151: Mustafa Akhwand

The interview between John Pinna and Mustafa Akhwand explores various themes related to U.S. foreign policy, diplomacy, and Muslim-American experiences. The conversation centers on the need for direct engagement and better understanding between the U.S. government and Middle Eastern countries, particularly in places like Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Akhwand, as executive director of Shia Rights Watch, emphasizes the importance of having the right advisors with on-the-ground experience rather than relying on those who lack direct cultural understanding. The discussion also touches on personal experiences with Islamophobia in America, the challenges of current diplomatic approaches, and the need for the new Trump administration to engage directly with minority communities. Throughout the conversation, both speakers stress the importance of moving beyond surface-level policies to develop more nuanced, culturally-informed diplomatic strategies that can better serve both American interests and international relations. Mustafa Akhwand is the founder and Executive director of Shia Rights Watch, with a background in Journalism and Media publishing. He is awarded by Human Rights Education Association for minority rights and certified human rights education trainer. He worked as an advisor for a number of non-violence organizations such as Freemuslim (Center for De-Radicalization & Extremism Prevention). In addition to his work, he cost the podcast “Human Rights Sentinel“, hosting members of minorities in different regions to highlight the human rights violations against other minorities. https://shiarightswatch.org/