Shows
Generation JihadLoose Ceasefires Sink ShipsThe Houthis are back at it—sinking ships, killing civilians, and holding crews hostage in the Red Sea. Bill is joined by his FDD colleagues Bridget Toomey and Bradley Bowman to unpack the details and discuss why Iran-backed proxies keep getting away with it—including how the U.S. “ceasefire” deal may have emboldened them. Also: Where’s Europe? And why does everyone seem more afraid of offending Tehran than protecting global shipping and freedom of navigation?2025-07-1324 min
Generation JihadDoes helping Ukraine help us?Does arming Ukraine come at the expense of our military readiness—or is it an investment in it?Bill asks his FDD colleague and military expert Bradley Bowman to set the record straight on what it really takes for the US to defeat its enemies in the long war — and why deterring China, Russia, and Iran simultaneously is essential for American national security.From munitions math and Pentagon priorities to strained stockpiles, weapons we’re sending, and weapons we’re not making fast enough, Brad covers the bases to illustrate why helping our democratic partners do damag...2025-07-1334 min
Generation JihadFrom Al-Qaeda to the Abraham Accords?From Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria to whispers of folding Damascus into the Abraham Accords, Syria’s new leader, Ahmad al Sharaa—an ex–al Qaeda commander—now finds himself near the center of America's diplomatic efforts in the region. Can a former jihadi become a US-backed peace partner? Are we seriously having this conversation again? Yes, and joining Bill to have it are his FDD colleagues David Daoud and Ahmad Sharawi.2025-07-0134 minGeneration JihadDamage Assessment: Iran's Nuclear Program (featuring Andrea Stricker)The U.S. and Israel just hit Iran’s nuclear program hard — but how much damage did they really do? Bill is joined by his FDD colleague and nuclear expert Andrea Stricker to discuss what was destroyed, what might have survived, whether Tehran’s nuclear program is dead or just delayed — as well as the intelligence, the spin, and why the Mossad and IAEA may hold the real answers.2025-06-2837 min
Generation JihadThe very, very long warIn this explosive episode of Generation Jihad, Bill Roggio and Thomas Joscelyn unpack one of the most chaotic weekends in the post-9/11 war on terror: U.S. forces' strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, Tehran's retaliation on CENTCOM’s forward base in Qatar, and Trump's sudden ceasefire declaration.2025-06-2435 min
Generation JihadA new chapter in Israel's long warIsrael has launched a massive, coordinated strike campaign against Iran—targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile infrastructure, and senior regime officials. The entire Generation Jihad team convenes to break down what’s been hit, who’s been killed, why Israel chose this moment to act, and how one thing is clear: the long shadow war between Israel and Iran has just gone overt—and it may only be the beginning.2025-06-131h 04Generation JihadThe Houthi headacheFDD's Brad Bowman and Bridget Toomey catch Bill up on the latest cluster of developments related to the Houthis — from the ceasefire initiated by President Trump and possible consequences for U.S.-Israel relations to the role of Iran in the ongoing conflict.2025-05-2140 min
Generation JihadOn Iran's Military Threat with Janatan SayehBill is joined by his FDD colleague and Long War Journal contributor Janatan Sayeh to unpack Iran’s various spheres of influence and threats posed not least of all by their military capabilities from drone technology and nuclear enrichment to increasingly close cooperation with Moscow and Beijing.2025-03-0151 min
Generation JihadTrump's vision for GazaBill and Behnam are joined by their FDD colleague Jonathan Schanzer to discuss President Trump's controversial plan for Gaza which includes a radical restructuring of the region.2025-02-0738 min
Generation JihadTehran's pawns in IraqBill is joined by show regular Edmund Fitton-Brown to discuss Edmund's latest analysis for Long War Journal: The role of Iraqi Shia militias as proxies in Iran’s Axis of Resistance.2025-01-211h 06
Generation JihadCan Jon Schanzer make the hostage deal make sense?Bill is joined by his FDD colleagues David Daoud and Jon Schanzer — who literally wrote the book on conflict in Gaza — to discuss the ceasefire and hostage deal that has just been reached between Israel and Hamas. 2025-01-171h 01
Generation JihadEp. 227 — Why Siraj Haqqani is not Afghanistan’s “Best Hope for Change” (CC: New York Times)Last week, the New York Times ran an article(?) called “Is Afghanistan’s Most-Wanted Militant Now Its Best Hope for Change?” (SPOILER: NO!) and with the subtitle: “Sirajuddin Haqqani has tried to remake himself from blood-soaked jihadist to pragmatic Taliban statesman. Western diplomats are shocked — and enticed.” Yes, really.To unpack (/eviscerate) the piece, Bill and Will Selber are joined by — drumroll, please — Long War Journal- and Generation Jihad-OG, Tom Joscelyn. They read it so you don’t have to. 2024-10-3048 min
FDD Events PodcastIran Escalates Middle East War with Direct Attacks on Israel | FDD SITREP with Jon Schanzer, Jonathan Conricus, Jacob Nagel & Behnam TalebluThe Islamic Republic of Iran has fired hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities today. This comes after Israel finally went on the offensive after sustaining nearly a year of escalatory attacks from Iran's Lebanese terror proxy Hezbollah.In recent weeks, Hezbollah's missile and drone arsenal has been crippled. Senior Hamas and Hezbollah commanders have been eliminated, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Deputy Commander Abbas Nilforoushan, senior Hezbollah member Fuad Shukr, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, and top terrorists in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan forces. Israel's daring and complex operations -- in support of Is...2024-10-0436 min
FDD Morning BriefIran Escalates Middle East War with Direct Attacks on Israel | FDD SITREP with Jon Schanzer, Jonathan Conricus, Jacob Nagel & Behnam TalebluThe Islamic Republic of Iran has fired hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities today. This comes after Israel finally went on the offensive after sustaining nearly a year of escalatory attacks from Iran's Lebanese terror proxy Hezbollah.In recent weeks, Hezbollah's missile and drone arsenal has been crippled. Senior Hamas and Hezbollah commanders have been eliminated, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Deputy Commander Abbas Nilforoushan, senior Hezbollah member Fuad Shukr, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, and top terrorists in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan forces. Israel's daring and complex operations -- in support of Is...2024-10-0136 min
FDD Events PodcastIsrael’s Strike on Hezbollah HQ | FDD SITREP with Jonathan Conricus, Jon Schanzer & David DaoudFDD is tracking a potential major development in Israel’s multi-front war against Iran-backed terrorists with reports of a potential strike against Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah and other senior Hezbollah leaders. Since October 8, 2023, Iran’s most pampered and lethal proxy, Hezbollah, has launched, without prior provocation, thousands of rockets at Israel from Lebanon. For months, hundreds of thousands of Israeli and Lebanese civilians alike have been displaced from their homes. The U.S. has been holding Israel back from striking hard blows to Hezbollah, and Israel is now paying a steep price. With another war front opened in Isra...2024-09-2732 min
FDD Morning BriefIsrael’s Strike on Hezbollah HQ | FDD SITREP with Jonathan Conricus, Jon Schanzer & David DaoudFDD is tracking a potential major development in Israel’s multi-front war against Iran-backed terrorists with reports of a potential strike against Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah and other senior Hezbollah leaders. Since October 8, 2023, Iran’s most pampered and lethal proxy, Hezbollah, has launched, without prior provocation, thousands of rockets at Israel from Lebanon. For months, hundreds of thousands of Israeli and Lebanese civilians alike have been displaced from their homes. The U.S. has been holding Israel back from striking hard blows to Hezbollah, and Israel is now paying a steep price. With another war front opened in Isra...2024-09-2732 min
Generation JihadEp. 216 — After decades of f*cking around, did Hassan Nasrallah just find out?Bill and show regular David Daoud are joined by their FDD colleague Ahmad Sharawi, making his overdue Generation Jihad debut amidst rumors that today's Israeli strike in Beirut may have killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. They share what they know so far and unpack the known unknowns and the unknown unknowns.2024-09-2747 min
Generation JihadEp. 215 — Hamas in Gaza: A progress reportBill and Joe are joined by their FDD colleague Dr. Jonathan Schanzer to discuss his recent article for Commentary, "Hamas On The Ropes: A Progress Report."2024-09-2356 min
FDD's Foreign PodicyThe Long War: 23 Years After 9/11Twenty-three years ago, al Qaeda terrorists hijacked passenger jets to use as missiles and crash two into the World Trade Center in New York City and one into the Pentagon. United Airlines Flight 93 – thanks to brave passengers onboard – crashed into an open field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.These attacks came as a shock and a surprise.But they shouldn’t have — particularly to the American intelligence community, professors of Middle East and Islamic studies at elite universities, the news media.To unpack why and discuss the threats facing America and other democratic societies all thes...2024-09-0659 minFDD's Foreign PodicyThe Long War: 23 Years After 9/11Twenty-three years ago, al Qaeda terrorists hijacked passenger jets to use as missiles and crash two into the World Trade Center in New York City and one into the Pentagon. United Airlines Flight 93 – thanks to brave passengers onboard – crashed into an open field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.These attacks came as a shock and a surprise.But they shouldn’t have — particularly to the American intelligence community, professors of Middle East and Islamic studies at elite universities, the news media.To unpack why and discuss the threats facing America and other democratic societies all thes...2024-09-0659 min
Generation JihadEp. 201 — New UN report on jihadi threat in Africa, Asia, and the Middle EastBill is joined by Long War Journal and Generation Jihad regulars Edmund Fitton-Brown and Caleb Weiss to discuss the latest report by the UN's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team on the status of jihadi groups in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.2024-08-131h 06
Generation JihadEp. 198 — The state of global jihad with Preston StewartSocial media influencer Preston Stewart joins Bill and Joe to discuss Preston’s experience both serving in and covering global conflicts and wars from serving in Afghanistan to multiple TikTok bannings as well as his take on Israel’s rapidly expanding war against the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and the conflict in Mali. 2024-08-051h 10
Generation JihadEp. 196 — Demon ResumeCo-host worlds collide today as Bill and Wednesday CH Will Selber are joined by Monday CH Joe Truzman and Friday CH Behnam Ben Taleblu to discuss the at least two high-profile assassinations carried out in the last 24 hours presumably by Israel: one in southern Beirut that killed top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, and another in Tehran that killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.2024-07-3151 min
Generation JihadEp. 195 — Hezbollah’s brazen escalationBill and Joe are joined by David Daoud to unpack this weekend’s Hezbollah rocket attack on a Druze community in Israel’s Golan Heights that killed 12 Israeli children — and whether we should soon expect an all-out Israel-Hezbollah war.2024-07-2942 min
Generation JihadEp. 192 — The Houthis find outBill and Joe discuss Israel’s retaliatory strike against Houthi targets in Yemen following the Iranian-backed terror group’s drone strike in Tel Aviv, the CENTCOM Commander’s surprisingly honest letter to the Secretary of Defense, and the irony of Pakistan designating Prime Minister Netanyahu as a terrorist (congrats to him on his new villa in Abbottabad).2024-07-2340 min
Generation JihadEp. 191 — Drone strike in Tel AvivBill and Behnam are joined by fellow FDD expert and friend of the show David David to talk about the drone strike in Tel Aviv — what we know so far and what it means for the broader war. 2024-07-1940 min
Generation JihadEp. 190 — Partnering with terrorists to fight terroristsThe UN Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team has released its latest report on Afghanistan and the myriad of jihadist activity therein. To discuss, Bill is joined by former director of this team at the UN and longtime friend of the show Edmund Fitton-Brown. Edmund is now a senior advisor to the Counter Extremism Project and previously served as the UK's ambassador to Yemen. 2024-07-191h 03
Generation JihadEp. 185 — Cognitive CombatBill is joined by his colleague Bradley Bowman to talk about a new FDD monograph edited by Brad, Cognitive Combat: China, Russia, and Iran’s Information War Against Americans. They discuss ways in which America’s adversaries are waging information warfare against it, how the U.S. can defend itself in the information domain — and how it can go on the offensive.2024-06-291h 04
Generation JihadEp. 183 — Day after tomorrow in southern Lebanon?Bill and Joe unpack recent headlines related to Israel’s defensive war in Gaza and simmering tensions in its north with Hezbollah, including the IDF chief of staff saying that Hamas brigades in Rafa have been dismantled; thousands of Iran-backed fighters offering to join Hezbollah in a battle against Israel; officials from the Islamic Republic meeting with the Taliban about taking joint action against Israel; how long Egypt will tolerate Israeli forces at its border; and why the Israeli government has yet to share a clear plan for Gaza almost 9 months into the war.2024-06-2543 min
Generation JihadEp. 176 — Israel’s new normal with HezbollahBill is joined by his FDD colleague and GJ regular David Daoud for an update on Israel’s skirmish with Hezbollah at its northern border. 2024-06-041h 11
Generation JihadEp. 172 — Afghanistan autopsy: General MillerBill is joined again by our most special guest, Long War Journal/Generation Jihad OG and now senior fellow at Just Security Thomas Joscelyn, to unpack another marathon, closed-door HFAC testimony. This time, the more than 200 pages of testimony they sifted through is from General Miller, the top U.S. general in Afghanistan during the botched withdrawal. They discuss testimony highlights, including when Gen. Miller throws shade at Bill and Tom but in the same breath admits that “they had it right.”2024-05-2342 min
Generation JihadEp. 169 — The Houthi Origin StoryBill is joined by Long War Journal regular and long-time friend of the show Edmund Fitton-Brown to talk about the Houthis. If you're here, you've heard of them — but how much do you actually know about them? What is their relationship with the Islamic Republic of Iran? Why are they in Yemen? Edmund previously served as the United Kingdom's Ambassador to Yemen, a role which required him to negotiate and spend a significant amount of time in close quarters with Houthi leaders. He details some of his interactions with them and how the experience shapes his understanding of...2024-05-161h 18
Generation JihadEp, 166 — Bill and Tom's Excellent DebunkingOn November 8, 2023, the House Committee on Foreign Affairs conducted a closed-door interview with Zalmay Khalilzad, the Former Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation and master architect of the Doha Agreement which cemented the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.Many items of interest came up during the marathon meeting, including Long War Journal. If you know, you know.Bill poured over transcripts of the nearly ten hours-long interview, and he had help from none other than LWJ OG Tom Joscelyn.Bill and Tom discuss the highlights.2024-05-101h 00
Generation JihadEp. 164 — Hezbollah Hold 'EmBill is joined again by his FDD colleague and show regular David Daoud to unpack issues raised in David’s latest piece for The Wall Street Journal, “Hezbollah Stumbles Into a War of Attrition.” They also catch up on adjacent matters concerning Israel’s ground war in Gaza and the dumpster fire engulfing American "institutions of higher education.” 2024-05-021h 05
Generation JihadEp. 161 — A Jihad for KnowledgeAnother co-host takeover ("Freaky Friday edition"): Behnam is joined by his friend, former FDD colleague, and top expert on Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Ali Alfoneh, now with The Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington. They discuss this week's historic conflagration between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Israel.2024-04-2036 min
Generation JihadEp. 155 — Hamas in TurkeyBill and Joe are joined by their FDD colleagues Sinan Ciddi and Melissa Sacks to discuss Turkey's status as a permissive jurisdiction for terrorist organizations, particularly Hamas — and why the outcome of yesterday's elections in Turkey might signal that a change is coming.2024-04-0143 min
Generation JihadEp. 154 — The Islamic Republic of Iran's Axis of ResistanceBill, co-host Behnam, and long-time friend of the show Edmund Fitton-Brown preview and share insights from a project they’ve been working on concerning the Islamic Republic of Iran’s axis of resistance. They discuss Tehran’s extensive track record of not playing by the rules — and not paying a price for it — as well as the origins of conflict between Iran and the West from before the 1979 revolution to tapping their regional proxies on and after October 7, 2023 to target Israeli and American interests in the Middle East — and everything in between. 2024-03-281h 24
FDD Morning BriefFDD Morning Brief | feat. Joe Truzman (Mar. 8)FDD Senior Vice President Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Joe Truzman, Senior Research Analyst at FDD's Long War Journal. They discuss Iran-backed terror groups on Israel's borders.Learn more at: www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/2024-03-0822 min
Generation JihadEp. 139 — A little less conversation, a little more targeting (please)Bill is joined again by FDD’s Center on Military and Political Power CMPP) senior director Bradley Bowman to discuss broader U.S. military posture in the Middle East amidst the the death of three American service members last weekend in Jordan.Housekeeping note: This was (naturally) recorded just hours before the U.S. announced that retaliatory strikes are in fact underway in Iraq and Syria on Friday, February 2.Keeping this in mind while listening, all points are still relevant. Stay tuned for LWJ and CMPP coverage and analysis of the strikes — and for r...2024-02-021h 06
Generation JihadEp. 138 — The Iran-backed murder of three Americans in uniformBill and Joe are joined by their FDD colleague Bradley Bowman, senior director of FDD's Center on Military and Political Power, to discuss yesterday's tragic news of three U.S. service members killed in Jordan. 2024-01-2951 min
Generation JihadEp. 137 — Lebanese Hezbollah 101Bill is joined again by his FDD colleague and expert on all things Lebanon and Hezbollah, David Daoud.They discuss the latest Israeli strikes against Iranian assets in Lebanon, the status of fighting in northern Israel and southern Lebanon, the pervasiveness of the IRGC in Lebanon, why Iran's master proxy strategy is so successful — and why it's so difficult for Washington to understand.2024-01-271h 01
FDD Morning BriefFDD Morning Brief | feat. Bill Roggio (Jan. 15)FDD Senior Vice President Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Bill Roggio, FDD senior fellow, editor of FDD's Long War Journal, and host of "Generation Jihad" podcast.Learn more at: www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/2024-01-1522 min
Generation JihadEp. 126 — "They don't pass out candy in war."Bill is back with FDD Senior Fellow and Iran expert Behnam Ben Taleblu (now also a Generation Jihad co-host, you heard it here first) to unpack and contextualize this week's headlines stemming from the Middle East.They discuss the politics of diplomacy and analyze recent trips and statements made by key players like Secretary of State Antony Blinken, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and President Biden himself — and whether U.S. support for Israel is at a crossroads, and what message this could send to U.S. partners and allies (and enemies) around the world; an apparent U...2023-12-1546 min
Generation JihadEp. 125 — Israel at War: December 11, 2023Bill and Joe are joined by Seth Frantzman — FDD adjunct fellow and LWJ contributor as well as acting news editor and senior middle east correspondent for The Jerusalem Post — to get his first-hand account of goings on in Israel on and since the attacks on October 7, 2023.2023-12-1143 min
Generation JihadEp. 123 — The Afghanistan afflictionBill is joined by Stu Velasco and Zach Popp of The Boardwalk Podcast (also hosted by Kyle Reynolds who couldn't make it, shoutout Kyle Reynolds) to discuss the trials and tribulations of their time in service to the U.S. during the long war.About the guestsStu, Zach, and Kyle met in 2016 while working in the Kandahar Intelligence Fusion Cell (KIFC) at TAAC-S. Stu was the Uruzgan Provincial Analyst, Zach the Kandahar Provincial Analyst, and Kyle the Political-Military (Green and White) Analyst. They created The Boardwalk Podcast in May 2021. Support their show here — and check...2023-12-081h 04
Generation JihadEp. 122 — Israel at War: December 4, 2023Bill and Joe are joined again by FDD Senior Fellow and Iran expert Behnam Ben Taleblu to discuss the latest regional updates surrounding Israel's war against Hamas (and then some).2023-12-0531 minGeneration JihadEp. 121 — Israel at War: December 1, 2023Bill and Joe are back with an update on Israel's now-resumed war in Gaza, and they're joined by FDD Senior Fellow and Hezbollah expert David Daoud. They discuss the latest activity from Hezbollah at Israel's border with Lebanon, U.S. funding to the Lebanese Armed Forces (a policy that Bill calls: "giving crack to a crackhead"), the pieces in play on the Islamic Republic of Iran's regional chessboard, and more. 2023-12-0256 min
Generation JihadEp. 120 — Yes, al Qaeda is still a threatIn a slight detour from our Israel coverage, Bill and Caleb are joined by counterterrorism expert Sara Harmouch to discuss her recent article that sounds like it was written for Long War Journal but was actually written for War on the Rocks, called "Al-Qaeda: A Defeated Threat? Think Again."They debunk the latest example of President Biden's insistence that al Qaeda no longer has a presence in Afghanistan and discuss how U.S. rejection of intelligence is neither new nor at odds with its dangerous habit of disconnecting dots pertaining not least of all to al Qaeda.2023-11-301h 04Generation JihadEp. 119 — Israel at War: November 27, 2023Bill and Joe are back with an update on the latest from Israel and Gaza, starting with the release by Hamas of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel amidst the backdrop of a still-holding ceasefire. They're also joined again by FDD Senior Fellow and Iran expert Behnam Ben Taleblu to unpack the latest regional aggression covered with Tehran's fingerprints, including more missiles fired at U.S. and Israeli assets in the region (and why one incident last week was actually a "game-changer") as well as the latest string of maritime hijackings off the coast...2023-11-2856 min
Generation JihadEp. 116 — Jihadis on Gaza, OBL on TikTok: "We are living in a South Park episode."Bill is back with, plot twist, his long-lost cohost Caleb. They tell you how they really feel about Gen Zs lionizing Osama bin Laden on TikTok and then do an around the horn update on how jihadi groups around the world have (or have not) responded to the war in Gaza. 2023-11-1741 min
Generation JihadEp. 115 — Israel at War: November 13, 2023Bill and Joe are back for an update on Israel's ground incursion into Gaza, and they're again joined by their FDD colleague and Iran expert Behnam Ben Taleblu to provide a deeper, more nuanced analysis on Tehran's role as puppet master to the various terrorist groups in play. 2023-11-131h 06
Generation JihadEp. 114 — Israel at War: November 9, 2023Bill and Joe are back with an update on Israel's ground offensive inside Gaza. They're joined by FDD's David May to discuss international pressure on Israel, trajectories and timelines, rumors about reporters from western outlets receiving tips and then traveling into Israel alongside Hamas on October 7, and more.2023-11-0937 min
Generation JihadEp. 111 — Israel at War: October 30, 2023FDD's Behnam Ben Taleblu is back on the show with Bill and Joe for an update on the latest from Israel and Gaza. The war goes on; rockets are still raining down on central Israel (including Jerusalem) while Israel continues targeting Hamas leaders in Gaza. But...Breaking today and over the weekend:Israeli boots are now on the ground inside Gaza. There was also some IDF activity in Jenin inside the West Bank.Iran's President Raisi said in a statement that "the Zionist regime's crimes have crossed the red lines which may force everyone...2023-10-3041 min
Generation JihadEp. 110 — Israel at War: October 27, 2023Bill and Joe are back with an update on the latest from Israel and Gaza. Today they're also joined by their FDD colleague and Turkey expert, Sinan Ciddi, to unpack just how deep Turkey's relationship is with Hamas. 2023-10-2747 min
Generation JihadEp. 109 — Israel at War: October 25, 2023Bill and Joe are joined again by FDD's Behnam Ben Taleblu to catch up on and unpack the latest from Israel and Gaza as of mid-afternoon (ET) on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.2023-10-251h 03
Generation JihadEp. 107 — Israel at War: October 20, 2023At almost two weeks (!) into the war, we remain on standby for Israel's anticipated ground invasion of Gaza and continue to watch Israel's northern border for more activity from Hezbollah.And to complicate the already complicated: an incident yesterday on the Red Sea marked the first active engagement by the U.S. in this ongoing war, when the USS Carney shot down missiles fired by Iran-backed Houthis.So for today's briefing, Bill and Joe called in their FDD colleague and top expert on Iran, Behnam Ben Taleblu. 2023-10-2032 min
FDD Events PodcastIsrael Under Attack: Iran-backed Terrorists Launch Deadly Surprise War (Media Exclusive)On Saturday, October 7, 2023, Israelis awoke to a multi-front, Iran-backed attack on Israel’s southern border today. Dozens of Hamas terrorists infiltrated the border and invaded Israeli towns, going door to door killing Israelis and taking hostages back into Gaza to be held as bargaining chips. Simultaneously, terrorists fired thousands of rockets at Israel with Hamas claiming 5,000 rockets launched. Several hours into the attack, residents of southern Israel were still barricaded in their homes waiting for IDF reinforcements.FDD experts joined an exclusive on-the-record media event to provide their latest analysis. The conversation featured FDD Chief Executive Mark Dubo...2023-10-0754 min
Generation JihadEp. 101 — Israel: "This is not a conflict. This is a war."Bill is joined by LWJ/FDD's Joe Truzman to talk about the war (yes, it's officially a war) happening now in Israel. 2023-10-0727 minGeneration JihadEp. 98 — Fatal TransactionHosts Bill and Caleb (yes, Bill still thanks his co-host for joining even though it's his job, so what) are joined by Caleb's colleagues from the Bridgeway Foundation: Tara Candland (Vice President of Research and Analysis at Bridgeway) and Ryan O'Farrell (Senior Analyst at Bridgeway and Long War Journal contributor).They discuss Bridgeway's June 2023 report co-authored by Caleb, Ryan, and Tara and published with George Washington University's Program on Extremism: Fatal Transaction: The Funding Behind the Islamic State's Central Africa Province.2023-08-161h 08
FDD Events PodcastAfghanistan in Peril: Two Years After the U.S. WithdrawalNearly two years after the disastrous U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, the Taliban regime has reconstituted its Islamic Emirate and returned to draconian policies that are in grave violation of fundamental human rights. While President Biden and the Taliban alike claim al-Qaeda is not active in Afghanistan, recent United Nations monitoring shows al-Qaeda leaders are embedded in key Afghan ministries, with the group running training camps, safe houses, and media operations across multiple Afghan provinces. Terror groups such as the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan enjoy free reign, while threats from the Islamic State persist.To...2023-08-151h 09
FDD Events PodcastIran’s Terror Proxies on Israel’s BordersThe Islamic Republic of Iran has spent the last four decades building a network of armed groups on Israel’s borders to create instability and foment terrorism. Thanks to funding, arms, training, and coordination from Tehran, a mosaic of at least nineteen terrorist organizations in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Syria continue to strike at Israel, blunting any hope for calm, let alone peace. What are the tactical and strategic trends exhibited by Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and Hezbollah, and what might a future multi-front conflict entail? What challenges does the beleaguered Palestinian Authority and its security forces in th...2023-07-181h 13
Generation JihadEp. 93 — Context for Turkey's electionHost Bill Roggio is joined by two of his FDD colleagues to unpack the context surrounding Turkey's imminent presidential elections. Jonathan Schanzer is the Senior Vice President for Research at FDD, where Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident senior fellow. Both are Turkey experts. (One has taken a harder hit from pro-government Turks on Twitter than the other.)From President Erdogan's thinly-veiled political opportunism — like his 180 on Syria; his regional charm offensive, particularly with Israel; and his role as a U.S. "counterterrorism partner" — and his blatant corruption — like his mismanagement of earthquake aid and his allowi...2023-05-1355 minFDD's Foreign PodicyThe Hashemite King’s GambitFor decades, American policymakers have come to view the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan as an indispensable ally in the Middle East, committing billions of taxpayer dollars to support Jordan's budget, economy, and military. Indeed, Jordan's Peace Treaty with Israel; its strategic position between Israel, Iraq, Syria, and Saudi Arabia; and its pro-American military and intelligence services remain critical to U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
And yet, challenges inside this relationship are reaching alarming levels. From harboring one of the FBI's most wanted terrorists and inciting violence against Israel, to a member of its parliament...2023-05-0150 minFDD's Foreign PodicyThe Hashemite King’s GambitFor decades, American policymakers have come to view the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan as an indispensable ally in the Middle East, committing billions of taxpayer dollars to support Jordan's budget, economy, and military. Indeed, Jordan's Peace Treaty with Israel; its strategic position between Israel, Iraq, Syria, and Saudi Arabia; and its pro-American military and intelligence services remain critical to U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
And yet, challenges inside this relationship are reaching alarming levels. From harboring one of the FBI's most wanted terrorists and inciting violence against Israel, to a member of its parliament...2023-05-0150 min
Generation JihadEp. 89 — Update on the War Between the WarsHost Bill Roggio is joined by FDD Senior Fellow Behnam Ben Taleblu to disuss Behnam's major new FDD Monograph — Arsenal: Assessing the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Ballistic Missile Program — including through the lens of Iran's shadow war against Israel, AKA "the war between wars."2023-03-081h 00
Generation JihadEp. 86 — An update on Russia's war in UkraineHost Bill Roggio is joined again by John Hardie, deputy director of FDD's Russia Program, to discuss the latest developments from Russia's war in Ukraine, including Russia's recent change in command of its forces. 2023-01-2331 min
Generation JihadEp. 84 — Russia's withdrawal from KhersonBill is joined again by John Hardie — Deputy Director of FDD's Russia Program — for an update on Russia's war in Ukraine, particularly to unpack Russia's Kherson retreat. Where does Putin go from here?2022-11-1847 min
Generation JihadEp. 82 — Zawahiri's successor and a Shabaab updateBill is joined again by Caleb Weiss, long-time contributor to Long War Journal and friend of the show. They discuss why al Qaeda hasn't (at least not publicly) named a successor to Zawahiri, as well as several updates on Shabaab. 2022-10-121h 00
Generation JihadEp. 81 — An update on Russia's war in UkraineHost Bill Roggio is again joined by John Hardie, deputy director of FDD's Russia Program, to discuss the latest from Russia's war in Ukraine, including Putin's announcements on mobilization and additional annexations as well as other developments from the battlefield. 2022-10-0641 min
Generation JihadEp. 80 — Where do things stand in Ukraine?In the first iteration of Long War Journal's expanding coverage, Bill is joined by John Hardie, deputy director of FDD's Russia Program, to examine the current state of Russia's war in Ukraine. They unpack and analyze the latest information, from tactical and theater-level to strategic. 2022-09-1649 min
Generation JihadEp. 77 — Catching up with John BatchelorIn this episode, Bill interviews John Batchelor, host of CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor. Bill has been a regular on John's radio show for more than a decade and considers him a mentor and friend. They discuss the Long War and how September 11, 2001 shaped both of their careers.2022-08-201h 16
FDD's Foreign PodicyAfter the Fall: Lessons Learned and Unlearned in AfghanistanOne year ago, the U.S. military, under orders from the White House, allowed the Taliban to re-take control of Afghanistan.
The withdrawal was poorly planned. The evacuation of Americans and American allies was chaotic and, for some — including 13 American service members — fatal.
One year later, what’s the status of Afghanistan? What’s the status of the Taliban’s ally, al Qaeda? What lessons have we learned? What lessons have we not learned?
Joining host Cliff May to discuss: LTG (Ret.) H.R. McMaster, former White House National Security Advisor who now serves as...2022-08-1959 minFDD's Foreign PodicyAfter the Fall: Lessons Learned and Unlearned in AfghanistanOne year ago, the U.S. military, under orders from the White House, allowed the Taliban to re-take control of Afghanistan.
The withdrawal was poorly planned. The evacuation of Americans and American allies was chaotic and, for some — including 13 American service members — fatal.
One year later, what’s the status of Afghanistan? What’s the status of the Taliban’s ally, al Qaeda? What lessons have we learned? What lessons have we not learned?
Joining host Cliff May to discuss: LTG (Ret.) H.R. McMaster, former White House National Security Advisor who now serves as...2022-08-1959 min
Generation JihadEp. 76 — What just happened in Gaza?Bill is joined again by Jonathan Schanzer, senior vice president for research at FDD, and by Joe Truzman, research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal, to discuss the latest round of violence that emanated from the Gaza Strip this weekend which eventually resulted in an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire. They also unpack details about the terrorist group behind the escalation, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) — including where they get their weapons, training, and funding (spoiler alert: it's Iran).Mentioned in the episode:Jon's book: Gaza Conflict 2021: Hamas, Israel and Eleven Days of War Want to know mo...2022-08-0847 min
FDD's Foreign PodicyThe Life and Death of Emir al ZawahiriAyman al Zawahiri, emir of Al Qaeda, is no more. He was reportedly on the balcony of what he thought was a “safe house” in one of Kabul’s more upscale neighborhoods when two missiles fired by the CIA from a Hellfire drone ended his life — almost 21 years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and almost one year after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and capitulation to the Taliban.
To discuss Zawahiri's career and killing and what's next for Al Qaeda, the Taliban, Afghanistan, and the global jihad, Foreign Podicy host Cliff May is joined by FDD s...2022-08-061h 08FDD's Foreign PodicyThe Life and Death of Emir al ZawahiriAyman al Zawahiri, emir of Al Qaeda, is no more. He was reportedly on the balcony of what he thought was a “safe house” in one of Kabul’s more upscale neighborhoods when two missiles fired by the CIA from a Hellfire drone ended his life — almost 21 years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and almost one year after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and capitulation to the Taliban.
To discuss Zawahiri's career and killing and what's next for Al Qaeda, the Taliban, Afghanistan, and the global jihad, Foreign Podicy host Cliff May is joined by FDD s...2022-08-061h 08
Generation JihadEp. 74 — Zawahiri in AfghanistanIn this episode, Bill flies solo and expands upon his recent article in FDD's Long War Journal, "Ayman al Zawahiri is alive; Taliban and Al Qaeda 'remain close,' UN reports," noting that reports today (August 1, 2022) of Zawahiri's death inside of Afghanistan underscores the country's role as a safe haven for Al Qaeda.2022-08-0125 min
Generation JihadEp. 71 — Al Qaeda under ZawahiriAl Qaeda's central leadership remains organized with its branches actively carrying out orders passed down from Ayman al Zawahiri who sits at the helm and remains an influential figure in Jihad. Host Bill Roggio is joined by Long War Journal contributor Caleb Weiss to discuss the state of Al Qaeda under Zawahiri's leadership.2022-05-241h 12
Generation JihadEp. 70 — An Israel UpdateHost Bill Roggio is joined by FDD Senior Vice President for Research Jonathan Schanzer and Long War Journal's Joe Truzman to discuss some of the latest and most pressing news from Israel — including the death of Al Jazeera reporter Shireen Abu Akleh. 2022-05-1355 min
Generation JihadEp. 68 — Israel terror wave: 3 weeks. 4 attacks. 13 dead. Here’s what we know.In just under three weeks, the most recent string of terrorism to strike Israel has so far included four high-profile attacks that left 13 dead and many more injured across Israel — including in heavily-populated civilian areas like Be’er Sheba and Tel Aviv. Just yesterday, a terrorist opened fire on civilians enjoying an evening out on Tel Aviv’s famous Dizengoff Street, known for its bustling nightlife. We’re approaching almost one-year since the 2021 Gaza Conflict. Is any of this related? Who is responsible? Are these lone-wolf attacks? Have any jihadi groups claimed responsibility? Should we believe them? To make sense of...2022-04-0843 min
Generation JihadEp. 67 — Meanwhile in AfricaHost Bill Roggio is joined by two Long War Journal regulars, Caleb Weiss and Andrew Tobin, to give listeners an update on what's happening on the ground in Africa from the Sahel — including that more than 400 Malians have been slaughtered in under one month — to "elections" and Shabaab attacks in Somalia.2022-03-2937 min
Generation JihadEp. 66 — Negotiating with TerroristsHost Bill Roggio is joined by FDD Senior Fellow Behnam Ben Taleblu to discuss America's inability, or refusal, to understand its enemies and adversaries. In particular: how the Islamic Republic of Iran's continued brazenness in targeting American security interests — including its latest missile attack in Iraq just days ago — cannot deter the United States from continuing to engage in nuclear negotiations (vis-a-vis the Russians, no less) with the world's leading state-sponsor of terror. 2022-03-2252 min
Generation JihadEp. 62 — An Update on the African JihadHost Bill Roggio is joined by Caleb Weiss — a senior analyst at the Bridgeway Foundation and long-time contributor to FDD's Long War Journal — for an update on the latest surrounding various jihadist groups across the African continent. 2022-02-2052 min
Generation JihadEp. 60 — Iran's global terrorism strategyHost Bill Roggio is joined by FDD's Senior Vice President for Research Jonathan Schanzer to have a wide-ranging discussion about the Islamic Republic of Iran's role as the world's largest state-sponsor of terror — ranging from its illicit nuclear program to its destabilization of the region via its proxy terrorist groups.2022-02-111h 22
FDD's Foreign PodicyEleven Days in May: The Latest Battle in the Long War Against IsraelThe Islamic Republic of Iran provides Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad with rockets and other weapons, technology, training, and funding. Over 11 days in May, the two groups fired more than four thousand rockets at Israeli cities and villages.
President Biden supported Israel’s right to defend itself but, at the same time, his envoys in Vienna have been negotiating a return to President Obama’s Iran deal. Iran’s rulers want billions of dollars and other concessions in exchange for allowing America to rejoin a deal that at most slows their progress toward a nuclear weapons capability.
...2021-05-2848 minFDD's Foreign PodicyEleven Days in May: The Latest Battle in the Long War Against IsraelThe Islamic Republic of Iran provides Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad with rockets and other weapons, technology, training, and funding. Over 11 days in May, the two groups fired more than four thousand rockets at Israeli cities and villages.
President Biden supported Israel’s right to defend itself but, at the same time, his envoys in Vienna have been negotiating a return to President Obama’s Iran deal. Iran’s rulers want billions of dollars and other concessions in exchange for allowing America to rejoin a deal that at most slows their progress toward a nuclear weapons capability.
...2021-05-2848 min
Generation JihadEp. 47 - Designating terroristsFDD's Jonathan Schanzer joins the podcast to discuss how the U.S. Treasury Department designates terrorists and America's current challenges. Jon and host Bill Roggio also discuss their love of Philly sports teams to the disgust of host Tom Joscleyn. 2021-04-1559 min
Generation JihadEp. 44 — The Abraham AccordsVarsha Koduvayur, a senior research analyst at FDD, joins the podcast to discuss the Abraham Accords, recent announced reforms in Saudi Arabia and the war in Yemen. 2021-02-171h 07
Generation JihadEp. 40 — Al Qaeda in Iran – and AfghanistanHosts Tom Joscelyn and Bill Roggio discuss and critique Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s speech on the Iran-Al Qaeda axis. Contrary to much reporting, there is a long history of ties between the two. But there’s also much evidence pointing to al Qaeda’s ongoing alliance with the Taliban, an issue Pompeo is eager to downplay. The guys also explain why the 2001 AUMF isn’t being used to start a war with Iran.2021-01-151h 14
Generation JihadEp. 37 – How Hezbollah Profits from Black CocaineFDD senior fellow Emanuele Ottolenghi joins hosts Tom Joscelyn and Bill Roggio to discuss the history of Iran's and Hezbollah’s illicit activities across Central and South America, including the trafficking of “black cocaine.”2020-12-221h 14
Generation JihadEp. 35 – The Shadow War Inside IranFDD senior fellow Behnam Ben Taleblu joins the podcast to discuss recent assassinations inside Iran and the state of the Iranian regime’s various proxy wars.2020-12-111h 12Generation JihadEp. 25 - Another Coup in MaliHosts Tom Joscelyn and Bill Roggio are joined by Caleb Weiss, a longtime contributor to FDD’s Long War Journal. They discuss the recent coup in Mali and what it will mean for ISIS and al Qaeda.2020-09-081h 02
FDD's Foreign PodicyWar and Peace and Other Options in AfghanistanIn recent weeks, the pandemic – the global spread of a deadly virus that originated in China – has dominated the news media, and therefore most of the public’s attention.
Among the important stories that have been marginalized: the on-going conflict in Afghanistan, as well as America’s diplomatic attempts to end that conflict, or at least reduce America’s participation in it.
Discussing these and related issues with host Cliff May are Tom Joscelyn, FDD senior fellow, senior editor of FDD’s Long War Journal, and a regular contributor to The Dispatch; and Bradley Bowman, senior director...2020-06-0145 minFDD's Foreign PodicyWar and Peace and Other Options in AfghanistanIn recent weeks, the pandemic – the global spread of a deadly virus that originated in China – has dominated the news media, and therefore most of the public’s attention.
Among the important stories that have been marginalized: the on-going conflict in Afghanistan, as well as America’s diplomatic attempts to end that conflict, or at least reduce America’s participation in it.
Discussing these and related issues with host Cliff May are Tom Joscelyn, FDD senior fellow, senior editor of FDD’s Long War Journal, and a regular contributor to The Dispatch; and Bradley Bowman, senior director...2020-06-0145 minGeneration JihadEp. 5 - Banned in PakistanA Pakistani court recently overturned the convictions of Omar Saeed Sheikh, a jihadist who allegedly planned and carried out the kidnapping of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl in 2002. Pearl was then murdered by Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the chief planner of the 9/11 hijackings. A higher court may overturn the decision and Sheikh remains in custody. But hosts Tom Joscelyn and Bill Roggio discuss how this affair highlights deeper problems within Pakistan. After all, FDD’s Long War Journal is banned in Pakistan, while many jihadists are not. 2020-04-141h 05Generation JihadIntroducing: Generation JihadFDD's Long War Journal editors, and co-hosts of Generation Jihad, Bill Roggio and Tom Joscelyn set the scene for what's to come in this weekly podcast project studying the struggle against islamic jihadism.2020-03-1005 min
FDD's Foreign PodicyIn Afghanistan, the Substitute for Victory is DefeatAmerica’s conflict with the Taliban in Afghanistan, now well into its second decade, is not going well. The U.S. military has called it a “stalemate.” During his farewell speech in early September, General John W. Nicholson Jr., who first oversaw the military effort for President Trump, said: “It is time for this war in Afghanistan to end.” But most wars don’t end – they are won or they are lost.
Has America lost this fight against a jihadi group closely aligned with al Qaeda?
If so, what are the consequences?
To answer these a...2018-12-0344 minFDD's Foreign PodicyIn Afghanistan, the Substitute for Victory is DefeatAmerica’s conflict with the Taliban in Afghanistan, now well into its second decade, is not going well. The U.S. military has called it a “stalemate.” During his farewell speech in early September, General John W. Nicholson Jr., who first oversaw the military effort for President Trump, said: “It is time for this war in Afghanistan to end.” But most wars don’t end – they are won or they are lost.
Has America lost this fight against a jihadi group closely aligned with al Qaeda?
If so, what are the consequences?
To answer these a...2018-12-0344 min
FDD's Foreign PodicyOsama bin Laden‘s Terrorist Treasure TroveCliff May is joined by Bill Roggio and Thomas Joscelyn of FDD’s Long War Journal to discuss their exclusive look into the Osama bin Laden documents, and how their findings could impact the future of counterterrorism strategy and policy.
2017-11-2134 minFDD's Foreign PodicyOsama bin Laden‘s Terrorist Treasure TroveCliff May is joined by Bill Roggio and Thomas Joscelyn of FDD’s Long War Journal to discuss their exclusive look into the Osama bin Laden documents, and how their findings could impact the future of counterterrorism strategy and policy.
2017-11-2134 min