Middle East Illusions explores the complex geopolitics, conflicts, and stories shaping the Middle East and West Asia — with in-depth analysis, balanced insights, and updates you can trust.
Italy crashed out of World Cup qualification for a third straight time after a penalty defeat to Bosnia, with Gennaro Gattuso apologising as the Azzurri hit a historic low. The playoff clash at Stadion Bilino Polje ended in heartbreak for the four-time champions, who lost 4-1 on penalties, after a hard-fought contest finished level at the end of extra time. Italy had taken an early lead but were reduced to 10 men before half-time, a setback that shifted the momentum in Bosnia’s favour.
2 Mar 2026
Will Iran still play at the World Cup?
In three months, the United States will co-host a football World Cup that Iran have qualified for.
But last Saturday, the USA along with Israel attacked Iran, sparking retaliatory strikes across West Asia.
So what could the conflict mean for the countries involved, for Fifa, and for what was already set to be a highly politicised World Cup? Listen to Mohammad Amin from Doha.
21 Aug 2025
Turkey and Syria's New Defense Deal: A Regional Game-Changer?
In this episode of Middle East Illusions, host Mohamed Amir examines the newly signed Turkey–Syria Memorandum of Understanding on defense cooperation.
7 Aug 2025
The Druze in Israel and Syria: Identity and Conflict
Today, Mohammad Amin explores a critical topic: the Druze community in Israel and Syria, their unique identity, and their role in recent conflicts.
The Druze, a small but influential ethno-religious minority, have been at the heart of sectarian violence in Syria’s Sweida province and Israel’s strategic interventions.
What does this mean for their future?
31 Jul 2025
Arctic Ocean Rivalry: The New Global Battleground
The Arctic is rapidly melting, unveiling vast resources and new shipping routes, sparking a high-stakes global power race.
This episode by Mohammad Amin explores how nations like Russia, China, and the U.S. are vying for control over this strategic region, with Russia building military bases and China investing in infrastructure.
Meanwhile, indigenous communities face threats to their way of life, and environmental concerns loom large.
Will nations cooperate or clash over the Arctic's riches?
Discover the unfolding drama and potential outcomes in this pivotal moment for global power, climate, and indigenous rights.
30 Jul 2025
Türkiye controls 55 blazes in 24 hours: Ministry
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumaklı announced on Tuesday that all 55 fires that broke out across the country in the past 24 hours have been brought under control.
24 Jul 2025
AI Arms Race: Unleashing a New World Order in the Middle East
In this episode, we explore the rapidly evolving AI landscape and its profound impact on global power dynamics, particularly within the Middle East. With AI transforming from a technological novelty to an influential force, nations worldwide are vying for supremacy in this domain.The episode delves into the leading countries in the AI arms race, such as the USA, China, and Russia, and examines the strategic moves by Middle Eastern countries like Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Iran to secure their positions.Listeners will gain insights into how AI is reshaping defense mechanisms, economic strategies, and political narratives in the region, and the ethical dilemmas it poses. From autonomous drones and cyber attacks to smart infrastructure and surveillance, AI's role in intensifying or bridging divides in the Middle East is unpacked.
17 Jul 2025
Childhood Destroyed in Gaza
Welcome to the Middle East Illusions podcast, where Mohamed Amin delves into the profound impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on children. This episode sheds light on the unique challenges that children on both sides face, and explores the devastating physical and mental toll the ongoing strife has taken. Listeners will hear heartbreaking stories from Gaza and Israel, and gain insight into the resilience and glimmers of hope that emerge amidst the turmoil. Join us as we amplify the voices of the youngest victims and discuss steps we can take towards a future of peace.
9 Jul 2025
Vanishing Justice: Maccabi Tel Aviv and mystery of erased CCTV footage in Netherlands
In this episode, Mohammad Amin delves into an alleged controversial legal decision in the Netherlands, where charges against Maccabi Tel Aviv football fans, accused of harassing Muslim women, were dropped due to missing CCTV footage.
This episode is a call to stay vigilant and demand equal protection under the law, emphasizing that justice must be served with integrity.
3 Jul 2025
Ayatollah Khomeini: From Indian Roots to a Global Revolution
In this episode of Middle East Illusions, we delve into the intertwined history of India and Iran, spanning over two centuries. Starting with the journey of Ayatollah Khomeini's grandfather, Syed Ahmed Mousavi Hindi, from India to Iran, we explore the rich tapestry of cultural, religious, and political ties between these two nations.We traverse through pivotal moments such as the 1979 Islamic Revolution, trade dynamics, and diplomatic engagements, highlighting key projects like the Chhabahar Port Project. Despite geopolitical tensions, the enduring cultural exchanges and strategic collaborations reveal the deep-rooted connection bridging past and present in Indo-Iranian relations.
26 Jun 2025
Is journalism still protected in war?
Media under fire in Gaza—exploring attacks, censorship & the cost of truth in conflict zones.
Behind every journalist killed is a story untold. A child orphaned. A truth buried.
24 Jun 2025
Truce or tactic? Iran–Israel Ceasefire Decoded
Is the ceasefire between Iran and Israel a step toward peace—or just a tactical pause? RJ Mahwash Khan and journalist Mohammad Amin unpack what triggered the truce, who’s behind it, and what it means for the region and the world.
23 Jun 2025
India’s Tightrope: Navigating the Israel-Iran Crisis
India’s Tightrope: Navigating the Israel-Iran Crisis
As tensions explode between Israel and Iran, India walks a fine diplomatic line — urging peace while protecting its strategic interests. From Operation Sindhu to rising oil fears, we break down how New Delhi is balancing neutrality, alliances, and national interest in a volatile Middle East.
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