Explore every episode of the podcast Radio Resistance

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the critical questions surrounding the Taliban’s actions and their claims of implementing Islamic law. Are the bans on girls’ education and the erasure of women from public life truly rooted in Islam, or do they represent a misinterpretation of the deen? We explore the contradiction between their professed adherence to the Hanafi school—renowned for its rational legal reasoning—and their oppressive policies, questioning whether tribal customs overshadow Islamic principles.

Beyond women’s rights, we discuss the Taliban’s broader atrocities, from targeting ethnic minorities to justifying acts of violence under the banner of Sharia. Do groups like the Taliban honor the maqāsid al-sharia—the higher objectives of Islamic law—or are they undermining the faith they claim to uphold?

Finally, we confront the silence of scholars and the lack of condemnation from the global Muslim community. How do these factors contribute to disillusionment among Afghan Muslims, and what can be done to inspire accountability and justice? Join us for a candid discussion on faith, politics, and the responsibilities of the Muslim world.

https://iqbalcentre.leeds.ac.uk/profiles/dr-mustapha-sheikh/

https://leeds.academia.edu/MustaphaSheikh

https://ahc.leeds.ac.uk/languages/staff/125/dr-mustapha-sheikh

https://global.oup.com/academic/product/ottoman-puritanism-and-its-discontents-9780198790761

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In Episode 21 of Radio Resistance, co-hosts Kumayl and Zoubair engage in a compelling conversation with award-winning journalist and founder of Afghan Peace Watch, Habib Khan Totakhil. With extensive experience reporting for The Wall Street Journal and other international outlets, Habib offers an insider's perspective on the challenges of journalism under Taliban rule.

He shares his firsthand insights on the dangers faced by journalists, the manipulation of narratives, and the critical role of independent reporting in exposing the realities of life in Afghanistan. The discussion also touches on resistance movements, censorship, and the ongoing fight to amplify Afghan voices on the global stage.

This episode offers an unfiltered look at truth-telling in one of the world’s most oppressive regimes.

Don’t forget to subscribe, comment, and share to stay connected with Radio Resistance.

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In this episode of Radio Resistance, Zoubair and Kumayl discuss the decision many Afghan-Americans are making to support Donald Trump in the upcoming election. This isn’t just about politics—it’s a story of shifting loyalties, cultural values, and a call for real change in how U.S. policies impact Afghanistan and our community here at home.

From the fallout of Biden’s Afghanistan withdrawal to the alignment of conservative values with Afghan-American culture, we unpack the reasons behind this shift. Join us as we explore what it means to stand up for our families, our homeland, and a future that truly respects our roots. Whether you’re an Afghan-American, part of the Muslim community, or just curious about this unique perspective, tune in for an honest, thought-provoking conversation.

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In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, co-hosts Kumayl and Zoubair dive into the resurgence of terrorism in Afghanistan since the Taliban regained power in 2021. They are joined by national security expert Scott Richards to explore the complex dynamics of the Taliban's regime, its connections with groups like Al-Qaeda and TTP, and the broader threats emerging from Afghanistan.

Scott provides invaluable insights into the strategies of the National Resistance Front (NRF), the Taliban's internal workings, and the wider implications for neighboring countries. The discussion also touches on the potential for international cooperation to support Afghanistan's future.

Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the critical issues affecting Afghanistan and the region. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, follow us on social media, and stay updated on our latest episodes.

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In this episode, we provide a book review and analysis of Ahmad Massoud's recent memoir and bestseller on Amazon, "In The Name of My Father: Struggling for Freedom in Afghanistan." Ahmad Massoud's book is a compelling and insightful piece that reflects on the struggle for freedom and democracy in Afghanistan. As the leader of the National Resistance Front, Massoud articulates a vision for a liberated Afghanistan, free from the grasp of the Taliban and other terrorist groups. The work delves into the principles of democracy, decentralization, and pluralism, emphasizing the importance of equality for all citizens regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religious beliefs.

Ahmad Massoud emphasizes the promotion of a rational and moderate interpretation of Islam in the Muslim world, advocating for a religious framework that supports rationalism, peace, tolerance, and coexistence. This aspect of his work underlines the importance of harmonizing religious beliefs with the principles of modern democracy and human rights. This book is not just a political manifesto, but also a personal narrative that intertwines Massoud's experiences and aspirations for his nation's future, portraying a deep commitment to the values of liberty, justice, and human rights.

Watch Ahmad Massoud's interview with Shawn Ryan here: https://youtu.be/RudLmL9kCSY?si=dl2yHWa_7laKS8pk

Sign the petition to support Massoud's testimony before Congress: https://www.change.org/shawnryanshow

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Episode 17 of the Radio Resistance Podcast welcomes the esteemed journalist Lara Logan to examine U.S. policy in Afghanistan and the consequences of recent decisions. Lara sheds light on the Biden administration's approach, from the controversial funding of the Taliban to the refusal to engage with Afghanistan's democratic opposition. We also delve into the potential impacts of future U.S. elections on these policies and explore the role of the National Resistance Front in the ongoing resistance. Join us for a critical analysis of the ongoing struggle for stability in Afghanistan.

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In Episode 16 of the Radio Resistance podcast, Sarah Adams, former CIA targeter and author of 'Benghazi: Know Thy Enemy,' shares her experience going after high profile terrorists from Al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and several other terrorist groups who are now playing an active role in Taliban-run Afghanistan. 

With her expertise into the tactics and motivations driving these organizations, Sarah sheds light on the current situation of global terrorism and the role of the Taliban. Discussing the resurgence of Al-Qaeda and the negligence of the Resistance highlights parallels between pre-9/11 conditions and today's global landscape, complete with a stark warning—history could be repeating itself right before our eyes.

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Episode 15 of Radio Resistance welcomes Ambassador Ashraf Haidari for an insightful discussion on the national interests, leadership, and multifaceted challenges faced by Afghanistan. This episode delves into the impact of global politics and patriotism on the country, emphasizing the resilience of its values amidst the Taliban's regime and other ongoing challenges.

The conversation takes a critical look at the refugee crisis, with specific attention to Pakistan's role and its impact on those fleeing the instability exacerbated by the Taliban. This in-depth discussion not only highlights the complex realities of the region but also underscores the urgent need for a cohesive global response.

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In episode 14 of the Radio Resistance podcast, we discuss the recent catastrophic earthquakes that shook Herat, one of Afghanistan's most historically and culturally rich cities. The tremors not only disturbed the ground but reverberated through all the hearts of Afghanistan's people, shedding light on the overarching challenges they face amidst a tumultuous socio-political climate.

We've aimed to raise awareness about the devastating aftermath and emphasize the inefficacies of the current governance. More than ever, Herat needs our collective support. Below are the links to fundraisers committed to direct aid for the affected:

1. Mosaic Afghanistan: https://donorbox.org/herat-earthquake-1
2. Aseel App: https://aseelapp.com/do_good/herat-earthquake-disaster-fund.html
3. Angela Ghayour’s GoFundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/emergency-aid-for-afghanistan-herat-earthquake

Please consider donating and help us amplify the voices of those affected.

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Episode 13 of Radio Resistance sheds light onto an unfolding crisis that's not getting the attention it should - the "Waziristanization" of northern Afghanistan, as Pakistani Taliban (TTP) terrorists and their families are being resettled in the north.

We dissect the many sides of this escalating situation - forced displacement of indigenous populations, Taliban's fueling of ethnic tensions, regional security risks, geopolitical games, and the pressing need for a united global counter-terror response.

Since recording this episode, the situation has unfortunately worsened, adding an even greater sense of urgency. We've linked to some resources below to keep you updated.

06/13/2023: https://www.afintl.com/en/202306135006
06/13/2023: https://www.wearenrf.org/publications...
06/21/2023: https://www.usip.org/publications/202...
07/2023: https://smallarmssurvey.org/smuggling...
07/08/2023: https://www.voanews.com/a/pakistan-ca...
07/11/2023: https://amu.tv/56130/

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In this episode of Radio Resistance, renowned scholar Professor M. Nazif Shahrani explores Afghanistan's rich cultural pluralism and the implications of decentralizing power structures. Navigating polarized discourse, the failures of past governance, and the promise of the National Resistance Front, we envision a unified front against Taliban oppression. Tune in for a nuanced understanding of Afghanistan's struggles and potential paths forward.

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In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we're joined by U.S. Army Veteran Ed Grondin who shares his insights on the controversial withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan under President Biden, and the subsequent after-action reports that were referred to as political whitewashing by many.

Ed provides a unique perspective on the decision to evacuate Afghanistan in 2021 and the efforts to shift blame to the Trump administration.

You don't want to miss this candid discussion on the current state of affairs.

Ed served in the U.S. Army between 1994 and 2015. During that time, he served in the 2nd Ranger Bn, 1st Special Forces group as well as a number of other army units. He started his career as an infantryman. During this time, he served as a machine gunner, sniper, scout, mortarman and many other positions.

He transitioned from infantry to military intelligence and served as a signals intelligence (SIGINT) analyst. He served as a Special Operation Team Alpha or SOT-A and later served as an instructor.

Although not having served, Ed was actively involved in the fight in Afghanistan as a SIGINT analyst.

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In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we are joined by our special guest Mina Sharif. We discussed the discourse amongst Afghanistan's diaspora on social media, and how we can stand together as a community and heal as nation.

Mina Sharif was born in Afghanistan. When she was less than a year old, her family was forced to flee and eventually immigrated to Canada where she was raised. Mina was brought up in Toronto Canada. In early 2005, she travelled back to Afghanistan as a volunteer radio trainer working with women managed radio stations in various provinces across the country. Mina Sharif has had a variety of experiences in Afghanistan including radio training for street children in a number of cities, developing and disseminating campaigns in support of the Afghan government (particularly the Afghan National Army and the Afghan National Police), authoring the IOM “Guide to Afghanistan,” and leading a literacy training project for the ANA and ANP. Mina Sharif was the Executive Producer for seasons two and three of Baghch-e-Simsim, the Afghan version of Sesame Street. She was also the Executive Producer of a TV and radio series highlighting the accomplishments of Afghan children throughout the country called "Voice of Afghan Youth". She is currently part of the team at Rumi Consultancy. On the side, Mina Sharif is involved in numerous volunteer initiatives in support of Afghan youth and directs a girls mentorship program called "Sisters 4 Sisters".

Link to donate to Compassion First: https://compassionfirstconsulting.com/volunteer-aid-work

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In Episode 09 of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we are joined by our special guest, Jason Criss Howk. We discussed Pakistan’s role in the creation of the Taliban in the early 90’s, their support during their first rule, as well as their continued support during the 20 year war and how they’re again pushing for their recognition today.

Jason retired from the US Army after 23 years of working on critical US national security missions and spent most of his career focused on Afghanistan. He was posted to Afghanistan after the events of 9/11. Jason helped with the formation of the Afghan National Army and developed the Security Sector Reform program as Aide De Camp to Major General (later Ambassador) Eikenberry. He was also Aide-de-Camp to General (Ret) Stanley A. McChrystal during the US/ NATO strategic assessment of the Afghan War. Next, he assisted Lt General (Ret) Sir Graeme Lamb (British Army) and the Afghan government on the 2010 Afghan Peace and Reconciliation Plan. Finally, Jason led two teams monitoring Afghanistan and Pakistan on the US Joint Chiefs of Staff for the Department of Defense (DOD) and the White House.

As a professor, Jason was part of the 2016 Presidential Transition National Security team, and later assisted US CENTCOM and NATO Resolute Support Mission on Afghanistan. He has advised NATO, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), and the US and Afghan governments. He has worked on Afghan projects for the United States Institute of Peace (USIP). Jason studied Farsi and Arabic at the Defense Language Institute (DLI), is a Malone Fellow in Arab and Islamic Studies, an interfaith leader, and was a Council on Foreign Relations term-member. Jason earned his master's degree in South Asian and Middle Eastern Security Studies from Naval Postgraduate School (NPS).

Link to Jason’s book mentioned in the podcast:

U.S. War Options in Afghanistan: Choose Your Own Path
https://a.co/d/hLcuY2i

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In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we analyze the recent reactions to Prince Harry's statement regarding the Taliban, discussing the social media discourse on selective activism in relation to anti-imperialism & the Ummah (Muslim World).

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In this season finale of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we are joined by our special guest Ali Madadi, a Finance and Philosophy graduate from the University of Rochester, and a previous cofounder of an education consulting organization in Afghanistan. We discussed the status quo in Afghanistan, the complete erasure of girls and women from education and society, and the destructive narratives being pushed by policy makers and think tanks such as the Crisis Group.

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In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we are joined by our special guest Sara Wahedi, founder of the Ehtesab App. We discussed Afghanistan's youth wave pre-August 2021, nepotism at the presidential office of the former Republic, ethnic discourse, and the resistance movements in Afghanistan.

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Richard Mackenzie is a veteran war correspondent, producer, author and analyst. His work ranges from trekking with the Afghan mujahideen in their jihad against the Soviet Union to the Iran-Iraq war and Desert Storm. Since Sept. 11, 2001, he has spent more than four years in Iraq and Afghanistan, covering both wars. Mackenzie was the only documentary filmmaker embedded with U.S. Special Forces in Iraq. His Inside Special Forces premiered on PBS. Two other films were featured on ABC Nightline. And another launched Discovery's Military Channel.

Also a public speaker, Mackenzie is widely recognized as an authority on Special Forces, terrorism, Afghanistan and international affairs.

Mackenzie has more than 18 years experience traveling in South and Southeast Asia. Mackenzie's critically-acclaimed film, “Afghanistan Revealed” won a 2001 Emmy Award, a New York Film Festivals medal, a CINE Golden Eagle and other recognition. The New York Times called that documentary an "amazing" and "astonishing" film that offered "a visceral, intimate look" at Afghanistan and her people.

In this episode of the Radio Resistance podcast, we interview Mr. Mackenzie and discuss the personality of the National Hero of Afghanistan, Commander Ahmad Shah Massoud.

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On August 15th, 2021, Afghanistan was handed over to a terrorist group. In this episode of the Radio Resistance podcast, we discuss what the past year under Taliban rule has been like and more.

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In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we discuss  Ahmad Massoud 's recent interview with  BBC Persian in which he discusses in length the latest happenings of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan.

Full Interview (with English subtitles): https://youtu.be/yLtQVyorbcc

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As one of the earliest Arabs to join the Jihad in Afghanistan, the Algerian Islamist Abdullah Anas counted as brothers-in-arms the future icons of al-Qaeda’s global war, from Abdullah Azzam to Osama bin Laden, and eventually befriended key resistance leaders in Afghanistan such as Ahmad Shah Massoud.

Brushing shoulders with everyone from Zarqawi to Haqqani, Anas distanced himself from their movements, disagreeing with their narrow interpretations of political Islam. While he remains committed to his Islamic duties, to this day Anas takes issue with the extremist trajectories of his one-time companions.

In this episode of the Radio Resistance Podcast, we discuss Mr. Anas' book titled, "To The Mountains," in which he describes his days of Jihad, how he met Amer Saheb aka Ahmad Shah Massoud & how this man was exceptional in contrast to the Mujahideen of that time.

Stay tuned & follow us for updates on the next episodes to come!

Twitter: @RadioResistanc3
IG: @RadioResistanc3
https://www.radioresistance.us

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Radio Resistance premieres with Zoubair and Kumayl discussing a summary of events that led up to The Fall of Kabul and the formation of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan on August 15, 2021. 

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