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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Does FIFA need private investment?
FIFA is facing a growing backlash after its proposal to sell a stake in its top events. Europe's governing body UEFA has threatened to boycott the World Cup if this plan goes ahead. So, does FIFA need private investment? In this episode: Chris Brady, Football finance expert and Chief Intelligence Officer for the Sportsology Group Bassirou Sakho, FIFA-licensed football agent
Will Saudi Arabia be dragged further into the war in Iran?
Anger in Iraq after Saudi Arabia attacked an umbrella paramilitary group with ties to Iran. Riyadh accuses the Popular Mobilization Forces of targeting its oil facilities. As the US-Iran war drags on, what are the risks of the conflict spreading? In this episode: Ahmed Rushdi, Head of the House of Iraqi Expertise Foundation, a policy think-tank and research organisation Ahmed Al Maimouni, H
What will it take to stop the conflict in Sudan?
Sudan's army says it's regained control of a highway connecting the capital to North Kordofan state. The area has become the latest front in the conflict with paramilitaries, which has killed tens of thousands of people. Will it be enough to shift the outcome of the fighting? In this episode: Sanosi Zakaria, Editor-in-chief of the Sudan Mirror and former Sudanese army officer Shashwat Saraf
Will Peru's Keiko Fujimori administration move beyond her father's legacy?
Peru is getting its ninth president in ten years. Keiko Fujimori is taking the reins more than 25 years after her father's polarising presidency. But the scars of that era still divide Peru. Will her government move beyond his legacy? In this episode: Jose Ragas, Historian and Assistant Professor at the Catholic University of Chile Renata Segura, Programme Director for Latin America a
What will it take to bring the wildfires under control in Europe?
Europe engulfed in flames as wildfires spread rapidly. Hundreds of thousands forced from their homes; swathes of land scorched. Climate change has contributed to this unprecedented fire season. But what will it take to bring the situation under control? In this episode: Eduardo Rojas, Chairman of the Board, Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. Soraya Fettih,
Why are settler attacks on Palestinians intensifying?
Israel says it's planning a major military operation in the occupied West Bank. Settler attacks on Palestinians are intensifying, becoming increasingly violent. As Israel is gearing up for an election, how does this escalation serve Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right partners? In this episode: Alon Pinkas - Former Israeli ambassador and consul general in New York Sari
What's the significance of the US-Saudi nuclear deal?
What's the significance of the U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal? The two countries signed an agreement to co-operate on what they say is generating energy for civilian purposes. But in a volatile Middle East, could this deal lead to a new global nuclear arms race? In this episode: Abdulaziz Alghashian, Senior Non-Resident Fellow at Gulf International Forum Barbara Slavin, Distinguished Fel
Can India's youth-led protest movement bring lasting change?
India's government is under pressure. Tens of thousands of students are on the streets - demanding the Education Minister's resignation. What started as a protest after exam papers were leaked has turned into a campaign for better living conditions. So, can the youth-led movement bring lasting political change? In this episode: Amulya Dhawan, Political Science and Sociology student at Ashok
Will the US-Iran war dominate discussions at the ASEAN summit?
Southeast Asian nations are gathering for the 2026 ASEAN Summit where topics such as Myanmar and regional security are on the agenda. But officials are gathering amidst an escalating war between the US and Iran. So, will the conflict overshadow the other issues facing ASEAN? In this episode: Richard Heydarian, Political Scientist. Phar Kim Ben, Professor in ASEAN studies at International Is
How will Khalil al-Hayya's leadership shape Hamas?
Khalil al-Hayya has been appointed head of the Hamas political bureau. He played a major role in the ceasefire talks to end Israel's devastating war on Gaza. How significant is his election for both Hamas and the Palestinian territory? In this episode: Ibrahim Fraihat, Professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. Muhammad Shehada, Senior Fellow at European Council on Foreign Relati
How will Zelenskyy handle the growing political crisis at home?
Ukraine hits back after Russia carries out one of its largest missile attacks of the war. At the same time, Kyiv is dealing with demonstrations and the political fallout following the dismissal of the defence minister. How will the president handle the crisis? In this episode: Olesia Horiainova, Co-founder and deputy head of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Center Glenn Diesen, P
What will the appointment of Andy Burnham as the UK's new prime minister mean?
From mayor to prime minister. Labour Party leader Andy Burnham has promised to steer the UK in a new direction. He'll have to balance challenges at home with growing uncertainty abroad. So, what will his appointment mean for Britain's role and position on the international stage? In this episode: Jonathan Tonge, Professor of Politics, University of Liverpool. Laurel Rapp, Director, US
What can be done to bring the attacks in Gaza to an end?
No safety or security for Palestinians in Gaza. A truce is in place, but Israeli strikes target the Strip nearly every day. Hundreds of people have been killed since it took effect in October. So, what's the purpose of the ceasefire deal? What can be done to bring the attacks to an end? In this episode: Xavier Abu Eid - political analyst and former Communications Director for the Pales
Are countries prepared to cope with extreme weather?
Extreme weather is causing havoc across much of the world, from record-breaking heatwaves to drought, storms and floods. Scientists warn it's the new normal and that the consequences of climate change are likely to get even worse. So, how will governments cope? In this episode: Daniel Gilford, Climate Scientist at Climate Central Alexandre Borde, Environmental economist and CEO of Cib
How is the US tech industry regulated?
Apple is taking OpenAI to court. The tech giant is suing the artificial intelligence company, accusing it of stealing trade secrets. With the AI race in overdrive, firms are competing to release the latest products. But how's that competition being regulated? In this episode: R 'Ray' Wang - CEO and principal analyst of Constellation Research Nick Akerman - New York attorney and former assistant s
What legacy did Qatar's former Emir leave behind?
He's the man behind Qatar's rise on the international stage. Former Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani has died. He'll be remembered as the architect of modern Qatar. What lessons will be learned from his legacy? In this episode: Ibrahim Al Ibrahim, Former Economic Advisor, Office of the Emir of Qatar. Andreas Krieg, Associate Professor, School of Security Studies, King's
Why is Pakistan deporting thousands of Afghan migrants?
Pakistan carries out another wave of deportations of thousands of Afghan migrants and refugees.It cites national security concerns. But is politics involved in the rising tension between the neighbours? And how is Kabul dealing with the influx of returnees? In this episode: Arafat Jamal - Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Afghanistan Obaidullah Bahee
Will NATO member states get involved in securing the Strait of Hormuz?
This year's NATO summit in Turkiye is overshadowed by the Iran war. The U.S. wants allies to help it protect shipping in the vital waterway, but what are the risks? In this episode: David Des Roches, Professor at Thayer Marshall Institute and former NATO Operations Director Alam Saleh, Senior Lecturer of Iranian Studies at Australian National University Patrick Bury, Defense and
How will Mali's junta respond to growing rebel attacks?
Mounting violence in Mali. A coalition of rebels and armed groups has carried out another series of assaults, highlighting the military government's failure to contain the attacks. With the junta under increasing pressure, how will it address this growing security threat? In this episode: Kabir Adamu, Managing Director, Beacon Security and Intelligence Nadina Ronc, independent geo
What are the implications of right-wing populism across Latin America?
Promising to crack down on crime and promoting strong ties with President Trump - right-wing populists are winning elections across Latin America. Is this a passing phase coming out of voters' economic and safety concerns or a lasting shift? And will this tie the region more to the United States? In this episode: Jose Ragas, Historian and Assistant Professor, Catholic University of Chile.&n
How did Ukrainian strikes cause a fuel crisis in Russia?
Long lines at petrol stations in one of the world's largest energy producers. Relentless Ukrainian strikes have caused a fuel crisis in Russia. Will economic pressure turn into a political problem for President Vladimir Putin - and move the Kremlin towards talks with Kyiv? In this episode: Alexander Bratersky - Political Analyst and an Independent Journalist. Oleksiy Gonchar
Is China's new ethnic unity law a step towards forced assimilation?
China's new ethnic unity law has come into effect. Rights groups and activists overseas say it will further shrink the rights of minorities. Will the law help forge a shared national identity, as Beijing says? Or is it a step towards forced assimilation? In this episode: Einar Tangen, Senior Fellow, Centre for International Governance Innovation Zumretay Arkin, Vice President, World Uyghur
Could water become a flashpoint between Islamabad and New Delhi?
Pakistan has said India's suspension of a decades-old treaty could amount to an act of war. And tensions between the two are already high. So, how could they avoid a further escalation? In this episode: Siddharth Varadarajan, founding editor of the independent investigative news organisation, The Wire Michael Kugelman, Senior Fellow for South Asia at the Atlantic Council Zeeshan Salahu
Why are Sudan's Rapid Support Forces battling for control of el-Obeid?
The Rapid Support Forces are trying to seize the strategic southern city of el-Obeid from the Sudanese military. Rights groups are warning of a potential humanitarian catastrophe. But why is the battle to control the city so important? In this episode: Ali Mahmoud Ali, Sudan Researcher with the Armed Conflict, Location & Event Data project Kholood Khair, Founding Director of Confluence
How is South Africa dealing with immigration?
A June 30th deadline set by anti-migrant groups for undocumented foreigners to leave, has come and gone. Thousands protested across the country, against what they say is a broken immigration system. So, what's driving this debate? And what are the political, economic and diplomatic costs? In this episode: William Gumede, Associate Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand Nomvula Mok
How far will Iraq's new government go to crack down on corruption?
Several senior politicians have been detained in a wave of arrests. The government says it's just the beginning. But is this about graft, or is politics involved? In this episode: Ahmed Rushdi, President of the think-tank, House of Iraqi Expertise Foundation Renad Mansour, Deputy Director of the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House Manuel Pirino, Regional Advisor for Middle Eas
Can the International Court of Justice help end the conflict in eastern DRC?
The Democratic Republic of Congo takes Rwanda to the International Court of Justice. Kinshasa seeks to hold Kigali responsible for the war in the eastern DRC. But can international law help end one of Africa's longest running conflicts? In this episode: Demas Kiprono, Executive Director at the International Commission of Jurists, Kenya. Kambale Musavuli, Analyst at the Center for
Why is Crimea so critical to the Russia-Ukraine conflict?
Crimea under a state of emergency. The move comes as Ukraine intensifies attacks on the Russian-controlled region. Kyiv says its aim is to press Moscow to end the war. But is that realistic? And why is Crimea so critical to the wider conflict? In this episode: Leonid Ragozin, independent journalist who focuses on Russia, Ukraine and Eastern Europe. Yulia Kazdobina, Se
How much disaster aid will the US provide to Venezuela?
Death and destruction after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela. The disaster comes just months after U.S. forces abducted the former president. So, how may that impact the flow of aid from Washington? And what kind of politics are at play? In this episode: Jan Eagland, secretary general of the Norwegian Refugee Council Chris Gilbert, Professor at the Bolivarian Univers
Has Marco Rubio's tour of the Gulf reassured US allies?
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has wrapped up his three-day tour of the Gulf. Regional states want a greater say in security--after coming under attack during the Iran war. So, can Washington rebuild trust with its regional allies? And will Gulf states be able to steer the future of the Strait of Hormuz? In this episode: Abdulla Banndar Al Etaibi, Assistant Professor of International Rel
Why does Israel want to be less dependent on US weapons?
Benjamin Netanyahu says he's grateful to the US for its military aid but that it's time for Israel to build its own weapons-production capacity. The Israeli prime minister's announcement comes as tensions grow over the US agreement with Iran. But demand soars for Israel's weapons — its arms exports hit a record $19 billion last year. Supporters say that it strengthens Israel's ability to sta
Why do the UK's prime ministers keep resigning?
Keir Starmer is the latest to step down, after nearly two years in office. He'd been expected to put an end to the political chaos. So, what went wrong? And what does it mean for the future of the UK? In this episode: Jennifer Nadel, Co-Founder of the cross-party think tank Compassion in Politics. Tim Bale, Professor of Politics at Queen Mary University of London. Zaid M Belb
Can the US and Iran turn the ceasefire into a permanent peace?
The US and Iran have finished the first round of talks with an agreement on a roadmap to a final deal. But is there enough trust to end the conflict? In this episode: Mohammad Eslami - Research Fellow at Tehran University. Kenneth Katzman - Senior Fellow at The Soufan Center. Zeidon Alkinani - Founding Director at the Arab Perspectives Institute. Host: Anna Burns-Francis&
Strait of Hormuz closed again: What happens next?
Iranian armed forces say they've closed the Strait of Hormuz after Israeli attacks on Lebanon, just days after an agreement with the U.S. reopen it. Disruption to the crucial waterway has had a huge economic impact worldwide. So, what happens next? In this episode: Ian Ralby - Senior Fellow at the Center for Maritime Strategy and Associate Fellow with the International Law Programme a
What's gone wrong so fast for UK PM Keir Starmer?
A landslide win, only two years ago - yet now UK prime minister Keir Starmer's resisting calls to step down. The return to parliament of Andy Burnham makes a leadership challenge more likely. What's gone wrong so fast, for Starmer? And why so much turmoil at the top of British politics? In this episode: Peter Oborne - UK Political Commentator and Associate Editor of Middle East
How is the Iran-US agreement being viewed in Israel?
Fury from Israeli ministers over the agreement US President Donald Trump has signed with Iran. And a sharp rebuke in response from his vice president JD Vance. What are the implications for Israel and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu? In this episode: Gideon Levy, Columnist at Haaretz newspaper Mairav Zonszein, Senior Israel Analyst at the International Crisis Group M
Can the Global South have a say in global affairs?
China calls for stronger representation for the Global South. It warns that the international rules-based order is at a critical crossroads. Beijing says it has a solution to a more equitable system. But does it have the leverage and tools to enforce it? In this episode: Steve Tsang, Director of the SOAS China Institute Cobus van Staden, Head of Research at the China-Global South Project
Will Ukraine become an EU member?
Kyiv has just started formal talks to join the bloc. It comes after Moscow declined an offer of direct talks to end the war. So, would membership protect Ukraine? And what would it mean for Europe? In this episode: Peter Zalmayev, Executive Director at Eurasia Democracy Initiative Theresa Fallon, Director at the Centre for Russia Europe Asia Studies Alexander Bratersky, indep
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
