In this episode of Kianistan, we sit down with Samer Hakim, host of the IranTalks podcast, to unpack a turbulent moment in the Middle East and beyond. From the mysterious disappearance of journalist and activist Yvonne Ridley, allegedly detained by Israeli forces, to the fallout from the 12-Day War between Israel and Iran, this conversation navigates the human, political, and strategic dimensions of today’s global conflicts.Samer shares his podcasting journey, his insights into Iran’s geopolitical stance, and his perspective on the country’s evolving ties with Saudi Arabia, Russia, and China — nations shaping the emerging multipolar world order. Together, we explore the role of unity and diplomacy in the Islamic world, shifting perceptions of Israel, and the challenges within Iran’s domestic landscape, from freedom of expression to public resilience under international pressure.🧭 Topics Discussed:• Yvonne Ridley’s disappearance and its political implications• Insights into Samer Hakim’s podcasting experience on IranTalks• The 12-Day War: Iran–Israel conflict and personal reflections• Iran’s geopolitical posture and nuclear stance• Unity among Islamic nations and the need for diplomacy• Iran–Saudi rapprochement and its regional effects• Iran–Russia relations and military cooperation• Changing global perception of Israel• Iran’s domestic challenges amid external pressure• Future of geopolitical alliances in a multipolar world👤 About Samer Hakim:Samer Hakim is the host of IranTalks, a podcast dedicated to critical discussions on Middle Eastern politics, Iranian affairs, and the shifting balance of global power. His work focuses on bridging perspectives from across the region through informed dialogue and geopolitical analysis.💼 Yvonne Ridley MP Contact Template : Use this link below to download the template and guide of MP Contact : https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RmeIDW159UiSNT95BRbOShK4nMFo7r5X/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102594679403080485912&rtpof=true&sd=true📌 Subscribe for in-depth conversations on geopolitics, diplomacy, and strategy.🎧 Available on all major platforms — just search Kianistan.🌐 Visit: www.kianistan.com💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.ukHashtags:#SamerHakim #IranTalks #Kianistan #YvonneRidley #IranIsrael #12DayWar #MiddleEast #IranSaudiRelations #IranRussia #Geopolitics #Diplomacy #Unity #MultipolarWorld #IranPolitics #GlobalAffairs #Podcast
What do the Saudi–Pakistan defense agreement and Trump’s 20-point peace proposal mean for the Middle East and beyond? In this episode, we sit down with Mouin Rabbani, a leading analyst on Palestinian and Middle Eastern affairs, to unpack the drivers, implications, and strategic realignments shaping the region.From shifting alliances across West Asia to the prospects of conflict between Iran and Israel, and the enduring Palestinian struggle, Mouin provides sharp insights into how local dynamics intersect with global power competition. This episode offers essential context for understanding the rapidly evolving geopolitical order.🎙 Topics Discussed:• Defense agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan – history, motivations, and consequences• Trump’s 20-point peace proposal – feasibility and stakeholder reactions• Strategic realignments in West Asia – roles of the US, China, and Russia• Iran–Israel tensions and risks of escalation• The Palestinian–Israeli conflict and its wider implications👤 About Mouin Rabbani:Mouin Rabbani is a nonresident senior fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs. He is a researcher, analyst, and commentator specializing in Palestinian affairs, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and contemporary Middle East issues.📌 Subscribe for thought-provoking discussions on geopolitics, defense, and shifting alliances.🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.”🌐 www.kianistan.com💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.uk#MouinRabbani #Geopolitics #SaudiPakistan #DefenseAgreement #TrumpPeacePlan #MiddleEast #Iran #Israel #Palestine #USRole #China #Russia #RegionalSecurity #GlobalPolitics #KianistanPodcast
In this episode of Kianistan, retired U.S. Army Colonel and former Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Colin Powell — Col. Lawrence Wilkerson — joins us to dissect the latest tremors shaking global geopolitics. From the new Saudi–Pakistan defense agreement and its implications for regional power balance, to Trump’s controversial 20-point surrender initiative for Gaza, and the growing risks of an Iran–Israel confrontation, Col. Wilkerson provides a rare insider’s perspective from the heart of Washington’s foreign policy machine.He discusses how military strategy, diplomacy, and global interests intersect in shaping today’s security order — offering candid insights into what these developments mean for South Asia, the Middle East, and the broader global system.🎙 Topics Discussed:• The strategic and security implications of the Saudi–Pakistan defense pact• How Trump’s 20-point Gaza proposal reshapes peace narratives• The likelihood of an Iran–Israel escalation and U.S. responses• The shifting U.S. role in Middle East diplomacy• How great power competition drives new alignments in the Global South👤 About Col. Lawrence Wilkerson:Lawrence B. Wilkerson is a retired U.S. Army Colonel and former Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Colin Powell. With decades of experience in U.S. foreign policy and military affairs, he has been a prominent voice on America’s wars, diplomacy, and the deep state of global strategy. A scholar and educator, Col. Wilkerson continues to offer critical perspectives on the intersection of U.S. power, ethics, and global order.📌 Subscribe for in-depth conversations on geopolitics, strategy, and world affairs.🎧 Listen on all major platforms – just search Kianistan.🌐 Visit: www.kianistan.com💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
What does the new Saudi–Pakistan defense agreement mean for South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tauqeer Hussain Sargana, President & Chief Researcher of the Pakistan Academy of International Relations (PAIR), to unpack the historical context of Riyadh–Islamabad ties, the strategic depth both nations seek, and the broader impact on regional and global geopolitics.
From Washington’s role in shaping Middle Eastern security to Israel’s rising influence and the competing interests of other regional players, Dr. Sargana provides a nuanced analysis of shifting power dynamics. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving security architecture of the Muslim world and its intersection with global power politics.
🎙 Topics Discussed: • Historical foundations of Saudi–Pakistan defense cooperation • Strategic implications for South Asia and the Middle East • The role of the United States in shaping security frameworks • Israel’s influence and the reactions of regional players • Long-term impact on global geopolitics and alliances
👤 About Dr. Tauqeer Hussain Sargana: Dr. Tauqeer Hussain Sargana is the President & Chief Researcher at the Pakistan Academy of International Relations (PAIR). A Rotary World Peace Fellow, IEP Peace Ambassador, and INSPAD Ambassador of Peace, he brings academic depth and practical insight into international relations, security studies, and conflict resolution.
🌐 Connect with Dr. Tauqeer Hussain Sargana: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tauqeer-hussain-sargana/?originalSubdomain=pk
Watch Previous Episode With Dr Tauqeer Hussain :
Episode 02 - Afghanistan, Taliban, Soviet Invasion and Iran https://youtu.be/eV6yOZ7uQO0?si=3THOgSWTmor_JqRr
📌 Subscribe for thought-provoking discussions on geopolitics, defense, and the shifting global order. 🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.” 🌐 www.kianistan.com
💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
Hashtags: #DrTauqeerHussainSargana #Geopolitics #SaudiPakistan #DefenseAgreement #MiddleEast #USRole #Israel #RegionalSecurity #GlobalPolitics #KianistanPodcast
In this episode, Tafhim Kiani sits down with Professor Foad Izadi to unpack the complex realities of the Middle East. From U.S.–Iran relations and Israel’s regional posture to the role of Iran in supporting Palestine, we explore how global powers shape the conflicts and alliances of the region. Professor Izadi brings an academic yet accessible lens to understanding how strategy, ideology, and foreign policy intersect—revealing what these geopolitical currents mean for the future of the Middle East and beyond.🎙 Topics Discussed:• The history and future of U.S.–Iran relations• Israel’s role and tensions with neighboring states• Iran’s support for Palestine and its global impact• The influence of Western powers on Middle Eastern conflicts• Strategic interests driving regional alliances and rivalries👤 About Professor Foad Izadi:Professor Foad Izadi is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran. His research and teaching focus on U.S.–Iran relations, media, and international communication. Widely recognized for his expertise on Middle Eastern geopolitics, he frequently appears on global media platforms to provide analysis and context on regional affairs.🌐 Connect with Professor Foad Izadi:https://x.com/izadifoadhttps://www.researchgate.net/profile/Foad-Izadi📌 Subscribe for deep conversations on spirituality, geopolitics, and the shifting world order.🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.”🌐 www.kianistan.com💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
From Israel’s surprising strike on Qatar to the evolving Saudi–US partnership, this episode with geopolitical strategist Ali Borhani unpacks the shifting sands of West Asia. We dive into China’s growing influence at the 2025 SEO Conference, its rapid technological advancement, and the changing balance of power between Beijing and Washington. Ali brings his trademark foresight, connecting the dots between geopolitics, geoeconomics, and emerging trends that will shape tomorrow’s headlines.🎙 Topics Discussed: • Israel’s attack on Qatar and its wider implications • Qatar and Saudi Arabia’s strategic ties with the United States • China’s growing presence at the SEO Conference 2025 • Beijing’s technological leap and its global impact • The evolving China–US relationship in a multipolar world👤 About Ali Borhani: Ali Borhani is the Managing Director of 3Sixty Strategic Advisors Ltd, a boutique advisory firm specializing in growth and market entry strategies in emerging markets. A geopolitical strategist and co-host of the acclaimed BRI Dialogues podcast, Ali is known as a contrarian voice with clarity—helping leaders cut through noise, spot early trends, and navigate global complexity with foresight.🌐 Connect with Ali Borhani: • Futurearly: futurearly.substack.com • BRI Dialogues: YouTube • Website: www.aliborhani.com • X: @Ali_Borhani_📌 Subscribe for deep conversations on spirituality, geopolitics, and the shifting world order. 🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.” 🌐 www.kianistan.com💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.ukHashtags: #AliBorhani, #Geopolitics, #WestAsia, #China, #USChinaRelations, #SaudiArabia, #Qatar, #GlobalTrends, #KianistanPodcast
What can near-death experiences teach us about the mystery of consciousness? In this profound conversation with neurosurgeon Dr. Eben Alexander, we explore the boundaries between life, death, and what lies beyond. Drawing from both his own extraordinary personal experience and decades of medical practice, Dr. Alexander challenges the materialist view of the brain and opens the door to a deeper understanding of mind and spirit.🎙 Topics Discussed:• What near-death experiences reveal about human consciousness• Dr. Alexander’s own journey from skeptic to believer• Neuroscience, spirituality, and the limits of materialism• How altered states of consciousness reshape our view of reality• The implications of NDEs for life, death, and faith👤 About Dr. Eben Alexander:Dr. Eben Alexander spent over 25 years as an academic neurosurgeon, including 15 years at the Brigham & Women’s Hospital, the Children’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School in Boston. Over his career, he treated hundreds of patients with severe alterations of consciousness—coma, trauma, brain tumors, infections, and stroke. Once a firm believer in the brain as the source of mind and spirit, his own near-death experience transformed his perspective on consciousness forever.Eben Website : https://ebenalexander.com/📌 Subscribe for deep conversations on spirituality, Islam, and the shifting world order.🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.”🌐 www.kianistan.com💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.uk#EbenAlexander #NearDeathExperience #Consciousness #Neuroscience #Spirituality #LifeAfterDeath #MindAndBrain #KianistanPodcast
How has colonialism shaped the fragmented Muslim world? In this powerful conversation with political theorist Majid Sharifi, we explore the legacy of nationalism in Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan—three nations molded by colonial borders, and caught in the crosshairs of Cold War superpowers.From resisting U.S. and Soviet influence to navigating modern crises—like Iran’s ongoing confrontation with Israel—these countries reveal the deep tensions between national identity and the Islamic ideal of a unified Ummah. As the global order shifts, could China's geo-economic rise offer a path beyond the Western geopolitical stranglehold?🎙 Topics Discussed: • The Ummah vs. nationalism—can unity survive colonial borders? • Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan: shared struggles, divergent paths • Cold War geopolitics and postcolonial statehood • Iran-Israel tensions: war, deterrence, or submission? • Nuclear strategy and survival under siege • Multipolarity: hope in China’s economic alternative?👤 About Majid Sharifi: Majid Sharifi is a political theorist and author specializing in postcolonial studies, nationalism, and global power structures. His work critically examines how small and medium states navigate the legacies of colonialism and the pressures of modern empires.📌 Subscribe for deep conversations on Islam, resistance, and the shifting world order. 🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.” 🌐 www.kianistan.com 💼 Sponsored by: www.worldwidelistings.co.uk#MajidSharifi #Ummah #Iran #Afghanistan #Pakistan #Nationalism #Colonialism #Geopolitics #IslamAndPolitics #ChinaVsWest
Nationalism vs. Islam | Khalid Blankinship on Gaza, Idolatry & the Fragmented UmmahIs nationalism a modern form of idolatry? Can sectarianism be overcome in a world of fractured loyalties? In this powerful conversation with Professor Khalid Blankinship, we explore how nationalism stands in stark contradiction to the Qur’anic vision of unity and taqwa—and how sectarianism may be an issue in Islam but it is not nearly as pervasive and destructive as in Christianit.Professor Khalid previously joined us in Episode 28 for a analysis of the situation in West Asia.🎙 Topics Discussed• Is nationalism a form of modern shirk?• “There is no superiority except in taqwa”—how Islam rejects racial and national hierarchies• The myth of Muslim unity: is the Ummah an outdated concept?• Sectarianism in Islam and Christianity: are we asking the wrong questions?• Gaza and the moral failure of regional powers—how silence enables genocide• The prophetic model vs. modern statehood—can they coexist?👤 About Professor Khalid BlankinshipKhalid Blankinship is a historian of Islam and professor at Temple University. A convert to Islam and a specialist in early Islamic history, Professor Blankinship brings decades of scholarly insight into the intersection of theology, politics, and modern Muslim identity.📚 Selected Work:• The End of the Jihâd State: The Reign of Hishām ibn 'Abd al-Malik and the Collapse of the Umayyads• Articles and lectures on Islamic governance, modernity, and transnational Muslim movements📌 Subscribe for more hard-hitting conversations on Islam, politics, and the global order.🎧 Also available on podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.”Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk #KhalidBlankinship #Nationalism #Ummah #Gaza #IslamicUnity #Sectarianism #MiddleEastPolitics #MuslimWorld #IslamAndPolitics
No Such Thing as A Muslim Ummah | Esposito & Juergensmeyer in ConversationWhat does it mean to speak of a Muslim Ummah in a world of fractured states, rising sectarianism, and diverging national interests? In this special episode, I bring together two of the most renowned scholars of religion and politics, Professor John L. Esposito and Professor Mark Juergensmeyer, for a joint conversation exploring the metaphysical, political, and religious underpinnings of the modern Middle East.This is the first time both guests appear together on the same episode.Individually, they have shared their insights in past interviews:▶️ Episode 20 – Mark Juergensmeyer: https://youtu.be/r7TjTR3VAtY?si=TP6qYNgSlDKy4A3W▶️ Episode 21 – John Esposito: https://youtu.be/LX2zH2Cur2s?si=_LMnShLrVoSxLQS8🎙 Topics Discussed:Is there such a thing as a Muslim or Islamic Ummah today?How does the secularisation thesis apply to the Muslim world.Nation-states, sectarian conflict, and the limits of pan-Islamic identity.Sunni-Shia tensions: structural, political, or theological?The Iran-Israel 12-day war and its implications for the region.The role of the Iranian Revolution and Saudi Wahhabism in shaping the modern Middle East.The myth of Muslim exceptionalism in religious conflict—comparisons with Northern Ireland and beyond.Effects of the 12 day war between Iran and israel.How and when will the atrocities in Gaza end?👤 About Professor Mark JuergensmeyerMark Juergensmeyer is a world-renowned scholar of global religion and politics. He is Professor Emeritus of Sociology and Global Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and has authored numerous influential works on religion and violence.🔗 Weblog: https://www.juergensmeyer.org📚 Selected Works:Why God Needs War and War Needs God (Oxford University Press, 2023)➤ https://global.oup.com/academic/product/why-god-needs-war-and-war-needs-god-9780197795804When God Stops Fighting (University of California Press, 2022)➤ https://www.ucpress.edu/books/when-god-stops-fighting/paperTerror in the Mind of God (University of California Press)🆕 Forthcoming: What Everyone Needs to Know About Religion and Violence (Oxford University Press)👤 About Professor John L. EspositoJohn Esposito is University Professor of Religion and International Affairs and Founding Director of the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding at Georgetown University. He is one of the most respected voices on Islam, global affairs, and interfaith dialogue.📚 Selected Works:The Future of IslamWho Speaks for Islam? What a Billion Muslims Really Think (co-authored with Dalia Mogahed)Islam and PoliticsIslamophobia: The Challenge of Pluralism in the 21st Century📌 Subscribe for more conversations on Islam, politics, and the global order.🎧 Also available on podcast platforms – search “Kianistan.”Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk #MiddleEast #Ummah #Esposito #Juergensmeyer #IslamicPolitics #Sectarianism #IranIsrael #MuslimWorld #ReligionAndViolence
What’s really happening inside Syria today?In this special episode, I sit down with renowned Syria expert Professor David Lesch to unpack the fast-changing dynamics on the ground — from HTS’s evolving role in the northwest to sectarian tensions, regional interference, and the growing unrest in Sweida.We explore:The rise and contradictions of HTS governanceFactionalism and the persistence of sectarian dividesForeign powers backing rival groupsThe economic and security collapseThe relevance of the Sykes-Picot legacy todayThis is not a recycled analysis — it's a real-time, on-the-ground-informed conversation with one of the most respected scholars on Syria.📘 David Lesch’s upcoming biography — “Dodgers to Damascus: David Lesch’s Journey from Baseball to the Middle East” — written by accomplished author Catherine Nixon, is set for release in late August/early September. Stay tuned for a special episode dedicated to exploring his personal journey.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk #Syria #HTS #DavidLesch #MiddleEast #Geopolitics #SykesPicot #Sweida #Sectarianism
Is the global balance of power shifting for good? In this interview, Alain Corvez—a veteran French diplomat and geopolitical analyst—joins me to explore how Russia’s deepening ties with BRICS could signal the end of Western dominance on the world stage.We discuss Russia’s ongoing campaign in Ukraine, its renewed influence in the Caucasus, and the strategic partnership with Iran—all unfolding alongside Moscow’s push to strengthen BRICS as a counterweight to Western political and economic power.Corvez offers insights into whether BRICS can truly challenge Western-led institutions, and how sanctions, economic realignments, and shifting alliances are reshaping the global order.In this video:✅ Russia’s advances in Ukraine and their strategic implications✅ How BRICS could transform global power dynamics✅ Russia’s declining influence in the Caucasus and efforts to regain ground✅ The role of Iran in Russia’s broader strategy✅ Whether the West can maintain its dominance in the face of new alliancesIs BRICS the key to a new world order—or just a diplomatic gesture? Alain Corvez weighs in.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
Is Russian strategy changing and getting more aggressive in Ukraine? Since January 2025, Russian forces have achieved steady gains in Donetsk and Kharkiv, regaining territory despite intense Western support for Kyiv. Ukraine’s drone attacks deep inside Russian territory — including strikes that damaged 41 aircraft — have escalated the conflict, but may also risk provoking heavier Russian retaliation.Dr Vladimir Brovkin offers a Russian perspective on the battlefield realities, the limits of NATO and Western sanctions, and the impact of the US slowing its military aid under President Trump in hopes of negotiating an end to the war.Beyond Ukraine, we discuss how Russia views shifting power in the South Caucasus. Azerbaijan’s closer ties with Türkiye and the West have reduced Moscow’s traditional influence in the region, especially after Armenia’s defeats in Nagorno-Karabakh. Meanwhile, Iran remains a key partner for Russia’s strategic depth and economic resilience.Topics in this video:✅ Russia’s advances in Ukraine’s east✅ Ukraine’s drone attacks and Russia’s response✅ Trump’s recalibration of US military aid✅ Azerbaijan’s new foreign policy and Russia’s reaction✅ Iran’s role in Russia’s broader strategy✅ Whether sanctions can truly isolate MoscowDr Brovkin explains why, despite Western pressure, Russia still sees paths to securing its interests. Find out what might be Putin’s Next Move.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
Is the recent Iran-Israel conflict more than meets the eye?In this explosive interview, Dr. Hooshang Amirahmadi, renowned Iranian-American academic and founder of the American Iranian Council (AIC), reveals his controversial belief that the 12-day war was secretly staged by Iran, Israel, and the United States — all to end Iran’s nuclear program without backlash from the Iranian people.Dr. Amirahmadi also shares powerful insights on:Why President Clinton came closest to normalizing US-Iran relationsWhy the JCPOA nuclear deal was a mistakeThe real center of power inside Iran — clerics, IRGC, or politicians?How Iran’s economic system has failed its peopleWhether Iran’s next revolution could swing toward dangerous nationalismHis vision for separating religion from the state in IranThis is one conversation you won’t want to miss.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk 🔗 Explore More from Dr Hoorshang Amirahmadi:👉 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@hooshangamirahmadi3497📘 IG: https://www.instagram.com/hooshangamirahmadi?igsh=MXA4czI4dTZvb2F5Yw==#Iran #IranIsraelWar #DrAmirahmadi #MiddleEast #Geopolitics #JCPOA #IranNuclearDeal
Join me for a fascinating conversation with Louay Fatoohi, as we explore the world of Sufism, Karama, and Mystical Powers.In this interview, Louay shares his personal journey to Islam and Sufism, and explains:Why having a spiritual teacher (shaykh) is so important in SufismHow to choose a true and trustworthy shaykhThe spiritual significance of Iraq and Baghdad for Islam and SufismThe impact of the Gulf wars on Iraqi communities and Sufi traditionsWhat karama (spiritual miracles) are, who experiences them, and why they’re often kept hiddenHow we can benefit from understanding karama and the mystical dimension of IslamIf you’re interested in spirituality, Islamic mysticism, or the hidden depths of faith, this is an interview you won’t want to miss!#Sufism #Karama #MysticalPowers #LouayFatoohi #islamicspirituality Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk 🔗 Explore More from Louay Fatoohi:👉 YouTube Channel: / @louay.fatoohi 📘 Book – Tawhid According to Sufis: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tawhid-Accor...👍 Facebook Page: / louayfatoohi 🎙️ Watch Louay’s Interview on Blogging Theology: https://chatgpt.com/c/686515cb-f400-8...
In this explosive interview, British journalist and activist Vanessa Beeley joins me to unpack the hidden battles shaping the Middle East.We discuss:✅ How the US lost strategic ground in Iran✅ The real winners and losers in the recent Iran-Israel conflict✅ Israel’s shifting military focus after ceasefires with Hezbollah and Iran✅ Trump-era policies and why Washington has lost credibility in nuclear negotiations✅ China and Russia’s quiet but pivotal roles in the region✅ The parallels between Syria and Afghanistan’s past✅ South Asia’s growing influence on Iran Israel conflict.Vanessa draws on her years living in Syria and her deep geopolitical insights to reveal how the region’s shadow wars are reshaping global power structures.Don’t miss this candid conversation on the future of West Asia and the shifting world order.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk Follow Vanessa Beeley:Substack - https://beeley.substack.com/Telegram - https://t.me/VanessaBeeley
In this in-depth interview, analyst Mouin Rabbani joins me to unpack the dramatic 12-day war between Iran and Israel. We discuss how Israel launched a surprise attack on Iran, only to be stunned by Tehran’s rapid counteroffensive and resilience.Mouin explains why Israel miscalculated, assuming Iran could be toppled like Hezbollah or Assad’s Syria, and how Iran’s status as a state—with institutions and deep resources—changed the game. We also explore former President Trump’s shifting stance: from denying involvement, to claiming credit, to hoping the conflict would force a new deal with Iran.Who really came out on top in this short but intense conflict? And what does it mean for the future of the Middle East?Watch now for insights into one of the most consequential clashes in recent memory.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
In this exclusive interview, Iranian born journalist and author Hooman Majd dives deep into the recent conflict between Israel and Iran. We discuss:The real damage suffered by both sidesWhy even moderates in Iran are now calling for nuclear weaponsIsrael’s possible motives for the attacks—and why they may have backfiredWhether regime change is truly on the tableIran’s regional standing after the ceasefireHow ordinary Iranians feel about the war, religion, and their futureThe controversial figure of Reza Pahlavi and shifting political dynamicsIran’s complex relationship with Saudi ArabiaIs Iran closer than ever to going nuclear? And what does this mean for the Middle East and the world?Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk
🎙️ In this exclusive interview, political scientist Dr. Mariam Mufti of the University of Waterloo breaks down the recent military escalation between India and Pakistan.We discuss five major shifts in this latest round of conflict:Civilian targets were struck for the first time in Kashmir.India responded not just in disputed Kashmir, but by striking deep inside Pakistani Punjab.Media sensationalism drove public opinion on both sides.Unlike previous confrontations, the international community showed little willingness to intervene.China came out more decisively than ever in support of Pakistan—marking a new phase in South Asian geopolitics.🧭 We also covered broader regional dynamics, including:– India’s shifting alliances toward Southeast Asia and the Middle East– The Israel–Iran conflict and Pakistan’s support for Iran– Strains emerging in India–Iran ties– The increasing cooperation between Pakistan, China, Iran, and Russia📌 Kianistan Editorial NoteWhile Dr. Mufti suggests that Pakistan suffered a tactical defeat—citing its inability to strike inside India—we respectfully differ.Military conflicts are inherently opaque, obscured by the "fog of war." However, it is inconceivable that Pakistan would have agreed to a ceasefire without a retaliatory strike—as this would have exposed it to future Indian aggression.Indeed, we concur with Indian defence analyst Pravin Sawhney (Force Magazine), who argues that Pakistan now feels emboldened and may initiate the next escalation.🇵🇰 Pakistan’s Claimed Retaliation: Operation Bunyan um Marsoos (8–10 May 2025)Pakistan reports it struck several Indian military targets in response to the Indian airstrikes of May 7, including:Jammu Air Force StationPathankot Air Force StationUdhampur Air Force StationSirens reported in Amritsar and JalandharIndian military spokesperson Colonel Sophia Qureshi later confirmed damage to the following bases:Udhampur AFSPathankot AFSAdampur AFSBhuj AFSBathinda AFSShe admitted to "equipment and personnel" losses but avoided specifics.India’s shifting statements—from denying any damage to later acknowledging air force losses—raise serious questions about the official narrative.Until India provides full transparency, it is not reasonable to dismiss Pakistan’s claims entirely.📄 Our editorial team will publish a full analysis on this topic at Kianistan.com in the coming days.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk #IndiaPakistan #Geopolitics #SouthAsia #MariamMufti #Kianistan #ChinaPakistan #IranIsrael #BRI #CPEC #IndiaIran #PravinSawhney #PakistanMilitary #OperationBunyanumMarsoos
🎙️ Carl Zha: The Myth Is DeadIn this explosive episode, I speak with Carl Zha of the Silk & Steel podcast about the rapidly escalating military conflict between Israel and Iran—and why Israel and the U.S. may have underestimated Iran’s resilience.🇮🇷 Iran’s Shock ResponseFollowing Israel’s initial surprise attack, Iran stunned both Israel and the U.S. by regrouping within hours—filling leadership gaps, repairing air defences, and launching retaliatory strikes almost immediately. This is the first time Israel has faced a real adversary that can hit back just as hard.🌍 Why This Isn’t IraqWe break down why comparing Iran to Iraq is a strategic mistake. Iran is four times larger, has a tougher terrain, a larger population, and far more missile-manufacturing capability. A U.S. ground invasion would require over half a million troops—something simply not possible today.💣 Can the U.S. or Israel Destroy Iran’s Nuclear Facilities?Carl explains why Iran’s enrichment facilities are buried too deep—literally under mountains—for either country to strike effectively. Even the U.S. would struggle, bunker busters or not.🧨 Regime Change Fantasy?If regime change was the goal, it’s unattainable without an unimaginable ground invasion and massive regional blowback. Most likely? A symbolic attack for headlines—nothing more.🗣️ Scott Ritter’s Controversial TakeWe respond to Scott Ritter’s claim that Iran provoked this war and that the U.S. can "end" Iran. Carl strongly disagrees—and shares a fiery debate he had with Ritter on his own channel (linked below).🌏 China’s Growing RoleChina is not sitting this one out. It’s calling out Israeli aggression, supporting Iran’s right to enrichment, and quietly limiting U.S. access to rare earth materials vital for missile production—while likely supplying Iran with what it needs to keep building its arsenal.Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on geopolitics, Islam, and emerging tech.🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss upcoming interviews.Visit us at: 🌐 www.kianistan.comSupport our sponsors: 💼 www.worldwidelistings.co.uk Follow Carl Zha: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaUg2PM1J5b3nc5KGZnTAiOJWJ7VilEH2 youtube.comhere are the 3 external videos that were referenced in this discussion:1 Carl Zha earlier interview on another channel:https://youtu.be/0tQq-XVVBqs?si=5ipcmndoKaMudo1S2. Victor Gao on China’s stance on this Israeli and US aggression on Iran:https://youtu.be/b_wnVDRLmmc?si=oFC07-tmoFLHApsS3. Carl debate with Scott Ritter:https://www.youtube.com/live/dyltpY5IzdE?si=2E_nyTtWtHmo7Vv6Note: the Scot Ritter debate is explosive, I’ve never seen Scott in this light before. Very telling. Do not miss!#CarlZha #IranIsraelWar #Geopolitics #ScottRitter #USIranConflict #MiddleEast #ChinaIran #SilkAndSteelPodcast