Democracy Now

Director Jafar Panahi on Deadly Iran Protests & Filmmaking Under Censorship
Renowned Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi, defying a travel ban and prison sentence, speaks out against the Iranian regime's brutal crackdown on nationwide protests, detailing the 'bloodbath' and his commitment to filmmaking as an act of resistance.

Top U.S. & World Headlines — January 14, 2026
This episode details a day of escalating global tensions and domestic policy shifts, covering violent crackdowns in Iran, US military actions in Venezuela, and controversial US immigration and civil rights decisions.

"State of Siege": Iran Protest Death Toll Rises to 2,000 After U.S. Sanctions Spawn Economic Crisis
US sanctions have intensified Iran's economic crisis, fueling widespread anti-government protests where the death toll has reportedly reached 2,000, while direct US military intervention is deemed impractical.

Iran Escalates Deadly Crackdown on Mass Protests as Trump Threatens to Launch Military Attack
Amidst a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests in Iran, the US and Israel issue military threats and support for protesters, while experts warn such foreign intervention exacerbates internal repression and endangers activists.

Top U.S. & World Headlines — January 12, 2026
This episode details a series of escalating global and domestic crises, including violent protests in Iran, ongoing conflict in Gaza, nationwide anti-ICE demonstrations, and aggressive US foreign policy actions towards Venezuela, Cuba, and Denmark.

Top U.S. & World Headlines — January 7, 2026
A US military raid leads to the abduction of Venezuelan President Maduro, with President Trump claiming control over Venezuelan oil, while globally, the US pledges security to Ukraine and Israel faces accusations over hindering Gaza aid.

Top U.S. & World Headlines — January 6, 2026
The US faces international condemnation and domestic unrest following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, while simultaneously facing a controversial new vaccine schedule and a political standoff over a January 6th plaque.

Top U.S. & World Headlines — January 5, 2026
The US military launched a large-scale attack on Venezuela, abducting President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, sparking international condemnation and threats of further military action against other nations.

Special Report on Venezuela: U.S. Abducts Maduro, Trump Says "We Are Going to Run" Oil-Rich Nation
The United States launched a large-scale military operation to seize Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, with President Trump declaring the US would 'run' the oil-rich nation and control its oil industry, drawing widespread international condemnation and triggering calls for resistance within Venezuela.
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