The Shah of Iran is unknowingly planting the seeds of rebellion. His secret police stifle political dissent. He’s dismissive of the religious community. He ignorant the effects of his economic policies.
Meanwhile, Ayatollah Khomeini is in exile but slowly building his base and sharpening his message. Despite his advanced age, he’s confident the people of I ... Show More
Mar 2026
The Caliphate in Chaos | IHP 11-2
The Assassination of Caliph Walid II serves as the violent climax to an era of mounting tension, marking the definitive start of the Third Fitna civil war. This episode explores the roots of this collapse, beginning with the Early History and Passive Protest of Sufism, where figu ... Show More
2h 22m
Feb 2026
America’s ICE Crackdown: Raids, Killings and Public Outcry
Host Majid and guest Muttaqi Ismail discuss recent US enforcement actions—ICE and Border Patrol raids, the killing in Minneapolis, and community reactions—placing these events in the context of immigrant communities, politics, and public protest. They also cover how social media, ... Show More
1h 8m
Feb 2024
120. The Iranian Revolution: The Rise of Ayatollah Khomeini
With the Last Shah’s reforms - known as the White Revolution - starting to take effect, Iran looked to be in a healthy position. Economic growth is strong, Tehran is a thriving cultural centre, and women now had the vote. Before long, however, the economy began to overheat and in ... Show More
41m 27s
Sep 2023
The Battles of the Ayatollah
Negar Mortazavi speaks with Alex Vatanka about Iran’s domestic politics and mass protests, the crisis of legitimacy and the issue of leadership succession, Tehran’s deescalation with Washington and regional engagement with Arab rivals, and the continuous shift to the East towards ... Show More
34m 36s