The Spy Who The Spy Who

The Spy Who Almost Stopped 9/11 | Enhanced Interrogation | 3

Sep 1, 2026 · 39m

Summary

FBI agent Ali Sufan interrogates Abu Zubaydah in a Thai black site, uncovering Khalid Sheikh Mohammed’s identity through a photo error. When the CIA imposes brutal "enhanced interrogation" techniques, Sufan objects and is sidelined. Later in Afghanistan, he gains vital intel on an oil tanker plot from detainee Karim, but the CIA ignores it, leading to the attack. Sufan eventually exposes the CIA’s information withholding to the 9/11 Commission.

Topics discussed

Intro, ads, and episode context Episode 3: Enhanced Interrogation introduction Abu Zubaydah's critical condition and emergency transport Hospital interrogation and accidental KSM reveal CIA takes over with 'enhanced interrogation' methods Ad break and podcast promotion Mock burial threat and Sufan's withdrawal 9/11 anniversary and new assignment in Afghanistan Detention in Afghanistan and escape in a jeep Negotiating access to high-value detainees Interrogating Karim and uncovering oil tanker plot Rendition proceeds despite intelligence; tanker attack occurs Testifying before the 9/11 Commission Aftermath, outcomes, and historical notes Outro, credits, and Audible advertisements
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