The Brief

In this episode of The Brief Podcast, Mohammad Huraini takes us on a walking tour of his village in the South Hebron Hills. It is part of a community known as Masafer Yatta. It comprises more than a dozen Palestinian hamlets. Mohammed uses his video recordings to document settler attacks, often supported by army troops or police. Illegal "settlers" in the region are terrorizing Palestinians who have lived there for decades with the aim of stealing their land and destroying their homes. Muhammed's goal is to document events using a video camera. He tells Jim Clancy that despite repeated, brutal attacks by the settlers the Palestinian residents around Masafer Yatta aren't abandoning their homes, livestock or property. You can support Mohammad's work here.

Sarah Leah Whitson joins Jim Clancy in a discussion of Trump's "Global Board of Peace" and concerns about the state of U.S. Democracy. Whitson is an experienced Human Rights and Democracy advocate who co-founded DAWN (Democracy for the Arab World Now) with Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi before his murder. Whitson says "It is a profoundly anti-democratic entity and a profoundly colonial entity such that the people who actually live in Gaza have no say whatsoever for the government that is going to rule their lives." The discussion turns to the actual state of the ceasefire in Gaza, the failure to deliver most of the humanitarian aid and supplies and the effect that is having on civilians there. Whitson surveys the U.S. political scene and spares neither Republicans nor Democrats "What I am surprised and disappointed and frankly revolted by is the complacency, cowardice and corruption of the American political elites, of American civil society with power."

Harvard Professor and internationally acclaimed realist Stephen Walt looks at the events, personalities and policies that defined a tumultuous year in politics at home and abroad in this edition of The Brief Podcast with Jim Clancy. Unrestrained in his foreign policy instincts, Trump has bullied friends and foes alike without a hint of a collective strategy. Walt reviews how a President obsessed with claiming the mantle of a global peacekeeper has conflated short term ceasefires with the difficult work of resolving the root causes of conflicts. From the Genocide in Gaza to gunboat diplomacy in Venezuela, Walt deconstructs how flim flam is failing on all fronts. Walt observes the winners and (mostly) losers of 2025. That includes Israel's powerful lobby in the U.S. that faces a collapse of support in American public opinion. It also includes Trump's onslaught against science and research at prominent universities that can be likened to "shooting itself in the head.". The flailing tariff policies, deployment of troops on American streets and troubled alliances from Europe to Asia are discussed and no sacred cows are spared. Despite all of that, Professor Walt still sees hope for democratic resilience among the people of the United States.

John Feeley is former U.S. Ambassador to Panama who advised the Trump and Biden administrations on Latin America. He resigned over policy differences during Trump's first term. He had previously served as a Captain in the US Marine Corp, flying helicopters that ferried troops from US naval vessels to shore. "We are in...literally uncharted waters." A former U.S. Ambassador and Marine helicopter pilot, John Feeley, joins Jim Clancy for a thorough discussion of the Trump Administration's military buildup in the Caribbean. Feeley, who resigned his diplomatic post as Ambassador to Panama during the first Trump Administration, says the current U.S. posture jeopardizes America's leadership position in a rules based order. "Gunboat diplomacy" is putting U.S. service members into murky legal territory. Amb. Feeley warns putting politics over professionalism is not going to solve America's drug problem and Sec. of Defense Pete Hegseth chest thumping about "warriors" can't shield American soldiers and sailors from international law. "There are a lot of bad people around the world, there are bad regimes, and there are threats to the United States. And we need a professional warrior class more than ever right now in this very difficult world. But what we don't need are a bunch of renegade war criminals hopped up on monster drink and push-ups like Pete Hegseth has."

Voices of Gaza: Pollster Obada Shtaya Reveals What Gazans Really Want. The ceasefire agreement produces dramatic changes among Palestinian emotions, attitudes and aspirations. There is resurgence of Hope for the future and even an end to the Occupation. Shtaya, co-founder and CEO of the Institute for Social and Economic Progress, tells Jim Clancy his poll reveals who Palestinians credit for the ceasefire, who they would support to govern Gaza, and how support for traditional political forces, including Hamas, is shifting. You can view and download all of the details and descriptions of the polls by navigating to https://institute4progress.org

They would do anything to stop the killing of Palestinians in Gaza. But Palestinian legal experts say the Trump Plan for Gaza will not come close to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian problem. What the plan does require to stop the killing is for Palestinians to abandon their own efforts to hold Israel accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity in international courts. Zaha Hassan and Dr. Jamal Nusseibeh sit down with Jim Clancy to probe the shortcomings of the Trump plan and offer up an alternative. They present the Palestinian Armistice Plan, emphasizing rights-based, inclusive Palestinian governance as a pathway to lasting peace and security. They stress the critical role of regional and international actors, urging pragmatic approaches to end the cycle of conflict. Both Dr. Nusseibeh and Hassan helped co-author that plan with other Palestinians. During the podcast it becomes clear how many Palestinians are willing to sacrifice for the sake of bringing the genocide in Gaza to an end.

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Jeremy Hammond is a respected author, researcher, and analyst known for his in-depth studies on issues such as the Israel-Palestine conflict, U.S. foreign policy, and more. Hammond's work often focuses on dispelling misconceptions and misinformation surrounding controversial geopolitical topics. He is the author of several books, including “Obstacle to Peace: The US Role in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict,” which critically examines the historical and ongoing factors influencing peace efforts in the Middle East. His writings have been published in various esteemed journals and platforms, showcasing his commitment to uncovering overlooked truths in international relations.

In this episode of "The Brief," host Jim Clancy has a conversation with Ehud Olmert, the former Prime Minister of Israel, delving into the complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The discussion begins with addressing the pressing issue of hostages in Gaza and the severe restrictions on humanitarian aid. Olmert provides candid insights into the political dynamics currently shaping Israel’s policies, including the stance of Prime Minister Netanyahu and his right-wing allies. The conversation navigates the maze of conflicting ideologies, emphasizing Olmert's belief that the human cost outweighs the potential military gains. Olmert unequivocally opposes the continuation of the confrontation in Gaza and asserts that by all reasonable measures, Hamas has been defeated. In the course of their dialogue, Olmert tackles the fraught topic of a potential ceasefire and the humanitarian responsibilities of the Israeli government. With his extensive experience, he critiques Netanyahu’s approach to dealing with Hamas and outlines his vision for a future beyond the conflict. He reflects on the international implications of Israel's current military strategies and its global image, stressing the importance of humanitarian considerations.

Muhammad Shehada joins Jim Clancy as they dive deep into the desolate landscape of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza. They explore the implications of the White House meeting between Netanyahu and Trump, evidence of genocidal intentions, and the sheer devastation in Gaza. Shehada shares personal anecdotes, shedding light on the plight of Gazans and the desperate calls for aid and reform. The conversation covers international politics, the enduring spirit among Palestinians, and highlights voices within the Jewish diaspora advocating for change. A compelling discourse on the struggle and resilience of the Palestinian people.

Independent journalist Sam Husseini joins Jim Clancy on The Brief to discuss the complex dynamics of questioning U.S. foreign policy in relation to Gaza. Husseini shares his challenging experiences at State Department press conferences, highlighting issues such as the Geneva Conventions’ applicability to Palestinians and the scrutiny faced by those questioning U.S. policy towards Israel. Amidst claims of media complicity and suppression of dissenting voices, the conversation uncovers the heightened pressure on journalists and activists asking uncomfortable questions and advocating for transparency and accountability in powerful institutions.

Jim Clancy is joined by Kenneth Roth, a luminary in human rights advocacy, to dissect the seismic shifts observed in U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration and its wider implications for global human rights issues. The discussion unveils complex political dynamics around U.S. relationships with countries like Ukraine, Israel, and China, while highlighting potential threats posed by changes in policy. The episode is not just an examination of geopolitical concerns but a political and moral exploration of progressive international law being undermined. Through Roth's lens, an expert viewpoint on the U.S. turning a blind eye to ethical international governance comes to light.

Journalist Jim Clancy hosts Ahmed Alnaouq, founder of “We Are Not Numbers,” as they discuss the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Ahmed shares personal losses and the destruction faced by Palestinians, emphasizing their resilience and attachment to their homeland despite adversities. The conversation sheds light on Palestinian efforts to amplify their voices through storytelling and journalism amidst media bias and political challenges. The dialogue explores the need for Palestinian unity and questions the role of international powers in resolving long-standing issues. Join Clancy and Alnaouq for a deep dive into the heart of the Gaza struggle.

Jim Clancy and Nick Kristof explore the complexities of global and domestic politics in this enlightening conversation. Kristof highlights positive global trends despite overwhelming negativity while also discussing the challenges posed by Trump’s presidency, including political violence, immigration policies, and economic implications. They delve into international relations, examining the US’s positions on China, Ukraine, and the Middle East, and critique the impact of US actions in Gaza. This episode offers a nuanced analysis of current geopolitical dynamics and their implications for the future.

Ahmed Shihab-Eldin is a renowned journalist and multimedia producer with a focus on the Middle East and North African regions. He has previously worked with prominent media outlets like Al Jazeera and Huffington Post, where he has utilized his expertise to provide in-depth analysis and reporting on geopolitical issues. Ahmed is highly respected for his insightful contributions and his dedication to giving a voice to underrepresented communities in conflict-ridden areas.

In this episode of The Brief, host Jim Clancy engages in a compelling dialogue with Reza Aslan, focusing on Aslan’s new children’s book about the Israel-Palestine conflict. Aslan’s book aims to navigate the complexities of this ongoing conflict in a manner relatable to children aged five to twelve, encouraging a dialogue between young readers and their parents. The conversation touches on the need for addressing global issues such as war and trauma, and the pivotal role empathy plays in understanding multiple narratives.

In this gripping episode, host Jim Clancy discusses with guests Karim Makdisi and Wissam Yafi the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict amid international interventions. The dialogue critically examines the role of major global players, the shifting political sentiments within the United States, and the persistent struggles of Palestinian communities. Makdisi and Yafi delve into the recent arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli leaders, discussing their potential long-term impact and symbolic significance. They also explore the role of the U.S. in supporting Israel, contrasting it with international law and public sentiment, highlighting the increasing disconnect between the U.S. administration and its citizens. Furthermore, the guests elaborate on Iran's strategic positioning in the region and its implications on wider geopolitical tensions, discussing the proxy war dynamics and its effects on regional stability and international relations. The episode provides a thorough understanding of the consequences of U.S. foreign policy under the incoming Trump administration on the Middle East and the persistence of ongoing conflicts.

In a rapidly changing Middle East, Jim Clancy and guest Ken Robinson delve into the complex dynamics following the takeover of Syria by a rebel alliance led by HTS and Abu Mohammed al-Julani. They explore geopolitical shifts, including implications for Iran and Hezbollah, Turkey’s interests, and the precarious situation faced by the Alawite minority. The conversation also touches on the U.S. and international involvement, the evolving role of Israel, and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions that foster stability and hope for the people of Syria and the wider region.

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Trita Parsi on the use of emerging technology in war.

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Zaha Hassan and Jim Clancy Discuss the ICJ, Genocide, and the American voices asking whether a once indispensable nation is being dragged where it never wanted to go.

Former U.S. Ambassador Charles Freeman questions the true intentions of Israel's renewed bombing of Gaza.

Jim Clancy in conversation with James Zogby, President of the Arab American Institute.

Every second breath we take comes from oceanic phytoplankton which use sunlight to fix atmospheric carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. They also form the base of the food chain because all other organisms depend on the organic matter produced by these phytoplankton. Discern this explores what happens when populations of this microorganism get out of balance and how they impact the climate and ecosystems around the world.

Discern This takes a look at the progressive movement in the United States with a focus on the Poor People’s Campaign founded by Reverend William Barber. This modern analogue to the social movement founded by Martin Luther King Jr. in the 1960s, echoes its predecessor’s conviction that society needs to confront the interlocking and mutually reinforcing injustices of poverty, racism, militarism, and adds climate change to the list. Author and progressive activist Phyllis Bennis explains how the PPC functions as fusion movement with interconnected objectives. Using clips from some of Reverend Barber’s powerful and emotive speeches, Discern This discusses the intellectual underpinnings and practical goals of the Poor People’s Campaign. Phyllis Bennis, who is a research partner to the campaign, gives context to the speeches and lays out Reverend Barber’s view of military spending and intersectionality. In her conversation with host Lonzo Cook, she emphasizes the importance of mobilization to achieve progressive goals.The conversation explores progressive landscape beyond the Poor People’s Campaign, with Lonzo Cook asking Phyllis if the American left has been undermined by its fissiparous tendency to split into narrow interest groups. In the final section, Phyllis Bennis details her engagement with local media outlets across the country and how that meshes with her focus on affecting change in local politics. Phyllis Bennis is an author and progressive activist. She is the Director of the New Internationalism Project at the Institute of Policy Studies in Washington DC.

The United States is an imperial power, driven by predatory capitalism with a foreign and security policy aimed at supporting the maintenance of an American Empire. So runs the controversial thesis of Colonel Larry Wilkerson, former Chief of Staff to US Secretary of State Colin Powell. He asserts that the long running wars which the US has fought in the wake of September 11,2001 have been waged for the deep state and the maintenance and extension of Empire. In his view, US support for Ukraine is motivated by a desire to maintain US hegemony over Europe.In an extended conversation with Discern This host Lonzo Cook, Colonel Wilkerson shares his independent view of US defense spending, a view at variance with establishment orthodoxy one might expect from a former senior military and government official. He charges that defense contractors have been massive beneficiaries of America’s post 911 foreign and security policy and lambasts the inefficiencies of prominent military procurement programs like the F-35 fighter. In an echo of President Eisenhower’s warnings about the military-industrial complex, Colonel Wilkerson explains how defense spending is not as productive as investments in health, education or business and laments the bloated defense budget as “a drain on the body of America”.Drawing on his experience at the highest levels of the Army and State Department, Colonel Wilkerson points out that the militarization of US foreign policy dulls the knife of diplomacy and chides the poor quality of senior US diplomats. And in a warning that all Empires run their course, he warns that US adventurism abroad could lead to an expanding global coalition of opponents to the US.

Discern This delves into America’s changing role in the world with veteran journalist and political commentator David Andelman, whose career includes stints as New York Times bureau chief in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. How does the United States self-perception mesh with the views of it around the world and is it still “the shining city on the hill”? David Andelman brings into focus the shifting status of the US, as viewed from abroad, a topic he covers as a CNN columnist and in his own substack Andelman Unleashed.. He highlights a fascinating finding from a recent international survey which placed Canada and its constitution as the leading example to emulate, according to respondents in countries considering their own constitutional revisions.Drawing on his perspective gained from reporting from 86 countries over his career, David Andelman sketches the major fault lines in world affairs. He identifies the possibility of fighting a two front war- in Ukraine and over Taiwan- as the greatest threat facing the United States. Andelman explains why the Baltic states and Poland have had a more realistic and accurate appraisal of Russian intentions and how the France and Germany fell victim to wishful thinking in their policy with Moscow. He highlights the attritional nature of the war in Ukraine and posits the negative feedback loop of Russian casualties could have on the Kremlin. He adds that some of the overlooked disruptions caused by the Russian invasion, include overtures between former Soviet republics in central Asia and the United States.Andelman endorses Henry Kissinger’s dictum that strong domestic support is required of the conduct of a successful foreign policy- that international events are too often refracted through the prism of national politics. He chides the US media for inconsistently explaining the relevance and impact of international events to its domestic audience. For him one of the weaknesses of the American political system is that Americans are not being educated about the linkage between America’s global position and America’s prosperity.David Andelman is a journalist, author and political commentator. His career includes stints as New York Times bureau chief in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. David was also a Paris based correspondent for CBS News. He is currently an opinion columnist for CNN on international affairs and writes regularly for his own substack: Andelman Unleashed.

What are the greatest threats facing the United States and how well has the current administration been managing them? Colonel Larry Wilkerson, who was Chief of Staff to US Secretary of State Colin Powell, identifies nuclear weapons and climate change as existential risks and sounds the alarm over military and civilian leaders in both America and Russia growing more comfortable with the idea of using battlefield nuclear weapons. On the war in Ukraine, Colonel Wilkerson castigates the “warmongering media” in the West and asserts there is no way Russia is going lose the war.Turning to Asia, Colonel Wilkerson warns that the US would probably be unable to win a war with China over Taiwan and would likely suffer over 100,000 casualties in the first 10 weeks of fighting. He highlights the numerical naval superiority the PRC has built up over the last two decades and raises the prospect of America losing two aircraft carriers with their 10,000 personnel within the opening days of hostilities. He paints a harrowing picture of survivors afloat amid flames and diesel in the South China Sea. In an even more stark warning, Colonel Wilkinson details China’s expanding nuclear arsenal and more aggressive force posture, which he says increases the risk that military conflict with China would lead to a nuclear exchange.

How do US intelligence agencies view and prioritize the panoply of threats facing the country? Suzanne Kelly shares insights from her extensive knowledge and contacts built up over her career as an intelligence correspondent at CNN and as the founder and CEO of the Cipher Brief- a leading publication focused on national security. In conversation with her former CNN colleague Lonzo Cook, Suzanne dissects the long term, multipronged challenges presented by China, ranging from industrial espionage and squabbles over access to advanced computer chips to a burgeoning rivalry in space-based platforms. Suzanne highlights America is developing its offensive and defensive cyber capabilities and explains how US intelligence agencies responded to high profile hacks such as Solar Winds. We also discuss what Hollywood get right and wrong about the working of US intelligence agencies in films like Zero Dark Thirty. While the US intelligence community has long resembled an old boys club to the outside world, Suzanne explains that women have long held important positions behind the scenes and are increasingly in senior leadership positions. Noting that women within intelligence agencies are now playing a more public role we go on to discuss how a diversity of viewpoints leads to better intelligence analysis and decision making.Suzanne Kelly is the founder, CEO and publisher of The Cipher Brief, a national security focused media organization. She's also a former CNN intelligence correspondent and executive producer.