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Colombia just had the closest vote in its history. A right-wing political outsider with a Trump endorsement beat a left-wing veteran by less than a point. What does this mean for Colombia, and for the Latin American left? In this episode: Teresa Bo (@TeresaBo), Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sonia Bhagat with Spencer Cline, Jana Dabliz, Catherine Nouhan, Noor Wazwaz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The excitement of the World Cup has arrived in North America. But behind it have been stories of fans being denied visas, players being searched by sniffer dogs, and Iran’s team being forced to base itself outside the US. What happens when a global tournament collides with US Donald Trump’s immigration policies? In this episode: Boima Tucker (@chiefboimah) Director of Operations, Africa is Country Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sonia Bhagat and Tamara Khandaker with Marcos Bartolomé, Spencer Cline, Jana Dabliz, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Gaza’s footballers have lost teammates, stadiums and entire seasons. Some have lost limbs. Yet they continue to play. As the World Cup unfolds across North America, Maram Humaid reports from Gaza on the athletes, coaches and fans determined to keep football alive. In this episode: Maram Humaid (@MaramGaza), Al Jazeera Reporter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé with Noor Wazwaz, Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Jana Dabliz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Jana Dabliz. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Artificial intelligence education now starts at the age of 6 in China. The Ministry of Education has rolled out new guidelines to teach AI at every grade level. For President Xi Jinping, AI is a priority. Will the toddlers of today be the tech titans of the future? In this episode: Katrina Yu (@Katmyu), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Amy Walters, Sonia Bhagat, Sarí el-Khalili, and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Kisaa Zehra, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A ceasefire has been reached. The Strait of Hormuz is reopening. Markets are moving. But Israel is still fighting, Iran's nuclear program is unresolved, and the hardest talks haven't even started. What does this deal actually mean? In this episode: Maziar Motamedi (@MotamediMaziar), Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Tamara Khandaker with Spencer Cline, Sonia Bhagat, Jana Dabliz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí El-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A remote Albanian island has a new nickname: Kushner Island. Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump and founder of investment firm Affinity Partners, plans to build a $14bn luxury resort there. The project has sparked large protests, with crowds chanting, “Albania is not for sale.” Is this the future Albanians want, or a sellout of their land to foreign wealth? In this episode: Mitchell Prothero (@mitchprothero), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Noor Wazwaz and Marcos Bartolomé with Spencer Cline, Jana Dabliz and, our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. The Take is produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. I’m your host, Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Jana Dabliz. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on June 13, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. It's still spring in parts of the Northern Hemisphere, but the world faces scorching hot temperatures. Summer heat has arrived early, setting records, claiming lives, and expected to get worse. Who's responsible and what should be done about it? In this episode: Johan Rockström (@jrockstrom), Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research Jeff Goodell (@jeffgoodell), Author of “The Heat Will Kill You First” Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production was Sarí el-Khalili, Khaled Soltan, Ashish Malhotra, Tamara Khandaker and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Palestinian-American comedian Mo Amer has spent years using humor to face pain, break silence, and speak for a people under fire. In a moment of deep loss, he turns to the stage again. What can comedy still cut through? This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on November, 7 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. In this episode: Mo Amer (@realmoamer), Comedian, Actor & Writer Episode credits: This episode was updated by Noor Wazwaz. The original production team was Melanie Marich, Sonia Bhagat, Marcos Bartolomé and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Amy Walters, Haleema Shah, Sarí el-Khalili, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is the Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Israel and Iran may have stepped back from the brink for now, but Lebanon is still under fire. As families remain displaced and Israeli strikes continue, why do Lebanese civilians remain caught in the crossfire with no end in sight? In this episode: Ali Hashem (@Alihashem), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Tamara Khandaker with Spencer Cline, Sonia Bhagat, Jana Dabliz and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest in history, with controversies to match. From the US mass deportation campaign and travel restrictions to the war with Iran, football’s biggest stage is raising questions far beyond the game. In this episode: Ashish Malhotra (@amalhotra2), Host, The Soccernomics Podcast Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. Rick Rush mixed this episode. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Jana Dabliz. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on May 21, 2021. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Los Angeles, California is home to the second largest unhoused population in the United States. As an end to the pandemic and eviction moratoriums draw nearer, we’re asking: what will it take to resolve LA’s crisis of homelessness? In this episode: Amina Waheed (@atwaheed), Al Jazeera Journalist Sammy Sumpter, LA Resident Joe Buscaino (@JoeBuscaino), LA Councilman Martha Escudero (@ReclaimingHomes), Activist, Reclaiming our Homes Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Priyanka Tilve, Amy Walters, Negin Owlieai, Ney Alvarez, Dina Kesbeh, Alexandra Locke, Stacey Samuel and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A fast-growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has crossed borders, raising alarms far beyond Central Africa. This time, the virus is a strain with no approved vaccine or treatment. As cases rise and governments scramble to respond, can the outbreak be contained before it spreads further? In this episode: Catherine Soi (@cate_soi), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tamara Khandaker, Jana Dabliz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A video showing Israeli soldiers raping a Palestinian prisoner has shaken Israel’s military and judiciary, leading to the arrest of the prosecutor who leaked it. But as the fallout centers on the leak, and not the events in the video, what does it mean for the victim of the so-called Sde Teiman affair? This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on November 10th, 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. In this episode: Nida Ibrahim (@nida_journo), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was updated by Sarí el-Khalili. The original production team was Tracie Hunte, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq and our host, Malika Bilal. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Alexandra Locke and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
This is a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 19, 2025. None of the dates, titles or other references from that time have been changed. With nearly three million Twitch followers, Hasan Piker is one of the internet’s biggest political streamers. He blends humor, culture, and masculinity talk with sharp political commentary, drawing young men away from the US alt-right. And on Gaza, he has become one of the loudest US voices for Palestine. In this episode: Hasan Piker (@hasanthehun), Online Streamer & Political Commentator Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Tracie Hunte, Sonia Bhagat, Chloe K. Li, Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Melanie Marich, Julia Muldavin, Kisaa Zehra, Farhan Rafid, Sarí el-Khalili, and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on February 21, 2021. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Two viruses, two vaccines, one unequal system: Guinean health officials declared an Ebola epidemic after reporting the first cases of the virus since West Africa’s deadly outbreak ended in 2016. One thing that has changed since that last outbreak: the availability of a vaccine. But like we have seen with the coronavirus pandemic, the existence of a vaccine does not necessarily mean access to one. In this episode: Nicolas Haque, Al Jazeera journalist Gladys Archange, Guinea country representative for Catholic Relief Services. Episode credits: This episode was updated by Marthe van der Wolf. The original production team was Negin Owliaei, Malika Bilal, Priyanka Tilve, Dina Kesbeh, Alexandra Locke, Ney Alvarez and Amy Walters. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. Natalia Aldana is the engagement producer. Stacey Samuel is The Take’s executive producer. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
We hear how San Diego’s Muslim community is grieving, supporting one another, and trying to move forward after an attack that shattered their sense of safety. How does a community begin healing after unimaginable loss? In this episode: Sarah Hassaine (@shassaine), Community Leader Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
From mosques to temples, old religious battles are back in India’s courts. A law passed after the Babri Masjid dispute was meant to stop exactly this. But new claims are moving forward again, as Hindu nationalism grows and many Muslims fear the protections once promised to them are slipping away. In this episode: Yashraj Sharma (@yashjournals), Al Jazeera Reporter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Noor Wazwaz, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing the biggest crisis of his leadership after Labour’s bruising election losses sparked panic inside the party. As Nigel Farage and Reform UK gain ground, we examine why Starmer’s authority appears to be slipping before any formal challenge has even begun and whether Britain is entering another period of political instability. In this episode: Kieran Andrieu (@kieran_andrieu), Political Economist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandakar. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on June 1, 2020. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. When coronavirus hit the cruise industry, many passengers were allowed to disembark and were repatriated to their home countries. But as of mid-May, about 100,000 crew members were still at sea, trying to get home. We speak with Sterling Howell, musician and cruise line entertainer crew member who was able to go home, Krista Thomas, former guest services director for Norwegian Cruises, and with many who are still stuck on board, including Ghoseawon “Albert” Luxmeeparsad, and other Mauritian crew members. For more: If you are struggling with mental health issues, there are suicide crisis lines available in many countries around the world. Here are some of those resources: Open Counseling International Association for Suicide Prevention Global Suicide Hotline Resources – WhatsApp In this episode: Sterling Howell, Cruise Ship Crewmember Krista Thomas, Former Guest Services Director for Norwegian Cruises Dr. Sami, Physician Gan, Cruise Ship Crewmember Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Amy Walters with Dina Kesbeh, Priyanka Tilve, Ney Alvarez, Alexandra Locke and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The University of Southern California has been selling bodies donated for scientific research and education to the U.S. Navy. Some are being used to train Israeli military surgical teams in Los Angeles – all without the donors’ consent. In this episode: Dena Takruri (@denatakruri), AJ+ Senior presenter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
As Kamala Harris weighs another run in 2028, the Democratic Party faces a split over Israel policy. A new report suggests it may have cost votes in 2024. With a base that has shifted dramatically, can the party keep up with what its voters now expect? In this episode: Omar Baddar (@OmarBaddar), Political Analyst Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Chloe K. Li, David Enders and Tuleen Barakat, with Spencer Cline, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Israel’s opposition is uniting to try to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in upcoming elections. Former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid are joining forces, but deep divisions remain over the war with Iran and Israel’s future direction. As pressure mounts on Netanyahu after months of war and political turmoil, can the opposition really take power? In this episode: Mairav Zonszein (@MairavZ), Senior Israel Analyst, International Crisis Group Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Piracy is rising again near Somalia. Since April 20, at least three ships have been hijacked off Somali waters and one near the Yemeni coast. A sailor’s voice note from a seized vessel has spread online. As the Iran war shakes the region, is it fueling attacks on key shipping routes? In this episode: Mohamed Gabobe (@Mohamed_Gabobe), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Is the rise of prediction markets unstoppable? Companies like Polymarket and Kalshi have boomed and so have the controversies that surround them. US Senators are now banned from using such sites, and a US soldier has been charged over bets placed on the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. How is it already changing our reality? In this episode: Bobby Allyn (@BobbyAllyn), NPR Tech Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Noor Wazwaz with Spencer Cline, Marcos Bartolome, Catherine Nouhan, and our guest host, Tamara Khandaker. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A new estate-backed film, Michael, tells the story of Michael Jackson’s rise from Gary, Indiana to global fame, highlighting hits like Thriller and his record-breaking success. But it ends before major scandals, and it leaves out the US musician's race and politics, including his solidarity with Palestine. What story is being told, and what is being erased? In this episode: Sherry Zane, Historian Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Explosions rocked Mali's capital on April 25 as rebels carried out coordinated attacks across the country. Mali’s defence minister was killed along with his wife and children when an attacker struck their home. With Bamako under siege and the military leadership briefly disappearing from view, who is really behind the violence in Mali? In this episode: Beverly Ochieng, Senior Analyst, Control Risks Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
An inside look at Chornobyl, 40 years after the disaster. The exclusion zone remains radioactive - now shaped by war. From deserted cities to returning wildlife and rising military risk, what’s unfolding there today raises urgent questions about nuclear danger and what the future might hold. In this episode: Nils Adler (@nilsadler1), Al Jazeera Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, and Chloe K. Li, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Gunshots shattered the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, throwing Washington’s biggest night into chaos. We unpack how it happened, who the suspect is, how security responded, and what US President Donald Trump said afterward. We also examine the fallout and what it reveals about a White House under pressure. So what happens next? In this episode: Chris Sheridan (@ChrisSheridan34), Senior White House Producer, Al Jazeera English Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sarí el-Khalili, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Amal Khalil was killed while reporting on an Israeli air strike in southern Lebanon during a 10-day ceasefire. She is the ninth journalist killed in Lebanon this year. As Lebanon buries her and talks continue on extending the ceasefire, what does her death say about the prospects for accountability? In this episode: Heidi Pett (@heidipett), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
As the US expands its war with Iran, opposition is growing - not just among the public, but inside the military itself. Some service members are questioning orders, exploring conscientious objection, and speaking out. What’s driving this shift, and how far could it go? In this episode: Mike Prysner (@MikePrysner), Executive Director of the Center on Conscience & War Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Tamara Khandaker, and Sarí El-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Twelve elite British universities are accused of hiring a private security firm with military intelligence ties to track pro-Palestine student protests. Students were reportedly flagged through social media monitoring without their awareness, sparking debate over surveillance and free speech in UK higher education. Learn more about the campus accountability mapping project. In this episode: Aaron Walawalkar (@AaronWala), Investigative Reporter, Liberty Investigations Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on August 16, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Farmers forced to leave their fields, children out of school, and white phosphorus devastating lives – all this hangs over life in southern Lebanon, where the ongoing threat of escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah has been a constant presence for decades. How do residents continue to cope with these challenges? In this episode: Sara Salman (@sara_salman), AJ+ Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Tamara Khandaker, Ashish Malhotra, and Sonia Bhagat, with Manahil Naveed, Veronique Eshaya and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Kharg Island is the heart of Iran’s oil trade and now a front-line target in the war. The US has struck military sites on the island and is enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports. But 8,000 people live there. What is life like when bombs fall and the ships stop moving? In this episode: Seamus Malekafzali (@Seamus_Malek), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, Noor Wazwaz, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. It was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Israel and Lebanon have held their first direct talks in more than 30 years, and now there are signs of a possible ceasefire. But months of fighting have reshaped parts of southern Lebanon. As people begin to return, what will they find? And can diplomacy hold while the reality on the ground remains fragile? In this episode: Justin Salhani (@JustinSalhani), Al Jazeera Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz and Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, David Enders, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Why is Sudan still at war? The answer starts with the powers fuelling the conflict. Three years into the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, millions are displaced and famine continues. With the US-Israeli war on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz driving up fuel and food costs, what will it take to put an end to the conflict? In this episode: Dallia Abdelmoniem (@dalliasd), Political Analyst Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, with Noor Wazwaz, Sarí el-Khalili, Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on May 26, 2021. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Obaida Akram Jawabra grew up outside of Hebron in the occupied West Bank and dreamed of growing up to be a chef. When he was 15, his dreams were put on pause for the first time when he was arrested and imprisoned by the Israeli military. He was later acquitted but spent two months in jail. On May 17, as many Palestinians were protesting against Israeli air strikes on Gaza and Israelis were taking over Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem, Obaida, at 17 years old, was shot and killed by Israeli forces. At least 66 Palestinian children were killed by Israeli forces in the past month. Today, we take a look at the life of one Palestinian child. In this episode: Farah Bayadsi (@DCIPalestine), Human Rights Lawyer, Defense for Children International – Palestine Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Amy Walters, Priyanka Tilve, Negin Owliaei, Alexandra Locke, Ney Alvarez, Dina Kesbeh and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
How do we make sense of the last 40 days? After the threat to wipe out a civilization, the scars of the war so far are only just becoming visible. As the US moves on from language that’s been condemned for genocidal intent, what does it mean for both Iranians and Americans? In this episode: Negin Owliaei (@neginowl), Editor-in-Chief, Truthout Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat, and Noor Wazwaz with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
After US President Donald Trump's incendiary rhetoric pushed tensions toward the brink, Washington and Tehran have agreed to a ceasefire in the US-Israel war on Iran. But the deal is fragile, and key fronts like Lebanon remain tense, as Israel intensifies its attacks. What does this pause really change on the ground? In this episode: Imran Khan (@imranism), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Chloe K. Li with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
‘A whole civilization will die tonight’ was the latest in US President Donald Trump’s escalating threats to Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. As the stakes rise, what potential does this brinkmanship have to reshape global power? In this episode: Trita Parsi (@tparsi) , Executive Vice President, Quincy Institute Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Chloe K. Li, with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, David Enders, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
As oil flows come under threat due to the Iran war, parts of Asia are already under strain. Fuel supplies are tightening, prices are rising, and some countries warn stocks may run out. Far from the battlefield, the impact is immediate. What does this reveal about just how fragile the global energy system is? In this episode: Vina Nadjibulla (@VinaNadjibulla), Vice-President of Research & Strategy, The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Melanie Marich, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial interns are Maya Hamadeh and Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on March 29, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Easter holds special meaning for Christian Palestinians. For Good Friday, we speak to a Palestinian pastor raised in Bethlehem who underlines the parallels between the Israeli oppression of his people and the crucifixion of Jesus at the center of his faith. In this episode: Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac (@MuntherIsaac), Evangelical Lutheran Pastor in Bethlehem Episode credits: This episode was updated by Chloe K. Li. The original production team was Khaled Soltan, Zaina Badr, Miranda Lynn, Amy Walters, Ashish Malhotra, Chloe K. Lee, David Enders, Faranisa Kampana, Nigeen Oliyai, Sarí el-Khalili, Sonia Bagat and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Before Israeli occupation, there was British colonialism. We speak to director Annemarie Jacir about Palestine 36, her epic film about the 1936 Palestinian revolt that almost succeeded, the often-forgotten roots of today’s crisis, and why this history still feels painfully present. In this episode: Annemarie Jacir (@AnnemarieJacir), Filmmaker and Writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders, Sonia Bhagat, and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Chloe K. Li, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
The war on Iran is spreading into classrooms and campuses. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened American universities in neighboring countries, after attacks on two Iranian universities over the weekend. Since the start of the war, at least 21 Iranian universities have reportedly been damaged. Why has education become a target of the US-Israeli war on Iran? In this episode: Setareh Sadeqi (@leelako), Assistant Professor at University of Tehran Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Strikes on Iran have killed senior figures, raising questions about who still holds power. We take a closer look at the key players inside Iran’s system and explain how it works, who shapes decisions and what the loss of top figures could mean for the country’s response to the war. In this episode: Ali Hashem (@alihashem), Senior Al Jazeera correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Sarí el-Khalili, with Spencer Cline, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, David Enders and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Tamara Khandaker. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A vision long embedded in Israeli politics is coming into clearer view. We look at the "Greater Israel" project – where it comes from, how it has shaped Israeli policy and territorial ambitions over time, and what it helps explain about Israel’s actions across the region. In this episode: Nour Odeh (@nour_odeh), Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker and Chloe K. Li, with Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhemm. Rick Rush mixed this episode. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on February 27, 2023. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. Why have the people of the Chagos Islands not been allowed to go home? The archipelago in the Indian Ocean was home to Chagossians until the 1960s. As decolonization swept the globe, the United Kingdom created one last African colony. Slowly, and then all at once, it forced people to leave their homes, then leased the land to the United States for a military base. Chagossians have been fighting – and sometimes winning – in court to return to their home islands. Now, Human Rights Watch says what the UK and the US did amounts to crimes against humanity. In this episode: Clive Baldwin (@cliveabaldwin), Senior Legal Advisor, Human Rights Watch Episode credits: This episode was updated by Tamara Khandaker. The original production team was Negin Owliaei, Miranda Lin, and our host, Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Strikes on gas sites are now part of the US-Israel war with Iran. But its effect will echo far beyond the Gulf, hitting power, food, and prices worldwide. As gas supply shrinks and costs rise, who will feel it most, and how far could the shock spread? In this episode: Justin Dargin (@justindargin), Energy Expert, Middle East Council on Global Affairs Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé, Tamara Khandaker, Sarí el-Khalili, Chloe K. Li, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Alex Roldan is our sound designer. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tamara Khandaker, Chloe K. Li, Alexandra Locke, Catherine Nouhan, Alex Roldan, and Noor Wazwaz. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our editorial intern is Tuleen Barakat. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
As US President Donald Trump pushes deeper into war with Iran, Europe is keeping its distance, calling it “not our war”. But as strikes on Gulf energy facilities send oil and gas prices soaring, that distance is being tested. In a rare joint move, leaders from across Europe and Japan have pledged to help stabilize energy markets and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Can Europe stay out of the fighting while being pulled in by its economic consequences? In this episode: Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff, Former EU Diplomat Episode credits: This episode was produced by David Enders and Chloe K. Li, with Spencer Cline, Sonia Baghat, Tuleen Barakat, Catherine Nouhan and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. 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
Drone attacks are reaching deeper into Pakistan, hitting sensitive areas and raising alarm. Officials call them rudimentary, but analysts warn their impact could far exceed their sophistication. What do these low-cost drones reveal about the country’s vulnerabilities, and what comes next as tensions with Afghanistan continue to grow? In this episode: Abid Hussain (@abidhussayn), Al Jazeera Digital Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
A United States missile strike destroyed a primary school in Minab, Iran. It killed more than 170 people, most of them young children. An Al Jazeera investigation suggests the attack may have been deliberate. As US officials deny responsibility and launch an internal probe, can Americans hold the US accountable? In this episode: Hoda Katebi (@hodakatebi), Writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sarí el-Khalili with Spencer Cline, Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Alexandra Locke. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube