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Can Iran and the US turn the ceasefire into permanent peace?
"Encouraging progress." That's the feeling from mediators after the first round of talks between Iran and the US concluded in Switzerland. Those direct discussions were held to implement the memorandum of understanding. Their focus will now turn to using that agreement to negotiate a lasting peace deal within the next two months. Despite the positive atmosphere, there are hurdles to reaching a fin
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. So, what are the implications for Israel and its prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu?
What has Iran won from this war?
Agreement between Washington and Tehran has all but ended the Iran war, with both claiming victory despite the huge cost. Among that has been Iranian damage to relationships with its Gulf neighbours which it attacked. So, what has Iran won and lost in this conflict?
How significant is Xi Jinping's visit to North Korea?
Chinese president is in North Korea. Pyongyang is largely isolated on the world stage and under UN sanctions. China remains its main supporter. It's been sidelined due to its nuclear activities. But Pyongyang has made it clear it wants to be recognised as a nuclear state - and insists its programme is a "line of no retreat". Xi Jinping's visit comes after he held a summit with Donald Trump, who wa
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?
Will Ukraine become an EU member?
Ukraine's bid to join the European Union (EU) has received a boost this week. Accession negotiations have finally kicked off. Ukraine is hoping that will provide it with some security guarantees, as the war with Russia drags on. Moscow has long objected to Kyiv strengthening its ties with the West. And now, Ukraine will have to fulfil the EU's requirements before it can be accepted as a member. Th
Could Israel derail talks between the US and Iran?
A possible US-Iran deal is taking shape. But Israeli officials are reportedly worried. What are their concerns? Could it derail negotiations to end the war in Iran, which has caused an unprecedented global energy crisis?
What's the long-term global impact of the war on Iran?
The war on Iran 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.
What difference do aid flotillas make to Palestinians living under Israeli blockade?
Israeli national security minister's mistreatment of Gaza flotilla activists. It sparks international outrage. But will governments act against Israel? The boats were part of the latest attempt to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians. Most efforts have failed. What difference do flotillas make to Palestinians living under Israeli blockade?
What's the significance of the Russian president's visit to China?
Over the years, China and Russia have described their relationship as a friendship without limits. Vladimir Putin's visit to Beijing this week further emphasises the strength of those ties. He and President Xi Jinping hailed their partnership as 'a force of calm among chaos'. They also warned against a return to the 'law of the jungle'. An apparent reference to Donald Trump's actions and policies,
Does Ukraine have the advantage at the moment against Russia?
There appears to be a shift in the years-long conflict in Ukraine. Last weekend, Ukrainian forces struck deeper into Russian territory, piercing its air defences in a large strike on the Moscow region. This came a week after fears of a Ukrainian attack forced Russia to scale down its annual Victory Day parade. Kyiv's also been relentlessly striking Russia's oil facilities and military logistics, a
Will Cuba be forced to accept President Trump's demands?
Havana has announced the country is nearly out of fuel. It comes after months of added pressure from Washington. The US cut off oil shipments from Venezuela and then imposed a near total oil blockade. Paired with Cuba's aging energy grid, the result was sweeping blackouts, supply shortages and a deepening economic crisis. Washington's goal is to force the socialist government to open up the econom
Will the latest Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda spread further?
A global health crisis - not a pandemic. But the World Health Organization is warning the Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighbouring Uganda could be much larger than what has been detected so far. The global health body is advising the countries to activate national disaster mechanisms and introduce cross-border and internal screening.
Is the US dialling down its support for Taiwan?
A year ago, US-China relations reached one of their lowest points when Donald Trump announced his Liberation Day tariffs. The US president made some concessions when he met Xi Jinping a few months later. And the White House yielded more ground in the run-up to Trump's visit to Beijing. It suspended a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China claims as its sovereign territory. But that did not s
Will the boycott of Eurovision have any impact?
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?
Could the Russia-Ukraine war be in its final stages?
Vladimir Putin says the Ukraine war may be over soon. Attacks have been intensifying in recent weeks. And a stalemate on the battlefield is increasing political pressure for an end. So, could the conflict be entering its final phase?
Could Labour and Conservative dominance in UK politics be ending?
A backlash against UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in local and regional elections in England, Scotland and Wales, despite a huge majority in parliament. He's rejecting calls to quit - but faces new challenges from both the left and right. So, why are these elections so important?
Should we be worried about the Hantavirus outbreak?
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?
Can China help end the war on Iran?
China is emerging as a major player in global diplomacy - including in the Middle East. In 2023, it helped re-establish diplomatic ties between Riyadh and Tehran. While it is not officially mediating efforts to end the ongoing war - both the US and Iran are looking to China to help de-escalate. So, can it propel the two sides towards that goal? And if China makes a direct push to stop the fighting
What's the impact of rising tensions between the US and Iran?
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?
Pakistan opens land trade routes to Iran, will it undermine 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?
How serious is the rift in 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?
Will Ukraine war intensify after EU's $105bn loan to Kyiv?
A loan drama tied to geopolitics. Kyiv is getting a much-delayed lifeline from Brussels, as it fights Moscow's invasion with nearly empty coffers. That's after Ukraine repaired a pipeline carrying Russian crude to Hungary, Slovakia. The oil revenues will bolster Moscow's war chest. So, is this complex EU deal going to intensify the conflict? And, considering the mistrust between the parties, will
EU-Israel relations under strain over Middle East tensions
More than a million Europeans have signed a petition asking the EU to suspend a trade deal with Israel for its atrocities in Gaza. Three states — Spain, Ireland and Slovenia — tabled a proposal backing the call. But Germany and Italy blocked the move. So, can a divided EU become a strong force opposing Israeli actions in the Middle East?
Could the EU's alliance with Israel soon change?
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 genocide in Gaza - so why the difficulties now?
What role is China playing in the Iran war and how is it affected?
China tells its ally Iran 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 Iran war on China - and what role is it playing?
Is war more profitable than peace? David Keen explains
As the United States-Israel war on Iran deepens, conflict scholar David Keen examines why some wars persist without a clear victory. He argues that war can serve political control, economic interests and systems of power that outlive the battlefield. From sanctions and smuggling to military spending and useful enemies, Keen explains how conflict can become functional and why making peace more attr
How far is Iran willing to go to protect its friends and allies?
Iran has been cultivating what it calls the Axis of Resistance for decades. It's a coalition of armed groups, backed by Tehran's money and often its weapons, that try to tip the scales of regional power in Iran's favour. Now the axis looks to be on shaky ground. Israel has marched into southern Lebanon, is pounding Beirut with bombs in an attempt to eliminate Hezbollah and says it doesn't plan to
Trump has found his Iran off-ramp - but at what 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. So how has America been shaped by Trump's war on Iran? How has the world order? And can any of it be walked back?
How is the Iran war affecting Russian-Iranian relations?
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 Washington to reach a deal on the Ukraine conflict. So how is the Iran war affecting Russia-Iran relations?
What impact is the Iran war having on Israel?
Millions of Israelis forced to take shelter day and night - from repeated Iranian missile attacks. The economic shockwaves of the war Israel and the US have launched against Iran are being felt across the world. How is it affecting Israel - and its future?
How big of a problem is the Strait of Hormuz for Donald Trump?
The Strait of Hormuz has effectively closed to most shipping since the US and Israel attacked Iran - sending energy prices soaring worldwide. The marine channel in the Gulf had been the gateway for 20% of global energy supplies. What difficulties does this pose for Donald Trump?
What's the impact of the Iran war on China?
The war in Iran rages on. And China argues it should never have happened. Beijing is a major importer of Iranian oil, making it vulnerable to any disruption of the flow through the Strait of Hormuz. Given its huge oil reserves and its growing dependence on Electric Vehicles, China may not be affected in the short term. But what if war drags on? And what's exactly keeping Beijing away from direct i
Does President Trump have an exit strategy for the war with Iran?
Yet again, US President Donald Trump has suggested the war in Iran could be over soon, but didn't say when or how. Advisers are reportedly urging him to find an exit strategy. But Israel has indicated it won't stop until what it calls the existential threat posed by Iran is eliminated. For its part, Tehran has set its own conditions for ending the attacks across the region. These include internati
Will the Houthis join Iran in war against Israel and the US?
As the US-Israeli war against Iran drags on, Yemen's Ansarullah, or the Houthis, have stayed out of the conflict. But that could change. They have said they consider themselves directly concerned and could take a position alongside Iran. The armed group has attacked Israel and shipping in the Red Sea in recent years. If a new front opens up, global trade could be further disrupted in another marit
What are Iran's options as the war goes on?
Relentless US and Israeli attacks on Iran - top figures killed with thousands of air-strikes across the country. Iran has retaliated, hitting Israel and Gulf neighbours, targeting energy facilities and supply routes. So what are Iran's options now?
Who's in control in Iran and how will Gulf states react to attacks?
Tehran has carried out more attacks on Gulf states despite an apology by the president to Iran's neighbours. Civilian targets have been hit, including airports and vital infrastructure. Who's is in control in Iran and how will Gulf states react as the attacks continue?
How far will the Iran war spillover?
It's been a week since the war between Israel, the United States and Iran started with strikes on Tehran. The conflict soon spread to neighbouring countries, who've been on the receiving end of hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones. Targets in countries beyond the region have also been hit, with some warning those attacks could open new fronts. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has now apologis
Has Donald Trump failed to sell the Iran war to the world?
Yet another day of US and Israeli strikes against Iran, and Washington says there's more to come, warning of a 'dramatic surge'. But with the exception of Israel, the US has NOT secured the active participation of any of its main allies, as was the case in previous conflicts like Iraq and Afghanistan. President Donald Trump hasn't hidden his frustration with European leaders, many of whom say the
Why has Hezbollah joined the Middle East war?
Lebanon is once again drawn into a war many of its leaders say is not their fight. Against the government's warnings, Hezbollah has joined Iran in its conflict with Israel. The armed group says it has a right to respond as part of what it calls a resistance campaign. But this time, the Lebanese government has responded by taking the decision to ban Hezbollah's military activities and demanded it d
How is the war playing out in Iran?
Iran stands at a crossroads. With its top leadership assassinated early in the joint US-Israeli offensive, the remaining layers of power have been trying maintain control. There are concerns that after January's mass anti-government demonstrations, this war would lead to chaos. US President Donald Trump has made clear his desire for regime change in Iran. Many argue that what remains of Iranian le
What are the implications of Iran's strikes on Gulf Arab states?
Iran attacks Gulf Arab states -- hitting civilian buildings and energy infrastructure, as well as US bases. The impact of the American-Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic is felt across the region. What does this mean for Gulf states' relations with Iran and with the US?
How robust is the Iranian state system?
Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei assassinated in attacks by Israel on Saturday- huge crowds of mourners on the streets. The complex process of selecting his successor is already underway. So how does Iran work - and how robust are its state systems, now under attack?
What dangers does the US and Israel attack on Iran pose?
The US and Israel attack Iran - and Tehran retaliates, firing missiles at Israeli targets and US assets in the region. It follows a massive military build-up by Washington - and indirect talks between the US and Iran over its nuclear programme. So how dangerous is the situation?
Will the Board of Peace live up to its name?
US President Donald Trump launched the Board of Peace on Thursday, saying it's one of the most consequential bodies ever created in the history of the world. This is all part of the agreement to reach a ceasefire in Gaza - after almost two years of Israel's war on the Strip. Trump said the board will work in partnership with the UN to address crises far beyond Gaza. Now, all eyes will be on what t
Why is Israel accused of being an apartheid state?
In the past, apartheid was only associated with South Africa. Now, it’s a label that some attach to Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. So what is apartheid? How did it work in South Africa? And why is it now being used in the context of Israel?
The US-Israel relationship explained
The US has always been Israel’s most important ally. What’s behind the relationship? What keeps it going? And why are some people questioning how it works?
Is a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine possible?
The Israel-Gaza war has got many people talking again about the need for a two-state solution. It’s often presented as the only option to bring lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. But what is the two-state solution? Is it actually possible? And why are some people talking about a “one-state solution” instead?
Why Palestinians in East Jerusalem are losing their homes
Palestinians in occupied East Jerusalem are losing their homes to Israeli settlers. It’s happening through a process of evictions and demolitions.
Recognising Palestine: why now and what does it mean?
The UK, France, Canada and Australia are among a new wave of countries planning to recognise Palestine as a state at this year’s UN General Assembly meeting. What does this actually mean? And what, if anything, does it change?
Why is Israel killing aid seekers in Gaza?
Hundreds of people in Gaza have been shot dead while going to collect desperately-needed food from US-backed aid hubs in Gaza, according to officials in Gaza.
Why Al-Aqsa is key to understanding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem is one of the holiest sites in the world and one of the most contested. Why is it so significant?
Israel’s war on Gaza – what you need to know
It’s been a year since Hamas attacked Israel, and Israel launched its war on Gaza. More than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, much of Gaza has been decimated and Israel is being accused of carrying out a genocide. Sandra Gathmann explains what you need to know to understand where things stand now and why some people are calling it the worst war in modern history.
Israel's war on Gaza Humanitarian crisis
Israel's war on Gaza Humanitarian crisis The Gaza Strip is experiencing a humanitarian crisis as a result of the Israel Gaza war. The crisis includes both an impending famine and a healthcare collapse.
