In this episode, author, media commentator, intellectual and nuclear physicist Pervez Hoodbhoy discusses thebiggest problemsfacing Pakistan, and how religious persecution and the exploitation of the general public is built into the country's political system. He also traces the rise of religious fundamentalism in Pakistan, the similarities between the popular jailed former Prime MinisterImran Khan and President Donald Trump, and how Khan'seducation policies are one of the worst legacies leftover from his time in power. He also discusses how the importance of Pakistan has decreased in the eyes of U.S. foreign policy makers and why he thinks this is a good thing. This interview was conducted on July 21, 2024.