The Voices of War

In this episode of The Voices of War, Maz speaks with Brigadier (Ret.) Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar, a retired SASR commander and one of Australia’s most decorated special operations officers, reflecting on leadership, accountability, and the human cost of Australia’s war in Afghanistan. Dan served extensively within SASR Sabre Squadrons as both an enlisted operator and later a commissioned officer. His career includes multiple combat deployments to Afghanistan, senior targeting and command roles, counter-terrorism operations, combat freefall missions, and leadership appointments within Australian and NATO Special Operations Task Groups. He also served alongside US Tier One special forces and commanded the ADF Tactical Assault Group during the Sydney Olympics. Building on themes raised in the award-winning documentary Bravery and Betrayal and Episode 1 on this topic with Vando and Brett, this conversation explores the effects of relentless operational tempo, repeated rotations, and prolonged exposure to violence on moral judgement and decision-making. Dan discusses how cultural mismatch and partner force dynamics shaped operational realities on the ground, including green-on-blue incidents and force protection failures. The episode examines the conduct and consequences of the IGADF and Brereton processes, including findings later characterised by the Royal Commission as ‘weaponised injustice’. Dan reflects on how bureaucratic risk aversion, strategic distance, and institutional self-protection displaced accountability downward, leaving tactical operators to absorb blame, reputational damage, and long-term moral injury. Rather than focusing on individual wrongdoing, this episode interrogates systems: how wars are managed from afar, how leadership decisions cascade, and how justice, recognition, and responsibility are applied after conflict. It offers a sober, first-hand perspective on command, culture, and the enduring costs of a war of choice. Key Moments: DSC and Bar SASR commander reveals moral compass shift in combat Civilian casualties & how tolerance hardened over deployments Fat Lady's Arms hypocrisy: PMs drank, troops demonized IGADF as weaponized injustice - Royal Commission critique Green-on-blue murders & partner force cultural clashes O6 and below values vs One Star and above interests: Leadership cowardice exposed Healing through truth: Veteran recognition & future lessons    

In this episode of ‘The Voices of War’, Maz sits down with two former Australian special operations officers whose careers unfolded at the sharp end of Australia’s longest war in Afghanistan. Vando served 24 years in the Australian Army, including 16 in special operations with the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR). Across 10 deployments to Iraq, East Timor, the Solomon Islands, North Africa and three tours of Afghanistan, he held command at troop, squadron and senior staff levels, carrying responsibility across tactical and operational decision-making within the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG). Brett came into special operations through law and intelligence. He first served as the principal intelligence officer (S2) at 1 Commando Regiment and later as the S2 for SASR, before transferring to the Legal Corps. In that role, he advised special operations forces on the laws of armed conflict, rules of engagement, and some of the most complex legal and ethical challenges of the Afghanistan war. His five deployments included Kosovo, three tours of East Timor and an extended tour of Afghanistan. Together, they reflect on their involvement in the award-winning documentary ‘Bravery and Betrayal’, unpacking how sustained operational tempo, political decision-making, legal constraints, and leadership silence shaped the war in Afghanistan and what those choices cost individuals, families, veterans, and institutions. This is a conversation about systems, not slogans; about war as it was lived, not how it was sold. Key Moments: - Why special forces became the ‘force of choice’ - Endless rotations and the absence of genuine rest - The impact of ‘catch and release’ policy on decision-making - How killing became routine over time - The human and institutional fallout of the IGADF inquiry - Moral injury and leadership silence that hurt deepest - Why their story matters now Resources & Links ‘Bravery and Betrayal’ documentary WEBSITE https://wanderingwarriors.org/bravery-betrayal-the-documentary/ BRAVERY & BETRAYAL 2025 | Trailer https://youtu.be/-3rS0h-pjqc?si=4_zStLj4KxR7w1xL STREAMING Madman Streaming https://www.madman.com.au/bravery-and-betrayal/ Prime https://www.primevideo.com/region/fe/detail/0I6EPX8QDL0CP8HN9HQTSENWY5?ref_=atv_sr_fle_c_Tn74RA_1_1_ Apple TV https://tv.apple.com/au/movie/bravery-and-betrayal/umc.cmc.1vql2nd3lpc381hnq1xjmxjcx Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuzpNCIB_P0 Fetch https://www.fetchtv.com.au/movie/details/3011300/bravery--betrayal Docplay https://www.docplay.com/shows/bravery-betrayal Vimeo https://vimeo.com/ondemand/braverybetrayal/1129397949 DONATE https://wandering-warriors.mygiveeasy.com/bravery-betrayal/donate 🎧 Listen to more from The Voices of War Website (episodes, show notes, transcripts, extras): https://thevoicesofwar.com Full episodes & archives: https://thevoicesofwar.com 📰 Newsletter Reflections, episode drops, and behind the scenes notes: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com 📺 Subscribe to the channel Long‑form conversations on war, peace and everything between: @thevoicesofwar 📱 Follow on social Twitter / X: https://x.com/thevoicesofwar Instagram: / the_voices_of_war LinkedIn: / the-voices-of-war 📘 About Brett & Vando Vando - SASR Troop/Squadron Commander featured in Bravery and Betrayal documentary. 16 years SASR across 10 deployments. Brett - Special Forces Task Group legal officer. Combined intelligence and law background with 5 deployments. 🎙️ Related episodes & reading Explore more conversations on special operations, Afghanistan, moral injury and veteran leadership at https://thevoicesofwar.com   #SASR #Afghanistan #BrettVando #BraveryAndBetrayal #SpecialForces #AustralianMilitary #VeteranStories #MilitaryJourney #SASRCommander #AfghanistanVeterans #MoralInjury #WarDocumentary #ADF #SpecialOperationsAustralia #CombatVeteran #MilitaryLeadership #TheVoicesOfWar #AustralianSASR #VeteranJourney #WarStories #IGADF

Is Israel beginning to collapse from within? In this in depth conversation, renowned Israeli historian Ilan Pappé explains why he believes Zionism has entered its final phase, how Israeli society is disintegrating internally, and what a just future for Palestinians and Israelis could look like. Pappé, director of the European Centre for Palestine Studies and author of The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine, Lobbying for Zionism on Both Sides of the Atlantic and Israel on the Brink, draws on decades of archival research to argue that Israel is a classic settler colonial project built on ethnic cleansing, apartheid and permanent military rule over Palestinians. He details the social implosion inside Israel, the growing split between secular and religious Jews, the role of the U.S. and European powers, and why he thinks decolonization is inevitable. We discuss 1948 and the Nakba, the Gaza war, accusations of genocide, the collapse of the two-state solution, one democratic state between the river and the sea, Jewish-Palestinian coexistence, and what real decolonization might require in practice. For anyone trying to understand the future of Israel-Palestine, this is an unfiltered, long form analysis from one of the conflict’s most important dissident historians. If you value independent conversations like this, please like the episode, leave a comment, share it, and subscribe to The Voices of War for more long‑form interviews with critical thinkers from around the world. Resources & Links 🎧 Listen to more from The Voices of War Website (episodes, show notes, extras): https://thevoicesofwar.com Full episodes & archives: https://thevoicesofwar.com 📰 Newsletter Reflections, episode drops, and behind the scenes notes: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com 📺 Subscribe to the channel Long‑form conversations on war, peace and everything between:  @thevoicesofwar  📱 Follow on social Twitter / X: https://x.com/thevoicesofwar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_voices_of_war/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-voices-of-war/ 📘 About Ilan Pappé Renowned Israeli historian, director of the European Centre for Palestine Studies, and author of The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine, Ten Myths About Israel and Israel on the Brink. 🎙️ Related episodes & reading Explore more conversations on Palestine, Gaza, decolonization and the lived experience of war at https://thevoicesofwar.com #IlanPappé #IsraelPalestine #Gaza #Zionism #Decolonization #Nakba #SettlerColonialism #EndTheOccupation  

Is the UK really on the brink of collapse - or are we victims of our own narratives? In this revealing conversation, Dr. Mike Martin, former British Army officer, author of Why We Fight, and now Member of Parliament, breaks down what’s really driving Britain’s political, social, and moral crisis. From the rise of authoritarian narratives to the weaponization of social media, Mike reveals why our biggest enemy isn’t immigration or the economy, it’s misinformation. Drawing from his experience on the battlefield and now in Parliament, Mike explains: ⬛ Why migration isn’t the crisis we think it is ⬛ How social media and foreign influence are polarizing the West ⬛ Why “the House of Commons is just theatre” ⬛ How the real work of politics happens behind the scenes ⬛ The connection between Ukraine, Gaza, and the global information war ⬛ What gives him hope about Britain’s future A candid, no-nonsense conversation that cuts through political noise to uncover the psychology of modern conflict, the truth about migration, and what leadership really looks like. If you want to understand how narratives shape nations, and how to fix a broken system from within, this is a must-listen. 🎧 Listen to more from The Voices of War 🌐 Website: https://thevoicesofwar.com 📰 Newsletter: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_voices_of_war/ 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/thevoicesofwar 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-voices-of-war 📘 About Dr. Mike Martin Author of Why We Fight and How to Fight a War Website: https://mike-martin.co.uk/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/threshedthought   #MikeMartin #UKPolitics #MigrationCrisis #SocialMediaWarfare #Geopolitics #InformationWarfare #Democracy #PoliticalPolarization #IsraelGaza #UkraineWar #GlobalPolitics #WhyWeFight

What if the real story of Gaza isn’t about sides but about people? In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian writer and policy analyst from Gaza, breaks through decades of noise, propaganda, and polarization to share what life in Gaza really means. From surviving war to speaking truth in the West, Ahmed reveals the human reality behind the headlines, the pain, hope, and determination of ordinary Palestinians caught between Hamas, occupation, and a collapsing system. Now living in the U.S., Ahmed has become one of the most courageous Palestinian voices of his generation, challenging both Israeli and Palestinian narratives while calling for something radical: pragmatism, empathy, and moral courage. He explains: ⬛ Why Hamas’ rule has failed Gaza and its people ⬛ How Palestinians can reclaim agency and rewrite their future ⬛ Why peace requires rejecting victimhood and embracing complexity ⬛ The truth about how Gazans really feel about Hamas and Israel ⬛ Why he still believes in hope after losing everything This isn’t a political debate, it’s a masterclass in humanity, nuance, and resilience. If you want to understand Gaza beyond the headlines, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. 🌐 Follow Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib: https://www.instagram.com/afalkhatib 📸 Twitter/X: https://x.com/afalkhatib 🎧 Listen to more from The Voices of War: https://thevoicesofwar.com 📬 Join the newsletter: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, ethics, and human impact. 🔖   #Gaza #AhmedFouadAlkhatib #Palestine #Israel #VoicesOfWar #Humanity #Peacebuilding #MiddleEast #GazaConflict #WarAndPeace #Hope #Empathy #HumanStories #Resilience #Hamas #Freedom #UnderstandingGaza #IsraelPalestine

Why does nationalism look less like a mistake and more like a structural feature of modern capitalism? In this provocative and deeply researched episode, Professor Zlatko Hadžidedić explains why nationalism often functions as the social glue that stabilizes capitalism’s contradictions and why the current phase of hyper-capitalism risks producing more authoritarian nationalisms over the next decades. Using Bosnia (the Lisbon maps and Dayton aftermath), the Balkans, and contemporary flashpoints as case studies, Zlatko connects theory to concrete history: how imperial legacies, external power strategies, and the logic of the military-industrial complex help produce recurring conflict. He also shows how consumer tech, information flows, and media narratives help pacify populations while power consolidates.   He explains: ⬛ Why nationalism can be a structural necessity for capitalism ⬛ How “hyper-capitalism” creates conditions for authoritarian nationalism ⬛ The Lisbon maps & Bosnia case study — why partition was engineered and what it means today ⬛ How information, phones and consumer culture shape political consent ⬛ Why great-power strategies sometimes manufacture zones of instability ⬛ What citizens and leaders can do to cultivate nuance, media literacy, and democratic resilience   ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction: Capitalism, Nationhood & the Big Question 03:10 - Thesis: “No Capitalism Without Nationalism” — the argument explained 08:45 - The Lisbon maps & Bosnia: how partition was made possible 13:30 - From Yugoslavia to the Balkans: external influence and local politics 18:20 - Imperial legacies, Mackinder & geopolitical strategy 22:45 - Hyper-capitalism defined: inequality, pacification, and authoritarian pressures 27:50 - Phones, streaming & control: the tech-consumer pact 32:40 - Gaza, Ukraine & manufactured instability — strategic utility of conflict 37:55 - Predictions: the next 20–30 years of nationalism and power 42:10 - Practical takeaways: media literacy, nuance, and democratic repair 46:00 - Closing reflections & recommended reading   This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in political economy, history, geopolitics, and media, especially listeners who want frameworks that connect the dots between capitalism, nationalism, and contemporary conflict. 🎧 Listen now to understand the hidden structures shaping modern conflict, from imperial maps to smartphone screens, from Bosnia to the broader global order. 🔗 Resources & Links 🎧 Listen to more from The Voices of War Website: https://thevoicesofwar.com Full episodes + extras: https://thevoicesofwar.com Newsletter: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@UCLS_kSQmxMAZIByOr9DTS5Q Twitter/X: https://x.com/thevoicesofwar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevoicesofwar/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-voices-of-war/ 📘   About Zlatko Hadžidedić Professor, author and analyst focused on nationalism, political economy and Balkan history. (Check episode for recommended reading and sources.) 🎙️ Related Episodes & Reading Look for prior episodes and sources on Bosnia, the Lisbon conference, and imperial legacies in our archives at thevoicesofwar.com.   🔖 Hashtags #ZlatkoHadzidedić #Nationalism #HyperCapitalism #Bosnia #LisbonMaps #Balkans #Geopolitics #InformationWarfare #EmpireLegacy #MultipolarWorld #AuthoritarianNationalism #PoliticalEconomy #MediaManipulation #HistoryOfEmpires #GlobalPolitics

In this landmark episode, Professor William Schabas — one of the world’s foremost experts on international criminal law and the legal architect behind much of our modern understanding of genocide — joins The Voices of War to unpack the explosive legal and political debates surrounding Israel’s war in Gaza. 🔥 With over 20 books and 400 articles to his name, Schabas walks us through: What legally constitutes genocide under the 1948 Convention How intent is proven in international courts Why the ICJ is now handling four major genocide cases Why Gaza meets the threshold for genocide, in his legal opinion The unprecedented global response — and 50+ states intervening Western double standards: Ukraine vs Gaza Whether states like the US and Germany could be complicit The future of the Genocide Convention in a multipolar world 📚 This is the definitive episode on the politics of accountability and the contested meaning of genocide in a rapidly shifting global order. 🎥 Full video episode: https://youtu.be/OhHavUpazyc 🌐 More: https://www.thevoicesofwar.com 📬 Substack: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com

As the world fractures into competing blocs and narratives, the so-called "rules-based international order" is under growing strain. From Gaza to Ukraine, accusations of hypocrisy, selective enforcement, and double standards are eroding trust in the West’s claim to moral and legal authority. In this episode of The Voices of War, I’m joined by Dr. Trita Parsi, Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft and one of the most prominent voices calling for a shift in U.S. foreign policy toward restraint and diplomacy. Together, we unpack the contradictions at the heart of the West’s global strategy, the shifting balance of power in the Middle East, and why the next war between Israel and Iran may be closer than many realise. 🔍 What We Discuss: 🌍 Why the “rules-based order” is breaking down ⚖️ How Western double standards weaken international law 🛑 What “snapback sanctions” reveal about Europe’s strategy 🇮🇷 Why Iran missed its chance to become a regional middle power 🇮🇱 The real objectives behind Israel’s war with Iran—and why they failed ⚔️ The risks of escalation and U.S. involvement in a wider conflict 🧠 Whether external pressure will liberalise or harden Iran’s regime 🧭 How China and Russia are shaping a multi-order world 🤯 Why Europe is sacrificing its own principles—for Israel 📚 About the Guest: Dr. Trita Parsi is Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute, founder of the National Iranian American Council, and author of several acclaimed books on U.S.–Iran relations and Middle East geopolitics. He has advised diplomats, policymakers, and civil society leaders on diplomacy, multilateralism, and regional conflict resolution. 📎 Resources Mentioned: 📖 Trita's Books 🔗 Better Order Project 🔗 Quincy Institute 🔗 Trita Parsi on Twitter/X 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: 🌐 Website: https://thevoicesofwar.com 📬 Newsletter: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com

In this episode of The Voices of War, I speak with Dr Samir Puri—former British diplomat, Senior Fellow at King’s College London, and author of Westlessness: The Great Global Rebalancing—to explore the seismic global shift away from Western dominance. We unpack the concept of “Westlessness”, which Dr Puri defines as the psychological and strategic unravelling of the West’s central role in global affairs. As traditional Western powers lose their edge—militarily, economically, and morally—new global actors like China, India, and coalitions like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) are stepping in to reshape the international system. But this isn’t a story of collapse. Instead, it’s about rebalancing—and the West’s growing crisis of identity, cohesion, and moral authority. We discuss the rise of soft power from non-Western states, the consequences of Western hypocrisy in conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza, and how hybrid identities, populism, and cultural fragmentation are transforming politics at home. Dr Puri also reflects on whether a multipolar world could be fairer—and what risks it might bring. Resources: Dr Puri’s website: https://twitter.com/thevoicesofwar Instagram: https://instagram.com/thevoicesofwar LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/the-voices-of-war  

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has left hospitals in ruins, humanitarian corridors blocked, and millions of civilians struggling to survive. In this episode of The Voices of War, Maz speaks with Ashley Killeen, Director of Engagement at Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Australia & New Zealand, about what it means to provide humanitarian aid in Gaza while upholding neutrality in the face of accusations of genocide and systematic violence. With MSF doctors and nurses forced to work in decimated hospitals, perform amputations without anaesthetic, and place five babies in a single incubator, Gaza’s collapse is exposing the limits of neutrality in modern conflict. Ashley explains why MSF calls Gaza a “systematic genocide”, the ethical red lines Israel wants humanitarian organisations to cross, and why silence can make humanitarians complicit. This episode dives deep into the medical ethics of war, the weaponisation of aid, and the toll on humanitarian staff who bear witness in one of the most politically charged conflicts of our time. It asks the hardest question: when does neutrality protect, and when does it kill? Resources This is not aid. This is orchestrated killing. – Read the report: https://msf.org.au/sites/default/files/2025-08/msf_gazareport_thisisnotaid.pdf Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Australia – Support their work: https://msf.org.au/donate The Voices of War Podcast Website – Full episodes and extras: https://thevoicesofwar.com Newsletter – Join for deeper analysis and updates: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com

In this episode of The Voices of War, I’m joined once again by Carl Miller, investigative researcher and author of The Death of the Gods. This is Carl’s third time on the show, and arguably his most urgent. We explore: Why AI isn’t just a tool—it’s a battlefield How governments and companies manipulate LLMs Emotional bonds with AI and their strategic risks Digital addiction, dopamine loops, and persuasive tech Russia’s asymmetric war on Western democratic trust Carl’s D-RAIL strategy to disrupt narrative warfare The WAVES model for digital democracy The chilling reality of murder-for-hire on the dark web 📍 Guest Bio: Carl Miller is the co-founder of the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media at Demos, host of The Kill List podcast, and a leading voice on information integrity and power in the digital age. 🔗 Connect with Carl: NEW REPORT: Russian propaganda may be flooding AI models Carl’s UnHerd article – Will Chatbots Become Cult Leaders? Study: AI reduces conspiracy thinking by 20% Apple in China by Patrick McGee D-RAIL report – Disinfo.eu WAVES project at Demos The Kill List podcast – Wondery

As civilian suffering mounts in Gaza and Ukraine, the moral rules of war appear increasingly irrelevant—and yet, militaries continue to train soldiers in ethics and restraint. In this powerful and timely conversation, Maz speaks with Dr. Pauline Shanks Kaurin, former Stockton Chair of Ethics at the U.S. Naval War College, and Dr. David Whetham, Professor of Ethics at King’s College London, to explore the crisis of military ethics in the face of realpolitik, information warfare, and institutional silence. Together, they explore: The erosion of Jus in Bello principles: distinction, proportionality, necessity The limits of moral courage in authoritarian vs democratic militaries Why disciplined disobedience may be the last refuge of the ethical soldier The role and politicisation of institutions like the ICC and ICJ The psychological burden of moral injury and loss of trust in leadership The tension between values and interests in modern warfare Why Pauline resigned from her post—and what it tells us about the U.S. military's ethical culture This is an unflinching look at what it means to serve with honour when the rules no longer seem to apply. 🔗 Related Episodes: 🎧 Ep. 75 – Dr. Pauline Shanks Kaurin on Obedience and Moral Courage 🎧 Ep. 52 – Dr. David Whetham on Ethics, War Crimes, and Military Judgement 💬 Connect with The Voices of War: 🌐 Website: @thevoicesofwar 🐦 X/Twitter: @Voices_of_War 📚 Guest Bios: Dr. Pauline Shanks Kaurin is a philosopher specialising in military ethics, the ethics of war, and the philosophy of obedience. Her most recent work, On Obedience, explores moral agency in military institutions. Dr. David Whetham leads the Centre for Military Ethics at King’s College London and advises armed forces worldwide on professional military conduct and ethical leadership. 🎯 Tags: military ethics, just war theory, gaza war, ukraine war, war crimes, obedience, disciplined disobedience, moral injury, international law, ICC, ICJ, Israel Hamas, Russia Ukraine, ethical warfare, realpolitik, Pauline Shanks Kaurin, David Whetham, Maz Maslic, The Voices of War 🎧 Categories: Politics, Philosophy, Military, Society & Culture, News & Current Affairs, Ethics

As the world watches Gaza burn, Iran tremble, and diplomacy stall, what if the real war isn't between nations—but within them? In this powerful episode, Maz is joined once again by Lebanese economist and seasoned political analyst Nadim Shehadi to explore the often-overlooked internal fractures driving conflict in the Middle East. 🔥 Key Themes Israel’s impunity — and the global powers that enable it The breakdown of the rules-based order — from UN paralysis to EU dysfunction The human cost of war — and who bears responsibility ...and indirectly touches on: Russia and regional distraction Global realignment via JCPOA, Iran, and the Gulf US culture wars shaping foreign policy Erosion of institutional trust Diplomacy as performance — and power play 🔗 Subscribe for more: https://thevoicesofwar.com 🎧 Listen on your preferred podcast platform 🔗 Spotify | Apple | Substack | More: https://thevoicesofwar.com 💬 Join the Conversation 📸 Instagram: [@thevoicesofwar](https://www.instagram.com/the_voices_of_war/) 🐦 Twitter/X: [@TheVoicesOfWar](https://x.com/TheVoicesOfWar) 📩 Subscribe: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com

🎙️ The Voices of War is a podcast that cuts through the noise to explore the unseen realities of war, peace, and power. Hosted by Vedran ‘Maz’ Maslić—former refugee, and intelligence officer—this show brings you unfiltered conversations with those whose lives have been shaped by conflict: survivors, scholars, diplomats, soldiers, and even perpetrators. In this new season, after a year-long pause, The Voices of War returns with intention. Each episode will tackle eight core questions that probe the fault lines of our global order—from Gaza to Ukraine, from collapsed trust in institutions to the uncertain future of diplomacy. 💥 Why is Israel allowed to act with impunity? 🛡️ Is Russia truly a threat—or are we being sold a war? 🌍 Is the war in Ukraine part of a global realignment? 📜 Has the “rules-based international order” already died? 🧠 Are culture wars destabilising our democracies? 🏛️ How do we rebuild trust in broken institutions? 🕊️ Can diplomacy survive an age of outrage? 👥 And what does war really do to people? If you're tired of black-and-white narratives and want to hear real voices from the grey zones of war, you're in the right place. Also available on Substack: https://thevoicesofwar.substack.com/

David McBride, a retired Major and former legal officer in the Australian Army, discusses his actions of leaking information to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that ultimately led to the exposure of alleged war crimes committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan. David highlights the political manipulation of the war narrative and emphasises the need for clear rules of engagement. David became disillusioned with the Australian military's handling of war crimes and the seeming politicisation of the war in Afghanistan. He observed a lack of proper investigations into war crimes and a focus on appearances rather than effectiveness. McBride suspected that the Australian government was trying to cover up war crimes to maintain their alliance with the US.  David decided to take action and expose the political games played by leaking classified documents to the media. David McBride discusses his career and the challenges he faced when he discovered evidence of mishandling of allegations by Defence and political seniors. He highlights the lack of accountability and poor leadership within the military, and the difficulty he faced in trying to bring attention to these issues. McBride emphasises the need for a fair trial and public support to address the systemic problems within the military. He also shares his thoughts on ANZAC Day and the importance of genuine care for veterans. Key Takeaways David McBride, a former legal officer in the Australian Army, leaked information about alleged war crimes committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan. He highlights the excessive investigation of special forces soldiers and the political manipulation of the war narrative. McBride emphasises the need for clear rules of engagement and the importance of holding soldiers accountable for their actions. He also discusses how the Australian military mishandled war crimes and prioritised appearances over justice. The government may have tried to cover up war crimes to maintain their alliance with the US. David McBride took action by leaking classified documents to expose political games. The military leadership needs to be held accountable for potential war crimes and poor leadership. There is a need for a fair trial and public support to address systemic problems within the military. ANZAC Day should be a day of genuine care for veterans, not just political window dressing. Chapters 03:00 Uncovering Alleged War Crimes 12:01 The Power of Narratives 35:46 The Australian Military's Mishandling of War Crimes 01:02:06 David McBride's Whistleblowing and Exposing the Truth 01:12:22 The Problem Starts at the Top 01:21:09 The Need for Accountability and Leadership 01:32:11 The Legal Dilemma

Summary The conversation with Meron Rapoport, an Israeli journalist, focuses on the use of AI in Israel's bombing campaign in Gaza. The investigation reveals that an AI machine, called Lavender, was used to create a list of targets, resulting in a high death toll and destruction. The conversation covers the level of involvement in the investigation, the role of military censorship in Israel, the surprise at the article passing censorship, and the lack of awareness about this process globally. The main themes include the technological side of AI in warfare, the use of private homes as targets, the collateral damage caused, and the allocation of munitions based on target importance. The conversation explores the principal themes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, focusing on the trauma experienced by Jewish Israelis, the goals of the Israeli military campaign, the impact on the Gaza population, the lack of reporting in Israel, and the long-term consequences for Israeli society. The conversation also touches on the use of AI technology in warfare and the potential dangers it poses. The main takeaways include the need for a political solution, the fear and insecurity felt by Jewish Israelis, and the importance of understanding the human cost of the conflict.   Keywords AI, Israel, Gaza, bombing campaign, investigation, military censorship, surprise, technological side, private homes, collateral damage, munitions, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, trauma, military campaign, Gaza, reporting, AI technology, political solution, fear, insecurity, human cost Takeaways AI was used in Israel's bombing campaign in Gaza, resulting in a high death toll and destruction. The military censorship in Israel requires approval for any information related to the army, leading to self-censorship and limited dialogue. The use of private homes as targets and the high collateral damage raises ethical concerns. The allocation of munitions based on target importance shows a pragmatic and systematic approach to warfare. The trauma experienced by Jewish Israelis is a significant aspect of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The goals of the Israeli military campaign include destroying Hamas and making life in Gaza impossible. There is limited reporting on the conflict in Israel, leading to a lack of awareness of the human and infrastructure costs in Gaza. The use of AI technology in warfare raises ethical concerns and can lead to large-scale destruction. A political solution is necessary to address the root causes of the conflict and ensure long-term peace.

Chris Gunness discusses the role and mandate of UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, and the challenges it faces amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He highlights the size and scope of UNRWA's operations, providing education, healthcare, and social services to millions of Palestinian refugees across the Middle East. Chris also addresses the historical context of the Palestinian refugee crisis and the failure to find a durable solution. He explores the motivations behind Israel's opposition to UNRWA and its campaign to delegitimise the organisation. The conversation delves into the impact of the information war and the desensitisation of the Israeli population to the suffering of Palestinians. The conversation then delves into the impact of the smear campaign against UNRWA, the role of media in shaping narratives, and the asymmetry in the information war. We discuss the systematic efforts to dismantle UNRWA and the consequences of its defunding. The conversation also explores the enduring impact of the recent events in Gaza on geopolitics and the potential for a just and durable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Keywords UNRWA, Palestine, refugees, Gaza, genocide, humanitarian, Israel, mandate, education, healthcare, social services, history, right of return, durable solution, occupation, genocide, asymmetry, information war, desensitisation, UNRWA, smear campaign, media, information war, defunding, humanitarian organisations, Gaza, geopolitics, Israeli-Palestinian conflict Key Takeaways • UNRWA is a massive organisation that provides education, healthcare, and social services to millions of Palestinian refugees across the Middle East. • The Palestinian refugee crisis is a result of the 1948 Middle East War and the failure to find a durable solution, including the right of return for refugees. • Israel opposes UNRWA and seeks to delegitimise the organisation due to its fear of a demographic shift and the potential loss of a Jewish majority. • The information war and asymmetry in power contribute to the desensitisation of the Israeli population to the suffering of Palestinians. • The international community must read and understand the history and context of the conflict to challenge false narratives and work towards a just and lasting solution. The smear campaign against UNRWA and the defunding of humanitarian organisations have had a significant impact on their operations and reputation. • The asymmetry in the information war, with right-wing Zionists dominating the narrative, has hindered the dissemination of accurate information. • The recent events in Gaza have further damaged the prospects for a just and durable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. • The enduring impact of the events in Gaza includes a loss of faith in international law and a potential increase in regional instability. • There is a need for independent investigations and accountability for the crimes committed during the recent conflict.

In this monologue, I reflect on my absence before expressing frustration with the limited and oversimplified coverage of war and conflict, especially Israel's war on Gaza. I unequivocally criticise Israel's actions, highlighting the need to look beyond headlines and focus on immediate reduction of human suffering. I also announce upcoming interviews with experts to shed light on geopolitical machinations and analyse global conflicts, including Chris Gunness, Francesca Albanese, and David Petraeus.

As 2023 draws to a close, I want to take a moment in this special year-end episode to reflect on the enlightening journey we've embarked on together through 'The Voices Of War.' This year, we’ve traversed a wide array of topics, spanning more than 35 hours of interviews across 26 episodes, reaching over 100,000 downloads, and connecting with listeners in more than 150 countries.   Our conversations have taken us deep into the heart of current global conflicts, including the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war, where we've attempted to unravel the complex layers of these protracted struggles. We've dived into the dark waters of radicalisation, seeking to understand the roots and paths that lead individuals down this route. We explored the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence and its ethical implications in both civilian life and warfare, highlighting how technology is reshaping the character of war, if not its nature. We've grappled with the ethics of war, questioning the moral dilemmas faced by those on the front lines and the decision-makers behind them. We delved into war’s impact on mental health, and the unseen scars it leaves on individuals and societies, offering a sombre yet necessary reflection on the unspoken costs of conflict. We’ve looked at dehumanisation, the impact of information on our behaviour and we explored how our desire for status makes us vulnerable to exploitation. All these topics sought to contribute to the same goal—to scratch below the simple narratives of war, that dominate our mainstream and social media channels.    Lastly, as I prepare for my transition from the Army to civilian life (a surprise to some but not to others), these conversations have certainly enriched my perspective on the world we live in. I hope they have done the same for you. Thank you for joining me on this journey and here's to continuing our quest for nuance and depth in 2024.   #TheVoicesOfWar #2023WrapUp #Podcast #Reflections #GlobalConversations #WarAndPeace

Today, I spoke with Jason Pack, author of the acclaimed book ‘Libya and the Global Enduring Disorder’, and a recognised expert on the Middle East. Jason also hosts the excellent Disorder podcast and serves as a senior analyst for emerging challenges at the NATO college in Rome. With over two decades of research in the Middle East, Jason brings a unique perspective to understanding the complexities of the region’s geopolitics. This is Jason’s second appearance on the show. We first spoke back in May of 22, in Episode 55. That time, we explored Jason’s excellent book and his concept of the Global Enduring Disorder. You can listen to that episode here. Today, Jason joins me to discuss the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East, how it relates to the idea of the Global Enduring Disorder and what we might need to consider when looking for an enduring and just peace in the region. 00:00 Introduction to Jason Pack Jason discusses his background and the relevance of his work in current global affairs. Jason shares his transition from studying to focusing on Middle East geopolitics post-9/11, including his experiences in Beirut, Egypt, Syria, and Libya. 06:20 The Concept of Global Enduring Disorder and Orderers vs Disorderers Jason explains his concept of 'Global Enduring Disorder', contrasting the current global landscape with the past, focusing on the shift from order to disorder. Jason proposes a perspective to view global politics as a struggle between forces of order and disorder, expanding beyond traditional ideological divides. 13:15 The Impact of American Foreign Policy in the Middle East An Analysis of the influence and consequences of American hegemony in the Middle East, particularly regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. 15:15 Interconnected Global Conflicts Jason discusses how various global conflicts, including the Israel-Palestine issue, are interconnected and influence each other. Exploring the involvement of Russia and Iran in fostering global disorder, including their potential roles in the Israel-Palestine conflict. 23:05 The Three Blocks of Middle East Geopolitics Jason categorises the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape into three distinct groups, focusing on their respective roles and alliances. 25:56 The Pivotal Role of Qatar in Middle Eastern Peace Jason discusses Qatar's unique position in the Middle East and its potential role in bringing peace and stability to the region. 33:15 The Middle East Peace Process: A New Approach Exploring a novel approach to the Middle East peace process, involving regional players and addressing underlying causes. 39:10 Addressing Root Causes of the Israel-Palestine Conflict Discussion about the necessity of addressing the underlying causes of the Israel-Palestine conflict, including the creation of a Palestinian state and the role of external influences. 42:15 The Complexity of the Israel-Gaza Conflict in Global Perception Jason delves into the reasons behind the global attention on the Israel-Gaza conflict, highlighting the unique position of Jews and Israel in global dynamics and the disproportionate global response to the conflict. 52:38 The Potential of Qatar in Resolving Middle East Conflicts Jason reiterates the strategic importance of Qatar in bringing peace to the region, emphasising its unique position as a mediator among various conflicting parties. 55:09 The Influence of Gulf States in Global and Regional Politics Jason discusses the growing influence of Gulf states like the UAE and Qatar in global and regional politics, highlighting their roles in funding, cultural influence, and diplomacy. 01:02:14 Closing Thoughts: Challenges and Hope for Middle East Peace Jason concludes with his thoughts on the ongoing challenges in achieving peace in the Middle East and the potential for a new approach involving Gulf states to bring stability to the region. Resources: The Road to Middle East Peace Runs Through Doha, Foreign Policy: https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/11/07/qatar-israel-hamas-gaza-war-middle-east-peace/ Episode 55. Jason Pack - On the ’Global Enduring Disorder: https://thevoicesofwar.com/55-jason-pack-on-the-global-enduring-disorder/ Jon Wiener Podcast on plan to end war in Gaza: https://www.thenation.com/podcast/world/sms-guttenplan-powers-113023/ Finally, don't forget to review, rate, and share The Voices of War to help us continue exploring the complex narratives of war. To comment or take the conversation further, please connect with us here: https://www.thevoicesofwar.com https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/thevoicesofwar https://au.linkedin.com/company/the-voices-of-war https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/thevoicesofwar