The Inside Story Podcast
The Inside Story Podcast is a daily news analysis show from Al Jazeera. It dissects, analyzes, and helps define major global stories, offering in-depth perspectives on current events. The podcast features interviews with experts and journalists to provide context and understanding of complex issues.
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What has Iran won and lost from this war?
An agreement between Washington and Tehran has all but ended the Iran war, both claiming victory despite the huge cost. Among that is damage to Iranian relationships with its Gulf neighbours, which it attacked. So, what has Iran won and lost in the region from this war? In this episode: Ali Akbar Dareini, Researcher at the Center for Strategic Studies in Tehran. Roxane Farmanfar
Can a social media ban protect young users?
The UK says it's banning access to social media for those under 16. Its government argues it's the right choice to protect young people from online harm. But will this policy work? And how will it be enforced? In this episode: Dr Charlotte Armitage, Psychologist and Psychotherapist and author of Generation Zombie: Why Devices Are Harming Our Children and What We Can Do About It Paolo G
Can the G7 help resolve global crises as geopolitical realities shift?
The annual G7 summit is set to be held in France. But this time, differences within the group are growing. From tensions in the Middle East to the war in Ukraine, can the G7 help resolve global crises as geopolitical realities shift? In this episode: Jacques Reland, Senior Research Fellow, Global Policy Institute. Scott Lucas, Professor, US and International Politics, Clinton Inst
What does the EU's migration pact mean?
The European Union's new migration pact is now in force,, tightening border controls and overhauling asylum rules. Will it reduce migration to Europe? And what does it reveal about the political forces shaping the bloc? In this episode: Marta Welander - EU Advocacy Director, International Rescue Committee. Nathalie Tocci - Professor of Practice at Johns Hopkins University SAIS Europe. Piete
Could Washington and Tehran finally strike a deal?
Donald Trump says a new agreement with Iran is within reach. Tehran insists key issues remain unresolved. So is a deal finally close? What would it mean for tensions in the region? And if an agreement is signed, can it survive the political pressures on both sides? In this episode: Dania Thafer - Executive Director, Gulf International Forum Foad Izadi - Associate Professor at Universit
What does a surge in nuclear weapon spendings mean for the future?
The nine countries believed to hold nuclear weapons have spent a record $119bn on their arsenals. The US budget was more than all the others combined, according to an anti-proliferation group. So why the huge surge? And what does it mean for the future of disarmament? In this episode: Tariq Rauf, Former Head of Verification and Security Policy Co-ordination, International Atomic Energy Agen
What are the implications of the unrest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir?
Turmoil in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. A banned group has been protesting against a court ruling that kept in place legislative representation for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. What are the political implications of the demonstrations? In this episode: Maria Iqbal Tarana, Senior Leader, Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz. Sahar Khan, Nonresident Fellow, Institute for Global A
How could the Chinese president's visit to North Korea reshape geopolitics?
Chinese President Xi Jinping visits North Korea. Beijing is Pyongyang's main political and economic backer. Xi has voiced his opposition to what he called hegemonism and power politics. So, how could his visit shape geopolitics in the region? In this episode: Einar Tangen, Senior Fellow, Centre for International Governance Innovation. Hannah Kim, Associate Professor, Internationa
Why are racial issues so prominent now in the UK?
Protests in the UK after the release of police video of an 18-year-old stabbing victim handcuffed by officers after his attacker alleged racial abuse. The case has caused outrage with the Prime Minister rejecting claims of police bias against white people. So, why are racial issues so prominent now in the UK? In this episode: Tim Bale, Professor, Politics, Queen Mary University o
Why the World Is Watching Armenia's Vote
Armenians are voting in pivotal parliamentary elections. With Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan facing pro-Russia rivals, why is the outcome being watched so closely in Brussels, Moscow and Washington? In this episode: Richard Giragosian - Director of the Regional Studies Center think-tank Kenneth Roth - Visiting Professor at the Princeton School of Public & International Affairs Chris Wea
What's next for Lebanon after the ceasefire?
The US has announced another ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. But Israeli strikes continue and Hezbollah remains engaged. Can the truce hold, and what lies ahead for Lebanon? In this episode: Heiko Wimmen - Project Director for Iraq, Syria and Lebanon, International Crisis Group Nimrod Novik - Former Special Envoy & Senior Adviser to former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres
Can the Ebola outbreak in the DR Congo be stopped?
The head of the World Health Organization seems confident and says there's hope. But with an already volatile security situation in the region, what are the risks of the virus spreading? In this episode: Dr. Marie Roseline Belizaire, Emergency Director for the World Health Organization Africa Dr. Ekwaro Obuku, physician who served as a policy advisor on Uganda's national task force dur
Will the EU's new migration proposals work?
A proposal to tighten EU migration policy. Negotiators from the European Parliament and Council have provisionally agreed on a new deal. It includes the deportation to third countries of people whose applications are rejected. But where would that leave the rights of those seeking safe haven in Europe? In this episode: Marta Welander, EU Advocacy Director at the International
Why is Lebanon such a central issue to Iran?
Lebanon under Israeli attack - while diplomatic efforts continue to end the war in Iran. And with Israel escalating attacks on Hezbollah, Tehran wants any peace deal to cover both conflicts. So, why is Iran making Lebanon a central issue in its own war? In this episode: Naim Salem, Professor of Political Science at the Lebanese Army Military Academy Marzie Khalilian, Political An
Is the US-backed Gaza peace process in serious danger?
Israel continues killing Palestinians in Gaza and threatens to seize more of the Strip - all in breach of October's ceasefire deal. Attacks go on everyday, with more than 900 killed since then. So, is the US-backed peace process in serious danger? In this episode: Muhammad Shehada, Senior Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations Daniel Levy, President of the U.S. / Middle E
What's at stake in Ethiopia's elections?
What's at stake in Ethiopia's elections? The governing party is seeking to cement its power, but in a country embroiled in conflicts and deeply fragmented, will this vote solve Ethiopia's many woes? And how are these elections viewed across the Horn of Africa? In this episode: Samuel Getachew, Journalist and Ethiopian politics and security commentator. Martin Plaut, Senior
Is the Russia-Ukraine war entering a new phase?
NATO says it's ready to defend allied territory against Russian attacks. Ukraine warns Moscow is preparing for a major aerial assault, and appeals for more military support. Both sides seem confident they are advancing on the battlefield. So, is the war entering a new phase? In this episode: Olesia Horiainova - Co-founder of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Centre &nbs
What's next after scrapping the 'Black Code' in France?
France has repealed a controversial law called Code Noir, or Black Code. It classified people in its colonies as property. But why now? What does it mean for the millions of victims of French colonialism? In this episode: Liliane Umubyeyi, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the African Futures Lab Marlene Daut, Professor of French and African Diaspora Studies at Yale Unive
What's driving anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa?
What's behind the recent anti-migrant protests in South Africa? Thousands of foreign workers are under increasing pressure to leave the country. So, what's driving this anti-migrant sentiment that many have called xenophobic? And is politics involved? In this episode: William Gumede, Associate Professor, School of Governance at the University of the Witwatersrand Lindywe Zulu, member
Why is Israel ramping up attacks in Lebanon despite a ceasefire?
Israel intensifies its military action in Lebanon, killing and injuring dozens of people, despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Iran insists those attacks must also end as part of any deal with the United States. So, why is Israel ramping up its strikes? In this episode: Najat Aoun Saliba, Independent Member of the Lebanese Parliament Rami Khouri, Distinguished Fellow at the American Universit
Will Pope Leo's encyclical on AI have an impact on big tech?
In the first keynote policy statement of his papacy, Pope Leo has warned that artificial intelligence must be for the benefit of humanity, not geopolitical or corporate dominance. Will his views have any impact on big tech and governments? In this episode: Gerard O’Connell, Senior Vatican correspondent for the Catholic magazine, America Aya Ibrahim, Senior Visiting Fellow at the
Is a US-Iran deal taking shape?
A possible US-Iran deal to end the conflict is taking shape. While mediators try to bridge some critical divides, Israeli officials are reportedly worried. What are their concerns? And will they throw a spanner in the works? In this episode: Mairav Zonszein, Senior Israel Analyst at the International Crisis Group Yossi Mekelberg, Senior Consulting Fellow with the Middle East and North Afric
What could be the lasting legacy of the US-Israeli war on Iran?
The Iran war has caused the worst energy crisis in history, according to the International Energy Agency. It's been politically unpopular in the US too ahead of crucial mid-term elections in November. So, even after it ends, could this war have long-lasting implications? In this episode: Foad Izadi, Associate Professor, University of Tehran. Christopher Hill, Former U
Is pragmatism replacing ideology in today's diplomatic world?
The US and India are seeking to mend ties after a year of diplomatic see-saw...tariffs imposed then quickly scrapped because of the war in Iran. It's one example of how international relations and conflict have become more complex and interlinked in recent years. So, is pragmatism replacing ideology in today's diplomatic world? In this episode: Brahma Chellaney - Prof
What are the implications of US sanctions in Lebanon?
Israel keeps up its attacks on Lebanon despite a ceasefire. The US has sanctioned nine people, including two Lebanese army officers accused of links to Hezbollah. It comes while Washington brokers more talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials. So, why these sanctions now? In this episode: David Wood, Senior Lebanon Analyst at the International Crisis Group Randa Slim, Middle East Progra
Do aid flotillas make a difference for Palestinians under Israeli blockade?
Detained and ridiculed by a senior Israeli minister. The mistreatment of Gaza flotilla activists has sparked global outrage. They were part of the latest attempt to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians. Most efforts have failed. So, what difference do flotillas make? In this episode: Ahmed Abo Askar, Engineering student who lobbies for sponsorship for orphans in Gaza Dan Perry, Former C
What's the significance of Putin's visit to China?
Amplifying an 'unshakeable bond' in a 'turbulent' international situation. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin hold talks in Beijing: their 40th meeting as presidents. What's the significance of the Russian leader's visit, a week after Donald Trump was in the Chinese capital? In this episode: Andy Mok, Author of ‘The Innovation Machine: How China Creates and Adopts Technology Through Govern
Does Ukraine have the advantage against Russia right now?
A huge attack in the Moscow region and unrelenting strikes on its energy facilities — Ukraine is taking the war deeper into Russia. Russian oil refineries are burning, and its ground offensive is stalling. So, does Ukraine have the advantage at the moment? In this episode: Peter Zalmayev, Director of the Eurasia Democracy Initiative Pavel Felgenhauer, Russian Foreign Policy Anal
Will Cuba be forced to accept the US president's demands?
Running out of fuel. Cuba is struggling to keep the lights on as the United States ramps up economic pressure and military threats. Washington is now offering aid - but at a cost. Will the system set up by the Castros break down? In this episode: Ruaridh Nicoll, The Guardian's Cuba Correspondent Adolfo Franco, Republican strategist Javier Farje, Journalist and historian specialising in Lati
Will the new Ebola outbreak in Africa spread?
A global health emergency - the World Health Organisation raises the alarm over a new Ebola outbreak. The virus has killed nearly 90 people in Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda so far. Will it spread further? In this episode: Ariel Kestens, Head, Kinshasa Delegation, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Dr Margaret Harris, Lecturer, United Nations Inst
Can Pakistani violence sabotage a fragile truce between their neighbours?
Recent attacks in Pakistan have killed nearly 50 people, many of them security forces. The Pakistani Taliban says it is behind them. Islamabad accuses Kabul of backing the armed group. Can the violence sabotage a fragile truce between the neighbours? In this episode: Masood Khan, Former Permanent Representative of Pakistan, United Nations Michael Kugelman, Senior Fellow, Atlantic Coun
Could differences over Taiwan lead to conflict between the US and China?
Donald Trump calls his visit to China 'incredible', and Xi Jinping says it was a 'landmark' meeting. But the Chinese president's comments about Taiwan are raising concerns. Could a dispute over the territory lead to conflict between Beijing and Washington? In this episode: Ali Wyne, Senior Research and Advocacy Adviser for US-China relations, The International Crisis Group Victor Gao, Vice
What will be discussed during the Lebanon-Israel negotiations?
As Israeli attacks in Lebanon continue despite a ceasefire, the United States is hosting the third round of talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials. Hezbollah opposes the meeting in Washington. But can the process help find a way forward for Lebanon after decades of war? In this episode: Ali Rizk, Security and Foreign Affairs Analyst in Beirut Jennifer Gavito, former acting
Is Eurovision's future under threat because of Israel's participation?
Five nations boycott Eurovision, citing Israel's participation. Their action is against Israel's war in Gaza and allegations of vote manipulation in the song contest. But why is it so important for Israel to take part? And is the competition's future under threat? In this episode: Steve Wall, musician, actor, and member of the Irish Palestinian Solidarity Campaign Jonathan Hendrickx,
Is there hope for an end to the war in Sudan?
A drone attack on Khartoum's international airport. The UN says such strikes have killed nearly 900 people in Sudan this year. And the conflict between the army and a paramilitary group is only intensifying. So, is there hope for an end to the fighting? In this episode: Caroline Bouvard, Country Director, Sudan Mission of Solidarites International Kholood Khair, Founding Director at Conflue
Who is behind the new wave of violence in eastern DR Congo?
A new wave of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Attacks by two lesser-known armed groups have killed dozens of people. So, who are they? And how serious a threat do they pose? In this episode: Henry-Pacifique Mayala, Kivu Security Tracker Project Co-ordinator at Ebuteli Rawya Rageh, Senior Crisis Adviser, Amnesty International Kambale Musavuli, Analyst, Center
Could the Russia-Ukraine war be entering its final phase?
Russia's President Vladimir Putin says the Ukraine war may be over soon. Attacks have been intensifying in recent weeks. Stalemate on the battlefield is increasing political pressure for an end. So could the conflict be entering its final phase? In this episode: Dmitry Polyanskiy, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Russian Federation to the Organisation for Security and Co-op
How the Covid-19 pandemic experience could help deal with Hantavirus?
The World Health Organization says public health risks from hantavirus are low. Arrangements are being made to repatriate passengers from a cruise ship, after three people who'd been on board, died. How's the experience from the Covid-19 pandemic being used? In this episode: Dr. Mukesh Kapila - Professor Emeritus of Global Health and Humanitarian Affairs at the University of Mancheste
What caused the backlash against UK PM Keir Starmer?
There's been a backlash against UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in local and regional elections across England, Scotland, and Wales, despite a huge parliamentary majority. He's rejecting calls to quit, but faces new challenges from both the left and the right. So, why are these elections so significant? In this episode: Peter Geoghegan, Editor of the investigative news site Democracy for Sal
Can China help end the Iran war?
China's diplomatic role in the Middle East is under sharp focus, as foreign ministers from Beijing and Tehran meet. It's calling on the US and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and for a 'comprehensive' ceasefire. So, can China help end the war? In this episode: Setareh Sadeqi, Assistant Professor, Tehran University's Faculty of World Studies Scott Uehlinger, Former senior CIA officer an
What does the BJP’s victory in West Bengal mean for India’s democracy?
India's Hindu nationalist BJP sweeps West Bengal, a state governed by the opposition for decades and historically seen as a symbol of secularism. What does this mean for democracy in India? And for its 200 million Muslims? In this episode: Shaina NC, National spokesperson for Shiv Sena, a conservative party in India Javed Ansari, Political commentator and senior journalist Yogendra Ya
Can the Iran war peace talks survive Gulf escalation?
Tension escalates rapidly across the Gulf, despite last month's ceasefire. An oil facility hit in the United Arab Emirates, Iranian boats attacked, while the US tries to force open a shipping route in the Strait of Hormuz. So, what does this mean for hopes of an end to the Iran war? In this episode: Negar Mortazavi, Senior Fellow at the Center for International Policy in Washington DC
Is Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla legal?
Israeli forces detained two activists after stopping the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla off the coast of Greece. It happened in international waters nearly a thousand kilometres from the Gaza Strip. So, was this action legal? In this episode: Heidi Matthews, Assistant Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School at York University in Toronto Dan Perry, former Editor of the Associated
Is Mali's junta losing control?
An unlikely coalition of armed groups and rebels launches an offensive in Mali. Russian forces backing the military government are forced to withdraw from bases in the north. Soldiers are suspected of being involved in the attacks.Is Mali's junta losing control? In this episode: Oluwole Ojewale, Regional Coordinator for West and Central Africa, Institute for Security Studies. Kabir Adamu, M
Why are maritime laws failing to secure the seas?
Commercial vessels under attack.The blockades by the US and Iran in the Strait of Hormuz are disrupting global trade.The crisis highlights the danger conflicts and territorial disputes pose to shipping. Why are maritime laws failing to secure the seas? In this episode: Rockford Weiz - Director of Fletcher Maritime Studies program at Tufts University George Theocharidis - Professor of Mariti
Will Pakistan's land trade routes with Iran undermine the US?
Pakistan opens land trade routes to Iran, allowing the transit of goods. It's a much-needed reprieve for both economies. But does it undercut Washington's pressure campaign on Tehran? And how will it impact the Islamabad-mediated talks to end the war? In this episode: Mushahid Hussain Syed, Pakistani defence and foreign policy specialist Setareh Sadeqi, Assistant Professor at the University
How is Israel replicating its Gaza tactics in Lebanon?
Widespread destruction by Israel of houses and civilian facilities in Lebanon, leaving a fifth of the population out of their homes. Israel's defence minister says tactics used in Gaza are being replicated in Lebanon. So, what are the similarities? In this episode: Ramzi Kaiss, Lebanon Researcher at Human Rights Watch. Elijah Magnier, Specialist in Middle East wars and regional military dyn
Why is the UAE withdrawing from OPEC?
The United Arab Emirates quits OPEC. The oil-producing bloc is losing one of its most important members. It comes during the worst global energy crisis of modern times, caused by the Iran war, which has hit the UAE hard. So why now - and what's the impact? In this episode: Chris Weafer, Chief Executive Officer at Macro-Advisory strategic consultancy Cornelia Meyer, CEO of Meyer
Can the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty prevent a disaster?
The UN Secretary General has given a dire warning about the waning influence of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). It's being reviewed in the shadow of a tense ceasefire between the US and Iran. Will the agreement survive? And is it enough to prevent a nuclear disaster? In this episode: Tariq Rauf, Former Head of Verification and Security Policy Coordination at the Internatio
Will elections make a difference to Palestinians living under Israeli occupation?
Palestinians exercising their democratic right to vote. But the municipal elections alienated most factions. The Palestinian Authority's party, Fatah, and its affiliates claimed victory. Will the elections make a difference to the people under Israeli occupation? In this episode: Ahmed Fattouh, Fatah spokesperson Jalal Abukhater, Policy Manager at 7amleh - The Arab Center for the Adva
What are the implications of this latest unrest in Mali?
Former enemies in Mali, including an Al-Qaeda-linked group, join forces to target military sites. The defence minister has been killed. Russian mercenaries backing the government have come under attack. What are the implications of this unrest? In this episode: Oluwole Ojewale, Regional Co-ordinator for West and Central Africa, Institute for Security Studies. Nicolas Normand, Former F
How serious are the divisions within NATO?
Divisions widen within NATO. US president Donald Trump is furious after a refusal by European member states to join the Iran war. Reports say he's considering measures against the UK and Spain. So, how serious is the rift for the future of the military alliance? In this episode: Carne Ross - former British Diplomat and founder of the non-profit advisory group, Independent Diplomat. Eli
Who's in control of AI?
Reports of unauthorised access to one of the most powerful artificial intelligence models yet developed. Nothing malicious, the owners say, but it has intensified focus on such technology falling into the wrong hands. In this episode: Ramesh Srinivasan, Professor at UCLA Department of Information Studies, AI and technology specialist Marc Einstein, Research Director and Global Head of AI Re
How will an EU loan to Ukraine play out on the battlefield?
Ukraine reopens a pipeline, enabling the delivery of Russian crude to some EU countries. In return, it gets a multibillion-dollar loan, while Moscow rakes in oil revenue. How will this complex deal play out on the battlefield? In this episode: Marina Miron, Researcher in Defence Studies at King’s College London Maximilian Hess, Author of 'Economic War: Ukraine and the Global Conflict
Can a divided EU become a voice against Israel's aggression?
Within the EU, a split is growing over how to respond to Israel's actions in the Middle East. Some members want to suspend a trade deal. But its staunchest allies have foiled the move. Can a divided bloc become a voice against Israel's aggression? In this episode: Bobby McDonagh, a former Irish ambassador to the EU, Italy and the UK Daniel Levy, President of the U.S. / Middle East Project a
Who will rebuild Gaza?
A report by the UN and European Union estimates it will take 71 billion dollars to rebuild Gaza. About a third of that is needed to restore essential services destroyed by Israel's war. So, how will Gaza be rebuilt, and who will pay? In this episode: Xavier Abu Eid, political analyst and former Communications Director for the Palestine Liberation Organization Sultan Barakat, Professor
How is the Iran war affecting Russia and Ukraine?
Ukraine attacks oil facilities in Russia, which is benefiting from higher fuel prices and sanctions relief due to the Iran war. It comes after Moscow launches intense aerial attacks on its neighbour. How is the Iran war affecting Russia and Ukraine? In this episode: Chris Weafer, CEO of Macro-Advisory, a strategic consultancy focused on Russia and Eurasia Steven Erlanger, Chief
Will the left-wing or right-wing leaders shape the global agenda?
Defending democracy ... The slogan of left-leaning world leaders in Spain meeting to counter the growing influence of the far right. Meanwhile in Italy, right-wing figures aim to build momentum. So, who will shape the global agenda? In this episode: Ruth Ferrero-Turrion, Professor, Political Science, Complutense University of Madrid. Georgios Samaras, Assistant Professor, Public Po
Will the UK prime minister Keir Starmer resign?
He's accused of links to the sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He also failed government security checks. Yet Peter Mandelson was appointed UK ambassador to the US. Now, the prime minister is under pressure to resign. But will he? And how will the fallout impact the UK Labour Party? In this episode: Denis MacShane - Former UK Foreign Office Minister of State and Labour MP
Will the ceasefire in Lebanon hold?
Lebanon and Israel are holding their first direct talks in decades. But as Israel considers Hezbollah a threat, is a lasting peace agreement possible? And how much influence does Iran have in Lebanon? In this episode: Joe Macaron, Middle East geopolitical analyst Yossi Mekelberg, Senior Consulting Fellow at the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House Rami Khouri, Disting
What role is China playing in the Iran war?
China tells its ally Iran that the Strait of Hormuz must be reopened. International leaders have been visiting Beijing almost daily, underlining its importance in the crisis. So what's the impact of the war on China, and what role is it playing? Host: James Bays In this episode: Doug Bandow, Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute in Washington DC Shaun Rein, Founder and Managing Director of t
How serious are the mounting difficulties between the EU and Israel?
Israel's alliance with the European Union is under mounting political pressure. Behind the shift are demands to suspend the main agreement underpinning their close relations. But their ties survived Israel's war on Gaza, so why have there been difficulties between them? Host: James Bays In this episode: Barry Andrews, Member of the European Parliament Sven Kuhn Von Burgsdorff,&nb
What's the fallout from the dispute between Trump and Pope Leo?
Donald Trump in a war of words with the leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The U.S. president refuses to apologise for criticising Pope Leo's opposition to the Iran conflict. He says the pontiff should stay out of American affairs. So, is this political interference or a moral duty to speak out? And what are the consequences? Host: Folly Bah Thibault In this episode: Cornel
What's behind Viktor Orban's defeat?
Hungary's opposition has defeated Prime Minister Viktor Orban by a landslide. He governed for 16 years with a far-right agenda often described as 'authoritarian'. What led to his loss? And what does the outcome mean for the EU, US, and Russia? In this episode: Gabor Scheiring, Assistant Professor at Georgetown University in Qatar and a former member of National Assembly of Hungar
What risks does the war on Iran pose to global food security?
The Iran war has created risks to food security from higher energy costs and shipping restrictions. The world's fertiliser production has been badly hit due to attacks on Gulf chemical plants. Where is food supply most at risk and could there be a lasting impact? In this episode: Mourad Wahba, Acting Executive Secretary, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia.&
Has Israeli society become conditioned to permanent war?
A negative political and public reaction in Israel to the ceasefire with Iran - regardless of the respite it brings. No pause for Israel's army however or its victims - hundreds killed in Lebanon and more dead in Gaza. Has Israeli society become conditioned to permanent war? In this episode: Ilan Pappe - a historian and professor at Exeter University Gideon Levy - a co
Why is Hungary's election of such international importance?
Opinion polls in Hungary suggest long-time prime minister Viktor Orban has a battle on his hands in Sunday's election. The outcome will be keenly awaited in Washington, Moscow, Kyiv, and Brussels. So why is this election so important outside of Hungary? In this episode: Gabor Scheiring, a former member of the National Assembly of Hungary Istvan Kiss, political scientist, director of t
How far is Iran willing to go to protect its friends and allies?
The bombing of Iran has stopped, but the bombing of Lebanon has not. Even as Iran and the US say they'll try to work out their many differences at the negotiating table in Pakistan, Israel is busy ramping up its attacks on what it says are Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The group has been a key player in Iran's axis of resistance for decades. So how far is Tehran willing to go to protect its allies
Has the world order been changed by Trump's war on Iran?
Donald Trump has found his Iran off-ramp — but what has it cost? After apocalyptic threats, Washington and Tehran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire. It's still unclear whether that will mean a lasting peace. What's more certain is that the US and the world stage have been changed by Trump's war. Has the world order been changed by Trump's war on Iran? And can any of it be walked back? Host
How is the Iran war affecting Russian-Iranian ties?
The US and Israel's war with Iran has put pressure on Tehran's relations with Moscow. They've been allies, but the Kremlin is seeking to maintain ties with the US to reach a deal on the Ukraine conflict. In this episode: Afshin Shahi, a Middle East political analyst Leonid Ragozin, independent journalist Maximilian Hess, founder of Enmetena Advisory and a senior fellow at the Foreign
Why has Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant been targeted?
Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant has been targeted four times since the US-Israeli war began. Tehran accuses the UN's nuclear watchdog of inaction, which the IAEA rejects, saying the situation is of deep concern. But why are the attacks happening? And what risks do they pose? In this episode: Tariq Rauf, Former Head of Verification and Security Policy Co-ordination at the Internatio
How is the war on Iran impacting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza?
The war in Iran is worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In violation of the ceasefire, Israel has severely restricted aid and maintained its air strikes. The US-brokered deal is meant to be in Phase 2 but appears to be in limbo. So, who could step in to help Palestinians? In this episode: Dr Mohammed Tahir, Orthopaedic surgeon, worked in Gaza. Alex de Waal, Executive Directo
How will Pakistan deal with the global energy crisis?
The war in the Middle East has worsened the economic crisis in Pakistan. Most of its energy supplies are shipped through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has largely blocked for five weeks. In this episode: Kaiser Bengali - Economist and former head of the Policy Reform Unit for the Balochistan Chief Minister Michael Kugelman - Senior Fellow for South Asia at the Atlantic Council
What would it take for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz?
Several countries say they will take action against Iran's near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz. But with no end in sight to the war, what would make Tehran open the waterway? And is using force an option? In this episode: Hassan Ahmadian, Associate Professor at the University of Tehran Rockford Weitz, Maritime Studies Program Director at Tufts University's Fletcher School Craig
As support for war fades, what is Israel seeking in Iran?
Israel and the US continue to bomb Iran. But Israeli opinion polls suggest support for the war is dropping, while Iranian missiles still force millions into shelters there. So, what does Israel now seek from attacking Iran, and what could end its onslaught? In this episode: Daniel Levy, President of the U.S. / Middle East Project and a former Israeli negotiator during the Oslo Accords
What is Israel's controversial death penalty law?
As Israel's parliament approves the death penalty to hang Palestinians convicted of lethal attacks, far-right ministers celebrate with champagne. The UN, Europe, and rights groups have condemned the law, but not the US. What are the implications? In this episode: Mustafa Barghouti, General Secretary of the Palestinian National Initiative political party Ofer Cassif, member of th
What's the significance of Kharg Island?
US President Donald Trump is threatening to take over or destroy Iran's main oil export hub at Kharg Island. Trump admits such a move would require boots on the ground. But, given the nature of this conflict, will he take that chance? And why does Kharg Island matter so much? In this episode: Negar Mortazavi, Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Center for International Policy Matthew Kroenig,
Can Pakistan broker peace between the US and Iran?
Pakistan says it's ready to host talks on ending the war in Iran. That came after a meeting of regional foreign ministers in Islamabad. But what leverage do these players have to reach a ceasefire? And with fighting escalating, is a peaceful settlement possible? In this episode: Munir Akram, A former Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations Ali Vaez, Directo
What difference will the Houthis' involvement in the Iran war make?
What difference will the Houthis' involvement in the war make? They have launched missiles at Israel in support of Iran and threatened more attacks. What are the consequences of opening a new front? And given the Yemeni group's proximity to the Red Sea, what could it mean for global shipping? In this episode: Hisham Al-Omeisy, Senior Yemen Advisor, European Institute of Peace
Why are Gulf countries signing deals with Ukraine?
As the conflict in the Middle East escalates, Gulf nations are seeking new defence partnerships.Saudi Arabia and Qatar has signed deals with Ukraine to gain access to its drone expertise.Could other countries follow suit? And would it make a difference on the ground? In this episode: Dania Thafer - Executive Director of the Gulf International Forum, a think-tank based in Washington DC Oleks
