Cultish The Iran Controversy with James Rayment
Mar 10, 2026
James Rayment, director of the Al Maida Initiative training churches to understand and engage Muslims. He discusses Muslim views on US Middle East wars, Iranian public reactions and reports of conversions, the role of social media in reshaping Muslim aspirations, why Iran targets the UAE, Islamic eschatology, and possible outcomes if Iran’s regime collapses.
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How Muslims Commonly View Western Middle East Wars
- Most Muslims in the West view US wars like Iraq and Afghanistan as foreign policy misadventures that caused destabilization.
- Many also believe America is a puppet of Israel, so Iranian actions are often interpreted through that conspiracy lens.
Minority Support Can Still Sustain Iran's Regime
- Polling shows roughly 80% of Iranians oppose the Islamic regime, but 15–20% support still equals millions who can mobilize crowds and hold power.
- Large pro-regime rallies can appear influential despite being a minority because that minority controls arms and coercive power.
Personal Story Of Iranian Conversions After Protests
- James shares that many Iranians are converting to Christianity, including four families in Seattle since the Mahsa Amini protests.
- He recounts a woman in jail who saw a figure say 'Isa' leading her eventually to church and faith.