Narges Bajoghli

Narges Bajoghli, an anthropologist and Associate Professor at Johns Hopkins University, specializes in Iranian politics and social movements. She dives into the ongoing protests in Iran, linking the economic crisis to U.S. sanctions and a collapsing rial. Bajoghli discusses the complex public emotions surrounding potential U.S. intervention and the internal power struggles within Iran, including the roles of reformists and hardliners. She warns of the risks of state collapse and highlights Iran's historical fight for sovereignty from foreign powers.

Narges Bajoghli, an expert on Iranian politics from Johns Hopkins University, and Robert Malley, a Yale visiting professor and former lead US negotiator on Iran, discuss the recent conflict initiated by Israel. They delve into the Iranian regime's narrative post-war, contrasting public reactions to Israeli airstrikes, and the implications for national identity. The conversation highlights the complex dynamics of Iran’s nuclear ambitions amidst geopolitical tensions, addressing the U.S.'s historical role and the inconsistent international perspectives on nuclear issues.

Black rain fell over Tehran after oil depot strikes in the US-Israel war on Iran filled the sky with toxic petrochemical smoke. The contamination can seep into lungs, soil and water, with long-term risks from cancer to lasting environmental damage. What happens when the air people breathe becomes part of the battlefield? In this episode:  Narges Bajoghli, Cultural Anthropologist, Johns Hopkins University Episode credits: This episode was produced by Noor Wazwaz, Marcos Bartolomé and Sarí el-Khalili with Catherine Nouhan, Tuleen Barakat, and our guest host, Tamara Khandaker. It was edited by Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer.  Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Samira Mohyeddin, an Iranian-Canadian journalist and managing editor at On The Line Media, teams up with Narges Bajoghli, an associate professor of anthropology at Johns Hopkins, to unpack the recent protests in Iran. They explore how economic collapse and sanctions sparked mass unrest and the role of media narratives in shaping perceptions. The guests analyze the risks of U.S. military intervention and discuss the complexities of Iranian civil society. They also critique the influence of foreign powers and underscore the urgent need for internal reform.

Narges Bajoghli, a Professor of Middle East Studies at Johns Hopkins University, dives into the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. She discusses Iran's military advancements and retaliatory strikes, highlighting the reactions within Tehran amid growing panic. The conversation explores Iran's geopolitical strategies, including potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, and how the media narratives are shifting around the conflict. Additionally, Bajoghli sheds light on the complex relationships and diplomatic challenges influencing regional stability.