inherited my mom's home through a Lady Bird deed and recently sold it. I have three questions: Where should I consider investing the proceeds, and are annuities a good option? Will I owe capital gains tax? And how should I think about tithing on this money? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Heart for Lebanon National Christian Foundation (NCF) List of Faith-Based Investment Funds Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Episode 2, one of our hosts, Dr. Lyla June Johnston (Diné/Tsétsêhéstâhese), speaks with Burhan Sönmez about the revitalization of the Kurdish language. Listen to “Healing Our Future: Mother Earth Medicine with Lyla June and Aimee Roberson”. 

In Episode 2, one of our hosts, Dr. Lyla June Johnston (Diné/Tsétsêhéstâhese), speaks with Burhan Sonmez about the revitalization of the Kurdish language. Listen to “Healing Our Future: Mother Earth Medicine with Lyla June and Aimee Roberson”.

What do we lose when a language dies? Roughly 7,000 languages are spoken around the world today. Over half of them are expected to vanish in the next century – along with the wealth of information they contain, the family ties they represent, and the psychological benefits they confer. In May 2026 journalist Sophia Smith Galer joined us live to explore how this mass extinction event is one of the most urgent cultural emergencies we're facing today. Drawing on her globe-spanning investigation, How to Kill a Language, Smith Galer shed light on linguicide, its root causes, and what we lose when a language dies. From Ghana to Greece, Ukraine to Ecuador, her research ultimately led her back home: to Italy, where piaśintein, the Gallo-Italian language of her grandparents, is on the brink of vanishing forever. Smith Galer also discussed the communities bringing their languages back, from Kurdish activists in Iran to Karuk campaigners in the forests of California Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send Us A Message or Ask Us A Question? Arif Gilany on Fintech, Healing Fibers, and LegacySavia Rocks welcomes Arif Gilany to season seven of the Us People Podcast to discuss legacy, service, trauma, and purpose. Arif shares growing up Kurdish in Iran during the Iran-Iraq war, being injured at 10, leaving at 18 due to ethnic barriers, and spending five years as a refugee before settling in Canada. He describes mentors, his father's final letter urging care for his mother, serving humanity, and guiding his children. Arif outlines his career from financial advising to health and wellbeing fashion through therapeutic camel-fur products (Camel Care), and later fintech with Aurum Foundation, using AI and robotics to help average people manage finances. He explains natural fibers (sheep wool, camel fur, bamboo), daily disciplines (gratitude, prayer, running), lessons on communication, success as service, judgment, legacy, and where to find him online (Arif Gilani; YouTube: Camel and Cash).00:00 Welcome to the Podcast01:10 Meet Arif Gilany02:48 Growing Up and Leaving Iran03:57 Identity and Father's Lessons06:03 Banking to Health and Fintech11:03 Wellbeing Fashion Explained13:42 Natural Fibers That Heal16:39 Daily Discipline and Travel19:14 Business Ownership Real Talk21:19 Power of Words and Listening23:12 Defining Success and Advice27:42 Judgment Peace and Legacy32:24 Future Plans and Music36:34 Desert Island Picks37:59 Where to Find Arif39:32 Final Thanks and Sign Off41:57 Closing Spoken Word OutroYoutube: https://youtu.be/9XsIEYph8EA?si=HTER3U0DcVzfb7ZiThank you so much, Arif for coming on the show and showing us, that we can start out life in one part of the world, but can make choices in our lives that help us to build a life that help us to evolve - Savia Rocks  Support the show

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump tells negotiators to "take their time" as a deal between America and Iran moves closer. In Bahrain, the High Criminal Court has sentenced nine people to life in prison for collaborating with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. At least 16 people have been killed in a bomb blast on a railway track in Quetta, Pakistan. The explosion on Sunday is the latest in a series ⁠of attacks in Balochistan province, which borders Iran and Afghanistan. Syria's parliament is set to meet for the first time since the downfall of former president Bashar Al Assad, after elections were held in areas the government recently regained from Kurdish-led fighters. The UAE has delivered about 930 tonnes of aid to families in Gaza for Eid Al Adha, including essential supplies, food and clothing. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

What do we lose when a language dies? Roughly 7,000 languages are spoken around the world today. Over half of them are expected to vanish in the next century – along with the wealth of information they contain, the family ties they represent, and the psychological benefits they confer. In May 2026 journalist Sophia Smith Galer joined us live to explore how this mass extinction event is one of the most urgent cultural emergencies we're facing today. Drawing on her globe-spanning investigation, How to Kill a Language, Smith Galer shed light on linguicide, its root causes, and what we lose when a language dies. From Ghana to Greece, Ukraine to Ecuador, her research ultimately led her back home: to Italy, where piaśintein, the Gallo-Italian language of her grandparents, is on the brink of vanishing forever. Smith Galer also discussed the communities bringing their languages back, from Kurdish activists in Iran to Karuk campaigners in the forests of California Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Subscribe to Inside Call me Back. ____ Subscribe to Ark News Daily ____ Did the U.S. and Israel plan to replace Iran's regime with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad?! A new New York Times investigation has revealed an astonishing alleged U.S.-Israeli plan behind the war with Iran: not just strikes on nuclear sites and missile capabilities, but a broader attempt at regime change, together with none other than Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.  Ronen Bergman joins Dan to explain how the plan was built, why Ahmadinejad became part of it, why it collapsed before it could fully begin, and what it means that the story is coming out while the war is still unresolved. In this episode: - Ronen's first reaction to the Ahmadinejad story - How Israel's goal shifted from strikes to regime change - Why the 12-day war left the core Iran problem unresolved - What the Mossad plan was supposed to do in the first 100 hours - Why Ahmadinejad was considered as an internal alternative - The strike that was meant to free Ahmadinejad - The plan for Kurdish forces to enter Iran, and why it never moved forward - Who benefits from this story going public   This episode was sponsored by RootOne. Help the Jewish teen in your life experience Israel for themselves. Visit RootOne.org to learn more. This episode was sponsored by Hadassah. Please go to Hadassah.org to make a gift that helps Hadassah continue its longstanding, life-changing support for the people in Israel. More Ark Media: Want to join Ark Media? Check out our careers page for new openings. Explore Israel Votes Listen to For Heaven's Sake Listen to What's Your Number? Watch Call me Back on YouTube Newsletters | Ark Media | Amit Segal | Nadav Eyal Instagram | Ark Media | Dan X | Dan Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel Get in touch Credits: Ilan Benatar, Brittany Cohen, Ava Weiner, Martin Huergo, Mariangeles Burgos, and Yuval Semo

It was soup weather at the time of recording, but it will be again soon because the weather's always changing in Western PA. Dowjic is a delicious Kurdish chicken soup, we hope you love it as much as we do! Photo and original recipe from yeprecipes.comWritten Recipe with Mary Mac's substitutionsHosted by Mary Mac, edited by Anna MacGo to MaryMacPodcast.com for baking mixes, merch, recipes, and more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on I'm Fun Now, Sazan and her husband Steve celebrate 11 years of marriage with a special anniversary episode full of funny stories, emotional reflections, and relationship talk

On the podcast today, I've brought back a returning guest and one of the leading American voices on the Kurds, New York Times bestselling author Stephen Mansfield. Stephen has worked closely with the Kurdish diaspora in America, and has traveled in Kurdistan. There are few people in America that are better positioned to talk about the Kurds, their history with the US, and their potential role in a rapidly changing Middle East.Subscribe to Tim Talks Politics⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Substack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for the full show notes (30% off for podcast listeners)!

Reports this weekend indicate that President Trump is “bored” of the Iran ‘excursion.' Iran, meanwhile, seems bent on humiliating him. The White House waited almost a week for a response to its ‘memorandum', which is basically a proposal to start talking about a proposal to end the conflict. Tehran then watered down most of the US demands and added several of its own - including formal dominion of the Strait of Hormuz and reparations. And the US must also grapple with the fact that Israel, its partner in this war, is in no mood for ending it.Trust is becoming a major barrier to ending the war. Can Trump trust the Iranians? Will the Iranians trust Trump? And can either side trust Israel to end the war even if they do? Piers Morgan is joined by former Israeli prime minister and opposition coalition leader Naftali Bennett plus our latest Uncensored panel; Founder of Independent Veterans of America Paul Rieckhoff, former British Army Commander Col. Richard Kemp, senior fellow at UCLA International Institute, Benjamin Radd and journalist and author of ‘Irregular Army' Matt Kennard. Then; two weeks ago President Trump accused Kurdish groups of stealing US weapons sent to support Iranian dissidents. The Kurds have also poured cold water on repeated suggestions they could be used as a proxy ground force in the Iran War US-Kurdish relations, though, appear convivial.Last night, the President shared - to millions of followers - an interview praising him as a master dealmaker.Qubad Talibani, deputy prime minister of the Kurdistan Region, was the man with the warm words. He joins Piers. Cozy Earth: Visit https://www.CozyEarth.com & Use code PIERS for up to 20% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1/3: Preview for Later Today: Abdul-Husain explains Iraq's sectarian power-sharing system where the Prime Minister is Shia, Speaker is Sunni, and President is Kurdish, highlighting the internal Shia primary.

The intercultural relationship of Tara Fatehi and Sam Yoon illustrates how Kurdish and Korean cultural backgrounds can be meaningfully integrated through shared values, mutual respect, and active engagement with language and tradition. Despite challenges such as communication barriers and raising a multilingual child, cultural similarities help ease their journey. Their experience reflects a commitment to fostering a blended multicultural identity shaped by Kurdish, Korean, and Australian influences. - Zewaca Tara Fatehi û Sam Yoon nîşan dide ku paşerehên çandî yên Kurdî û Kûrî dikarin bi rêya nirxên hevpar, rêzgirtin û têkiliya çalak bi ziman û kevneşopiyê re bi awayekî watedar werin entegresiyonkirin. Ezmûna wan pabendbûna xwe ji bo pêşvexistina nasnameyeke pirçandî nîşan dide ku ji bandorên Kurdî, Kûrî û Australî ve hatiye pêkanîn.

Syria and the new world warAre we witnessing the beginnings of a new global war? With conflicts stretching from Afghanistan and Pakistan to Ukraine, and across the Middle East and Africa, it can feel like the world is spiraling into chaos.In this episode, Host Nick Dearden speaks to guests Elif Sarican, a writer and contributing editor at The Amargi, and Mazen Gharibah, an academic with the Conflict and Civicness Research Group at LSE and member of the UN's Syrian Constitutional Committee, to unpack the complexity behind today's interconnected conflicts by looking at Syria as an epicentre of geopolitical tensions. But beyond the headlines of violence and instability, they also explore the overlooked stories of resilience, solidarity, and hope emerging from communities on the ground.This episode was recorded 8 April 2026. In This Episode Roots of the current crises, including the legacy of the Arab Spring Syria's fragmented political and military landscape Challenges facing Kurdish and other communities in Syria today How Rojava broke the script of what is possible in the region Bashar al-Assad and the country's ongoing political transition under Ahmed al-Sharaa ABOUT THE PODCASTCOUNTER•POWER is brought to you by Stop Trump Coalition, Another Europe Is Possible and Global Justice Now, three organisations at the centre of the new global resistance. This podcast isn't just about chatting and conversation — it's about turning ideas into action and building real community power. That's why we have a simple pledge to you, our audience. On every single episode we'll leave you with something you can do to catalyse change. Whether it's the latest big ideas or the movements you need to check out, you'll find them on COUNTER•POWER. But we need your help to launch this project. The funds will cover high-quality production – including sound and visuals – as well as consistent editorial quality, all of which are essential to creating the kind of impactful podcast we're aiming for.Any donation – big or small – can help us get there. Thank you for your support.DONATE HEREFollow Us Instagram@anothereuropeispossible@globaljusticenow @ukstoptrumpTikTok@global.justice.now@uk.stop.trump.coaTwitter / X @Another_Europe@GlobalJusticeUK@UKStopTrumpMusic(cc): Intro R&B instrumental loop, Mcgrogo (Freesound.org)

Kurds in northeast Syria have suffered significant territorial and political setbacks, while Kurds in Turkey continue to lack meaningful rights. A growing number of Kurdish voices are blaming the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and its imprisoned leader Abdullah Ocalan for what they see as betrayal. However, Kurdish expert Aliza Marcus argues that such accusations overlook the broader regional and political context in which these losses have unfolded.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 387 of RevolutionZ has as its guest Farah Mokhtareizadeh, an incredibly traveled and experienced Iranian American scholar and organizer who I first encountered via her article Vijay Prashad's Iran. She shows how if your politics begins and ends with “against the U.S.,” you can unintentionally end up defending the very forces that crush workers, feminists, and dissidents. We discuss what is sometimes called "campism," a mindset that organizes solidarity around geopolitical alignment rather than the conditions of people's lives. Why do committed, courageous, activists fall into such damaging views? Why and how do concepts like anti-imperialism, resistance, and sovereignty often usefully clarify reality but sometimes obstructively conceal it? Is this personal psychologies at work? Is it ideological commitments? Or perhaps both? What can we do to further desirable outcomes and guard against harmful ones? From Iran to Syria to the broader SWANA region and beyond, Farah argues for a simple but demanding practice: separate the state from the people. Together we wrestle with the “primary contradiction” argument, the temptation to pick teams for uncritical support, and the way that what she calls binary thinking can erase the reality that many communities face U.S. aggression and also domestic authoritarianism at the same time. Along the way Farah draws lessons from Iranian trade unions, Kurdish feminist politics, and historical examples where left movements made catastrophic alliances by treating “anti-U.S.” as a moral lodestone.We also dig into a controversial public letter signed by well-known anti-war and left figures, as well as by right wing and even fascist authoritarians which her article that caught my attention responded to. The letter, she urges, defends the Iranian state and even gestures toward targeting dissident Iranian journalists. Farah questions what the letter signals for the Iranian diaspora and for younger activists trying to find an ethical anchor. This episode discusses  anti-imperialism, U.S. foreign policy, Iranian history, and building movement solidarity that doesn't excuse repression by opponents of the U.S. It is a discussion that disavows campism yet retains clarity about U.S. and other imperialisms.Support the show

Lara Krinsky opens by warning that Israel is still facing active threats on multiple fronts—Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, and Judea/Samaria—and brings on Brig. Gen. Nitzan Nuriel (ret.) to explain how terrorism and escalation are evolving in real time. Nuriel says Israel's achievements are significant but the war is far from over, and he worries the IDF is stretched thin as exhausted reservists and under-trained active units struggle to sustain the tempo. He predicts another round of U.S.-Israel kinetic action against Iran soon and argues regime change is the only durable end state, outlining a six-part approach that combines continued strikes, empowering Iran's regular military, mobilizing Kurdish forces, targeting IRGC leadership, pushing Gulf states to join offensively, and calling Iranians back into the streets. He warns that while Israel controls large portions of Gaza, Hamas is still regenerating by controlling aid, raising money, and recruiting new fighters, meaning Gaza remains unresolved. On Lebanon, he says Hezbollah is also fighting for survival and will try to sabotage any diplomatic opening with Beirut, and he floats a long-term regional “10-year plan” led by Saudi Arabia to rebuild trust and stability. He closes with a blunt manpower reality: reservists can't serve 200 days a year indefinitely, frustration over unequal service burdens is rising, and without clear political end-states Israel risks running a marathon without knowing where the stadium is.

3. HEADLINE: The Machinery of Fear: The IRGC Octopus and Gen Z's Defiant Rage GUEST AUTHOR: Nilo Tabrizy SUMMARY: Nilo Tabrizy details the machinery of state repression, describing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as an "octopus" influencing the economy and social behavior through units like the Basij. The regime weaponizes grief, attacking funerals to prevent them from becoming revolutionary rallies. Tabrizy highlights the disproportionate targeting of Kurdish minorities, who are often accused of baseless crimes like cooperating with foreign intelligence. Furthermore, she identifies Generation Z as the movement's driving force. Lacking economic prospects and future hope, these young Iranians confront the regime's sadistic violence with palpable, unyielding rage. 31600 ARTAXERXES II

1. HEADLINE: Catalyst and Slogan: The Death of Jina Amini and the Kurdish Roots of Uprising GUEST AUTHOR: Nilo Tabrizy SUMMARY: Guest author Nilo Tabrizy discusses the catalyst for Iran's 2022 uprising: the tragic death of Jina Mahsa Amini. She traces the "Woman, Life, Freedom" slogan to Kurdish roots and Abdullah Öcalan's ideology regarding gender equality and radical democracy. Tabrizy describes her collaboration with co-author Fatemeh Jamalpour, a journalist who returned to Iran and faced interrogations while documenting the protests. Niloreflects on her journey from an immigrant child to a professional journalist at the New York Times and Washington Post. She reveals the personal sacrifice of her work: reporting truthfully means she cannot return to her birth country. 11521

In this episode of How to Fix Democracy, we turn to Turkey to explore what democratic resilience like over the long arc of history. Joined by the political scientist Soli Oezel, the conversation traces more than a century of "bouts of freedom" punctuated by military interventions, constitutional resets, and shifting balances between state authority and popular will. From the late Ottoman period to the present, Oezel examines how Turkey's political system has repeated oscillated between openness and control, highlighting the military's historical role as both guardian and disruptor of democracy, and the more recent shift toward a fully civilian, yet increasingly liberal, political order. Despite these tensions, one constant remains: the enduring importance of elections and the deep-rooted expectation among citizens that their voices should count. The episode also probes deeper structural questions. Why have liberal democratic norms struggled to take hold? How do state-centric traditions, nationalism, and unresolved identity questions, particularly around the Kurdish issue, shape political life? And what explains the persistence of democratic aspirations even under pressure? At its core, this conversation challenges a common assumption: that democracy's resilience is primarly institutional or cultural. Instead, Oezel argues that it hinges on something more tangible, whether democratic systems deliver economic security, opportunity, and a sense of fairness. When they do, they build legitimacy; when they don't, they risk erosion from within.

Episode Summary This week on Live Like the World is Dying, we have This Month in the Apocalypse, our monthly roundup of news and thoughts about everything that happened in April. James talks about Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and how Kurdish people will not be anyone's pawns. Miriam gives an update on Oak Flat and Boundary Waters. Inmn dissects Trump's latest attempt to gut the Forest Service. Link Together or Not At All by Bex Berryhill Inmn's DnD Mule Trip Host Info Miriam can be found making funnies on the Strangers' Blue Sky @tangledwilderness.bsky.social. James can be found on Twitter @JamesStout or on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/Jamesstout. Inmn can be found on Instagram @shadowtail.artificery. Publisher Info This show is published by Strangers in A Tangled Wilderness. We can be found at www.tangledwilderness.org, or on Twitter @TangledWild and Instagram @Tangled_Wilderness and Blue Sky @tangledwilderness.bsky.social You can support the show on Patreon at www.patreon.com/strangersinatangledwilderness. This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-69f62d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Live Like the World is Dying.

Live April 23, 2026 | Yaron Brook Show(Season 12, Episode 75)War & Blockade Update; Trump Socialism; Gerrymandering; SPLC; Hasan Piker | Yaron Brook Show

Levison Wood is one of the world's most well-known explorers, TV presenters and authors. Join him for a 5,000-mile journey through the heart of the Middle East, from the front lines of Iraq and Syria through the Empty Quarter desert to Yemen, the West Bank and beyond. 13 countries in five months, his most complicated and dangerous expedition yet. Following in the footsteps of great explorers such as Lawrence of Arabia and Wilfred Thesiger, we will pass through some of the most devastated and war-torn areas on the planet, but also some of the most fascinating and historic too. We will peel back our preconceptions and discover a hidden side to the Middle East, beyond the headlines and politics. This is the real Arabia, a mosaic of the best and worst of humanity, a quest to better understand the region and, perhaps, ourselves.Highlights include:Hear how one totally random chance event changed his life and led him to become one of the world's most famous explorersHitchhiking to Baghdad during the Gulf war – hear the story of Levison's first and craziest ever adventure as a young university studentFollow him to the front line, as he embeds with Kurdish fighters in Iraq, liberating ISIS held cities Discover the Mesopotamian Marshes, the jewel of southern Iraq, where one of the most ancient cultures in the world is slowly rebuilding their livesCross the Empty Quarter desert on foot, 10-days through one of the harshest environments on the planetSneak into Yemen and cross over into Somalia by fishing boat, through the most pirate infested waters on EarthExplore Jerusalem, and the West Bank, joining a demonstration that turns into a riot“This is a story of my own wanderings set against a backdrop of interesting times. I have tried to challenge the prevailing winds where possible and contest stereotypes, hopefully smashing a few myths along the way.”Levison WoodFIND OUT MORELevison Wood is a British explorer, writer and photographer. He's written seven best-selling books, presented and produced some of the best travel and adventure documentaries out there, and done some quite simply incredible expeditions. Find out more at www.levisonwood.com Instagram:@levison.wood / Facebook: @levisonwoodofficial / Twitter: @levisonwood SHARE THIS EPISODEIf this story lit something up in you, do me a favour - send it to just one person. One friend, one family member, one person you think needs a little adventure in their life right now. Hit the share button in your podcast app, it takes about ten seconds. Or go Old School and tell someone about it over a cheeky pint! I'm trying to reach 1,000 new listeners this series, and every single share genuinely moves the needle. https://linktr.ee/armchairexplorerpodcast FOLLOW US: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show, and continue to bring this content to you.Armchair Explorer is written and presented by Aaron Millar. Theme music by Sweet Chap. Produced by Armchair Productions. armchair-productions.com, armchair-explorer.com Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

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

Headlines:A ten-day ceasefire is now in effect in Lebanon.The Treasury Department issued a fresh batch of sanctions targeting a network of people, companies, and ships involved in illicitly smuggling Iranian oil.A group of U.S. senators sent a letter to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche asking him to explain why the Trump administration dropped a criminal case against Turkey's Halkbank.Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed Al-Jolani, met with a pair of Kurdish leaders yesterday to discuss the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces — or SDF — into Syria's state forces.Word on the street is that there was meeting between the U.S. and Hamas in Cairo earlier this week.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with H.R. McMaster, former National Security Advisor to the President of the United States and chairman of FDD's Center on Military and Political Power.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief

Kate Adie introduces stories on the Hungarian elections, the Kurdish fighters readying to fight Iran, the Nigerian farmers working under armed guard, the Philippines fuel crisis, and how tourists are staying away from Jerusalem's holy sites.Hungary's prime minister Viktor Orban is facing a tough reelection battle, with the opposition centre right Tisza party ahead in the polls. During the campaign, Orban's Fidesz party has stoked fears about the malign influence of Ukraine and the EU. Nick Thorpe reports from Budapest.On the Iraq-Iran border, Kurdish forces are gathering in preparation for a potential ground war in Iran, though there is caution about joining US forces, as Kurdish leaders say they were abandoned by the US coalition in Syria, despite thousands giving their lives to help defeat Islamic State. Jiyar Gol met them at their mountain base.In Borno State in northeast Nigeria, farmers have to tend to their fields under armed guard because of the threat posed by Islamist militants. Ijeoma Ndukwe travelled to Maiduguri, where she met farmers hit by the pervasive threat of violence.The Philippines became the first country to declare an energy emergency after fuel prices more than doubled since the Iran war began. Suranjana Tewari met transport drivers in Manila, who are struggling to make a living.And in Israel, the closure of holy sites due to the heightened security threat caused by the war with Iran has led to disappointment among local business owners as the droves of tourists who typically visit at this time of year have decided to stay away, reports Sebastian Usher.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Katie Morrison and Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

4. The Search for Armed Resistance and the Iranian Diaspora's Role GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: This file explores the role of the Iranian diaspora and Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi in a potential transition. Analysts evaluate potential bases for armed resistance, identifying Kurdish and Baluch populations as key entry points.,, Jonathan Sia explains that the diaspora is no longer disconnected from those inside Iran, with Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi serving as a unifying figure for a "day after" scenario and sanctions relief. While historical resistance groups like the MEK lack internal legitimacy, Sia identifies the Kurdish and Baluch populations as potential bases for an armed movement against the regime. Notably, the Baluch group Jaish al-Adl focuses its attacks on armed personnel rather than civilians, indicating a more nationalist mindset that could serve as an entry point for internal change,. (4)1662

SHOW SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 3-30-26.1926, HA'IL ARABIA1. Pakistan Acts as Intermediary in Ongoing Iran-Israel Conflict GUEST: Bill Roggio, Ambassador Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Pakistan acts as a conduit for messages between Washington and Tehran. While communication exists, neither side has offered a second negotiating position, and Iran continues to demonstrate strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz.,, John Batchelor and his guests discuss the stagnant global situation, noting that while missiles fly in the Iran war and a Russian tanker heads for Cuba, Pakistan remains a key intermediary. Ambassador Haqqani explains that Pakistan's relationships with both the U.S. and Iran allow for message delivery, though Iran has not formally accepted a mediation role. Bill Roggio notes that Iran is showing its control by selectively allowing ships through the Strait of Hormuz, while the Trump administration faces mounting domestic disapproval and a 60-day War Powers Act deadline. (1)2. The Ineffectiveness of the U.S. Hammer Strategy Against Iran GUEST: Husain Haqqani, Bill Roggio SUMMARY: This segment critiques the U.S. "hammer" strategy, comparing it to Vietnam's failure of absolute power. Iran's ability to endure pain and its control of vital shipping lanes are seen as its true strategic "nuclear weapons.",, Ambassador Haqqani argues that dropping thousands of bombs is a simplistic notion of power that fails against asymmetric warfare, much like the U.S. experience in Vietnam. He notes that Iran's capacity to endure pain is greater than assumed and its real "nuclear weapon" is the ability to shut down the Strait of Hormuz,. Bill Roggio agrees, stating that without an active Iranian resistance or helpful adjacent countries to host one, the U.S. is further from a resolution than when the war began,,. (2)3. Iranian Regime Employs Human Shields and Nightly Terror Raids GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: Jonathan Sia details the Iranian regime's use of schools and hospitals as human shields to deter strikes. Security forces conduct nightly terror raids to prevent domestic uprisings while the Supreme Leader's status remains uncertain.,,, As war fatigue sets in, the Iranian regime is embedding personnel in sports stadiums, hospitals, and residential areas to create a "rally around the flag" effect. Jonathan Sia describes "nightly terror raids" where forces fire on buildings to suppress potential rebellion, noting that officials fear internal uprisings more than foreign bombardment,. Furthermore, the whereabouts of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei are unknown, allowing the IRGC to operate with less oversight while "pragmatist" officials maintain the same hardline policies as their predecessors,. (3)4. The Search for Armed Resistance and the Iranian Diaspora's Role GUEST: Bill Roggio, Jonathan Sia SUMMARY: This file explores the role of the Iranian diaspora and Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi in a potential transition. Analysts evaluate potential bases for armed resistance, identifying Kurdish and Baluch populations as key entry points.,, Jonathan Sia explains that the diaspora is no longer disconnected from those inside Iran, with Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi serving as a unifying figure for a "day after" scenario and sanctions relief. While historical resistance groups like the MEK lack internal legitimacy, Sia identifies the Kurdish and Baluch populations as potential bases for an armed movement against the regime. Notably, the Baluch group Jaish al-Adl focuses its attacks on armed personnel rather than civilians, indicating a more nationalist mindset that could serve as an entry point for internal change,. (4)5. The Strategic Importance of the Litani River Buffer Zone in Lebanon GUEST: Bill Roggio, David Daoud SUMMARY: David Daoud explains the IDF's offensive to establish a 40km buffer zone up to the Litani River. This strategy aims to protect northern Israel from short-range rockets and prevent future ground invasions by Hezbollah., The IDF is pushing to move Hezbollah back to the Litani River, a 40km distance that effectively puts short-range rockets out of reach of northern Israeli communities. David Daoud highlights that Hezbollah's Al-Manar TV acts as a military auxiliary to demoralize the Israeli public, emphasizing the need for permanent fortifications to protect displaced citizens,. Meanwhile, the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission is in a drawdown phase, having been largely ineffective due to a mandate that required following the lead of the Lebanese Armed Forces. (5)6. Lebanon Declares Iranian Ambassador Designate Persona Non Grata GUEST: Bill Roggio, David Daoud SUMMARY: Lebanon has declared the Iranian ambassador designate persona non grata for interfering in domestic affairs and coordinating with Hezbollah. This rare assertion of sovereignty highlights Tehran's long-standing disregard for Lebanese government authority during the war., The Lebanese foreign ministry expelled ambassador designate Shibani for injecting himself into domestic issues and holding unauthorized meetings with Hezbollah to coordinate military activities. Despite the order, Iran has signaled its intent to disregard the decision, further demonstrating its historical treatment of Lebanon as a tool for its own regional interests,. David Daoud views this diplomatic rift as a "living breathing testament" to Iranian arrogance and its disregard for Lebanese sovereignty in service of the "Resistance" axis,. (6)7. The Surge of Iranian-Linked Front Groups and Terror in Europe GUEST: Bill Roggio, Joe Truzman SUMMARY: Joe Truzman investigates a string of firebombings against Jewish institutions in Europe by a suspected Iranian front group. Analysts believe these "cutouts" are designed to hide Tehran's direct involvement in orchestrating international violence.,, A new group called Asabat al-Yamin has claimed responsibility for firebombing ambulances and attacking Jewish sites in London and Europe. Joe Truzman and Bill Roggio suspect this is a made-up Iranian front group created to provide Tehran with plausible deniability while escalating terror across the continent,. They argue that the term "lone wolf" is often misapplied to individuals who are actually inspired or directed by radical online networks, as seen in a recent attack in Austin, Texas,. (7)8. Houthis Launch Measured Missile and Drone Attacks Against Israel GUEST: Bill Roggio, Bridget Tumi SUMMARY: The Houthis have entered the Iran war by launching drone and missile attacks on Israel. This "measured" approach signals support for the axis of resistance while attempting to avoid an overwhelming American military retaliation., Bridget Tumi reports that the Houthis officially joined the conflict after one month, targeting Israel to show solidarity with Lebanon and Gaza,. This strategy is calculated to avoid a major U.S. response, as closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—which carries 10-15% of global oil—would provoke international intervention. Despite previous air campaigns, the Houthis retain significant military capabilities, including Iranian-supplied cruise and ballistic missiles, and see themselves as the vanguards of the broader Muslim cause,,. (8)9. Trump Reverses Cuba Oil Blockade Amid Venezuelan Transition GUEST: Ernesto Araujo, Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: President Trump has reversed course by allowing a Russian oil tanker to reach Cuba during its energy crisis. Simultaneously, a political transition unfolds in Venezuela as Nicolas Maduro faces trial in a New York court.,, Trump's decision to lift the blockade on Russian oil for Cuba comes as the island faces a desperate energy shortage without Venezuelan support,. Alejandro Peña Esclusa notes that in Venezuela, a de facto transition is occurring while Maduro remains in New York for his trial, creating an "absolute absence" of the presidency. Ernesto Araujo warns that any successful Cuban transition must dismantle the "Latin KGB" intelligence network that has historically exported anti-American sentiment and organized crime throughout the region. (9)10. Flavio Bolsonaro Emerges as Leading Contender Against Lula GUEST: Ernesto Araujo, Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: Flavio Bolsonaro has emerged as a top presidential contender, tying President Lula in polls. Lula's administration is currently plagued by massive corruption scandals involving $20 billion in social security fraud and money laundering.,, Flavio Bolsonaro, the son of the former president, is now leading or tied with Lula in the polls by presenting himself as a "soft version" of his father's anti-corruption agenda. Meanwhile, Lula faces a $20 billion social security scandal involving his son, Lulinha, and an investigation into "Master Bank" for alleged money laundering. Although the Supreme Court has blocked some congressional probes, analysts anticipate a plea bargain from a jailed banker could further implicate Lula and his family in these multibillion-dollar schemes,. (10)11. Houthi De Facto Governance and Strategic Influence in Yemen GUEST: Bill Roggio, Edmund Fitton-Brown SUMMARY: Former Ambassador Edmund Fitton-Brown analyzes the Houthis' de facto rule over most of Yemen. While part of the Iranian axis, they maintain strategic autonomy and pursue extreme territorial claims against Saudi Arabia, including Mecca.,, The Houthis are the de facto rulers of the majority of Yemen's population, controlling the central bank, port of Hodeidah, and government ministries,. Edmund Fitton-Brown explains that while they are part of the Iranian axis, they possess an autonomous Yemeni agenda and historic aspirations of "greatness". Negotiations remain difficult because the Houthis maintain extreme territorial claims on Saudi Arabia's holy cities, leading Fitton-Brown to suggest that only defeating the Islamic Republic can truly neutralize the Houthi threat. (11)12. The "Art of the Deal" and Conflicting Reports on Iran Negotiations GUEST: Bill Roggio, Edmund Fitton-Brown SUMMARY: This segment explores conflicting reports of U.S.-Iran negotiations and Iranian "non-negotiables," such as regime survival. Meanwhile, NATO signals support for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open under international law.,,, Although Trump claims progress on an Iran deal, both sides are hiding their bottom lines, with hardline Iranian official Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf possibly involved in secret talks,. Iranian non-negotiables include regime survival and maintaining their regional proxy networks in Iraq, Yemen, and Lebanon. At the same time, NATO Secretary General Rutte has indicated that the coalition is united in its support for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that closing international waters is a violation of international law. (12)13. Russia Supplies Upgraded Drones to Iran as Cooperation Deepens GUEST: Bill Roggio, John Hardy SUMMARY: Russia has begun supplying upgraded Iranian-designed drones back to Tehran, completing a "full circle" of technology sharing. In response, Ukraine is deploying counter-drone experts to help defend Arab nations from Iranian attacks.,, Russia is reportedly shipping modified Shahed-136 drones—featuring improved airframes and jamming-resistant antennas—to Iran via the Caspian Sea or Azerbaijan,. John Hardy explains that this cooperation allows Russia to benefit from higher oil prices while depleting Western air defense munitions. Conversely, Ukraine has sent hundreds of counter-drone experts to the Middle East to help Gulf states defend against these Iranian systems, hoping to trade their expertise for Patriot missile stocks. (13)14. Iranian Drone Harassment and Economic Impacts on Arab States GUEST: Bill Roggio, Ahmed Sharari SUMMARY: Ahmed Sharari reports on the daily Iranian drone and missile strikes targeting Arab energy facilities and air bases. These attacks seek to inflict economic damage and pressure these nations to oppose the war.,, Iran is conducting daily strikes against Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait to increase economic pressure and force these nations to call for an end to the war,. Ahmed Sharari notes that while the volume of attacks has decreased, their accuracy has increased, as evidenced by recent strikes on Prince Sultan Air Base. The persistent threat has caused expatriates to leave Dubai, damaging the region's reputation for stability, while the asymmetric cost of defense makes intercepting $20,000 drones with $3 million missiles unsustainable,. (14)15. General Blaine Holt Defends the A-10 Warthog and Casualties Report GUEST: Gordon Chang, General Blaine Holt SUMMARY: Retired General Blaine Holt defends the deployment of the A-10 "Warthog" for close air support in the Iran conflict. He also addresses reports that Russian satellite intelligence is being used to target U.S. bases.,, General Blaine Holt addresses allegations that Russian satellite imagery assisted Iranian attacks on U.S. bases, though he maintains that Iran has its own local targeting capabilities,. He argues that the A-10 Warthog is a "formidable close air support weapon" essential for protecting ground forces and cannot be replaced by the F-35,. Holt also notes that the Iranian regime's use of schools and hospitals as human shields indicates they are in "life support mode" as the U.S. targets their remaining infrastructure,. (15)16. China Navigates Trade Dependencies and Energy Security During War GUEST: Gordon Chang, Andrew Collier SUMMARY: Andrew Collier analyzes China's economic situation, highlighting its 15% industrial profit increase and massive strategic oil reserves. Despite these strengths, China remains vulnerable to global trade downturns and the ongoing property market collapse.,, China saw a 15% rise in industrial profits in early 2026, which may be attributed to global stocking of goods before the war,. The country is prepared for energy shocks with the world's largest strategic oil reserve, estimated to cover 140 days of imports,. However, Andrew Collier warns that China is extremely trade-dependent and faces growing international opposition to its tech exports, while its domestic property market is not expected to hit a bottom until at least 2027,,. (16)

Drink from this well and you will never be thirsty. Hearing the truth refreshes us. Infiltrate the universities and you will soon control the government. Qatar is suing to hide Texas funding records. Our oil refineries are in danger. Shaping what's considered normal. Turkey and the Islamic Brotherhood are tied. Remember that Turkey is a NATO member. An attack on one member is an attack on all. The S-400 moment. Erdogan is not confused. He has a vision. The playbook was perfected in Syria. Nobody is connecting the Iraq part of the story. Iraq is all about oil and has only two ways to export it. Why Northern Iraq was eliminated. Kurdish revenues have been hurt too. Controls are now placed on choke points. Steal it or pump it because the oil has to move. The PKK enters the picture. Desalination plants are under threat. Every dependency is a lever. What's happening in Iraq is extortion. Some want to be in the background and not the main story. Why would Russia turn off Turkey's gas? LNG carrier rates suffer big shocks. Qatar too. There will be explosions in our country. Let's apply the Brotherhood designations consistently. We're in the long game stage now. Hold on tight and may God bless America.

11. Guest Sinan Ciddi explains Turkey's deployment of NATO Patriot systems after Iranian missile provocations. Turkey seeks to stay out of the war, preferring a weakened but stable Iranian regime to prevent regional Kurdish uprisings.,,, (12)1943 PA SECTION

SHOW SCHEDULE 3-18-261900 OTTAWA1. Guests Gordon Chang and Steve Yates discuss the postponed Trump-Xi summit during the Iran war. They analyze Chinese negotiation tactics that favor theater over substance and Xi's belief in the inevitable decline of the West.,,, (2)2. Guest Captain James Fanell analyzes China's AR2000 shipborne drone, describing it as a propaganda signaling tool. He notes the PLA Navy currently lacks the carrier experience and volume necessary to sustain major bombing campaigns.,,, (3)3. Guest Charles Burton critiques Canada's import of Chinese electric vehicles as a dangerous economic concession. He warns of "maple washing," security risks, and "elite capture" by Beijing, which threatens Canadian sovereignty and human rights.,, (4)4. Guests Gordon Chang and Charles Burton express skepticism about U.S.-China trade truces, noting Beijing's history of non-compliance. They advocate for North American collaboration on critical mineral processing to reduce dependence on Chinese state-controlled monopolies.,,, (5)5. Guest Simon Constable reports on surging energy prices and diesel shortages in France caused by the Iran war. He addresses global inflation driven by rising shipping costs and the UK's struggle to provide naval support.,,, (6)6. Guest Simon Constable examines the political unpopularity of Prime Minister Starmer and the debate over King Charles's U.S. visit. Constable argues the monarch must proceed to maintain essential diplomatic ties despite ongoing regional wartime tensions.,, (7)7. Guests Mariam Wahba and Natalie Ecanow discuss the International Union of Muslim Scholars, identifying it as a Muslim Brotherhood-aligned group in Doha. They describe the organization's strategy of hedging between Iran and Arab states.,,, (8)8. Guests Natalie Ecanow and Mariam Wahba address the IMEC project to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. They emphasize the need for U.S. energy dominance and strategic infrastructure to reduce Iran's ability to leverage global trade routes.,, (9)9. Guest Michael Bernstam details how Russia benefits from the Iran war, earning $150 million extra daily as oil prices soar. He explains that lifting sanctions on the shadow fleet significantly strengthens Putin's wartime budget.,, (10)10. Guest Michael Bernstam analyzes the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a narrow choke point currently controlled by Iran. He warns of a massive shipping traffic jam that will cause prolonged high energy prices.,, (11)11. Guest Sinan Ciddi explains Turkey's deployment of NATO Patriot systems after Iranian missile provocations. Turkey seeks to stay out of the war, preferring a weakened but stable Iranian regime to prevent regional Kurdish uprisings.,,, (12)12. Guest Cliff May defines Iranian interference in the Strait of Hormuz as an act of international piracy. He urges U.S. action to guarantee freedom of navigation, comparing the threat to historical North African pirate states.,,, (13)13. Guest Peter Berkowitz discusses the book "Mobilize," which advocates for rebooting the American industrial base. He critiques central planning and argues the U.S. must leverage private-sector entrepreneurial innovation to counter the Chinese Communist Party.,, (14)14. Guest Peter Berkowitz outlines reforms for the Department of Defense, including cutting bureaucratic red tape and encouraging technological competition. He stresses the importance of higher education in teaching the free-market principles necessary for national security.,, (15)15. Guest Bob Zimmerman reports on the private space industry, highlighting SpaceX's flight records and plans for orbital AI data centers. He also discusses startups in South Korea and Germany facing technical challenges during their launches.,,, (16)16. Guest Bob Zimmerman explores archival space data on Uranus's moons and the upcoming Apophis asteroid mission. He highlights the "Mothra" telescope in Chile as a prime example of private enterprise funding successful scientific exploration projects.,, (17)SHOW SCHEDULE 3-18

Some of the missiles flying are sending messages. Every American strategist should be deeply uncomfortable. Remember the Russian fighter jet that Turkey shot down? Here are some details not getting noticed. Where were those missle's heading? Cyprus? The goal was to get Western forces off the island. Remember, Turkey invaded the island in 1974. They could be reasserting dominance. Fighter jets deployed with a defense as the excuse. Russia, China and Turkey are now acting together. Coordination of interests at play. Who gains? NATO is looking like a big fat pussy. Was Turkey actually being shot at? The evidence is in front of us. The response they did NOT trigger is hugely important. So often they go right to the edge, and then pull back. Here's how the board is resolved. A return to the broader strategic picture. Israel is still bombing Syria. The Kurdish question get's it's answer. Greece gets a Cyprus solution too. Chy-na will crawl to the table. The end game is not destruction, but a re-structuring of the board. Nothing is random, it's carefully planned architecture. This is the brutal truth with nasty details that nobody else would ever tell you.

Israel struck Tehran's oil facilities as Iran named a new supreme leader, the hardline son of the Ayatollah Israel killed on day one, and a senior Israeli military official tells NPR the war needs three more weeks.President Trump reversed course on Kurdish fighters entering Iran, and Iraq's Kurdish deputy prime minister tells NPR in his first interview with western media since the war began that the Kurds will not be part of the fight and are not guns for hire.And the war is strangling the Strait of Hormuz, where hundreds of tankers and container ships are now stranded, raising fears of a global energy crisis.Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Tina Kraja, James Hider, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ben Abrams.Our director is Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.(0:00) Introduction(01:55) Iran War Escalates(5:17)  Kurds Stay Out(10:52) Global Shipping CrisisTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Chris Cuomo brings together key moments from this week's Cuomo Mornings on SiriusXM, featuring conversations with former National Security Adviser John Bolton and Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), along with calls from listeners reacting to America's growing conflict with Iran.Bolton lays out why he believes regime change in Tehran is the only viable path to eliminating Iran's nuclear threat and explains where he thinks the Trump administration's political strategy has fallen short. Cuomo presses him on the risks of a power vacuum, the role of Kurdish groups inside Iran, and whether the U.S. has prepared for what comes after the regime.Lawler defends the administration's decision to strike Iran, arguing the regime posed an untenable threat and that the president acted within his authority. Cuomo challenges him on congressional oversight, the risk of another long war in the Middle East, and what lawmakers were actually told in classified briefings.Callers also weigh in on the war, from veterans concerned about another Iraq-style conflict to listeners debating whether regime change is the right goal and what the real strategy should be moving forward. Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos now, by going to https://Ethos.com/CUOMO Go to https://quince.com/cuomo for free shipping and 365-day returns on quality essentials, now available in Canada.Save more than 50% on term life insurance at https://selectquote.com/chrisc.#news #politics #iran #trump #cuomo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Regime change" shouldn't be a dirty word; yes, there will be boots on the ground... they just won't be ours; and we give you the deep dive on our erstwhile Kurdish allies, who may be preparing to take on the IRGC. Ep. 2381 Learn more about Diliman Abdulkader's organization 'American Friends of Kurdistan' here: https://www.americanfriendsofkurdistan.org Check out DailyWire's new show 'Wired in Live' hosted by Cabot Phillips today at 4pm ET. https://www.dailywire.com/show/wired-in-live - - - Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://dwplus.watch/BenShapiroMemberExclusive - - - Today's Sponsors: PureTalk - Make the switch in as little as 10 minutes and start saving today! Visit https://PureTalk.com/SHAPIRO Helix Sleep - Visit https://helixsleep.com/ben for this exclusive offer. - - - DailyWire+: Become a Daily Wire Member and watch all of our content ad-free: https://www.dailywire.com/subscribe

Krystal and Saagar discuss Trump preparing forever war, Hegseth rages at media, CIA Kurdish psyop, Congress backs Iran war. To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: www.breakingpoints.comMerch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of Episode 281 of the Mike Drop Podcast, I sit down with Special Forces veteran Mark Grecovich to break down the planning and execution behind Operation Viking Hammer. We get into working with Kurdish forces, the complications with Turkey backing out, and how Green Berets adapted on the fly to launch a high-risk mission against an Al-Qaeda–affiliated group in the mountains of northern Iraq. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the first time since World War Two, a U.S. submarine destroys a foreign warship. Kurdish fighting forces say they're ready for a ground invasion of Iran. And the Texas Senate primary set a record for Democratic turnout, underlining the stakes of midterm elections.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Pentagon has released footage of a US submarine firing on an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean and sinking it. Earlier, the Sri Lankan Navy picked up a distress call from the IRIS Dena. Sri Lankan police and defence officials say 87 bodies have been recovered from the water, and 67 sailors are still missing. Also: Iran carries out missile and drone attacks on several countries as Israel and the US continue to strike targets in Iran; we report from eastern Turkey where some Iranians have been crossing the border; and could Kurdish forces lead an insurgency to help topple the government in Tehran?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

Retired Green Beret, Mark Grdovic shares the largely untold story of what came to be known as "Operation Viking Hammer", a 2003 U.S. Army Special Forces mission in northern Iraq that targeted the terrorist group Ansar al-Islam prior to the main invasion. Working alongside Kurdish Peshmerga fighters, 10th Special Forces Group conducted a coordinated assault on entrenched enemy positions in mountainous terrain near Halabja, following Tomahawk strikes. The operation dismantled Ansar al-Islam's stronghold and secured the Kurdish region, enabling follow-on coalition operations deeper into Iraq. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices