Podcasts about Kurds

Attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia are putting Turkey's new defence pact with the kingdom to its first major test – forcing Ankara to weigh support for its ally against the risk of being drawn deeper into the conflict. Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement on 7 August, committing themselves to the principle that an attack on one is an attack on all. The three countries' military chiefs met in the Saudi capital on Friday, a day after the Iran-backed Houthis launched their latest barrage of missiles targeting Riyadh and Saudi Aramco oil facilities in Yanbu. In recent weeks, Saudi Arabia has reported intercepting numerous Houthi drone and ballistic missile attacks from neighbouring Yemen. The military chiefs discussed intelligence sharing, military coordination and integrating their capabilities, Saudi and Pakistani statements said. Turkey's defence ministry did not comment on the meeting. Erdogan hints at larger nuclear partnership with Russia, unsettling Turkey's allies Saudi expectations Turkey has so far stopped short of committing itself to military action. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said this month that Ankara was looking into providing what he called “technical support”, without elaborating on what that could involve. Saudi Arabia could look to Turkey for air defence systems, counter-drone technology, radars and maritime security, given the expertise and capabilities of the Turkish military and defence industry, said Amed Khuzaie of the Washington-based think tank N7 Foundation. “The Mecca Agreement pact will prove its vitality and importance only if it's deemed to be functional,” Khuzaie told RFI. The Riyadh meeting followed talks in New York on Thursday involving the Saudi and Turkish foreign ministers and Pakistan's deputy prime minister and foreign minister on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Turkish media citing foreign ministry sources said the meeting focused on ongoing “technical negotiations”. But providing support to Saudi Arabia could expose Turkey to retaliation from the Houthis. “By God, if Turkey and Pakistan become involved, we will strike them with an iron fist,” Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a senior member of the Houthis, said in an Iraqi television interview. Turkey seeks Black Sea shipping deal as attacks threaten grain trade Risk of retaliation The warning should be taken seriously given the Houthis' military presence around the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a critical waterway linking the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, explained Amed Nagi, a Yemen expert at the International Crisis Group. “[The Houthis] targeted US and UK shipping in the Red Sea,” Nagi said. “They could do the same beyond [that] to the Gulf of Aden, because we know Turkey is very active in the Horn of Africa. "So I think these are the areas that the Houthis will think about if there is any sort of retaliation against Turkey.” In 2024, the Houthis attacked US military and commercial shipping in the Red Sea, damaging the Gibraltar Eagle bulk carrier with a cruise missile and sinking the British-linked cargo ship MV Rubymar. Saudi Arabia could also look to Israel for support if its new partners do not provide what it needs, Khuzaie said. “Who has better intelligence in the region than the Israelis today?” he said. “Diversifying resources, if one fails you, you have another side that could assist.” The risks for Ankara go beyond possible Houthi retaliation. Turkey must also manage its relationship with Iran, which backs the Yemeni group. “It is not in the interest of Turkey to have a direct confrontation with any actor in the region, and the Houthis have become a proxy of Iran; Turkey doesn't want a confrontation with Iran directly," said Bilgehan Alagoz, an international relations professor at Istanbul's Marmara University. "Turkey is trying to solve the issue from a diplomatic point of view.” In a joint statement last week, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Egypt said that dialogue and diplomacy were the only sustainable way to resolve the region's conflicts, while affirming Saudi Arabia's right to defend itself under international law. Fidan met his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi in New York on Friday. Fidan later said they discussed Iran's negotiations with the United States and conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but that diplomatic efforts had yet to produce a breakthrough. What the SDF's dissolution means for Syria's Kurds and neighbouring Turkey Iran balancing act The diplomatic efforts come as Turkey's relationship with Iran faces other strains. Turkey-based international relations analyst Soli Ozel said Ankara has for decades walked a “fine line” between rivalry and cooperation with Tehran while balancing its relationships with Iran and Western allies, particularly the United States. Turkey's banking regulator recently revoked the operating licence of Iran's Bank Mellat branch in Istanbul, although the official notice did not say the move was intended to enforce US sanctions. The US Treasury also said Ankara had agreed after talks with Washington to stop flights by Iran's Mahan Air as part of efforts to comply with US measures against Tehran. Three Turkish airlines also suspended flights to Iran. Turkish authorities have also repeatedly accused Iran of hostile operations inside the country, including assassinations and abductions of Iranian dissidents. In January, security forces arrested six people suspected of spying for Iran and gathering information about the Incirlik air base, which is used by US forces. Becoming involved in the conflict against the Houthis could upset Ankara's already delicate relationship with Tehran, Ozel told RFI. “The Iranians who actually have a lot of [intelligence] capabilities in Turkey, we've seen that before, then you find yourself in a hot or cold war,” he said.

James discusses on Radio Islam the fallout of the US withdrawal from Iraq, the Kurds' uncertain future, why US Iranian talks at the UN are likely to fail, and tough choices facing Saudi Arabia in Yemen.

Kurds, the world's largest stateless ethnic group, have long been a fixture in US and Israeli machinations to undermine, if not topple, Iran's Islamist leaders. They still are. Since attacking Iran on February 28, US President Donald Trump and Israeli leaders have played with the idea of encouraging Iranian Kurdish militants operating from bases in autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan to open a new front in Iran's predominantly Kurdish western provinces. In an indication of continued Israeli interest in the Kurds, Middle East Forum, a Philadelphia-based influential hardline pro-Israeli think tank, this week included Kurdish in the launch of its foreign language offerings. Iranian Kurds have responded lukewarmly to US and Israeli entreaties.

Day Break | Who Controls the Future? Surveillance, AI & American Power --- 00:00 - Monologue 19:18 – Jim Malackowski, Chairman and Co-Founder of AIQA Global. Malackowski discusses growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence and argues that the focus shouldn't only be on what AI can do, but also on who is using it and for what purpose. He examines AI governance, accountability, security, and the risks organizations can face as adoption accelerates. 28:14 – Natalie Dominguez, Title Theft Education Specialist for Home Title Lock. Dominguez shares a disturbing case involving a daughter who discovered her father had died, only to learn that his caretaker had allegedly moved into the property and taken control of the deed. She explains how deed and title fraud can happen, warning signs families should watch for, and steps homeowners can take to monitor their property records. 38:21 - Monologue Featuring Ivey Gruber 47:21 – Chloe Waterman, Deputy Director for Food Systems and Agriculture at Friends of the Earth. Waterman discusses a new report examining the prevalence of industrially produced meat and cheese in American school lunch entrées. She explains the report's concerns about children's nutrition, food sourcing, and potential changes to school meal programs. 57:35 – Sal Nuzzo, Executive Director of Consumers' Defense. Nuzzo discusses the Trump administration's changes to Biden-era agriculture and climate initiatives and the implications for farmers, federal regulation, and conservation policy. USDA has made a number of changes to agriculture programs under the current administration while also continuing and expanding several federal farm-support and conservation programs. 1:06:32 – Patrick McEnroe, President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. McEnroe discusses concerns about American athletes losing opportunities on college rosters as international recruiting expands. He examines the issue following a House hearing focused on international athletes, roster availability, and what the changing landscape of college sports means for young American players. 1:16:47 - Monologue 1:25:50 – Salim Furth, Senior Research Fellow and Director of the Urbanity Project at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. Furth discusses housing reform across the United States and which policy approaches states are pursuing to increase housing supply. He examines zoning, permitting, development restrictions, and lessons from a 50-state look at efforts to address housing affordability. 1:35:56 – Jasmine Zaki, Chairwoman of the Board of the Middle East Policy Council. Zaki discusses U.S. policy toward Kurdish groups in the Middle East and whether changes in Washington's approach could create new opportunities for Iranian influence in Iraq. She examines the Kurds' strategic position, regional security, and the competing interests shaping U.S. policy in Iraq. 1:44:46 – State Rep. Mike Harris, representing Michigan's 52nd House District. Harris discusses his role chairing a House select committee reviewing the rules and procedures of the State Board of Canvassers and Bureau of Elections following controversy surrounding a citizen voting initiative. The Michigan House confirms Harris chairs the select committee, which is holding hearings on the issue and related election procedures. --- Check out our podcast, 'Forgotten America'... Episode 24 is live NOW at Steve Gruber on YouTube! Link below: https://youtu.be/UrGZQdE62jA

On today's episode, Monday News with the Fearsome Foursome — James, Glenn, Dwayne, and Ben, all half-on-the-road with Teams audio from the bottom of the pool — Dwayne is racing critical forgotten gear toward Pine Bluff while Glenn dodges semis, and the board is pure geopolitics: Greenland's “usufruct” win, Houthis vs Saudis, a possible Iran collapse with Kurds and a fleeing IRGC, Xi's Andrews Air Force Base state visit, Canada auditioning as an EU associate, and a UN foreclosure gag AI had to correct. They mark God's fall equinox tomorrow at 7:05pm Central, roast the Astros, bid Houston and New Orleans for a Space Force Academy, and geek out on Tesla's Oct. 1 Roadster airspace tease plus Honda's hybrid puddle-jumper and one-pilot $7M jet that lands itself. Lauren Boebert's three-staffer hit job, autopen cameos from Elizabeth Warren and Adam Schiff, Trump's CNN/Politico/MSNBC press-corps curb (with a Moby Dick filibuster plan and a James Perspective seat application), a Michigan mall hero on two years' probation for saving lives without a CCW, dying malls, Charlotte's Pizzagate long game, diesel so high Trump may briefly block exports while Zelensky bombs Russian refineries again, and an ICE shooting of a Venezuelan already under final removal — then Maple Street double-shots and PJ's Exit 33. Don't miss it!

Today's HeadlinesAs Syria unites independent military forces, the future of Kurds is uncertainScripture-filled “date books” bring hope to U.S. prisoners

Four years after the death of Jina Amini, Kurdish community leaders and advocates gathered at Australia's Parliament House in Canberra to commemorate her legacy and call for greater recognition of the ongoing oppression of Kurds and other marginalised communities in Iran. Ronak Rad and Jino Kardo discuss the outcomes of their meeting in Parliament House, highlighting transnational repression, threats to diaspora communities, and the need for greater international awareness of human rights violations. They urge Australian politicians and the international community to amplify Kurdish voices and acknowledge the ongoing struggle for freedom, justice, and human rights. - Çar salan piştî mirina Jina Emînî, rêber û parêzvanên civaka Kurd li Parlemana Australya li Canberra kom bûn da ku mîrateya wê bi bîr bînin. Ronak Rad û Jîno Kardo li ser encamên civîna xwe ya li Canberra nîqaş dikin, balê dikişînin ser zordariya navneteweyî, gefên li ser civakên dîasporayê, û pêwîstiya hişyariya navnetewî ya mezintir a li ser binpêkirinên mafên mirovan. Ew ji siyasetmedarên Australî û civaka navnetewî dixwazin ku dengê Kurdan bilind bikin û têkoşîna berdewam a ji bo azadî, edalet û mafên mirovan qebûl bikin.#sbsaudiopodcast - #sbsaudiopodcast

Leading Turkish LGBTQ activist Yildiz Tar explains why Turkey's authoritarian government is escalating repression of their community. The crackdown has less to do with public morals than an effort to divert public attention away from soaring inflation, poverty and joblessness, Tar notes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CAPTIOM 1750 PERSIAEthnic Diversity Defines Modern IranBrenda Shaffer, author of Iran Is More Than Persia: Ethnic Politics in Iran, challenges the misconception that Iran is a homogeneous Persian nation, revealing that ethnic minorities comprise over half of the population. Shaffer details the historic and ongoing struggles of Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Caspian peoples, and Baloch against Tehran's centralized discrimination and linguistic suppression. With strong transborder ethnic ties and economic neglect, these minority grievances fuel severe anti-regime protests, threatening the future stability and territorial integrity of the state, potentially leading to a very bloody civil war.

Banu Guven, a widely respected TV presenter, became the first Turkish journalist to host Kurdish leader Mazlum Kobane on national TV in Turkey. Until recently, interviewing the former commander of the now dissolved Syrian Democratic Forces was a punishable offense. But with Kurdish peace talks underway in Turkey and the integration of Kurdish structures in Syria's northeast advancing, the mood has shifted.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Turkey is racing to restore safe passage for cargo ships in the Black Sea as attacks on shipping disrupt grain exports and push up prices. Russia and Ukraine are major global wheat exporters, but Black Sea trade has been severely disrupted as both sides step up attacks on shipping and port infrastructure. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced this week that Turkey was working on a plan to ensure safe passage in the Black Sea for commercial shipping and said he was in touch with both Ukraine and Russia. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed that he raised the issue with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of a gathering of regional leaders in Kyrgyzstan. The Turkish move comes as Ukraine and Russia have ramped up their attacks on shipping and ports in and around the Black Sea. In 2022, Turkey and the United Nations brokered a deal between Ukraine and Russia to ensure safe passage for Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea. The agreement lasted a year. While Turkey has maintained good ties with both sides, reaching another agreement will be much harder, warned international relations professor Huseyin Bagci of Ankara's Middle East Technical University. “The tension is increasing more than ever before,” Bagci said. “It's not enough to have good relations, because the two sides – the Ukrainians and Russians – should sit down and talk about a common solution to this problem. Turkey cannot solve this problem alone.” What the SDF's dissolution means for Syria's Kurds and neighbouring Turkey Growing attacks In August Ukraine offered a ceasefire on commercial shipping, but the offer was rejected by Moscow, which said it wanted a broader deal. Ukrainian drones continue to strike Russian shipping, while Russia has continued missile attacks on Ukrainian ports and ships. This surge in attacks comes as both nations rush to export their grain harvests. Grain prices have risen sharply, by as much as 30 percent, international grain broker Can Atbasoglu said, even as both sides scramble to find new routes for their exports. “Russia will do their best to export as much as they can, both from Russian Baltic ports and EU Baltic ports like Latvia and Lithuania; they're also exporting,” Atbasoglu said. “Ukraine will also export as much as they can from Romania as well and through the Danube ports. But the export pace will be definitely lower. So it will definitely stay bullish for the markets. Prices are definitely going to stay like this or can have a further increase.” Fears of wheat price surge amid Ukraine-Russia clashes in the Black Sea Ships staying put At one of Istanbul's many shipyards, the docks are crowded with ships that once braved the Black Sea. One vessel bears the scars of a drone attack and is under repair. Others undergo routine maintenance as shipowners hesitate to risk new journeys into dangerous waters. The superintendent of one ship, speaking anonymously, says repairs are nearly finished, but uncertainty clouds the future. “We wanted to take the ship out to the Black Sea before entering the shipyard, but because of that risk, we didn't enter the Black Sea and didn't take on any cargo. We've been in the shipyard for 50 days for repairs, but we don't know what will happen once the repairs are finished,” the superintendent said. Turkish shipowners warn that many are on the brink of bankruptcy, as idle ships rack up costs of up to 50,000 euros a month in mooring and crew expenses. Ziya Ustel, CEO of Turkish shipping company VI-ZA STAR, says high freight rates are being offered for Black Sea routes, but the risks are too great. “They are offering high freight rates, etc,” Ustel said. Without a diplomatic solution, few shipowners will be prepared to risk their vessels, Ustel warned. “The main thing is to find out a real solution,” Ustel added. “Otherwise, no one will try anything anymore.” Turkish diplomacy Ankara is expected to step up its efforts to find a solution. Grain brokers say hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough may be one reason prices have so far remained below the record highs seen at the start of the war. But if Turkish efforts fail and attacks on Black Sea shipping continue, higher grain prices could have a considerable impact, especially on the world's poorest nations, many of which depend on Russian and Ukrainian grain.

CAPTION 1888 DAMASCUSSyrian Integration Brings Hope and RiskAhmad Sharawi outlines regional developments in the Middle East, starting with a US-mediated agreement involving the IAEA and Syria to monitor nuclear material from the bombed Al-Kibar site. Although supervised by the IAEA, the material remaining in Syria poses a risk of theft or exploitation by neighbors. Sharawi also details the finalized integration of Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into the national military, granting Kurds citizenship and language rights while expanding state control to ninety-seven percent of Syrian territory. This satisfies Turkey by ending hopes of Kurdish autonomy. Finally, he notes impending US sanctions against Oman for sanctions-busting. (8)

CAPTION 1857 WALL STREET, 230 PM, PANICCONTENTS OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 9-1-2026Economic Strength Persists Despite Oil PressuresLiz Peek observes that while Wall Street is split on whether the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates in September, the American economy remains robust. Consumer spending is strong, small business profitability is at yearly highs, and hiring remains resilient. The primary economic headwind is rising oil prices fueled by the war in Iran. Additionally, she analyzes the investment potential of rebuilding Venezuela's ruined oil infrastructure, estimating it will take five years to yield significant production increases. Finally, Peek highlights how progressive groups like the Democratic Socialists of America and Chinese misinformation bots actively oppose crucial domestic data center development. (1)Russian Hybrid Attacks Destabilize European SecurityJudy Dempsey discusses European frustration over the unexpected presence of Russia's finance minister at a G20meeting, which highlighted a lack of communication within the transatlantic alliance. She details the Leipzig drone incident—a critical near-miss attack at a vital logistics hub for Ukraine—which is suspected to be a Russian hybrid operation. Dempsey explains how Russia leverages cyber and physical threats to instill fear, polarization, and anxiety among voters. This instability directly bolsters the populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which capitalizes on eastern Germany's demographic decline, economic resentment, and euroskeptic nationalism. (2)Hidden Fiscal Challenges Facing Modern EconomiesJoseph Sternberg warns Americans about the hidden burdens of a Value Added Tax (VAT), a consumption tax common in Europe. Although pitched as simple, Sternberg argues that this tax creates immense compliance burdens for small businesses, requiring a full working week annually to administer. This complexity fosters a cash-based gray market to evade the tax. Furthermore, because the tax is concealed within product prices rather than added at checkout, politicians can easily hike rates without public outcry. Sternberg also contrasts Europe's expensive, highly regulated data center shortage with America's resistance to building the AI infrastructure crucial for its economic future. (3)Canada Navigates Trade Rupture With AmericaCharles Burton highlights the geopolitical fallout from the breakdown of US-Canada trade negotiations, which resulted in a fifty percent tariff penalty on Canada. This dispute sparked a surge of anti-American nationalism, boosting political support for Mark Carney, particularly in Quebec over French-language protection concerns. Consequently, Canada is rapidly diversifying its trade away from the United States, aligning closer with China and the European Union. Burton warns that Beijing stands to benefit immensely, offering trade access if Canada ceases opposing Chinese geostrategic interests, while Ottawa prioritizes west coast pipelines to ship oil directly to China. (4)Global Chaos Drives Rise of NationalismGregory Copley outlines how global actors leverage chaos to achieve strategic goals, noting China's aggressive attempts to disrupt the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau due to Taiwan's participation. Beijing's hostile diplomacy also targets Eswatini, Africa's sole state recognizing Taiwan, to strip Taiwan of international support. Copley notes that energy security is governed by transportation bottlenecks, highlighting the strategic importance of Cuban cobalt for future energy storage. Finally, he explains how uncontrolled migration and Russian hybrid operations drive resurgent European nationalism, prompting a breakdown of supranational systems like the European Union. He also touches on British royal dynamics. (5)Frustrated Voters Navigate Challenging Midterm DynamicsThaddeus McCotter interprets midterm election polling, explaining how the president's approval rating influences independent voters seeking checks and balances in Congress. He notes that high, near-identical disapproval ratings for both major parties reflect widespread voter frustration with outdated governing paradigms. Rather than outright anger, Americans are frustrated by the lack of sane, competent governance and positive, aspirational platforms. McCotter highlights how voters connect abstract foreign policies, such as ongoing operations in Iran, directly to their daily lives and pocketbooks through tangible domestic indicators like high gasoline prices. (6)University Core Curriculum Reform Offers PromisePeter Berkowitz discusses university core curriculum reform, pointing to a promising new proposal at the University of Texas at Austin. He argues that traditional core curricula fail because tenured faculty prioritize narrow research interests over student needs, leaving graduates without a foundational understanding of Western civilization, American political ideas, or global cultures. Under UT Austin's top-down initiative, the curriculum is divided into arts and humanities, social sciences, and STEM, offering deep introductions to major issues. Berkowitz contrasts this structured reform with conventional systems that students merely view as arbitrary academic hoops. (7)Syrian Integration Brings Hope and RiskAhmad Sharawi outlines regional developments in the Middle East, starting with a US-mediated agreement involving the IAEA and Syria to monitor nuclear material from the bombed Al-Kibar site. Although supervised by the IAEA, the material remaining in Syria poses a risk of theft or exploitation by neighbors. Sharawi also details the finalized integration of Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into the national military, granting Kurds citizenship and language rights while expanding state control to ninety-seven percent of Syrian territory. This satisfies Turkey by ending hopes of Kurdish autonomy. Finally, he notes impending US sanctions against Oman for sanctions-busting. (8)

Nearly a week after the Syrian Democratic Forces agreed to dissolve, the consequences are beginning to take shape for Syria's Kurds and neighbouring Turkey. As the former US-backed force is absorbed into the Syrian state, questions remain over what the country's Kurds have secured in return – from language and political rights to protections for women – and what the end of more than a decade of Kurdish-led autonomy means for Turkey's own conflict with Kurdish militants. SDF leader Mazloum Abdi announced the force's dissolution last Tuesday, saying its fighters would be integrated into the Syrian army. At its height, the predominantly Kurdish force numbered around 100,000 fighters and controlled nearly a fifth of Syrian territory in the northeast, including major oil fields and fertile land. Under SDF rule, Kurds gained cultural and political rights denied to them under previous governments in Damascus. “It means the end of Kurdish autonomy. After more than one decade of freedom, now they are under the control of Damascus,” said Syria expert Fabrice Balanche of Lyon University, who frequently visited the region. Kurdish rights “There are no guarantees for the Kurdish language because it's just a presidential decree: ‘let the Kurds use their language and teach Kurdish in schools,' but there is nothing in the constitution,” Balanche said. The decree, issued by President Ahmed al-Sharaa in January, recognised Kurdish as a national language and allowed it to be taught in schools in areas with significant Kurdish populations. It also restored citizenship to Kurds who had been left stateless under measures stemming from a controversial 1962 census and made Nowruz, the Kurdish New Year festival, an official national holiday. The Education Ministry followed up on 27 August with rules providing for three Kurdish-language classes a week in public and private schools in areas with significant Kurdish populations, with marks counting towards pupils' final grades. ‘Words and promises not enough' as Syria's Kurds face uncertain future Abdi was also appointed as an adviser to al-Sharaa on Friday, days after announcing the SDF's dissolution. It remains unclear whether the role will be more than ceremonial. But questions remain over what the end of the Kurdish-led administration will mean for women. The SDF and affiliated institutions used a system in which governing bodies were jointly headed by a man and a woman. “During these 10 years of autonomy, men and women were equal,” Balanche said. “In the region's administration. It was always a co-presidency. In Raqqah, for example, the mayor was Leyla Mustafa, a woman, and the co-president was a man. Now that is no longer the case.” Balanche also said the change could threaten restrictions on polygamy introduced under the Kurdish-led administration. Another unresolved question is what will happen to female SDF fighters as the force is absorbed into Syria's armed forces, which currently have no female troops. Shifting alliances For years, the SDF was Washington's main partner on the ground in Syria in the fight against the Islamic State group. But its position weakened as the United States built closer relations with Syria's new rulers. A Syrian government offensive in January seized large areas held by the SDF and pushed the Kurdish-led force back into negotiations over integration with Damascus. Washington, meanwhile, has increasingly embraced al-Sharaa's government, dismantling broad sanctions against Syria in 2025 and last week removing the country from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. Turkey has emerged as one of al-Sharaa's main foreign allies and has long pressed for the SDF to disarm and integrate into the Syrian state. Ankara considers the SDF a terrorist organisation linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which launched an insurgency against the Turkish state in 1984. The SDF has rejected Turkey's claim that it is an extension of the PKK. A year after Assad's fall, Syrian hopes for transitional justice are fading The United States and European Union designate the PKK as a terrorist organisation, but not the SDF. Turkey has carried out several cross-border military operations against the SDF in northern Syria since 2016 and still has thousands of troops stationed in the country. Ankara says those forces will remain until the security threats it faces have been eliminated. The SDF's dissolution therefore achieves a longstanding Turkish objective in Syria. Turkey's ruling AK Party welcomed the move last week as an important step towards strengthening Syria's unity. “Stability in Syria means Turkey perhaps being able to divert some of the resources it's been spending on counterterrorism into other areas of its defense that are absolutely necessary at a time like this, a time of regional turmoil,” said Turkey expert Asli Aydintasbas of the Washington-based Brookings Institution. Turkey's Kurdish conflict The SDF's dissolution could also remove an obstacle to the fragile peace process between Ankara and the PKK. The process is intended to end the PKK's decades-long armed campaign against the Turkish state through the group's disarmament and dissolution. Jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan called on the group to disarm and disband in February 2025, and the PKK announced three months later that it would do so. A group of militants symbolically burned their weapons at a ceremony in northern Iraq in July 2025. Turkey's parliament passed a law in August establishing a legal framework for the PKK's disbandment. Kurdish politicians have said broader democratic and legal reforms will also be needed for lasting peace. Macron to become first Western European leader to visit post-Assad Syria For Ankara, however, the process does not stop at Turkey's borders. It has repeatedly insisted that the SDF must also dissolve, because it regards the Syrian force as part of the same militant movement as the PKK. The SDF has disputed that characterisation, with Abdi saying in 2025 that the PKK's decision to disarm did not apply to his forces in Syria. The dismantling of groups Ankara regards as PKK affiliates across the region is essential to the process, said Middle East expert Serhan Afacan of Istanbul's Marmara University. “The PKK should not exist anywhere in the region. This is what Ankara has been saying for more than a year,” Afacan said. “If there is going to be any kind of peace process or reconciliation, the PKK is not supposed to exist anywhere in this region, in Turkey, in Iran, in Iraq, Syria.”

Many Kurds across the region feel angered by the Aug. 25 announcement by Syrian Democratic Forces commander-in-chief Mazlum Kobane that the force has been formally dissolved. Ibrahim Hamidi, a veteran Syrian journalist and editor-in-chief of Al Majalla, argues that the push for Kurdish rights is by no means over, and that Kobane's new role as an advisor to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will present the Kurds with fresh opportunities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

These are the top headlines from Arab News, the Middle East's leading English-language daily, on Thursday August 27th at 6pm GMT.   - Qatar PM visits Tehran to pursue mediation efforts - White House says no negotiations with Iran, all options on table - Israeli strikes kill three people in Gaza, medics say - Pakistan, Kuwait sign expanded defense agreement amid regional tensions - Arab News looks at what Syria's Kurds gain as the SDF gives up autonomy?   Check out the latest updates on http://arabnews.com    

This week, Jason is joined by esteemed British historian and author, Simon Sebag Montefiore, to discuss his latest book, The Cauldron: The Making of the Modern Middle East. Jason and Sebag's discussion ranges over centuries of history and ping pongs back and forth on myriad topics. It tries to make the peripheral central by putting the non-Arab, non-Sunni groups at the centre of understanding the Modern Middle East. They unpack how the Middle East became the Disorderly region we know today and where to frame current conflicts historically to understand certain deeper dynamics, especially as pertains to minorities and their ambitions for statehood and peoplehood. They focus a lot on WWI and the dynamics that emerged from it and shaped the history of the Kurds, Armenians, Turks, and fleeing Ionian Greeks. These were the dynamics of population transfer and ethnonationalism that destroyed the old Middle East of the Millet System. They try to avoid the overdone Israel/Palestine dynamics which occasionally shed more heat than light. With this framing in place, they look at what tragedies took us to the current pointless and self-defeating Iran war, and where we might go from here. To get part 2 with bonus content, and hear it before anyone else, join our Mega Orderers Club at disordershow.com/club Producer: George McDonagh Subscribe to our Substack - https://natoandtheged.substack.com/ Disorder on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DisorderShow Show Notes Links: To get Simon's book https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cauldron-Making-Modern-Middle-East/dp/1399634895/  For more Disorder about the history of the Middle East, try: What is Zionism and is it still relevant today? Israel's Independence Day with Phil Rosenberg  https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ug89R0zHLumkldJX5Cmo2 And Sir Vincent Fean The Case for Palestinian Statehood: https://disorder.supportingcast.fm/listen/disorder/ep74-part2-the-case-for-palestinian-statehood  And the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day: https://disorder.supportingcast.fm/listen/disorder/ep36-part-i-former-armenian-president-sarkissian-on-armenian-genocide-remembrance-day This episode is brought to you in partnership with the New Books Network, for more visit https://newbooksnetwork.com/category/up-partners/disorder 

The IDF hit the Abu al-Duhur military air base in northern Syria last week after it received intelligence that Turkey was seeking to station a radar and an air defense system manned by Turkish troops there. U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack, said the Israeli strike could have triggered a direct confrontation with Turkey, accusing Israel of "baiting the Turks." After a series of mutual accusations between the countries, Turkey requested an Interpol Red Notice against PM Netanyahu for “genocide” in connection with the Gaza flotilla affair. Netanyahu responded in a statement from his office. “Israel has long since ceased to be impressed by Turkey’s hypocrisy,” he said. “Erdoğan is an antisemitic dictator who has massacred Kurds, supports Hamas’ massacre and oppresses his own people. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Alon Liel. (Photo: AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions between Turkey and Israel have been spiraling over Gaza, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Horn of Africa and above all in Syria. Fears of a confrontation between the US allies grew this week after Israel bombed a military airport near the Turkish border, saying Turkish forces were about to move in. Israeli analyst Danny Citrinowicz believes that with no active deconfliction mechanism in place a hot clash is imminent if not inevitable.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Turkey stands on the threshold of closing a conflict spanning almost 50 years, after the Turkish parliament this week passed a law allowing exiled Kurdish militants to return home and rejoin society. The legislation aims to end the war with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has battled the Turkish state for independence since 1984. On Monday, legislators voted 468-88 in favour of a law detailing how the PKK will lay down arms, disband and guide most members back into civilian life. Many see this legislation as a turning point after decades of bloodshed. “This law in question is going to make a giant contribution,” predicts sociologist Mesut Yegen of the Diyarbakir-based Kurdish Studies Center. “If the PKK militants are convinced that they can be safe in Turkey, it's estimated that some 15,000 people in Europe, in Syria, in Iraq and in the prisons in Turkey are going to be either released or are going to be able to come back home.” The PKK leadership, based primarily in Iraq, is not covered by the legislation. Nor is the group's founder and leader Abdullah Ocalan, imprisoned since 1999 in a Turkish jail. He initiated the peace process and last year called for the disarmament and dissolution of the PKK. Hope, caution Istanbul, now the city's with the world's largest Kurdish population, became a sanctuary in the 1990s as hundreds of thousands fled the violence raging in Turkey's southeast. At the conflict's peak, the Turkish army destroyed villages in relentless scorched-earth campaigns. In Istanbul's Bagcilar district, home to a vibrant Kurdish community, conversations reveal a fragile mix of hope and caution. “This law seems good for the honour of the Kurds and to stop bloodshed,” said 31-year-old Ahmet, who only wanted to be identified by his first name. “Mothers should not shed tears anymore.”  But others were more wary. “The state has been delaying our rights for decades; I do not believe this process will be different,” said Kava, who also preferred not to give his full name. “I do not trust an arrangement in which Kurds do not have legal status.”  Kurds make up around a fifth of Turkey's population, but are not legally recognised as a minority. Emotions appear equally divided among Turks. “If they're agreeing to live under the Turkish flag and love our country, that's fine – let them,” said 51-year-old Mehmet Tas. But 40-year-old Ertugral Zengin is unconvinced. “They committed a crime – and now they are to be pardoned? Do I want something like that? No, I won't accept it.” PKK ends 40-year fight but doubts remain about the next steps Political momentum The decades-long conflict has claimed 40,000 lives and forced more than 3 million people from their homes. While major political parties support the peace process, hardline nationalist groups remain staunchly opposed, insisting it rewards a PKK they see as already defeated. The process hinges on the laborious task of disarming the PKK and verifying its weapons are gone. Maintaining the current political momentum is vital, warns Asli Aydintasbas, a Turkey expert at the Brookings Institution, a think tank in Washington DC. “If this drags on, political support for the legislation and for the return of former PKK members, seen by many Turks as terrorists, would become politically problematic for the government. Timing and moving fast is very important to achieve reconciliation,” she says. The government is expected to face growing pressure to address Kurdish rights, including Kurdish-language education in schools and local autonomy, along with broader democratic reforms. Social media buzzes with questions: how can PKK members walk free while critics of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan remain behind bars? Peace or politics? Turkey's fragile path to ending a decades-long conflict Yegen warns that since the new legislation fails to address Kurdish rights and democratisation reforms, the government needs to move swiftly. “The fact that these two issues are not touched upon by the law has created many doubts on both Kurdish and Turkish sides about whether disarmament will be the government's only agenda,” he says. For Erdogan, steering the peace process to success could secure the vital Kurdish vote in the 2028 elections. Yet extending Kurdish cultural rights risks alienating Turkish nationalists, and relaxing pressure on the opposition brings its own perils as their electoral strength grows. For now, the negotiations present a rare window for reconciliation and lasting peace.

How do languages die? Who's behind the death of languages from Ghana's Dagbani to regional Italian dialects? And does it matter if they decay? Almost half of our 7,000 languages are expected to go extinct by the next century and “linguicide”, the death of a language, is to blame. It can be intentional, such as the Turkish government's repression of Kurds or less intentional, due to simple neglect. So can anything be done to save languages from dying? Journalist, author and broadcaster Sophia Smith Galer joins Emma Kennedy to discuss the impending linguistic extinction.  • Buy Sophia's book How To Kill a Language: Power, Resistance and the Race to Save Our Words from our affiliate bookshop and you'll help fund the podcast by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org's fees help support independent bookshops too. • Back us on Patreon – www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Emma Kennedy. Producer: James Liddell. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. www.podmasters.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The mutual defense pact signed between the regional Muslim powers comes against the backdrop of the Iran war, which has hurt Gulf countries more than any others.Saudi Arabia's oil sales have plummeted. Its energy infrastructure is badly damaged. It hopes Turkey and Pakistan's help will deter further attacks from the Iran-backed Houthis as well. Iran scholar Hamidreza Azizi discusses what the pact means for Tehran and the region.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Did disagreements between Mossad and the IDF help lead to systematic failure to deploy Kurdish fighters and to topple the regime in Iran? Dan is joined by Nadav Eyal who provides an in-depth analysis of Israel's covert plans to destabilize Iran, the role of Kurdish forces, and the internal decision-making failures that may have impacted the outcome of the war and regional security. This episode unpacks the complexities behind secret operations, disagreements between Mossad and the IDF, and the geopolitical implications for Israel and Iran.  —- Call Me Back is made possible by our subscribers. If these conversations are where you turn to understand Israel and the Jewish world, consider joining them. It's what keeps this show going. Become a Subscriber - Inside Call me Back This episode is sponsored by The Shalom Hartman Institute. Register for The Road to the Israeli Elections webinar with the Shalom Hartman Institute's Tani Frank and Masua Sagiv.  This episode is also sponsored by Hayarkon 70.  Stay in the heart of Tel Aviv at Hayarkon 70, a restored 1934 landmark just steps from the beach. Its eight guest residences combine the building's character and history with full kitchens, spacious living areas, and 24/7 guest service. Call Me Back listeners receive 10% off their stay at Hayarkon70.com/callmeback.

Did disagreements between Mossad and the IDF help lead to systematic failure to deploy Kurdish fighters and to topple the regime in Iran? Dan is joined by Nadav Eyal who provides an in-depth analysis of Israel's covert plans to destabilize Iran, the role of Kurdish forces, and the internal decision-making failures that may have impacted […]

The launch of the Yeni Party in Turkey promises to energise the country's struggling opposition. But while some polls show it leading, it remains vulnerable – already beset by arrests it says are "politically motivated".  In a glitzy video, set to pumping music and shared widely across social media, Ozgur Ozel launched the Yeni Party – "New Party" – vowing to usher in a new era in Turkish politics and end President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's long rule. Ozel founded the New Party after a court removed him from leading the main opposition party, the Republican People's Party (CHP). His rival, former party leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu, 77, who lost every election during his decade in charge of the CHP, replaced him. Many in the country believe Erdogan played a role in the removal of Ozel, as his popularity grew thanks to tireless campaigning. Riding the wave The New Party is settings its sights beyond the CHP's usual supporters. "It covers the whole political spectrum in Turkish political life," explains Ozel's advisor Ilham Uzel. "There are critical elements like democratisation, rule of law, secularism and a pro-Western approach, so we maintain these main pillars. But it is not confined to social democracy; we reach out to every section of Turkish society, including Islamists and conservatives, nationalists and liberals. We have Kurdish supporters." The New Party is riding a wave of excitement. Ninety-one out of 135 CHP parliamentary deputies have defected to its ranks, joined by dozens of mayors and it is swiftly becoming the main opposition in parliament. Turkey opposition worries that Europe is sacrificing democracy for security Some polls show the party soaring above 30 percent, leaving Erdogan's Justice and Development Party behind, while the CHP's support has collapsed. The New Party's broad approach is finding fertile ground. "Even those who still support the governing coalition, the AK Party and MHP, are unhappy with how things are or how politics is practised, especially regarding economic issues. So there is a push towards change," says political commentator Sezin Oney. "There is a yearning to change things at the grassroots, and the New Party may be the only party that can represent a new way of doing politics. But they have to live up to it, of course." Corruption charges Erdogan has remained in power for more than 20 years partly by exploiting divisions within the opposition, which is made up of conservatives, hardline secularists, and both Kurdish and Turkish nationalists.  The New Party has a key advantage over the strongly secular CHP, whose history is linked to past policies targeting Turkey's large Kurdish minority and religious conservatives. "CHP is identified with many bad experiences that the Kurds and conservative people had in past decades," said Mesut Yegen of the Diyarbakir-based Kurdish Studies Center. "If you look at what Ozgur Ozel says during his speeches, you may clearly see the Yeni Party doesn't have the baggage of CHP." Erdogan has also often exploited the CHP's history, painting it as anti-religious and hostile to Kurdish minority rights. The New Party faces the tricky task of keeping CHP loyalists on board while reaching new supporters. But for now, simply staying out of jail may be the most pressing concern for its representatives.  Turkey marks a decade since the coup that never was, but never really ended Several mayors who joined the New Party have been arrested on corruption charges, widely seen as politically motivated. In the past two years, 26 opposition mayors and hundreds of officials have been imprisoned on corruption allegations, compared to two mayors from Erdogan's AK Party. "They are cracking down on our party – every other day, mayors are arrested," says Uzgel. "They filed another charge against our leader. Nobody is safe in this authoritarian regime. So Mr Ozel is on the spot, definitely." Ozel is protected by parliamentary immunity, but Oney warns he may be running out of time. "Ozgur Ozel might be imprisoned himself once his immunity is removed by a parliamentary vote, that's a possibility. The only immunity he can have is the immunity bestowed upon him by the people. So only public opinion is protecting him. How much can it protect him? We'll see." With parliament about to break for summer until October, Ozel has a brief window to strengthen his party and rally public support.

Why did an Israeli-U.S. plan that counted on Kurdish fighters to help topple the Iranian regime fall apart?   Dan is joined by investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker Itai Anghel who risked his life to follow Kurdish fighters in Syria, Iraq and Iran to document their guerrilla warfare tactics, explore how Kurdish leaders viewed Israel, why that trust fractured, and how those experiences shaped their views of the Israeli-U.S. secret plan for Kurds to fight inside Iran. The conversation also examines why Kurdish women fighters are key, and the military, political, and regional obstacles that doomed the plot from the start.  On August 10th, Part 2 will examine the plan from Israel's intelligence and military perspectives. Watch Itai Anghel's documentary The Women Most Wanted in Iran ___ Call Me Back is made possible by our subscribers. If these conversations are where you turn to understand Israel and the Jewish world, consider joining them. It's what keeps this show going. Become a Subscriber - Inside Call me Back     Subscribe to Ark News Daily This episode is sponsored by The Israel Democracy Institute: For resources on Israel's upcoming election and to learn more about IDI, visit elections.idi.org.il/2026.  ___ In this episode: 1. Who are the Kurds, and why they matter 2. The surprising Kurdish bond with Israel 3. A stateless nation with big aspirations 4. Women fighters now and in the war against ISIS 5. Why Kurdish trust in Israel and the U.S. has eroded 6. Inside the Iranian Kurdish underground 7. The Kurds' view of the U.S.-Israeli plan for Kurdish boots on the ground in Iran 8. Why, when and how the plan for Kurdish fighters fell apart ___ More Ark Media: Want to join Ark Media? Check out our careers page for new openings. Explore Israel Votes Listen to Ark News Daily Listen to For Heaven's Sake Listen to What's Your Number? 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, Beth Pearlman, Brittany Cohen, Ava Weiner, Martin Huergo, Mariangeles Burgos, and Yuval Semo

Why did an Israeli-U.S. plan that counted on Kurdish fighters to help topple the Iranian regime fall apart? Dan is joined by investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker Itai Anghel who risked his life to follow Kurdish fighters in Syria, Iraq and Iran to document their guerrilla warfare tactics, explore how Kurdish leaders viewed Israel, why that […]

For many members of Arabic-speaking communities, identity cannot be reduced to a single label. A shared language does not always mean a shared background. Behind the Arabic language are communities with distinct histories, including Assyrians, Armenians, Kurds, Chaldeans, Amazigh and others, each with their own traditions and memories. In the opening episode of SBS Arabic's 'Different but One', we attempt to uncover the uniqueness of each layer of these identities and how these ethnicities are building a harmonious future in Australia. - هذه الحلقة من بودكاست "مختلفون ولكن" تغوص في سؤال الهوية والانتماء داخل المجتمعات الناطقة بالعربية في أستراليا، حيث تتقاطع اللغات والثقافات والذاكرة مع تجربة الهجرة. من الآشوريين والأكراد إلى الأرمن والأمازيغ، يروي ضيوف الحلقة كيف حافظوا على خصوصياتهم الثقافية دون أن يكون ذلك عائقًا أمام التعايش والانفتاح على الآخرين. وتستكشف الحلقة كيف منحت أستراليا مساحة للقاء هويات كانت تفصل بينها السياسة والصراعات، لتصبح القيم الإنسانية المشتركة أساسًا لبناء مجتمع أكثر تنوعًا ووئامًا. كما تطرح تساؤلات عميقة حول معنى الهوية، وإمكانية التمسك بالجذور مع احتضان الاختلاف، مؤكدة أن لكل اسم وقصة وانتماء مكانًا في فسيفساء المجتمع الأسترالي.

The withdrawal of the last US troops from Erbil marks the end of an era in which the Kurds were the United States' closest ally in Iraq, says Victoria Taylor, former deputy assistant secretary of state for Iraq and Iran affairs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When the U.S. wages war in the Middle East that American Christians support, do we remember that some of the people beneath those bombs are fellow Christians? And even when they are not Christians, how can we forget that Jesus calls us to love our neighbor and enemy alike? Mennonite pastor, writer, screenwriter, and activist Nathan Perrin joins Craig for a conversation about the people Western headlines often leave out. Nathan has spent nearly a decade working alongside Assyrians, Kurds, Palestinians, and other Middle Eastern communities through local organizing and visits to northern Iraq. He recounts visiting an Assyrian church that had been rebuilt again and again after attempts to destroy it. A cross in its courtyard covered in bullet holes. Yet when new bombardments began, Christian and Muslim neighbors exchanged keys to their homes so each family would have a place of safety. That act of neighbor-love stands in sharp contrast to the fear often preached in American churches. Craig and Nathan explore why the word evangelical carries painful baggage in parts of the Middle East. Ancient Christian communities have sometimes been treated as mission targets, while humanitarian aid has been tied to conversion. Nathan challenges us to consider whether people abroad encounter Jesus through Western Christianity, or the pressure of empire. The conversation also covers: Christian communities in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Palestine How US military action creates blowback against local Christians and Muslims Dispensationalism and unquestioning Christian support for the State of Israel The difference between loving Jewish neighbors and defending a government Craig's Ramadan meal with a Muslim neighbor Assyrians, Yazidis, Mandaeans, and other overlooked communities Christian nationalism, political personality cults, and closed media silos Books, sermons, documentaries, and films for deeper learning Nathan reminds listeners that ordinary Muslims he has met often describe Christians in simple terms: “Christians are our neighbors.” What would change if the Western church began there?

Former Pakistani Foreign Minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri says Pakistan welcomes Saudi Arabia's nuclear agreement with the United States and says Pakistan is bound by its treaty obligations to defend the Kingdom should it come under attack.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hansen, who spent more than a decade reporting from Turkey for The New York Times Magazine, is the author of a widely acclaimed new book on the country under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. She explains how his core supporters are feeling betrayed by the Turkish leader and how his reign might yet end.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Daily Brief of The Wright Report, Bryan breaks the news that the US is officially back at war with Iran, with President Trump notifying Congress under the War Powers framework as strikes continue across the region. Bryan covers the reinstated naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, the new 20 percent transit fee the US will charge shipping companies, and Iran's retaliatory strikes against Kurdish militia bases in Iraq. He also reports on a first ever US Navy sea drone strike on an Iranian naval facility, rising tension between Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels in Yemen, and mounting fuel shortages in Europe tied to the widening conflict. Bryan closes with his analysis on why bombing alone will not resolve the standoff with Tehran and what he hopes to hear in President Trump's upcoming address to the nation. Plus, Bryan runs through a series of domestic stories he sees as connected: political rhetoric out of Michigan, an arrest tied to international money laundering and terror financing charges, a church fire in Pittsburgh, controversy over a Minnesota pardon, and a casting debate surrounding a major Hollywood adaptation of The Odyssey. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32   Keywords: Wright Report, Bryan Dean Wright, Iran war, Trump, Strait of Hormuz, naval blockade, Iran strikes, IRGC, Kurds, Houthis, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Europe fuel shortage, War Powers, Congress, Michigan politics, Rashida Tlaib, Abdul El-Sayed, Tim Walz, pardon controversy, Pittsburgh church fire, Hollywood casting, The Odyssey, Christopher Nolan, CIA analysis, national security, foreign policy

See the full Sorani Kurd people group profile here https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/11126 

Selim Koru, founder of the Kulturkampf Substack, argues that Turkey's World Cup loss is emblematic of the failure of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's civilizational project and may prove to be a milestone in the unraveling of his 24-year reign.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the Women Emerging podcast's Journey to Leadership series, Julia Middleton speaks with writer, social entrepreneur and Obama Leader Europe, Mevan Babakar, about a journey she never imagined would be described as leadership. Born in Baghdad, Mevan spent five years as a child refugee after her family fled Saddam Hussein's genocide of the Kurds. As she moved across borders and languages, she found herself translating not only words, but systems, cultures and opportunities for the people around her. Looking back, she can now see those moments as acts of leadership, even though she did not recognise them as such at the time. Together, Julia and Mevan explore what leadership looks like beyond titles and hierarchy. They discuss community, belonging, trust and the many ways people step forward when something needs doing. Mevan reflects on her work in technology, fact-checking and democracy, and why some of society's biggest challenges require more than quick fixes. The conversation also explores the relationship between intellect and instinct, and what happens when the work we do no longer aligns with what we know to be true. Drawing on her experiences at Full Fact and Google, Mevan shares why paying attention to both mind and body can be essential when making difficult decisions. Throughout the episode, she returns to a powerful idea: leadership is not reserved for a select few. It is something people step into every day, often long before they recognise it in themselves. This episode will resonate with anyone interested in leadership, women leading, social impact, community building, belonging, resilience, personal growth and finding the confidence to take up space.About the Guest: Mevan Babakar is a writer and technologist born in Baghdad to Kurdish refugee parents. She built award-winning AI fact-checking tools as Deputy CEO of Full Fact and later led information quality work at Google. In 2023, she she was named an Obama Leader for Europe. Her debut children's book, The Bicycle, was inspired by reuniting with the aid worker who gave her a bike as a refugee 25 years earlier.

See the full Kurmanji Kurd people group profile here https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/12877 

President Donald Trump sought Kurdish support in efforts to topple Iran's regime, only to drop them like hot potatoes amid pressure from Turkey, a key NATO ally. Now, after signing a peace deal with Tehran, Trump has left Iran's Kurds more isolated than ever. But Dutch scholar Wladimir van Wilgenburg says the agreement will not stop the Kurds from continuing their struggle for recognition and rights.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The US and Iran have agreed to a truce and are expected to sign a preliminary agreement in Geneva later this week. Oil prices have eased, markets have rallied and fears over disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz have receded. In #CutTheClutter episode XXXX, ThePrint Editor-in-Chief Shekhar Gupta breaks down the emerging Iran-US truce in 10 points, decoding the significance of the understanding, Pakistan's role in the diplomatic process, why Israel is unhappy with the outcome, what it means for the Gulf Arab states, and why the peace dividend is of enormous significance for India.----more----Read The Washington Post's article here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2026/06/12/qatar-pursued-secret-talks-with-iran-shield-gas-complex-strikes/----more----Read Barak Ravid's article here: https://www.axios.com/2026/06/14/trump-netanyahu-iran-deal-israel-beirut-strike----more----Watch 'Syria, Turkey, Kurds, ISIS, Trump & Putin, & how Middle East unravelled in murderous chaos | ep 294' here: https://youtu.be/mwKDHWXdIBc

Jack Murphy, former Army Ranger and Green Beret, host of The Team House podcast, co-founder of The High Side, and author of the new military thriller The Most Dangerous Man, joins Andy to break down the Iran war, the limits of an air campaign, what it would actually take to secure Iran's enriched uranium, the threat picture inside the US, and the unprecedented era of global change we're all now navigating. Jack's new book The Most Dangerous Man is out now wherever books are sold. Change Agents is an IRONCLAD Original Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:09) Perpetual War Without a Declaration (11:05) Iran: How We Got Here and Why (22:39) The Air Campaign, the Reapers, and What We're Losing (28:33) The CIA, the Kurds, and Iran's Real Capability (34:57) The Enriched Uranium Problem Nobody's Talking About (43:28) Russia, China, and the Global Economic Fallout (52:23) The Truth About Iranian Sleeper Cells in the US (58:20) The Most Dangerous Man (New Book) and Closing Thoughts Sponsors: Firecracker Farm Use code IRONCLAD to get 15% off your first order at https://firecracker.farm/ Norwood Sawmills: Learn more about Norwood Sawmills and how you can start milling your own lumber at https://norwoodsawmills.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=ironclad&utm_campaign=ironclad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Subscribe to Inside Call me Back. ____ Subscribe to Ark News Daily ____ Did the Iran war solve the problem, postpone it or make it worse?  That fundamental debate has emerged over the outcome of the war with Iran. The campaigns degraded Iran's military infrastructure, but it also ended with a new, possibly more dangerous Supreme Leader in power, Iran controlling the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran's nuclear capability largely intact.  Dan is joined by former Israeli Military Intelligence chief Tamir Hayman and FDD CEO Mark Dubowitz to discuss whether the war was a strategic success, a missed opportunity, or an unfinished chapter in a conflict that is far from over. Listen to Mark's podcast, The Iran Breakdown with Mark Dubowitz. In this episode: 04:51 - What is the most likely outcome of the U.S.-Iran negotiations? 08:00 - What were the tactical achievements of the US and Israeli attacks? 10:03 - Was the war strategically worth it? 19:42 - Can and will Trump still finish the job? 24:44 - Was the plan to have Kurds help topple the Iranian regime credible? 32:30 - Was Ahmadinejad a realistic replacement candidate? 35:42 - How formidable a foe is Mojtaba Khamenei? 41:48 - Is Iran more dangerous today than before the war? 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

Josh Szeps joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about Israel, Gaza, antisemitism, Zionism, Jewish identity and why the debate has become so exhausting and distorted. We talk about whether Jews outside Israel are being forced to answer for the Israeli government, what anti-Zionism really means, the failure of the peace process, Netanyahu, Gaza, drones, Palestinian leadership, the pressure to “circle the wagons,” and whether it is possible to criticize Israel without giving ammunition to people who hate Jews. Josh Szeps hosts one of the biggest shows on Substack, Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps, where he has funny, bullshit-free conversations with people like Sam Harris, Jimmy Carr, Bari Weiss and Mark Normand about subjects that the mainstream media fails to discuss honestly. He has been on Joe Rogan's show seven times, he was a founding host of HuffPost Live in New York, then went on to get cancelled from his own top-rating talk radio show on Australia's national public broadcaster. He's a columnist for Australia's most prestigious newspaper, the Australian Financial Review, and a major media figure Down Under. https://x.com/joshzepps?lang=en https://uncomfortableconversations.substack.com/about Chapters: 00:00 Intro and Josh Szeps joins the show 03:06 Josh's background, Australia, and his previous Israel controversy 07:12 Jokes, parenting, kids, porn and the internet 12:59 Antisemitism, Australia, and the post-October 7th climate 15:36 Anti-Zionism, Israel's legitimacy, and the meaning of a Jewish state 22:07 Palestinian refugees, Arab countries, and the right of return 27:26 Gaza, drones, October 7th, and whether Israel had another choice 30:29 Josh's controversial “abandon Israel” column 38:16 Circling the wagons, Jewish identity, and criticizing Israel from the diaspora 47:58 Anti-Israel backlash, boycotts, and Jews being blamed for Israel 54:16 Kristof, the dog allegations, and the difficulty of discussing ugly claims honestly 01:08:35 The flotilla, Israeli detention, and skepticism toward activist claims 01:11:23 War crimes, double standards, history, and modern technology 01:13:05 Uyghurs, Kurds, ethno-states, and why Israel gets singled out 01:17:00 Media collapse, audience capture, and trying to have sane conversations 01:18:29 Finkelstein, complexity, and final thoughts

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.

The Kurds have been loyal American allies for decades — so why are we getting them so wrong? In this episode, Stephen draws on his book "The Miracle of the Kurds" to set the record straight about one of the most misunderstood people in the world: a moderate, resilient ethnicity spread across the Middle East with no nation to call their own, yet fiercely devoted to their identity and their allies. The Kurds have earned America's friendship time and time again — and it's time we gave it to them. Let's reset our perception of the Kurds.Connect with Stephen:Website: https://stephenmansfield.tv/Instagram: https://instagram.com/mansfieldwrites/X: https://twitter.com/MansfieldWrites

More from Dr. George Grant https://georgegrant.net/ Adoring God Foundation https://adoringgod.org/

Welcome back to The Majority Report   On today's program:   Donald Trump spent his Easter Sunday posting threats of war crimes on Iran and mocking Islam.   Trump once again claims that he is very close to announcing a deal with Iran in an attempt to juice the markets.   Senate candidate in Maine, Graham Platner says he absolutely supports Bernie Sanders proposal to end military aid to Israel. Platner went even further in saying that Israel is exterminating people and it would take an immense amount of work to repair the relationship.   Zahra Hankir, Lebanese author and journalist joins Emma for a conversation about her recent piece in Columbia Journalism Review: "Who is Left to Cover Lebanon?" For more from Zahra check out her book Eyeliner: A Cultural History   In the Fun Half:   On Pod Save America, Cory Booker cannot bring himself to admit that Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal. Booker goes on to say that he had no idea who Hasan Piker was until a couple days ago despite condemning him.   Trump admits to Trey Yingst that the U.S. has sent weapons to Iranian dissenters through the Kurds.   Laura Loomer tweets at Marco Rubio to deport Trita Parsi.   Stephen Crowder and Dave Rubin share their idiotic thoughts on the war in Iran.   all that and more   Preorder Molly Crabapple's book: Here Where We Live is Our Country.   To connect and organize with your local ICE rapid response team visit ICERRT.com The Congress switchboard number is (202) 224-3121. You can use this number to connect with either the U.S. Senate or the House of Representatives. Follow us on TikTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@majorityreportfm Check us out on Twitch here: https://www.twitch.tv/themajorityreport Find our Rumble stream here: https://rumble.com/user/majorityreport Check out our alt YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/majorityreportlive Gift a Majority Report subscription here: https://fans.fm/majority/gift Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! https://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: https://majority.fm/app Go to https://JustCoffee.coop and use coupon code majority to get 10% off your purchase Check out today's sponsors: COZY EARTH: Go to cozyearth.com/MAJORITYREPORT for an exclusive deal only available April 6th - April 12th! SELECT QUOTE:  Get the right life insurance for you and save more than fifty percent on term life insurance at SelectQuote.com/MAJORITY SUNSET LAKE: Use coupon code "Left Is Best" (all one word) for 20% off of your entire order at SunsetLakeCBD.com  Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter: @SamSeder @EmmaVigeland @MattLech On Instagram: @MrBryanVokey Check out Matt's show, Left Reckoning, on YouTube, and subscribe on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/leftreckoning Check out Matt Binder's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/mattbinder Subscribe to Brandon's show The Discourse on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/ExpandTheDiscourse Check out Ava Raiza's music here! https://avaraiza.bandcamp.com

From March 19, 2025: For today's episode, Lawfare Foreign Policy Editor Daniel Byman interviewed Steven Heydemann, the Director of the Middle East Studies Program at Smith College, to assess the fast-changing developments in Syria today. Heydemann discusses the surge in communal violence in Syria, the deal between the new Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led government and Syria's Kurds, Israel's counterproductive interventions, and U.S. policy toward the new regime in Damascus. To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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