CONFLICTED

The seasons are brilliant, but the “Conflicted Community” episodes are filled with punditry that lacks the same production style and nuances as the main episodes. The subscription for bonus episodes is still worth it.

Aimen Dean comes across as a more polished and refined version of Mosab Hassan Yousef — articulate and media-savvy, but ultimately he sold himself to the highest bidder and is echoing the same tired narrative. What’s striking is his near-total silence on Israel; the focus is obsessively on Iran and its proxies, as if they’re the sole source of all regional instability. I’m no supporter of the Iranian regime myself, but this one-sided fixation coupled with a refusal to apply even minimal criticism toward Israel — makes his analysis feel politically motivated and lacking in credibility. Dean offers a one-dimensional framing that resonates mainly with pro- Zionist circles . By contrast, Thomas shows a bit more restraint and appears more willing to acknowledge complexity, even if he still operates within a familiar Western security framework What we need is analysis that reflects the realities of a multipolar future — one where no single narrative dominates, and where complexity, nuance, and accountability are applied across the board.

As someone that studied Middle Eastern conflict/history in university-this podcast is absolutely amazing, interesting and informative! Absolutely enjoy thoroughly. Amanda from 🇨🇦

Very good information coming from both of you. Thanks so much.