Middle East
Lessons in Power and Democracy From Syria to Iran
Journalist and author Anand Gopal joins Faisal Al Yafai on the podcast to discuss what two decades of America's wars reveal about the nature of power, a forgotten democratic experiment in Syria, and his new book, "Days of Love and Rage.”
Reality Bites in Lebanon
For decades, Lebanese politicians survived by lying to everyone at once. Israel’s war has made that impossible. The country is facing a choice it can no longer defer: confront Hezbollah, or watch Israel do it for them, and then stay.
‘Those Who Wrap Themselves in America Are Naked’
A growing debate among Arab leaders and elites reflects deep divisions over the war with Iran, with some blaming the United States for dragging the region into conflict and others stressing the long-standing threat posed by Iran’s expansionism. Both groups agree that the region’s alliance with America is fraught.
Hind Rajab and the Dying Light
If Hind’s voice is a reproach, then the humanity of her would-be rescuers is redemption, however inadequate. For the hours they spent with her — comforting and reassuring the child on one hand, berating and beseeching her tormentors on the other — they expiate our collective guilt.
Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt That Decided History
The Great Arab Revolt of 1936 is one of the most important and least remembered events in the history of Arab-Zionist relations in Palestine. A newly released film and a recently published book provide thought-provoking insights and a new understanding of how events that occurred 90 years ago shaped the present.
Christmas Celebrations Are Returning to Bethlehem
Festivities have returned to the place of Jesus’ birth after a two-year pause, but the shadow of Gaza, occupation and genocide was never far from the muted celebrations.
While Israel’s Construction Industry Falters, Apartments Are Springing up Around Ramallah
Stripped of their permits since Oct. 7, 2023, 160,000 West Bank Palestinian construction workers are desperate to return to work in Israel. Meanwhile, as radical settlers terrorize Palestinians in one part of the West Bank, Palestinian citizens of Israel are finding peace of mind by purchasing apartments in another.