Kianistan

In this episode of the Kianistan Podcast, host Tafhim Kiani is joined by Palestinian scientist, author and activist Dr. Mazin Qumsiyeh, founder of the Palestine Museum of Natural History and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University. They discuss Palestine, Israel, Zionism, settlements, sanctions, the two-state solution and the ongoing conflict in the region.The conversation also explores Palestinian history, international law, Western governments, political activism, boycott and civil resistance, as well as the changing political landscape in the United States and wider West Asia. Dr. Qumsiyeh shares his perspective on what meaningful international action could look like and how people can contribute through activism, education and solidarity.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE• UK sanctions on settlement products• Palestine, Israel & the settlement system• Zionism and Palestinian history• The two-state solution• International law & Western policy• Israel, Palestine & political activism• US politics and Trump• Boycott, divestment & civil resistance• Palestinian environmental and humanitarian work• How people can support PalestineCHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction & Dr. Mazin Qumsiyeh02:49 – UK Ban on Settlement Products05:29 – Can Settlement Products Be Identified?10:42 – Sanctions, Tokenism & Meaningful Action14:15 – Palestine Before Zionism17:32 – Zionism, Politics & the UK Green Party18:43 – Palestinian Christians & the Human Rights Question20:38 – Zionism as a Political Ideology23:00 – Israel, Palestine & the Two-State Solution26:00 – Settlements & the Changing Reality on the Ground29:00 – International Law & Accountability32:00 – Israel's Legal and Political Structure38:00 – The Settlement Enterprise40:58 – Activism, Arrests & Palestinian Solidarity42:59 – US Politics, Trump & Israel45:00 – Political Resistance & the Future of US Policy49:56 – US Politics, Democrats & Foreign Policy50:59 – Economic Pressure, Oil & US Policy51:58 – America First & Israel54:03 – Moral Courage, Activism & Political Change57:00 – War, Nuclear Risks & Global Politics58:59 – Environmental Justice & Palestine01:00:30 – How to Support Palestine01:01:19 – Final Thoughts & GoodbyeABOUT DR. MAZIN QUMSIYEHDr. Mazin Qumsiyeh is a Palestinian scientist, author and professor at Bethlehem University. He is the founder and director of the Palestine Museum of Natural History and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability.He has written extensively on Palestine, human rights, environmental issues, biodiversity and social justice.LINKSBethlehem University: https://www.bethlehem.edu/employees/mazin-qumsiyeh/Official Website: https://qumsiyeh.org/Mazin Qumsiyeh, Mazin Qumsiyeh interview, Mazin Qumsiyeh Palestine, Palestine, Palestine Israel, Israel Palestine, Palestine history, Palestinian history, Zionism, Zionism explained, Israel settlements, Israeli settlements, West Bank, Gaza, Palestine conflict, Palestine solidarity, Palestinian rights, two state solution, Israel Palestine conflict, international law Palestine, sanctions Israel, boycott Israel, BDS, Palestine activism, Palestinian Christians, Palestine Museum of Natural History, Bethlehem University, US Israel relations, Trump Israel, Middle East geopolitics, West Asia, geopolitics, international relations, Kianistan, Kianistan Podcast, Tafhim KianiHASHTAGS#MazinQumsiyeh #Palestine #Israel #Zionism #Gaza #WestBank #PalestinianRights #BDS #Geopolitics #KianistanPodcast

☕ SUPPORT THE SHOWbuymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzIn Episode 161 of the Kianistan Podcast, host Tafhim Kiani is joined by Canadian lawyer, journalist and podcaster Dimitri Lascaris for a wide-ranging conversation on Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Yemen, Israel and the shifting global landscape. Dimitri shares insights from his recent trip to Russia, including his observations on everyday public sentiment, the conflict in Ukraine, economic measures against Russia, military escalation risks and the prospects for future talks.The conversation also covers frozen Russian assets, Iran–US relations, Israel and Palestine, Yemen and Saudi Arabia, Ansarullah, the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the changing balance of global power. Subscribe to Kianistan for more conversations on international relations, history, economics and global affairs.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE- Dimitri's recent trip to Russia- Russia–Ukraine tensions & escalation risks- Economic measures & frozen Russian assets- The US approach to the Ukraine conflict- Russia's international relations & diplomacy- Israel, Palestine & public opinion- Iran–US relations and talks- Yemen, Saudi Arabia & Ansarullah- The strategic importance of Bab al-MandabCHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction01:55 – Dimitri's Recent Trip to Russia03:01 – Public Sentiment in Russia on the Conflict05:20 – How Russians View the Outside World08:47 – Cross-Border Strikes Inside Russia10:43 – Russia & Escalation Risks11:02 – World Public Assembly & the Global South12:40 – Russia, China & the Changing Global Order14:11 – Frozen Russian Assets Abroad16:48 – Could Russia Respond Against Foreign Assets?17:13 – The US Approach to the Ukraine Conflict19:30 – Economic Pressure & Continued Military Aid19:58 – Prospects for Negotiations21:30 – Why Russia May Reject a Ceasefire22:31 – Military Strategy & Supply Lines23:26 – The Human Cost of the Conflict26:40 – Russia's Natural Resources & Global Interests29:45 – Russia's Military Strength & Global Balance31:14 – Economic Measures & Israeli Settlements33:50 – Trade, Israel & the Defense Industry35:19 – Palestine & Global Public Opinion39:20 – Peaceful Public Pressure41:07 – Russia, Ukraine & the Wider Region43:09 – Iran–US Talks & the Road Ahead45:10 – Iran, Israel & the Origins of the Conflict46:21 – Yemen, Saudi Arabia & the Conflict48:17 – Ansarullah & the Future of Yemen50:05 – Could Ansarullah Control Most of Yemen?51:40 – Bab al-Mandab & Yemen's Strategic Position53:13 – Saudi Arabia & Prospects for Talks54:31 – Dimitri's Perspective on Canada57:09 – Where to Follow Dimitri58:00 – Final Thoughts & GoodbyeABOUT DIMITRI LASCARISDimitri Lascaris is a Canadian lawyer, journalist and podcaster. He hosts a YouTube channel covering international affairs, diplomacy and global developments. He has travelled to countries including Russia and Iran to report and conduct interviews, bringing a legal and journalistic perspective to world events.CONNECT WITH DIMITRI LASCARISWebsite: https://dimitrilascaris.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reason2resistX: https://x.com/dimitrilascarisTAGSDimitri Lascaris, Dimitri Lascaris interview, Dimitri Lascaris Russia, Dimitri Lascaris Iran, Russia, Ukraine, Russia Ukraine, Russia military, Ukraine war analysis, Russian assets, frozen Russian assets, Russia international relations, Russia US relations, Ukraine peace talks, Russia geopolitics, Iran, Iran US, Iran Israel, Iran geopolitics, Yemen, Ansarullah, Saudi Arabia Yemen, Bab al Mandab, Middle East geopolitics, Israel Palestine, Palestine, geopolitical analysis, international relations, global affairs, world affairs, Kianistan Podcast, Tafhim KianiHASHTAGS#DimitriLascaris #Russia #Ukraine #Iran #Yemen #Geopolitics #InternationalRelations #GlobalAffairs #KianistanPodcast

☕ SUPPORT THE SHOWbuymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzIn Episode 160 of the Kianistan Podcast, host Tafhim Kiani is joined by Cyrus Janssen, geopolitical analyst, investor, speaker and content creator, for a wide-ranging discussion about China, the United States, global trade, technology, geopolitics, Hong Kong, Taiwan, economic competition and the changing global order.If you are interested in China, US–China relations, geopolitics, global trade, technology, Taiwan, Hong Kong, international relations, economic competition and the changing world order, this episode provides a first-hand perspective from someone who has spent many years living and working in China.Subscribe to the Kianistan Podcast for long-form conversations on geopolitics, international relations, economics, history, technology and global affairs.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE• How China views the West differently• Western perceptions of Chinese society• Cyrus Janssen's experience living in China and Hong Kong• China's economic transformation since 2007• China and the United States as global powers• Chinese perspectives on freedom and individualism• China's entry into the World Trade Organization• Why China did not become a Western-style democracy• US–China trade and economic competition• Why China became a major global trading power• Taiwan and China's regional strategy• China's relationship with Russia and India• The South China Sea and regional geopolitics• China’s rise as a technology power• Electric vehicles and battery technology• China's solar industry• Chinese innovation and research• US concerns about China's technological rise• Hong Kong and the 2019 protests• China's national security law in Hong Kong• Hong Kong's role in Asian finance and trade• Learning Mandarin and living in China• AI translation and traveling in China• WeChat, cashless payments and Chinese technology• How China has changed over the past two decadesCHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction & Cyrus Janssen01:32 – Living in China: East vs West03:00 – How China Views the United States05:00 – Freedom, Culture & Different Worldviews06:34 – China, the WTO & Western Expectations08:00 – China’s Rise as a Global Trading Power10:00 – John Mearsheimer & US–China Competition12:00 – Taiwan, Russia, India & China's Geopolitics14:00 – US Foreign Policy & China's Global Rise16:00 – China, Trade & Economic Competition18:00 – China’s Economic Model & Global Markets20:00 – Strait of Hormuz & Global Economic Pressure22:00 – US Economy, Tariffs & Trade Policy24:00 – Donald Trump & US Economic Policy26:00 – China, Hong Kong & the 2019 Protests28:00 – Hong Kong's National Security Law30:00 – China's Economic & Technological Rise32:00 – China vs the West: Technology & Innovation34:00 – US Economic Policy & China's Competition35:58 – US Politics & Economic Pressure38:00 – Hong Kong, Human Rights & Western Criticism41:30 – China's Technology & Industrial Strategy45:10 – Learning Mandarin & Living in China46:42 – AI Translation & Traveling in China48:07 – How Chinese People Learn English49:14 – Cyrus Janssen's Work & Where to Follow Him50:03 – Thank You & GoodbyeABOUT CYRUS JANSSENCyrus Janssen is a geopolitical analyst, investor, speaker and social media content creator with more than 2 million followers across social media platforms.He has lived and worked in China and Hong Kong for many years, including beginning his professional career in Shanghai. His work focuses heavily on China, geopolitics, international relations, economics and global affairs.Cyrus creates videos and interviews examining China's role in the world and frequently shares insights from his travels and experiences in China.CONNECT WITH CYRUS JANSSENYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cyrusjanssenX: https://x.com/thecyrusjanssenWebsite: https://www.cyrusjanssen.com/

☕ SUPPORT THE SHOWbuymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzIn this episode of the Kianistan Podcast, we're joined by Vladimir N. Brovkin, a Russian-born American historian and former Associate Professor of Soviet History at Harvard University, for a wide-ranging discussion on Germany's changing political landscape and its broader implications for Europe.We explore the current political dynamics in Germany, shifting political alignments, and what these changes could mean for Europe's future. Dr. Brovkin brings a historical perspective shaped by his extensive work on Russian and Soviet history, political movements, revolutionary Russia, and the development of the Soviet state.The conversation also examines Germany's role within the European security architecture and how changing political positions across Europe could influence the trajectory of the Russia-Ukraine war. We discuss the historical relationship between Russia and Europe, the political forces shaping Germany, and the wider strategic consequences for the continent.Dr. Brovkin's historical perspective provides important context for understanding Russia's political development and its relationship with Germany, Europe, and the wider world.If you enjoy in-depth conversations on international relations, European politics, Russian history, global affairs, and the forces shaping the modern world, subscribe to Kianistan and share this episode.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODEGermany's current political landscape and changing political alignmentsThe major forces shaping German politicsHow Germany's political direction could affect EuropeGermany's role in Europe's security architectureThe relationship between German politics and European strategic policyHow political changes in Germany could influence the Russia-Ukraine warRussia's historical relationship with Germany and EuropeThe historical development of the Russian and Soviet statePolitical movements and revolutionary RussiaHow history can help explain contemporary Russia-Europe relationsThe wider implications of Germany's political changes for European securityThe future direction of Europe and its relationship with RussiaCHAPTERS00:00 – Introduction01 – Welcome Vladimir N. Brovkin02 – Germany's Changing Political Landscape03 – The Forces Reshaping German Politics04 – Germany and Europe's Political Future05 – Germany's Role in European Security06 – Russia, Germany & the Historical Relationship07 – Understanding Russia Through Its Political History08 – Germany and the Russia-Ukraine War09 – Europe's Security Architecture & Strategic Shifts10 – The Future of Russia-Europe Relations11 – What Comes Next for Germany and Europe12 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow Vladimir BrovkinABOUT VLADIMIR N. BROVKINVladimir N. Brovkin is a Russian-born American historian who was an Associate Professor of Soviet History at Harvard University in the 1990s.His work focuses on Russian and Soviet history, political movements, revolutionary Russia, and the development of the Soviet state.His books include The Mensheviks After October, Behind the Frontlines of the Civil War, Dear Comrades, and Russia After Lenin.His historical perspective provides important context for understanding Russia's political development and its relationship with Europe and the wider world.CONNECT WITH VLADIMIR N. BROVKINYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vladimirbrovkin4052Website: http://asmhsss.weebly.com/about-me.htmlSubscribe for conversations on international relations, global affairs, history, geopolitics, and the ideas shaping the modern world.If this conversation added value, consider supporting the show: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzHASHTAGS#VladimirBrovkin #Germany #EuropeanPolitics #Russia #Ukraine #EuropeanSecurity #RussiaUkraine #GermanPolitics #InternationalRelations #GlobalAffairs #RussianHistory #SovietHistory #KianistanPodcastT

In Episode 157 of the Kianistan Podcast, we're joined by Dr. James Frankel, Associate Professor in the Department of Cultural and Religious Studies and Director of the Centre for the Study of Islamic Culture at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, for a deep dive into the 1,300-year history of Islam in China.If you enjoy in-depth conversations on Islamic history, world religions, and civilizations you rarely hear about, don't forget to subscribe and share this episode.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODEThe legend of Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas and how Islam is said to have reached Tang-dynasty ChinaWhat the historical and archaeological record actually tells us about Islam's earliest arrivalWhy early Chinese Muslims adopted both Arabic "scriptural" names and Chinese namesThe difference between the Hui and the Uyghurs — China's two largest Muslim communitiesWhy China officially recognizes 56 ethnic groups, and how Muslims fit into that systemHow China's one-child policy and demographic shifts affected its Muslim minoritiesThe Naqshbandi Sufi lineages of China and the rivalry between the Jahriyya and Khafiyya ordersHow the politics of different eras shaped whether Chinese mosques look Chinese or ArabThe Muslim contribution to Chinese martial arts and the legend of the "Muslim Fist"How the 13th-century Mongol empire connected the Islamic world from Spain to ChinaCHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction 01:15 – Welcome Dr. James Frankel 01:23 – From Hawaii to Hong Kong: A Career Building Islamic Studies Programs 02:53 – Dr. Frankel's Two Books on Islam in China 05:05 – The Legend of Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas: Did Islam Arrive via a Prophetic Mission? 12:40 – Arabic Names vs. Chinese Names: How Muslim Identity Adapted 18:25 – The Hui: China's Most Assimilated Muslim Community 29:04 – The Uyghurs: A Turkic People with a Very Different History 36:07 – China's Demographic Crisis and Its Muslim Minorities 47:18 – Sufi Orders in China: Naqshbandi Lineages from Central Asia 50:04 – Jahriyya vs. Khafiyya: Rival Sufi Orders That Won't Pray Together 54:12 – How China Shaped Chinese Muslim Religious Practice 58:50 – From Arab-Style Domes to Chinese Pagodas: The Politics of Mosque Architecture 1:00:29 – Muslims and Chinese Martial Arts: Kung Fu, Swordplay & the "Muslim Fist" 1:04:11 – The Mongol Century: How the Silk Road Connected the 13th-Century Muslim World 1:05:11 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow Dr. James FrankelABOUT DR. JAMES FRANKEL James D. Frankel is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cultural and Religious Studies and Director of the Centre for the Study of Islamic Culture at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He previously held a professorial position at the University of Hawaii, where he helped establish its Islamic studies curriculum. He is the author of Rectifying God's Name, a historical study of the 18th-century Chinese Muslim scholar Liu Zhi, and a second book offering a comprehensive chronological introduction to Islam in China.CONNECT WITH DR. JAMES FRANKEL Website: https://www.jamesdfrankel.com/aboutSubscribe for conversations on Islamic history, world religions, and civilizations you rarely hear about.If this conversation added value, consider supporting the show: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzHashtags #IslamInChina #JamesFrankel #Hui #Uyghur #ChineseIslam #Sufism #IslamicHistory #ChineseHistory #Xinjiang #Naqshbandi #KianistanPodcastTAGS James Frankel, Islam in China, Chinese Muslims, Hui Muslims, Uyghur, Xinjiang, Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Islamic studies, Sufism in China, Naqshbandi, Jahriyya, Khafiyya, Chinese mosque architecture, Liu Zhi, Rectifying God's Name, Chinese martial arts Islam, kung fu Muslim, Silk Road, Mongol empire, Tang dynasty Islam, Islamic history, world religions, Central Asia Islam, Islamic civilization, Kianistan Podcast, Tafhim Kiani

In this episode of the Kianistan Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Özgür Koca, Associate Professor of Islamic Studies and Philosophy at Bayan Islamic Graduate School, for a deep exploration of Sufi metaphysics and the towering intellectual legacy of Ṣadr al-Dīn Qūnawī and Ibn ʿArabī.Dr. Koca's research sits at the intersection of Islamic theology (kalām), philosophy (falsafa), and spirituality (taṣawwuf), tracing how these traditions developed and what they still offer to contemporary questions about God, being, and knowledge. We talk about what metaphysics actually is and how it differs from the natural sciences, the central principles of Sufi metaphysics according to Qūnawī, and the difference between merely knowing about God and truly knowing God. We also explore why Sufism — despite corresponding to iḥsān, one of the three dimensions of religion described in the Hadith of Gabriel — has sometimes been overlooked, and where Sufism converges with (and diverges from) other spiritual traditions like Christian spirituality. We close with a look at Dr. Koca's new book bringing Kant and Ibn ʿArabī into conversation.Dr. Koca is also the author of The Key to the Unseen: A Guidebook to Sufi Metaphysics, a new introduction to Ṣadr al-Dīn Qūnawī's thought, available now from Routledge.If you enjoy thoughtful conversations on philosophy, theology, and the Islamic intellectual tradition, don't forget to subscribe and share this episode.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODEHow to define metaphysics and the kinds of questions it seeks to answerHow metaphysics differs from the natural sciences like physics, chemistry, and biologyThe central principles of Sufi metaphysics according to Ṣadr al-Dīn QūnawīKey insights from Qūnawī and Ibn ʿArabī that remain relevant todayThe difference between knowing about God and actually knowing GodWhy Sufism (taṣawwuf) has sometimes been overlooked despite its central place in the Hadith of Gabriel's three dimensions of religionPoints of convergence — and difference — between Sufism and Christian spiritualityDr. Koca's new book bringing Kant and Ibn ʿArabī into dialogueCHAPTERS ABOUT DR. ÖZGÜR KOCA Dr. Özgür Koca is an Associate Professor of Islamic Studies and Philosophy at Bayan Islamic Graduate School. His research explores the intersection of Islamic theology (kalām), philosophy (falsafa), and spirituality (taṣawwuf), with a focus on how these traditions developed across classical Islamic intellectual history. He is the author of Sadr al-Din Qunawi's The Key to the Unseen: A Guidebook to Sufi Metaphysics (Routledge).CONNECT WITH DR. ÖZGÜR KOCAFaculty Page: https://bayanonline.org/dr.-%C3%B6zg%C3%BCr-koca Email: [email protected] Book — The Key to the Unseen: A Guidebook to Sufi Metaphysics: https://www.routledge.com/Sadr-al-Din-Qunawis-The-Key-to-the-Unseen-A-Guide-Book-to-Sufi-Metaphysics/Koca/p/book/9781041162124Subscribe for conversations on philosophy, theology, spirituality, and the Islamic intellectual tradition.If this conversation added value, consider supporting the show: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzHashtags #SufiMetaphysics #IbnArabi #SadrAlDinQunawi #IslamicPhilosophy #Tasawwuf #IslamicStudies #Sufism #Metaphysics #Kalam #Falsafa #KianistanPodcastTAGS Özgür Koca, Ozgur Koca, Sufi metaphysics, Ibn Arabi, Sadr al-Din Qunawi, Islamic philosophy, tasawwuf, Sufism, kalam, falsafa, Islamic theology, Bayan Islamic Graduate School, metaphysics, Kant and Ibn Arabi, philosophy of religion, Islamic spirituality, Hadith of Gabriel, ihsan, iman, Christian spirituality comparison, knowing God, Islamic mysticism, Islamic intellectual history, Kianistan Podcast, Tafhim Kiani

In Episode 155 of the Kianistan Podcast, economist, investment advisor, and long-time Federal Reserve critic Peter Schiff joins us to break down how the ongoing war between the US and Iran is colliding with America's own economic and political troubles.If you enjoy sharp, no-nonsense conversations on economics, markets, geopolitics, and where the world is headed, don't forget to subscribe and share this episode.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODEWhy Peter Schiff believes the Iran-US war has already gone worse than planned for AmericaHow the war, oil prices, and the draining of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve are connectedWhat a Democratic House and Senate could mean for Trump after the midtermsWhy Peter thinks Iran will emerge from this war stronger, not weakerThe three possible endgames for the war — endless conflict, negotiated settlement, or escalationWhy the petrodollar is in "greater jeopardy" than everWhy gold pulled back after its parabolic rally — and why Peter expects new highsThe real numbers behind Trump's tariffs and the US-China trade deficitThe only way Peter believes America can actually fix its debt and deficit problemWhether AI poses a genuine extinction-level riskWhether AI will destroy more jobs than it creates — and what that means for workersA deep dive into whether AI could ever truly "want" anythingHow the Republican Party has transformed since Peter's own Senate runCHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction: US-Iran War Meets US Politics 01:18 – Welcome Peter Schiff 01:26 – The US-Iran War: Oil Prices & No End in Sight 05:06 – Midterms 2026: Could a Democratic Congress Push Trump to Escalate? 08:32 – Why Peter Schiff Thinks Iran "Wins" This War 12:21 – Trump's Delusion & the Republican Party's Silence 16:56 – Has the US Avoided Recession? AI Spending vs. the Real Economy 18:12 – Three Endgames for the Iran War 23:54 – The Petrodollar's Slow Collapse 25:07 – Why Gold Pulled Back — And Why New Highs Are Coming 26:51 – Trump's Tariffs: Who's Really Winning the Trade War? 29:55 – The Only Way to Fix the Deficit: Cut Spending, Raise Rates 31:15 – Could AI Wipe Out Humanity? 34:42 – Will AI Destroy More Jobs Than It Creates? 38:20 – Does AI Even Want Anything? The Philosophy of AI Autonomy 43:10 – AI vs. the Human Touch: What Happens to Customer Service Jobs? 47:29 – How Trump Transformed the Republican Party 50:16 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow Peter SchiffABOUT PETER SCHIFF Peter David Schiff is an American stockbroker, financial commentator, and radio personality. He co-founded Euro Pacific Canada (Echelon Wealth Partners) and is involved in several financial services companies, including Euro Pacific Asset Management as an independent investment advisor, and SchiffGold.CONNECT WITH PETER SCHIFF YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/peterschiff Sign up for Peter's most valuable insights at https://SchiffSovereign.comFollow Peter Schiff on Twitter: / peterschiff Follow Peter Schiff on Instagram: / peterschiff Follow Peter Schiff on TikTok: / peterschiffofficial Follow Peter Schiff on Facebook: / peterschiff Subscribe for conversations on geopolitics, economics, markets, and global affairs.If this conversation added value, consider supporting the show: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzHashtags #PeterSchiff #Iran #USA #Gold #Silver #Inflation #FederalReserve #Economy #Recession #AI #Tariffs #Petrodollar #Deficit #Trump #Geopolitics #KianistanPodcastTAGS Peter Schiff, Peter Schiff podcast, Iran USA war, oil prices, strategic petroleum reserve, gold price, silver price, SchiffGold, Euro Pacific Asset Management, petrodollar, US debt, national deficit, Federal Reserve, interest rates, recession, inflation, AI jobs, AI extinction risk, AI bubble, Trump tariffs, US China trade war, midterm elections 2026, Republican Party, Trump economy, stock market, economics, investment advisor, Austrian economics, gold and silver, Kianistan Podcast, Tafhim Kiani

If this conversation added value, consider supporting the show: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzIn Episode 154 of the Kianistan Podcast, award-winning journalist, political commentator, media activist, and geopolitical analyst Laith Marouf returns to break down the rapidly escalating war between Iran and the United States, the renewed conflict inside Yemen, and the shifting alliances reshaping West Asia.We start with the UK's new law restricting trade with Israeli settlement bodies, and why it may be more theater than substance. From there, Laith connects the dots between Europe's collapsing political establishment, the rise of the far right, and growing public disillusionment with Western democracy. The conversation then turns to Yemen, where renewed fighting between Ansar Allah, Saudi-backed forces, and UAE-backed militias is exposing a bitter rivalry between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi — and how Pakistan's Gwadar port fits into the same regional contest for control of trade routes.Laith also lays out his read on the Strait of Hormuz naval clashes between Iran and the US, the state of America's depleted missile and interceptor stockpiles, the resignations shaking the top of the US military, and why he believes Iran won't wait until after the November election to act. We close with a look at China and Russia's calculated position on Iran following the SCO summit, Syria's fragile hold under al-Jolani, and Iran and Yemen's indigenous missile programs.If you enjoy thoughtful, in-depth conversations on geopolitics, international relations, military strategy, and global affairs, don't forget to subscribe and share this episode.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODEThe UK's new ban on trade with Israeli settlements — and why Israel is angrier at Britain than anyone elseWhy Europe's traditional political parties are losing ground to the far rightWhether public opinion can ever change US foreign policyWhat's really driving the renewed war in YemenThe behind-the-scenes rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over Yemen's portsWhy Saudi Arabia keeps escalating against Ansar Allah despite its own vulnerabilityLaith's "zero-sum war" thesis for the future of Palestine and IsraelThe fragile state of Syria under al-Jolani's regimeWhat's actually happening in the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and the US NavyAmerica's dwindling missile and interceptor stockpilesWhy Iran may escalate before the US midterms rather than afterChina and Russia's real position on Iran after the SCO summitIran and Yemen's indigenous missile manufacturing programsCHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction: West Asia at a Boiling Point 01:18 – Welcome Back, Laith Marouf 01:24 – UK's New Ban on Israeli Settlement Trade — Policy or Theater? 08:52 – Europe's Political Crisis & the Rise of the Far Right 12:53 – Can Public Opinion Ever Change US Foreign Policy? 15:53 – Yemen: Who Is Really Driving the Renewed Conflict? 20:08 – UAE vs Saudi Arabia: The Fight for Yemen's Ports & Gwadar 26:15 – Saudi Arabia's Gamble: Retaliate Against Ansar Allah or Negotiate? 30:17 – Zero-Sum War: Total Victory, Genocide, or the End of Israel 35:44 – Syria Under al-Jolani: A Regime on Borrowed Time 39:14 – Strait of Hormuz: Inside the US-Iran Naval Clashes 42:44 – America's Military Exhaustion: Running Out of Missiles & Interceptors 47:16 – China, Russia & the Multipolar Order's Stakes in Iran 52:17 – Iran & Yemen's Missile Programs: Indigenous Power, Not Just Iranian Aid 54:57 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow Laith MaroufABOUT LAITH MAROUF :Laith Marouf is an award-winning journalist, political commentator, media legal activist, and geopolitical analyst. He is the founder of Free Palestine TV and has appeared on numerous international media platforms discussing Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, geopolitics, media, and international affairs.CONNECT WITH LAITH MAROUF YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/laithmarouf

In Episode 155 of the Kianistan Podcast, economist, investment advisor, and long-time Federal Reserve critic Peter Schiff joins us to break down how the ongoing war between the US and Iran is colliding with America's own economic and political troubles.If you enjoy sharp, no-nonsense conversations on economics, markets, geopolitics, and where the world is headed, don't forget to subscribe and share this episode.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODEWhy Peter Schiff believes the Iran-US war has already gone worse than planned for AmericaHow the war, oil prices, and the draining of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve are connectedWhat a Democratic House and Senate could mean for Trump after the midtermsWhy Peter thinks Iran will emerge from this war stronger, not weakerThe three possible endgames for the war — endless conflict, negotiated settlement, or escalationWhy the petrodollar is in "greater jeopardy" than everWhy gold pulled back after its parabolic rally — and why Peter expects new highsThe real numbers behind Trump's tariffs and the US-China trade deficitThe only way Peter believes America can actually fix its debt and deficit problemWhether AI poses a genuine extinction-level riskWhether AI will destroy more jobs than it creates — and what that means for workersA deep dive into whether AI could ever truly "want" anythingHow the Republican Party has transformed since Peter's own Senate runCHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction: US-Iran War Meets US Politics 01:18 – Welcome Peter Schiff 01:26 – The US-Iran War: Oil Prices & No End in Sight 05:06 – Midterms 2026: Could a Democratic Congress Push Trump to Escalate? 08:32 – Why Peter Schiff Thinks Iran "Wins" This War 12:21 – Trump's Delusion & the Republican Party's Silence 16:56 – Has the US Avoided Recession? AI Spending vs. the Real Economy 18:12 – Three Endgames for the Iran War 23:54 – The Petrodollar's Slow Collapse 25:07 – Why Gold Pulled Back — And Why New Highs Are Coming 26:51 – Trump's Tariffs: Who's Really Winning the Trade War? 29:55 – The Only Way to Fix the Deficit: Cut Spending, Raise Rates 31:15 – Could AI Wipe Out Humanity? 34:42 – Will AI Destroy More Jobs Than It Creates? 38:20 – Does AI Even Want Anything? The Philosophy of AI Autonomy 43:10 – AI vs. the Human Touch: What Happens to Customer Service Jobs? 47:29 – How Trump Transformed the Republican Party 50:16 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Follow Peter SchiffABOUT PETER SCHIFF Peter David Schiff is an American stockbroker, financial commentator, and radio personality. He co-founded Euro Pacific Canada (Echelon Wealth Partners) and is involved in several financial services companies, including Euro Pacific Asset Management as an independent investment advisor, and SchiffGold.CONNECT WITH PETER SCHIFF YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/peterschiff Sign up for Peter's most valuable insights at https://SchiffSovereign.comFollow Peter Schiff on Twitter: / peterschiff Follow Peter Schiff on Instagram: / peterschiff Follow Peter Schiff on TikTok: / peterschiffofficial Follow Peter Schiff on Facebook: / peterschiff Subscribe for conversations on geopolitics, economics, markets, and global affairs.If this conversation added value, consider supporting the show: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzHashtags #PeterSchiff #Iran #USA #Gold #Silver #Inflation #FederalReserve #Economy #Recession #AI #Tariffs #Petrodollar #Deficit #Trump #Geopolitics #KianistanPodcastTAGS Peter Schiff, Peter Schiff podcast, Iran USA war, oil prices, strategic petroleum reserve, gold price, silver price, SchiffGold, Euro Pacific Asset Management, petrodollar, US debt, national deficit, Federal Reserve, interest rates, recession, inflation, AI jobs, AI extinction risk, AI bubble, Trump tariffs, US China trade war, midterm elections 2026, Republican Party, Trump economy, stock market, economics, investment advisor, Austrian economics, gold and silver, Kianistan Podcast, Tafhim Kiani

☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW: buymeacoffee.com/tafhimkianzWhat does the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement mean for Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and the future of the Middle East?In Episode 152 of the Kianistan Podcast, host Tafhim Kiani is joined by Pakistani journalist and columnist Zarrar Khuhro for an in-depth discussion about Pakistan's new defence partnership with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, the changing balance of power in the Middle East, Iran, Yemen, India, Israel, China and Pakistan's evolving regional strategy.The Makkah Joint Defence Agreement brings Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye closer together on defence and strategic security. But what does this new partnership actually mean? Could it become a new regional security bloc, and how might it affect Iran, Yemen, the Gulf, the Red Sea and South Asia?Zarrar Khuhro examines Pakistan–Saudi relations, Pakistan–Türkiye defence cooperation, the Yemen war, Gulf security, Iran's position, the strategic importance of the Bab al-Mandab, China's role in the region and Pakistan's difficult balancing act between major global and regional powers.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER• What the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement means• Why Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the agreement• The history of Pakistan–Saudi relations• Pakistan's role in the Yemen war• Why Türkiye is becoming strategically important to Pakistan• Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and the changing Middle East• The future of Gulf security and US security guarantees• Pakistan's relationship with Iran and Saudi Arabia• Could Pakistan be drawn into another regional conflict?• Yemen, Ansarullah and Saudi security• The strategic importance of the Bab al-Mandab and Red Sea• Pakistan, Türkiye and Somalia• India, Israel and emerging regional blocs• Pakistan's military relationship with Türkiye• China's role in Middle Eastern security• China–Pakistan strategic relations• Could the Makkah Agreement expand?• Is this becoming a new regional security alliance?• What the new geopolitical order means for Pakistan and the Middle EastCHAPTERS00:00 – What Is the Makkah Defence Agreement?02:22 – Introducing Zarrar Khuhro03:20 – Why Pakistan, Saudi Arabia & Türkiye?04:18 – Pakistan–Saudi Relations & Yemen05:29 – Türkiye–Saudi Relations07:06 – Why the Makkah Agreement Matters07:44 – US Security Guarantees & the Gulf09:06 – The Iran War & a Changing Middle East10:33 – Why the Three Countries Need Each Other12:30 – India, Pakistan & the 2025 Conflict14:12 – What Does “An Attack on One” Mean?18:00 – Pakistan's Balancing Act20:55 – Can Pakistan Avoid Regional Wars?22:02 – Pakistan, Yemen & Escalation24:21 – Iran, Pakistan & Saudi Arabia27:49 – Ansarullah: Proxy or Independent Actor?29:19 – Saudi Arabia & Yemen30:00 – The Balkanization of the Middle East31:44 – Iran & the Postwar Region32:30 – Pakistan, Somalia & Bab al-Mandab34:00 – Türkiye, Pakistan & Somalia35:46 – Is This a Sunni Alliance?37:25 – India, Israel & Regional Blocs40:03 – What Does the Alliance Change?42:08 – Can the Makkah Agreement Work?44:17 – Turkish Military Support for Pakistan44:40 – What China Is Learning From the Wars47:57 – China's View of the Agreement49:00 – China–Pakistan Strategic Relations50:54 – Pakistan, Iran & US Pressure53:20 – Pakistan's Difficult Balancing Act53:45 – How Will the Iran War End?54:58 – America's Strategic Setback56:40 – Iran, US Midterms & the Future58:24 – Can We Predict the Future?58:41 – Final Thoughts59:23 – Thank You & GoodbyeABOUT ZARRAR KHUHROZarrar Khuhro is a Pakistani journalist, columnist and television presenter who has worked extensively across print and electronic media. His commentary covers Pakistan, foreign policy, geopolitics, international relations and regional security.CONNECT WITH ZARRAR KHUHRODawn: Zarrar KhuhroX: Zarrar Khuhro