Talk War

General Sir Simon Mayall chats with Jeremy Kyle and strongly criticizes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's newly released defence strategy review.

Julia Hartley-Brewer talks with Lord Dannett who also criticizes the Prime Minister's delay in publishing the review, stating that the inaction since last autumn contributed to high-profile political frustrations and resignations, including those of former Defence Secretary John Healey and Minister Al Carns.

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A retired British couple sailing to France have become centre of an international storm, after they received warning shots from ‘drifting’ frigate Admiral Grigorovich, which is believed to have feared a collision in fog.

The incident has renewed questions about the UK's readiness to defend itself, and the threat Russia poses for the country.

To discuss, Jeremy Kyle is joined by Sir Malcolm Rifkind, former Foreign & Defence Secretary, and Kevin O'Sullivan discusses the latest with Sir Gerald Howarth, Former Defence Minister.

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In a developing story tonight, the Ministry of Defence is investigating reports that sailors on a Russian warship fired warning shots today at a yacht that came near it in the English Channel. It comes after Royal Marines seized a Russian shadow vessel as it was passing through the Channel on Sunday.

To react to the news, Kevin O'Sullivan is joined Rear Admiral Chris Parry, former NATO & Royal Navy Commander, to discuss the latest on the story and the threat Russia poses the UK.

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The threat Russia poses to the United Kingdom has been thrown back into the spotlight this week, after Royal Marine commandos seized a Russian shadow vessel as it passed through the English Channel on Sunday morning - a first for the UK since the invasion of Ukraine began.

On Monday, a Ukrainian and a Romanian were found guilty of plotting arson attacks that targeted a car formerly owned by Keir Starmer, and his former family home, with investigations released after the verdict showing involvement from the Russian state.

So how concerned should we be about Russia?

On this episode of Talk War, Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by Lord Dannatt, former Head of the British Army. They discuss the resignation of John Healey, the appointment of Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary, why we will all feel the cost if Putin succeeds, our past issues with failing to deter invasion, and why we need to take action now - plus, what he makes of Trump's deal with Iran.

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Peace is coming for the Middle East. After 15 weeks of conflict that has thrown global shipping and oil prices into chaos, Pakistan announced today that the USA and Iran have agreed to a deal to end the war. The agreement will be signed on Friday, and US President Donald Trump has teased that the deal will see Iran give up nuclear weapons, and will allow for the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices have dropped as a result, and stock markets in Europe and on Wall Street have skyrocketed. So what happens next?

On this episode of Talk War, Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by author Jake Wallis Simons, to discuss how this deal risks being a major defeat for Trump, and how Iran is trying to drive a wedge between Israel and USA.

And Ian Collins is joined by Middle East expert Patrick Cockburn, to discuss how difficult things are for Israel after this deal, and how many in the Middle East don't want Iran as an enemy anymore after this conflict.

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In a major blow for Keir Starmer's defence funding plans, Secretary of State for Defence John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns resigned yesterday in protest over Treasury's refusal to sign off the requested budget to fully fund the country's defence. It has put renewed pressure on the Prime Minister, who insisted today that the country's defence remains his top priority.

To discuss, Ian Collins is joined by Bob Seely, former Conservative MP and military expert, who discusses how Labour’s priorities are not those of much of Britain, and how Starmer hasn’t got the power to overrule Rachel Reeves.

And Kevin O'Sullivan is joined by former Head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, to discuss how the Government has chosen welfare over safety of the nation, what sort of defence budget we should be aiming, the growing threat to our security, and the desperate state of our defences.

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The Government could be about to drop the long awaited defence spending plan, showing how Labour plans to improve a crisis that is leaving Britain at risk. However, rumours are abound that the plan could drop on Friday when Parliament isn't sitting, meaning the Government would not face questions on the plan. Speaker Lindsay Hoyle has weighed in, cautioning the Government against a Friday drop.

And how will we pay for such a plan? Well, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has opened the door to more tax rises in order to fund the spending, saying that the money "has to come from somewhere".

To discuss the news, Ian Collins is joined on this episode of Talk War by Mark Francois, Shadow Defence Minister, who says that this is causing a Parliamentary row, and dropping the plan on Friday prevents Opposition from holding the Government to account. And he calls for the money to come from a cut to welfare spending.

And Anne Strickland, researcher at The Taxpayers' Alliance, echoes those calls, telling Ian that the country's defence capabilities are not up to scratch, but the answer isn't higher taxes - and our welfare bill at the end of this decade is going to be more than £400bn.

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The world is still reeling from the sudden return of strikes between Israel and Iran over the weekend - and is waiting to see if alleged peace talks will pan out, or if they will fail once again. But the strikes have shown President Donald Trump taking a firmer stance with Israel, with the President reportedly pushing for Israel to pause hostilities.

So what happens now that both sides have scaled back the fighting?

To discuss, Ian Collins was joined by Emily Schrader, journalist and Middle East Expert, who discusses Iran's threat to continue fighting if Israel continues to fire on Lebanon, who the victims are in this scenario, and what weight Trump's comments have had.

And Kevin O'Sullivan is joined by Jim Jatras, former U.S. Diplomat, Foreign Policy Adviser for the Republican Leadership In The U.S. Senate, on the 'pickle' that Trump has found himself in.

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The Gulf Crisis took another turn this weekend. As Israel continued to fire rockets towards southern Lebanon, aiming at Hezbollah targets despite an ongoing ceasefire, prompting Iran to strike at Israel for the first time since Israel. The two countries exchanged rockets across the weekend, prompting US President Donald Trump to tell the two countries to "stop shooting". The countries are reportedly negotiating a ceasefire, according to Trump, and Iran has said it is ending operations in Israel - but will escalate if the fighting continues in Lebanon.

To discuss the latest developments, Jeremy Kyle is joined by Sean Bell, former fight pilot turned military analyst, to take stock of the wider conflict and is peace can actually be achieved.

And Erol Morkoc, spokesman for Republicans Overseas UK, talks to Julia Hartley-Brewer about how Trump truly feels about the conflict.

Former Israeli Government Spokesman Eylon Levy tells Julia that it’s crucial Israel can’t treat Lebanon as its backyard, and that while Israel and the US have convergent interests, they are two sovereign countries with their own concerns.

And after news of the ceasefire Andrew Fox, Senior Associate Fellow at the Henry Jackson Society & Former Major in the Parachute Regiment, tells Julia how Iran's wants are dragging out the negotiations.

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The head of the military, Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton has warned that the threats to the UK are at their greatest since the Cold War, telling the BBC that "This is the most dangerous period that I have known", and Russia is "raising the stakes and risks crossing a line".

On this episode of Talk War, Ian Collins is joined by Col. Simon Diggings, retired British Army Colonel and defence analyst, to discuss the growing frequency and danger of cyber attacks, the chaos they can cause, and why we need to build our resilience as a country.

Plus, Keir Starmer, Rachel Reeves and John Healey are reportedly in a standoff over an extra £28 BILLION needed for the Government to meet their defence spending pledges.

Ex-Minister Tobias Ellwood joins Duncan Barkes to discuss how this standoff is a dangerous distraction from the issues facing the UK.

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U.S. President Donald Trump has signalled that a deal with Iran is 'largely negotiated' and could be announced soon - a deal that would see the Strait of Hormuz reopened and Tehran surrenders its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Iran and negotiators Pakistan have not confirmed the news though.

On this episode of Talk War, Ian Collins is joined by Sean Bell, former fighter pilot and military analyst, and Michael Yaki, U.S. political analyst, to discuss what the end of the war would mean for global trade.

And Petrie Hosken is joined by Colonel Simon Diggins, military and defence analyst, who analyses how the U.S. underestimated Iran and their resilience.

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An Iraqi immigrant has been granted the right to stay in Britain because he could be killed by Shia militia in home country, as his his father was a captain in Saddam Hussein's army.

And UK's defence weakness has been exposed once again, as a new report alleges that Britain only has enough drones to last ONE WEEK of a war against Russia!

To discuss the story, Kevin O'Sullivan is joined by Colonel Simon Diggins, former Defence attache in Kabul.They discuss why we need a change of law to address our asylum system, why the area of Iraq where the immigrant comes from is not as dangerous as he makes it out to be, and why the drone story highlights the ongoing resourcing issues in our defence system.

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Donald Trump’s faltering Iran strategy, the escalating Strait of Hormuz blockade and the growing threat to the global economy take centre stage in this high-stakes episode of Talk War. Former Defence Select Committee chair Tobias Ellwood delivers a brutal assessment of Washington’s handling of the conflict, branding it a textbook case of how not to wage war — with no clear objectives, shaky strategy, contradictory messaging and Iran’s regime still standing stronger than many expected.

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Donald Trump’s escalating Iran conflict, the Strait of Hormuz blockade and the growing threat to global shipping dominate this explosive Talk War special as Isabel Oakeshott reports from Dubai after fresh missile alerts in the UAE, Sean Bell breaks down why America still cannot fully reopen one of the world’s most vital waterways, and former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe exposes how Iran’s decades-long military planning is outmanoeuvring Western strategy. From Project Freedom and Gulf state tensions to trapped cargo ships, oil prices, Royal Navy weakness and fears of a prolonged Middle East crisis, this gripping security deep dive unpacks how Trump, Tehran and the Hormuz choke point could reshape the global economy, regional alliances and Britain’s own defence vulnerabilities.

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A new report out today has revealed that the UK military is SKINT! The defence forces can't afford to buy any new weapons until 2030.

Meanwhile, Iran has sent a new 14-point peace plan to the US asking them to withdraw forces from the region, as the war drags on into another week.

On this episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle General Ben Hodges, former Commander U.S. Army Europe, joins to discuss the defence funding crisis in the UK, and if the US is likely to accept the new peace plan.

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Tensions in the Middle East surge after the US intercepts and seizes an Iranian cargo vessel, triggering fresh retaliation threats from Tehran and plunging the Strait of Hormuz back into chaos. With the vital shipping route flipping between open and closed, global markets and security hang in the balance as Washington and Tehran edge closer to direct confrontation.

Featuring military analyst Sean Bell, journalist David Patrikarakos and US commentator Adam Coleman, the episode breaks down the escalating tit-for-tat, the fragility of multiple ceasefires, and why Iran may still hold the upper hand despite America’s military dominance. From nuclear negotiations to economic choke points, the discussion exposes the real leverage behind this conflict.

As brinkmanship intensifies ahead of looming peace talks, the question is whether diplomacy can hold — or if this spirals into something far more dangerous. Talk War delivers the clearest picture yet of a conflict driven as much by strategy and messaging as it is by firepower.

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Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure over UK defence spending after former NATO chief Lord Robertson warned Britain is “not safe”, with retired General Sir Simon Mayall telling Talk War the country’s military capability has been dangerously eroded. As tensions escalate globally, the episode breaks down the high-stakes battle over the Strait of Hormuz, China’s influence over Iran, and Donald Trump’s unpredictable role in shaping the conflict’s outcome. With fresh scrutiny on Israel’s war with Hezbollah and the media narratives driving public perception, Talk War delivers a hard-hitting analysis of a world growing more unstable—and asks whether the UK is prepared for what comes next.

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Lord George Robertson - who co-authored a spending review for the Government - has joined the chorus of voices criticising Keir Starmer and Labour for not investing enough in defence and how that is putting the UK at risk. He said that there should be cuts to welfare spending to better invest in defence. Keir Starmer said he does not agree with Lord's views, saying that defence spending is rising and that Labour is not complacent on the issue.

On this episode of Talk War, Mark Dolan is joined by former Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood, who says that the Lord's comments are very bold but are based in reality. He also argues for a ringfenced increase in taxation to help with increasing the defence budget.

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Talk War examines Britain’s growing security and economic crisis as Ian Collins is joined by Nigel Evans, former MI6 deputy director Nigel Inkster, Dan Hodges and Kevin Hollinrake to debate Lord Robertson’s warning that the UK is “not safe”, the pressure to cut welfare to fund defence, Donald Trump’s threat to rethink the US-UK trade deal, the IMF’s downgrade to Britain’s growth forecast, and the row over migrants being moved from hotels into HMOs and barracks, making this a punchy, search-friendly episode on UK defence spending, border security, Trump, Iran, Russia and whether Keir Starmer is prepared for a far more dangerous world.

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Former NATO secretary general and former Labour defence secretary Lord Robertson has delivered a speech, criticising 'vandals' at the Treasury for not investing properly in defence spending, and putting the UK's national security 'in peril'.

As Keir Starmer faces pressure to invest more in defence, particularly after the Iran War and HMS Dragon exposed the UK's weaknesses, how serious do we need to get?

Today on Talk War, Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by Retired British Army colonel Tim Collins OBE to discuss Lord Robertson's comments. He argues that the Government have little understanding of defence and its role in the global order, and that is shown by the Strait of Hormuz blockade and their lack of understanding on why things have gone wrong.

And Julia is also joined by David Patrikarakos. special correspondent at the Daily Mail, who argues that the UK is behind the curve on funding, and they are still stuck in the paradigm of thinking that war looks like it did in WW2.

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Talk War zeroes in on the escalating Strait of Hormuz crisis, as Julia Hartley-Brewer leads a hard-hitting discussion on Donald Trump’s move to blockade Iranian oil exports, the failure of ceasefire talks, and the growing threat to global energy, food and supply chains. With contributions from Lord Robertson, Andrew Fox, Liam Halligan and Rear Admiral Chris Parry, the episode examines how the Iran blockade could send oil, gas, fertiliser and fuel prices soaring, leave Europe facing jet fuel shortages, deepen the cost of living crisis and expose Britain’s military and political weakness, with Keir Starmer accused of looking absent, ineffective and unprepared as the US takes the lead in the Middle East.

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Sir Keir Starmer is currently visiting the Middle East to talk with Gulf leaders about the ceasefire deal and ongoing peace in the Middle East. But given the UK's dismal response to the conflict, what does he hope to achieve?

On this episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle is joined by Mail on Sunday columnist Dan Hodges to discuss the "humiliation" of the British Royal Navy during this conflict, the chronic underinvestment in British defence, and what Starmer hopes to achieve on his visit.

And Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, Former Commander US Army Europe, to discuss the ceasefire deal, the ongoing disagreement between the U.S. and Iran about what the deal says, and what will actually happen with the Strait of Hormuz.

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Barely 24 hours after the ceasefire deal was agreed, it already appears to be on rocky footing, after Iran claimed Israel had breached the deal by striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The US and Israel have both rejected the claims, saying that Lebanon was not part of the deal, but the future of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain.

On the latest episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle is joined by a range of guests to dig into the latest from the Middle East, the state of the ceasefire, and including Keir Starmer's visit to the region and if it will achieve anything.

Featuring:

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Sir Keir Starmer jetted out of the UK today for the Middle East, hours after a ceasefire deal was reached between the USA and Iran, in order to meet with different leaders in the region to discuss peace.

But is him showing up after a deal has been reached a little like Commodus turning up after missing the war in "Gladiator"? That's what Col. James Sunderland, former MP and military expert, thinks about the PM's latest overseas visit, as he joined Kevin O'Sullivan to dissect the visit.

And Iranian activist Laila Jazayeri joined Kevin to discuss ongoing support from some in the UK for the existing Iranian regime, and what is needed to secure real regime change in the country.

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The two-week ceasefire deal between America and Iran is less than a day old, and questions remain around what exactly peace will look like, if the Strait of Hormuz will reopen fully, and

Ian Collins is joined from Dubai from Isabel Oakeshott, who discusses Keir Starmer's visit to the region and if he will contribute anything to the ceasefire discourse.

He is also joined by journalist and broadcaster, Peter Oborne, and former Chief of Staff for Joe Biden, Susan Platt, to discuss why Trump wanted this ceasefire and the lasting consequences of the war.

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At the eleventh hour last night, the U.S. and Iran reached a deal for a two week ceasefire while the two countries negotiate on a longer-term end to the conflict that has dominated global headlines for over a month. With the war now on pause, what does it mean for oil prices as the Strait of Hormuz reopens, and what will both sides get out of the deal?

And now Prime Minister Keir Starmer has headed to the Middle East for talks with allies - but what does he hope to achieve?

Live from Dubai, Isabel Oakeshott joins Jeremy Kyle to discuss the local reaction to the end of the war and what the region hopes to get from it.

And Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by author Jake Wallis Simons for a discussion about how America may have won tactically, but Iran hopes the trump card when it comes to the Strait of Hormuz - and Lord Dannatt, former head of the British Army, joins to explain the the thin line between winning and losing in conflicts like this, and the importance of Pakistan in securing this deal.

And Former Ukrainian Government Adviser Cormac Smith joins Julia to discuss how the US is getting involved in Hungary's upcoming election and what that means for Ukraine.

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Jeremy Kyle leads a high-stakes Talk War discussion on Donald Trump’s Iran ceasefire, Keir Starmer’s handling of the crisis and Britain’s role in the Middle East, joined by former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove, Professor Gwythian Prins, Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin and former Deputy Speaker Nigel Evans. This episode targets the biggest search terms in the story: Iran ceasefire, Trump, Starmer, Strait of Hormuz, RAF operations and IRGC.

The panel asks whether Trump’s threats forced Iran to back down, whether the ceasefire will actually hold and what the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz means for oil prices, global markets and Western security. Jeremy’s guests also clash over claims that UK personnel intercepted more than 110 drone attacks, the RAF flew 1,600 hours of defensive operations and Britain is more deeply involved in the conflict than ministers admit.

Listeners will also hear fierce criticism of Keir Starmer’s Gulf trip, warnings about Britain’s weakened military capability, fresh calls to ban the IRGC and a blunt debate over whether Iran now poses a greater terrorist threat to the UK. For anyone searching for analysis on Trump and Iran, Starmer’s Middle East response, UK defence policy and the latest Strait of Hormuz fallout, this is a hard-hitting episode.

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With under twelve hours to go before Donald Trump's deadline for Iran to reach a ceasefire deal ends, the U.S. President took to Truth Social to issue his biggest threat yet.

He wrote: "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will" -- while noting that Iran's regime can still prevent it from happening.

Are these latest threats enough to secure a deal, or do they show that Trump has lost the plot?

To discuss, Ian Collins was joined by author and former US Navy intelligence officer, Malcolm Nance, and Chairman of Republicans Overseas UK, Greg Swenson.

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Donald Trump's latest deadline for Iran to make peace expires overnight - and the President has threatened to destroy the country if they don't. Iran yesterday rejected a ceasefire proposal - so is there any chance of peace actually coming to the Middle East?

To discuss, Jeremy Kyle is joined by former fighter pilot and military analyst Sean Bell, where they also discuss Trump's press conference where he detailed the mission to rescue several downed airmen.

Speaking from Dubai, Jeremy is also joined by Isabel Oakeshott to discuss the reception to Trump's threats, his latest criticism of Keir Starmer, and news that the new Ayatollah in Iran is unconscious after being injured in a strike.

And Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by former Defence & Foreign Minister Tobias Ellwood, who discusses how Trump has boxed himself in with his threats, the flaws in his mission to strike Iran in the first place, and if the President is still committed to his mission.

She is also joined by former Head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, to discuss Iran's history of destructive policies, and the potential for Iran to strike London.

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Over the weekend, Donald Trump took to Truth Social with an expletive-laden post about the conflict in Iran, threatening to strike the country's bridge and energy infrastructure if a deal wasn't reached soon. Iran dismissed the latest threat as "helpless, nervous and stupid". So is he taking the right approach to trying to end the conflict?

Rick Gates - former deputy campaign manager for Donald Trump - joins Alex Phillips to discuss the post and why the US President still has his support over the conflict and what Trump has got right with his strategy.

And over the weekend, US forces rescued an airman who went missing after his jet was shot down over Iran. Defence analyst Simon Diggins speaks with Mark Dolan to discuss the significance of this rescue mission and how it will help with US morale.

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Talk War brings together Republican strategist Amy Tarkanian, Democrat adviser Michael Yaki, and former British Army chief Richard Dannatt to dissect Donald Trump’s latest Iran war address — as he claims victory is near while ramping up military threats. With the Strait of Hormuz crisis driving global oil fears and UK fuel prices under pressure, this episode asks: is Trump ending the war, or losing control of it?

The panel clashes over Trump’s shifting messaging, from promises of withdrawal to warnings of escalation, exposing deep divisions inside US politics. Tarkanian defends the need for strong leadership but admits the lack of a clear exit strategy, while Yaki argues Trump has ignored decades of war-gaming around the Strait of Hormuz — the key global oil choke point now impacting economies worldwide. The debate also explores whether Iran has outmanoeuvred the US, using النفط leverage to hold global markets hostage.

Lord Dannatt delivers a hard-headed military assessment, warning that NATO was sidelined from the start and cannot be treated as an offensive tool at America’s command. He lays bare the uncomfortable truth about UK defence capability, the reliance on US military power, and the growing pressure on European nations to increase spending. From Trump’s foreign policy gamble to NATO tensions, oil price shocks and the risk of a wider Middle East war, this is a high-stakes, no-holds-barred analysis of the Iran conflict and what

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Julia Hartley-Brewer speaks to Iranian political strategist Marty Youssefiani as the Iran war intensifies, with global markets on edge over the Strait of Hormuz crisis and the threat of fuel shortages hitting the UK. With Donald Trump sending conflicting signals on US strategy, NATO involvement and whether the war is ending or escalating, this episode tackles the biggest question right now: where is the Iran conflict heading next?

They break down the competing war aims driving the crisis — from US concerns over Iran’s nuclear threat, to Israel’s fight against Iranian-backed groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis, and the growing pressure from inside Iran for regime change. Youssefiani warns that military action alone will not topple the Iranian regime, highlighting the lack of a clear political alternative, the role of the IRGC, and why protests have failed to reach a tipping point despite widespread anger and thousands killed.

Drawing on his experience advising Reza Pahlavi, Youssefiani explains why Iran is fundamentally different to Iraq and Afghanistan — pointing to a highly educated, digitally connected population that could shape a post-regime future if properly supported. From the risk of a rushed US exit to the long-term challenge of nation-building, this is a must-listen deep dive into the Iran war, Strait of Hormuz disruption, Trump’s foreign policy, and the fight for Iran’s future.

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Donald Trump’s latest address to the American people raises more questions than answers, with confusion over NATO, Iran and the future of global security dominating this explosive episode of Talk War. Donald Trump looms large as both allies and enemies struggle to interpret what he didn’t say as much as what he did.

Special Correspondent David Patrikarakos warns Trump’s on-off threats to pull out of NATO are a deliberate pressure tactic designed to force Europe to “step up”, while exposing major weaknesses in Britain’s defence capability. The discussion drills into the reality of the Iran conflict, including the risks around the Strait of Hormuz, whether Western powers could realistically secure it, and why the true success of the war will only be clear once the fighting stops.

Republican strategist Matt Terrill, former adviser to Marco Rubio, insists the US is winning and argues Trump’s rhetoric is about strength, not recklessness. He reveals why Washington expects NATO allies to do more, how the Iran war could reshape global alliances, and why decisions made in the coming weeks could redefine America’s role on the world stage.

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Talk War tackles the deepening Iran conflict, the anti-Semitism row surrounding a major London march and the wider threat to Britain’s security. Fleur Hassan-Nahum argues Israel is making progress against Iran’s military infrastructure and says the regime remains a global danger, while Tobias Ellwood warns the war still lacks a clear endgame despite the damage already inflicted on Tehran. The episode also hears from Talk reporter Samara Gill after she went inside a huge central London protest that she says exposed open hostility to Israel and a refusal among many attendees to condemn Hamas.

The discussion ranges from Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran war and whether regime change is realistic, to Britain’s response to Iranian terror threats and the risk of further escalation across the Middle East. Fleur Hassan-Nahum says the Iranian regime is a civilisational threat and insists there is a plan for what comes after the fighting, while Tobias Ellwood questions the absence of a coherent Western strategy and warns of economic fallout hitting the UK through fuel disruption. Samara Gill then details what she witnessed at the London march, including pro-Ayatollah imagery, confusion over Hamas, claims of anti-Semitism and an atmosphere she describes as threatening and deeply divisive.

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Former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove joins Philip Ingram on Talk War for a hard-hitting conversation on the global security crises reshaping the world.

From the escalating confrontation with Iran and Donald Trump’s response, to growing pressure on NATO, the threat from Russia and China, and serious questions over whether Britain is prepared for modern conflict, this episode tackles the biggest defence and intelligence issues facing the UK and the West.

Philip Ingram, former senior British military intelligence officer, and Sir Richard Dearlove dig into:

If you want sharp analysis on war, geopolitics, intelligence, defence policy and national security, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Listen now to Talk War with Philip Ingram.Former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove joins Philip Ingram on Talk War for a hard-hitting conversation on the global security crises reshaping the world.

From the escalating confrontation with Iran and Donald Trump’s response, to growing pressure on NATO, the threat from Russia and China, and serious questions over whether Britain is prepared for modern conflict, this episode tackles the biggest defence and intelligence issues facing the UK and the West.

Philip Ingram, former senior British military intelligence officer, and Sir Richard Dearlove dig into:

If you want sharp analysis on war, geopolitics, intelligence, defence policy and national security, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Listen now to Talk War with Philip Ingram.

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Donald Trump issued his 15-point peace plan to Iran in order to end the conflict. Iran promptly said they weren't interested. On this episode, Ian Collins is joined by Hamish De Bretton Gordon OBE, former British Army Colonel, to dig into the latest around the conflict and who is holding all the cards in reaching a conclusion. And Hamish discusses his latest piece for The Telegraph and why he believes the mullahs of Iran have British blood on their hands.

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On this episode of Talk, Colonel James Sunderland, Greg Swenson, and Matthew Syed joined Kevin O'Sullivan to discuss the latest developments for the UK, U.S. and Iran as the Gulf Crisis continues.

Three weeks after the RAF Akrotiri was hit by an Iranian missile, the HMS Dragon finally arrived in Cyprus. Col. James discusses the systemic failures that have contributed to the decline of a naval force, Keir Starmer's wobbly commitment to an increase in defence budget, and his reluctance to comment on the risk of a British strike from Iran.

And after Donald Trump threatened Iran with a 48-hour deadline - and then delayed it - it looks increasingly like the U.S. President doesn't have control of the situation. Kevin debates Trump's handling of the crisis with Republicans Overseas UK chair Greg Swenson, and Times columnist Matthew Syed.

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Jeremy Kyle and guests react to the alleged anti-Semitic firebombing of Jewish ambulances in Golders Green and the deepening Iran conflict. The episode centres on anti-Semitism in Britain, Keir Starmer’s response to national security threats, and the growing fear that the war with Iran could spiral into a much wider global crisis.

Brendan O’Neill calls the ambulance attack an act of “fascist savagery”, while Zia Yusuf says Britain has become dangerously soft on extremism and failed the Jewish community. Amy Tarkanian gives the US view on Donald Trump, military pressure on Iran and America’s frustration with Starmer’s indecision. Former RAF pilot Sean Bell breaks down the reported missile strike near Diego Garcia, the threat posed by the Strait of Hormuz, and why any military endgame looks far messier than politicians suggest. Yosef Haddad, speaking from the Israeli-Lebanese border, delivers a stark warning about Iran, Hezbollah and the danger posed by the IRGC.

This is a hard-hitting Talk War episode on anti-Semitism, Islamist extremism, Iran, Israel and the weakness of Western leadership. From domestic security failures in London to fears of a wider Middle East war, it is a furious, fast-moving listen packed with anger, analysis and major questions about whether Britain is prepared for the threats now in front of it.

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The world is burning – and Britain is not ready. In this explosive episode of Talk War, host Philip Ingram MBE (former senior military intelligence officer) sits down with Andrew Fox, ex-Para major and Henry Jackson Society senior fellow, to dissect the escalating 2026 Iran war.

Three weeks in: US-Israel strikes decimate Iranian navy, missiles, and energy sites like South Pars, while Iran retaliates with barrages on Israel and Gulf states, spiking global oil prices and hitting UK petrol pumps hard. They reveal why interceptor stocks are draining, Russian components in Iranian drones threaten Cyprus bases, and Trump's shifting stance raises questions about US reliability.

Philip and Andrew expose Britain's dire state: underfunded, undermanned armed forces, delayed defence plans, Treasury cuts since 2010, failed projects like AJAX, and politicians dipping into defence budgets for vote-winning priorities. Is NATO finished? Will Russian subversion and drone threats hit home next? And why might a major crisis be needed to force real change?

This is your no-nonsense national security briefing – holding leaders to account when politicians won't. From Ukraine to Gaza to Iran, conflict anywhere affects us here.

Subscribe to TalkTV for more Talk War episodes, expert analysis, and daily updates. Available on the Talk app or wherever you get podcasts.

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Isabel Oakeshott and Hamish de Bretton-Gordon unpack a dramatic shift in the Middle East conflict as Donald Trump publicly distances himself from Israel following strikes that have triggered retaliation across the Gulf.

With missile alerts in Dubai, attacks on key energy infrastructure in Qatar and a 23% spike in gas prices, the global economic impact is already being felt. The episode explores whether Trump has lost control of the narrative, and what it means for the so called special relationship with Keir Starmer and Europe’s refusal to fully back US action.

From tensions within NATO to fears over the Strait of Hormuz, the conversation dives into the risks of a fractured alliance, the reality of asymmetric warfare and whether this conflict is already beyond any quick resolution. Featuring analysis from both guests, this is a sharp, fast moving breakdown of a war that is rapidly reshaping global security and hitting wallets back home.

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On this episode of Talk War, former White House official Matthew Bryza and ex-US Army Europe commander Ben Hodges join the show as tensions escalate between Washington and London over the Iran conflict. With Donald Trump publicly attacking the BBC, comparing Keir Starmer unfavourably to Winston Churchill and accusing Britain of weakening the “special relationship”, the debate turns to whether the transatlantic alliance is entering dangerous territory.

Matthew Bryza warns that Trump’s strategy in Iran appears increasingly chaotic, arguing the president expected a quick regime collapse but underestimated the complexity of Iran’s internal power structure and the likelihood of retaliation. He says the conflict is also fracturing Trump’s own political base in the United States, with many prominent MAGA figures opposing another foreign war.

Retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges offers a stark military assessment, saying Britain’s armed forces still have world-class quality but no longer have the scale to match it after decades of underinvestment. He also explains why NATO remains critical to US security despite Trump’s criticisms, and why European allies are reluctant to follow Washington into a war whose objectives remain unclear.

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On this episode of Talk War, former US National Security Adviser John Bolton and ex-NATO commander Chris Parry assess the latest from the Iran conflict, as Donald Trump turns up the pressure on Britain over its refusal to play a bigger role. With the Strait of Hormuz under threat and global oil supplies at risk, the question is no longer whether the war matters to the UK, but how much longer Britain can afford to stay on the sidelines.

John Bolton argues the case for regime change in Iran is stronger than ever, warning that the Tehran regime remains the biggest source of instability, terrorism and nuclear threat in the Middle East. He says Trump was right to back military action, but wrong not to prepare allies and the American public properly in advance, leaving Washington scrambling for support after the fighting began and after the Strait of Hormuz crisis escalated.

Chris Parry gives the military view, saying the West needs a clear plan before asking Britain to commit more force, but insisting the free flow of oil through the Gulf is a direct British interest. He explains why the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is a separate international security issue from the wider war itself, and why the long-term danger is that if Iran emerges unbroken, the consequences will not stay in the Middle East for long.

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Is Britain looking weak on the world stage? On this episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle reacts as Donald Trump publicly criticises Sir Keir Starmer over Britain’s response to the Iran conflict, with Labour MP Karl Turner accusing the Prime Minister of damaging trust through “flip-flopping” over bases, ships and military support.

Jeremy also speaks to Fleur Hassan Nahoum, Special Envoy for the Israeli Foreign Minister, who says Britain must face up to the Iranian threat after years of terror funding, regional destabilisation and attacks on Israel. She warns that Keir Starmer’s mixed messaging is angering allies on all sides, while Jeremy also tackles the growing row over anti-Israel protests in Britain and what they say about the country’s political and cultural direction.

Plus, former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe and Rear Admiral Mike Hewitt examine the military reality behind the Strait of Hormuz crisis, the shrinking strength of Britain’s armed forces, the HMS Dragon delay, and whether the UK is now too underpowered to play a serious role in a fast-moving global security emergency.

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As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the Iran conflict threatens to spiral into a wider crisis — with the crucial Strait of Hormuz, through which around 20% of the world’s oil passes, at the centre of the global standoff. On Talk War, Republican strategist Amy Tarkanian discusses the growing concern in the United States that the conflict could drag on for years, with reports suggesting thousands of US Marines could soon be deployed.

The episode also examines the political fallout between Washington and London, after Donald Trump criticised the UK for failing to step up militarily. With polls suggesting most Britons oppose joining the war, the debate intensifies over whether Britain should support its closest ally — or stay out of another long and costly conflict.

Plus, political voices from Westminster weigh in on the UK’s military readiness, defence spending and Keir Starmer's leadership during an escalating global crisis. As war risks widening across the region, Talk War asks the key question: how far could this conflict spread — and what role should Britain play?

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As the Strait of Hormuz crisis deepens, Talk War examines the mounting pressure on Donald Trump, Keir Starmer and Britain’s allies as Iran’s blockade threatens global oil supplies and risks a wider economic shock.

Former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe Sir Richard Shirreff warns Trump has “got himself in a hole”, while questioning whether the US ever had a clear endgame for the Iran conflict.

Rear Admiral Chris Parry gives a hard-headed assessment of Britain’s response, arguing that the UK has looked hesitant, underprepared and strategically confused as HMS Dragon belatedly heads towards the region. The episode explores whether Britain should help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, what support NATO allies can realistically provide, and whether Starmer is right to resist being drawn further into a US-led war.

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Talk War examines the fallout from the Al-Quds rally in London, where anti-Israel chants, pro-Iran placards and serious questions over policing sparked fury. Lord Marland, Trevor Kavanagh and Chris Phillips react to the scenes on Britain’s streets, the growing fears over extremism, free speech and anti-Semitism, and whether the UK is failing to confront threats at home.

The podcast also looks at the deepening Iran crisis and Britain’s faltering response abroad. Mark Francois warns Keir Starmer is being driven by political survival rather than the national interest, while Tobias-style questions over defence readiness return as HMS Dragon sails late and Britain’s military posture comes under fresh scrutiny. With oil routes under threat and fears growing over the Strait of Hormuz, the panel asks whether the UK is prepared for the security and economic shock ahead.

Across this episode, the debate turns to immigration, policing, defence cuts and the wider question of whether Britain has lost confidence in its own values. From the Middle East to Westminster to the streets of London, Talk War breaks down the national security risks, the political failures and the pressure now facing Britain at home and overseas.

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On this episode of Talk War, the focus turns from Tehran to London, as Samara Gill reports from the Al Quds rally where chants, placards and intimidation raise urgent questions about anti-Semitism, extremism and policing in Britain. Her account of being mobbed while reporting adds a chilling edge to a debate about whether hatred linked to the Iran regime is now being openly displayed on UK streets.

Eylon Levy warns that Britain is facing a “Khomeinist fifth column”, as the discussion widens to the spread of anti-Israel activism, rising hostility towards Jewish people, and fears that universities, protests and public spaces are becoming more toxic. The episode also explores what these scenes say about Keir Starmer, the Met Police, free speech and Britain’s grip on national cohesion.

Isabel Oakeshott and Peter Bleksley then weigh in on the wider fallout from the Iran crisis, including Britain’s response to the Strait of Hormuz threat, the debate over immigration, integration and security, and whether the UK is showing enough strength at home while conflict abroad fuels division on the streets.

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In the explosive launch episode of TALK WAR, host Philip Ingram — former senior British military intelligence officer and NATO planner, and a familiar voice on Times Radio, Sky News and the BBC — tackles the question everyone’s asking: what the hell is going on right now?

Philip is joined by Tom Sharpe OBE, former Royal Navy Commander and Defence columnist at The Telegraph, plus Eliot Wilson — former Clerk of the House of Commons (2005–2016), former official to the House of Commons Defence Committee, Secretary to the UK Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and writer on politics, international affairs and security for City AM, The Spectator and The Hill (and Contributing Editor, Defence on the Brink).

Together they connect the dots between Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, Gaza, Ukraine, the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb, and why China is watching Taiwan. They dig into the real drivers — oil, energy security, global shipping, maritime choke points and sea power — and ask whether the West is stumbling towards World War Three.

Plus: Trump’s strategy — “4D chess” or chaos? What the UK government really means by “defensive” support, the reality of the special relationship, the politics around Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford, and what the HMS Dragon saga says about British defence readiness.

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Former Defence Select Committee chair Tobias Ellwood delivers a stark warning about Britain’s military readiness as the Iran conflict escalates. Speaking on Talk War, the former soldier says “our defence posture is woefully inadequate for where the world is going”, arguing the crisis has exposed serious weaknesses in the UK’s armed forces.

Ellwood explains the strategic messaging battle behind the White House’s war videos, saying they are designed to “keep your nation supporting your actions” while leaders manage domestic opinion during wartime. But he also warns the conflict risks becoming a missed opportunity to deal with Iran’s long-standing influence across the Middle East.

The discussion also turns to Britain’s delayed response as HMS Dragon finally departs for Cyprus, raising questions about the state of the Royal Navy and the UK’s wider defence capability. Ellwood argues the crisis should be a wake-up call, urging politicians to put national security above party politics and increase defence spending as global tensions continue to rise.

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A fiery debate erupts on Talk War as former British ambassador to Iran Sir Richard Dalton clashes with Julia Hartley-Brewer over the legality of the US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Dalton insists the conflict is “an illegal war” and accuses Western leaders of escalating tensions, while the discussion turns heated over whether Iran was truly on the verge of developing nuclear weapons.

The episode explores the global fallout from the strikes — including Donald Trump’s claim the war could end “very soon”, the destruction of key Iranian military capabilities, and growing pressure for de-escalation. Dalton argues diplomacy and international law should be leading the response, warning the conflict could destabilise Iran and the wider region.

Later, defence analyst Simon Diggins examines what the next phase of the conflict might look like, explaining why eliminating Iran’s military capabilities is very different from achieving regime change. With questions over how long the war could last and whether Britain’s delayed deployment of HMS Dragon will make any difference, this episode breaks down the strategic stakes as the Middle East crisis continues to unfold.

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As the Iran conflict intensifies, Talk War brings together some of the sharpest voices in geopolitics and intelligence to unpack what happens next. Talk’s International Editor Isabel Oakeshott reacts to Britain’s slow military response, admitting “I’m embarrassed” as HMS Dragon finally heads toward the region while allies move faster. With the Strait of Hormuz under threat and global shipping disrupted, the stakes for the world economy and Western security are rising fast.

Former NATO commander Rear Admiral Chris Parry explains why Iran’s military power has been “very much diminished” after devastating strikes, while Jake Wallis Simons argues the regime’s capabilities have been shattered but warns the war may not truly be over until the threat itself is destroyed. Meanwhile, former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove raises serious questions about the political endgame — warning that military victory does not necessarily guarantee a stable outcome.

With analysis from across the military, intelligence and political worlds, this episode examines whether the war is really “very complete” — or if the most dangerous phase is still ahead.

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As tensions in the Middle East escalate, this episode examines what the Iran crisis means for Britain at home and abroad. Andrew Fox argues the UK has little to add militarily to the US and Israel, but says Britain should be showing firmer diplomatic support, including proscribing the IRGC. He also warns that the current moment has exposed a deeper problem: Britain’s armed forces are badly managed despite having one of the biggest defence budgets in the world.

The discussion also turns to Keir Starmer’s handling of the crisis, the strain on the UK-US relationship, and growing questions over military priorities after reports of culture-war reviews inside the armed forces while naval readiness is under fire. Andrew Fox says the Ministry of Defence looks “fundamentally unserious” at a time when global instability is rising and British defence capability is being tested.

Former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe then explains why the Strait of Hormuz blockade could hit the UK hard, with oil, gas and shipping disruption feeding directly into higher bills and wider economic pain. He warns that Britain remains dangerously dependent on global sea lanes while decades of underinvestment, bad procurement and shrinking naval strength have left the country exposed.

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Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Supreme Leader, has emerged as the regime’s new hardline figurehead. Former Iranian political prisoner Sheeva Maboudi says the move changes nothing for ordinary Iranians, describing it as an internal show of strength for the regime, the IRGC and its regional proxies rather than a genuine shift in power. She argues the Iranian people are united first and foremost around one goal: toppling the regime.

Ian also hears from Jason Brodsky of United Against Nuclear Iran, who warns that Mojtaba Khamenei represents continuity, not reform. He says the new Supreme Leader is deeply tied to repression, secrecy, extremism and the IRGC, and suggests the regime rushed to install him to prevent fractures inside its military and security apparatus. The discussion also examines why some in Britain are mourning the old regime, despite its record of executions, crackdowns and terror.

The episode explores the wider questions now hanging over the Iran crisis: what regime change could actually look like, whether a political vacuum is inevitable, and how much of Iran’s nuclear capability still remains.

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Jeremy Kyle speaks to former head of the British Army Lord Richard Dannatt about the escalating Iran conflict, the role of Donald Trump and whether the war could spiral further across the Middle East. Dannatt explains the likely military objectives — weakening Iran’s missile capability and stopping a nuclear weapon — but warns regime change is far less likely and the conflict could drag on as energy prices surge and tensions spread across the Gulf.

Jeremy also asks whether the crisis began with an Israeli intelligence opportunity rather than a carefully timed US strategy, and what that means for how long the conflict could last. With flights disrupted, oil prices rising and British citizens caught up in regional chaos, the episode looks at the wider impact of the Iran war on the UK and the global economy.

Former foreign and defence secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind also joins the programme to discuss Keir Starmer’s handling of the crisis, the strain on the UK-US special relationship and whether Britain should have moved military assets earlier to protect its Cyprus base.

Talk War from Talk.

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Julia Hartley-Brewer examines the fallout from the Iran conflict as Sir Keir Starmer comes under pressure over Britain’s response, the fraying US relationship and serious questions about UK military readiness. Speaking to former security minister Tom Tugendhat, Julia hears that while Britain is entitled to make its own decisions, Starmer has somehow alienated Washington, Tehran and his own backbenches all at once. Tugendhat says the US and Israel may have a lawful case for striking Iran, but warns the bigger issue is Britain’s failure to protect its own interests, with too few ships, too little kit and no clear sense of preparedness.

Israeli Foreign Ministry special envoy Fleur Hassan-Nahoum tells Julia that Israel and the wider region are paying a far higher price than rising fuel bills, with civilians repeatedly forced into shelters while Iranian missiles target Israel, the Gulf and beyond. She argues the Islamic Republic remains a threat not just to Israel but to the wider West, warning that Iran’s regime, the IRGC and its terror network have destabilised the Middle East for decades. The episode also looks at the appointment of a new supreme leader in Iran, the long-term aim of removing the regime’s military threat, and whether the Iranian people could eventually rise up against their rulers.

Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith rounds out the debate with a blunt warning that Britain has been caught flat-footed militarily and politically. He says the UK should already have had assets in the region, argues the failure to proscribe the IRGC is indefensible, and blames years of underinvestment in defence for leaving Britain exposed.

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Jeremy Kyle speaks to Talk International Editor Isabel Oakeshott from Dubai as the Iran conflict deepens and Donald Trump turns on Sir Keir Starmer. Oakeshott says Britain’s response has looked “woefully lacking”, with HMS Dragon still in Portsmouth and the UK appearing unable to match the pace of allies in the Middle East. The episode asks whether Starmer’s handling of Iran has weakened Britain’s standing with Washington and damaged the special relationship.

Oakeshott argues Starmer has landed in “the worst of all worlds” by trying to please everyone while showing no real strength. She says he is “completely insufficiently robust on every level” and warns the US now sees Britain as “not a reliable ally”. Jeremy and Isabel discuss Trump’s criticism, the pressure on UK diplomacy, and why Britain’s military capability is now being exposed in full view.

The conversation also widens into a row about British identity and national priorities, from defence readiness to culture war flashpoints at home. Oakeshott says Britain must rediscover confidence in its values and stop looking weak while the world becomes more dangerous. For listeners searching for Iran war, Keir Starmer, Donald Trump, UK defence, HMS Dragon and the UK-US special relationship, this episode is a sharp analysis of a government under fire.

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Alex Phillips speaks to Brendan O’Neill (Spiked), Rear Admiral Chris Parry (former NATO and Royal Navy commander) and Sir Liam Fox (former UK Defence Secretary) as the Iran conflict intensifies and Britain’s role comes under fierce scrutiny. O’Neill argues the UK should be “shoulder to shoulder” with allies, saying the Iranian regime and its proxies have targeted British citizens and that government hesitation is being dressed up as “legalism” instead of leadership.

Rear Admiral Parry warns the crisis has exposed the UK’s hollowed-out readiness, calling it “ludicrous” that Britain cannot rapidly deploy an air-defence destroyer to the Eastern Mediterranean. He says politicians too often disregard professional military advice, and argues the real strategic risks include disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, threats to global energy supply, and the wider consequences of a prolonged conflict — from economic shock to pressure points elsewhere, including the Indo-Pacific.

Sir Liam Fox says allies in Washington are alarmed by Britain’s direction of travel, accusing the government of reaching for lawyers instead of putting national security first. He raises fresh questions over the UK’s stance on Iran, the IRGC and the Chagos/Diego Garcia issue, warning that failure to project capability and clarity damages credibility abroad — and leaves the UK more vulnerable at home as security threats escalate.

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Jeremy Kyle speaks to Dr Dan Diker, President of the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, and Tom Tugendhat MP, former UK Security Minister, about the escalating Iran crisis and Britain’s response. Dr Diker says Israel sees the current confrontation with Iran as a defining moment for the Western alliance, warning the Iranian regime has threatened both Israel and the United States since 1979 and was close to obtaining nuclear weapons. He tells Talk the conflict represents a broader struggle for Western security and values.

Discussing the UK’s response, Diker says there is growing disappointment in Israel and across Europe at what he describes as hesitation from Western governments. He argues the Iranian regime has long sponsored terrorism across the region and beyond, insisting the threat posed by Tehran extends far beyond the Middle East.

Former Security Minister Tom Tugendhat also criticises the UK government’s preparedness, questioning why British naval assets were not deployed earlier to help protect UK bases and allies in the region. Tugendhat warns Britain risks appearing weak to partners and adversaries alike, arguing that leadership in times of crisis requires decisive action rather than legal hesitation.

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Jeremy Kyle speaks to former Conservative minister Steve Baker as criticism grows over the UK government’s handling of the escalating Iran crisis. The discussion comes after a British evacuation flight from Oman was delayed due to a technical fault, fuelling anger about what Jeremy calls a “terrible narrative of decline” in Britain’s ability to respond during international emergencies.

Baker argues that the government’s reliance on interpretations of international law risks leaving democracies exposed to hostile regimes. Discussing the US and Israel strikes on Iran, he says Donald Trump acted largely out of fears that Tehran could eventually use nuclear weapons against Israel. “You can’t be too squeamish or idealistic when your own people are under threat,” Baker says, warning that Western countries must prioritise defending their citizens.

The former MP also criticises what he sees as a wider breakdown in the international system, arguing treaty law created after the Second World War is no longer functioning as intended. Baker tells Talk that Britain risks appearing weak if it continues to rely on legal arguments rather than strategic realities, saying democracies must sometimes decide “what the right thing to do is” when confronting regimes like Iran.

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Jeremy Kyle speaks to former RAF fighter pilot and military analyst Sean Bell as the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran intensifies. Bell explains that while American forces have already degraded significant parts of Iran’s military capability, the situation remains unpredictable. He says Washington’s initial goals appeared to be stopping Iran’s nuclear programme and forcing regime change — but warns the longer the operation continues, the harder it will be for President Donald Trump to step back. “Eventually Trump needs an off-ramp,” Bell tells Talk.

Bell says Iran cannot realistically win a direct confrontation with the United States but doesn’t necessarily have to lose either, raising concerns the conflict could drag on. He highlights Iran’s stockpile of ballistic missiles as a key threat, explaining they are extremely difficult to intercept. Rather than waiting for launches, he says US strategy appears to be destroying missiles and launch sites on the ground before they can be used.

The military analyst also warns that modern warfare is limited by logistics as much as battlefield success. Both Israel and the United States are expending large quantities of weapons and interceptors, he says, and those stockpiles cannot be replenished quickly. Bell adds that while the UK faces theoretical risk from Iranian missile programmes in the future, Tehran’s immediate focus remains the United States and regional targets rather than Britain.

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Ian Collins speaks to former Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy and international law barrister Natasha Hausdorff as Israel and the United States intensify strikes against Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. Levy describes daily missile sirens and bomb shelter alerts inside Israel but says morale remains strong, insisting the conflict is about survival. “The Iranian regime has sworn death to Israel for decades,” he tells Talk, warning the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran is something Israel “cannot sweep under the rug”.

Levy argues the joint US-Israel operation has dramatically shifted the battlefield, claiming air superiority over Iran and major blows against senior officials, missile launchers and regime infrastructure. Despite the disruption of repeated attacks and rocket alerts, he says Israelis understand the stakes — preventing Tehran from reaching the point where nuclear weapons and ballistic missile capabilities make it untouchable.

Barrister Natasha Hausdorff, legal director at UK Lawyers for Israel, rejects claims the strikes breach international law, arguing critics are misrepresenting the legal framework. She says Israel has been in an ongoing armed conflict with Iran and its proxy forces for years, meaning military action against the regime and its nuclear programme can fall squarely within lawful self-defence. Hausdorff also warns that misusing “international law” as a political argument risks undermining the credibility of the entire global legal order.

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Ian Collins is joined by Conservative peer Lord Daniel Hannan as Donald Trump’s “no Churchill” swipe at Sir Keir Starmer detonates across Westminster and Washington. Hannan says the criticism has simply “caught up with where 85% of the British public is”, arguing Starmer’s instinctive response to the Iran war has been driven by a rigid, legalistic worldview — and that it’s colliding head-on with a White House that has little patience for international law arguments.

The conversation homes in on the Chagos Islands deal and the claim that Britain is being led by a tight circle of “human rights lawyers”, with Hannan warning the government is prioritising abstract legal principles over hard national interests. He suggests Starmer’s repeated insistence that the UK was not involved in the Iran strikes — including remarks made at a Ramadan event — risks looking like political pandering at a moment when Britain’s security, alliances and global credibility are under pressure.

Elsewhere, The Times’ Washington Editor Katy Balls assesses the cooling “special relationship” and whether Trump’s anger is personal, strategic, or both — before veteran Middle East correspondent Patrick Cockburn delivers a stark warning: even with US-Israeli military dominance, Iran’s retaliation could trigger a wider economic shock through the Strait of Hormuz, energy infrastructure vulnerabilities and Gulf disruption, raising the risk of a conflict that spreads well beyond the battlefield.

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Samara Gill hosts a special Talk discussion on the escalating Iran crisis, speaking to Erol Morkoc of Republicans Overseas and Iranian political commentator Younes Sadaghiani about Donald Trump’s military strategy, the future of the Iranian regime and growing criticism of Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership. Moorcock argues US strikes were “inevitable”, describing Trump’s approach as “dovish on boots on the ground but hawkish on tactical strikes” — a strategy designed to weaken Iran’s regime without dragging America into another long war.

Sadaghiani claims the reaction among many Iranians has been dramatically different to Western media narratives, insisting “90 per cent of Persians are celebrating” the weakening of the Islamic Republic. He argues Iran is fundamentally different from Iraq or Afghanistan — pointing to its history of democracy and strong national identity — and says regime change could open the door for a new political system led by figures such as Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi during a potential transition period.

The conversation also explores the geopolitical fallout for the West, including tensions between Washington and London. Guests warn the biggest global risk now is instability if Iran fractures internally, but argue the ultimate goal is clear: dismantling the current regime and preventing Tehran from ever obtaining nuclear weapons — a move they say could reshape the Middle East and redefine Western alliances.

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Alex Phillips speaks to Tom Sharpe OBE, former Royal Navy Commander, about the state of Britain’s naval power as tensions rise globally and questions grow over the UK’s ability to protect its interests at sea. Sharpe warns the public often forgets the Navy’s importance, pointing out that “almost everything you own has been imported from the sea” — yet political support for naval investment typically only appears during wartime.

Sharpe insists the current situation is not the fault of the Royal Navy itself, arguing military planners have repeatedly presented proposals to strengthen Britain’s maritime capability. However, he claims those plans have often been ignored by successive governments, leaving the UK struggling to project power or respond quickly to crises.

The former commander says Britain has become too comfortable delaying action until it is too late, warning the country has grown so used to holding back resources “for a rainy day” that it now struggles to recognise when a crisis is already underway.

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Alex Phillips speaks to Israeli Foreign Ministry Special Envoy and former Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Fleur Hassan-Nahoum as tensions with Iran escalate and global leaders clash over how to respond. Hassan-Nahoum delivers a stark warning about Western leadership, telling Talk that Donald Trump is right to criticise Sir Keir Starmer — arguing the Prime Minister is “no Churchill” and warning the West cannot allow a fanatical regime to “take the whole world hostage”.

The Israeli envoy says the stakes are nothing less than preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, praising the United States for showing decisive leadership while urging Western allies to recognise the scale of the threat. She warns that a potential successor within the Iranian regime has links to the UK, raising fresh questions about Britain’s relationship with Tehran’s leadership network.

Hassan-Nahoum also pushes back against comparisons with Iraq or Afghanistan, arguing Iran is a far more unified nation with a powerful global diaspora that could shape its future. Her message is clear: the world cannot afford hesitation — and stopping Iran from becoming a nuclear power is now the central test for Western security.

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Jeremy Kyle led a blistering Talk Breakfast special as the Middle East war dominated the agenda — with live updates from Dubai, anger over UK military readiness, and renewed fallout from Donald Trump’s attack on Keir Starmer. International editor Isabel Oakeshott joined from Dubai to describe a growing sense of national humiliation as Greek and French forces moved to protect the region while the UK’s HMS Dragon was still reportedly in Portsmouth, with Oakeshott branding the situation “so embarrassing” and accusing the Prime Minister of “cowering” when leadership was needed.

The show then widened into a full-blown political reckoning. Former Tory leader Sir Ian Duncan Smith argued Starmer’s handling has left Britain exposed — and warned that allowing the US to use UK bases effectively makes Britain part of the operation, whatever Downing Street claims. He also questioned why UK assets weren’t pre-positioned earlier, linking the weakness to budget pressure and cuts to operational spending, and saying the armed forces are being left unable to move at pace just as the threat level rises.

Finally, Lord Michael Gove told Kyle the UK is “exposing the weakness of Britain on the world stage”, warning Starmer has opted for legal “equivocation” instead of clear strategy — while still arguing the US-UK partnership will endure through intelligence and military cooperation. Gove backed the view that defence cuts have bitten hard, saying Britain is “sending one destroyer” while France deployed far more capability — and he openly questioned whether Starmer is now putting party management ahead of national interest as public anger grows over security, energy prices and borders.

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Jeremy Kyle speaks to Mail on Sunday commentator Dan Hodges who says "We've got British territory being attacked... so by definition, the Government has already failed to defend British territory." 

Downing Street is in damage-limitation mode after Donald Trump’s personal broadside at Sir Keir Starmer — insisting the US-UK “special relationship” remains intact even as the Middle East war accelerates and Britain rushes to bolster defences.

The Prime Minister has moved to frame Britain’s role as practical, military and ongoing: US aircraft operating from British bases, RAF jets flying defensive missions over key Gulf partners, and daily intelligence-sharing with Washington.

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Kevin O’Sullivan tackles the UK-US rupture over Iran after Donald Trump publicly attacks Keir Starmer for restricting US access to RAF bases and Diego Garcia — and questions whether the “special relationship” has taken its biggest hit in years.

First, Kevin is joined by Jim Jatras, former US diplomat and ex–Republican Senate foreign policy adviser, who says Americans are focused less on Britain’s stance and more on whether Washington even has an endgame — warning this could become a war without an exit, with the West running short on defensive interceptors and Trump facing MAGA backlash ahead of the midterms.

Then Rear Admiral Chris Parry, former NATO and Royal Navy commander, reacts to Trump’s “not Winston Churchill” jibe and argues UK policy has been paralysed by legal hand-wringing, leaving British interests exposed — including Cyprus and the Gulf — while allies step in to plug capability gaps. His verdict: Starmer’s wobble has handed Tehran leverage and embarrassed Britain on the world stage.

Finally, Fox News correspondent Joe Concha gives the US media and Washington readout as Trump doubles down on his criticism of Starmer, predicting a long memory in the Oval Office and warning the fallout could spill into trade, NATO and future UK-US cooperation — just as the Middle East conflict escalates.

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As tensions rise between Israel, Iran and the United States, Ian Collins speaks to Urban Coningham, Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), and Middle East journalist Emily Schrader about what this conflict means for Britain.

With Donald Trump hardening his stance and Keir Starmer facing pressure over the UK’s position, the panel examines:

Could Iran retaliate against UK interests?

What role do British bases play in US operations?

How real is the threat of Iranian-backed terror activity?

What happens if this conflict widens across the Middle East?

From ballistic missiles and regional escalation to NATO, UK security and the risk of sleeper cells, this is a clear-eyed breakdown of where the Iran war goes next.

Keywords: Iran war, Israel Iran conflict, Donald Trump Iran, Keir Starmer foreign policy, UK terror threat, RUSI analysis, Urban Coningham, Emily Schrader, Middle East war, NATO, IRGC, British security, Talk War, Ian Collins.

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Jeremy Kyle goes live to Nashville to speak with Steve Gill, a former adviser to the Clinton and Bush administrations, as the Iran crisis escalates and Donald Trump’s patience with Keir Starmer appears to snap.

Gill explains what the White House says are the three core objectives driving US action — stopping Iran’s nuclear ambition, halting ballistic missile development, and choking off Tehran’s global terror funding — while warning that “regime change is not really the intent, but it will certainly be a byproduct.” He also tackles the biggest concern for many listeners: what happens after strikes and leadership removals, and the risk of a dangerous vacuum.

Back in Washington DC, The Sun’s Harry Cole reveals a world exclusive phone interview with President Trump, including a fierce assessment of the UK’s stance and the strain on the special relationship, as Talk Breakfast asks what this all means for Britain’s security, NATO unity, and the threat level at home.

Search terms: Talk War, Talk Breakfast, Jeremy Kyle, Steve Gill, Donald Trump, Keir Starmer, Iran war, Israel Iran conflict, UK US special relationship, NATO, ballistic missiles, nuclear weapons, regime change, Middle East crisis.

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On Talk Breakfast, Jeremy Kyle speaks to Arab-Israeli journalist Yosef Haddad about the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, anti-Semitism in the West and the future of the Iranian regime.

Haddad, a Christian Arab citizen of Israel, says Israelis — both Jews and Arabs — are “behind our army until we win”, arguing that Iran’s leadership has destabilised the Middle East for decades. He rejects claims that Israel is an apartheid state, insisting that during Iranian missile barrages, “it doesn’t matter if you’re a Jew or an Arab — Israel protects all its civilians.” He also accuses critics in Europe of hypocrisy, claiming there is a double standard when it comes to anti-Semitism and condemnation of Israel.

Discussing UK politics and the special relationship, Haddad says Middle Eastern extremists may “love” weak Western leaders but “have zero respect” for them, contrasting that with what he calls fear and deterrence under Donald Trump. He outlines a three-stage strategy he believes could weaken the IRGC and empower the Iranian people to rise up, arguing that regime change must ultimately come from within Iran — with external military pressure creating the opportunity.

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Jeremy Kyle is joined by former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove for a blunt assessment of the Iran crisis, the terror threat to Britain and Keir Starmer’s handling of the special relationship with Donald Trump.

Dearlove says the Prime Minister “sat on the fence when he didn’t need to”, arguing the UK should have immediately backed the US and Israel as Australia and Canada did. He dismisses overreliance on international law as “a movable feast” and says national interest should have come first. On NATO, he acknowledges that an attack on RAF Akrotiri is serious, but stops short of calling for full Article 5 escalation.

On domestic security, the former spy chief confirms there are groups in Britain sympathetic to Tehran and warns of the risk of Iranian-linked activity, including potential sleeper cells. While he says the security services are well equipped to disrupt organised plots, he flags the greater danger of lone actors. Dearlove, who reveals he has been personally sanctioned by the Iranian regime, describes that as a “badge of honour” and argues Iran’s ability to project power has been severely weakened — with the next chapter hinging on whether the Iranian people move against the IRGC from within.

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On Talk, Jeremy Kyle speaks to Sir Richard Dalton, former UK Ambassador to Iran, for a sharp and at times fiery debate over Britain’s stance in the escalating conflict with Tehran.

Dalton rejects claims that the UK has been weak, arguing Britain has taken a “judicious position” by assisting defensive operations while avoiding full-scale war. He insists international law must remain the foundation of foreign policy, warning that legitimising the assassination of leaders risks putting Western politicians “in the crosshairs too.” He also questions Washington’s justification for military action, saying claims of an imminent Iranian attack have not been convincingly evidenced.

Kyle pushes back, challenging whether international law can apply to a regime accused of sponsoring terrorism, repressing its own people and plotting abroad. Dalton acknowledges Iran’s record of internal repression and hostile activity, but argues that launching wars without a clear endgame risks regional chaos, economic shock and long-term instability. The exchange lays bare the divide between moral outrage and legal restraint — and what Britain’s national interest should look like in a volatile Middle East.

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Kevin O’Sullivan speaks to former British Ambassador to Iran Sir Nicholas Hopton about whether US and Israeli strikes can realistically trigger regime change in Tehran.

Drawing on his time in post, Hopton says the Iranian regime is deeply unpopular but still resilient, warning there is currently “no sign” of a nationwide uprising despite isolated celebrations following the killing of senior figures. He estimates active regime support may sit between 10 and 20 per cent, but stresses that discontent does not automatically translate into revolution.

He also cautions that while Iran’s military capabilities are no match for the United States and Israel in a prolonged conflict, Tehran could sustain staggered retaliation for days or even weeks. With oil markets under pressure and Gulf allies under fire, Hopton argues the key question is whether Washington has a clear endgame — and whether this confrontation ends in negotiation, escalation, or a drawn-out regional war.

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Kevin O’Sullivan speaks to Rick Gates, former campaign chairman for President Donald Trump, about the escalating US action against Iran and Britain’s controversial response under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Gates says there is “immense disappointment” in Washington over Starmer’s initial refusal to allow the US to use British bases such as RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia for strikes on Iranian targets. Although the UK later granted limited permission for what Downing Street described as defensive purposes, Gates argues the hesitation signals weak leadership at a pivotal geopolitical moment. He contrasts Starmer’s approach with what he calls Trump’s “decisive leadership”, claiming the President is willing to risk political fallout at home to pursue what he believes is global stability.

The discussion also explores the future of the UK-US special relationship. Gates insists President Trump maintains deep respect for the British people but warns that relationships matter in global politics, particularly on trade, NATO and security cooperation. He suggests that backing away from full support could have diplomatic consequences, even if the long-term alliance endures.

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Kevin O’Sullivan is joined by Talk’s International Editor Isabel Oakeshott, speaking from Dubai after Iranian missiles and drones were launched towards the UAE over the weekend.

Isabel describes the shock of receiving late-night warnings to take cover as air defence systems intercepted the vast majority of incoming projectiles. Residents were sent to underground car parks, hearing “thudding” munitions overhead, while authorities reportedly intercepted around 92 per cent of missiles and drones. Despite a small impact near Dubai airport and moments of real fear, she says daily life has resumed in an “eerily normal” fashion, with most residents staying put and only some tourists seeking to leave.

The conversation then turns to Sir Keir Starmer’s shifting position on allowing the US to use British bases, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia. Kevin brands it a “U-turn”, while Isabel calls Britain’s response an “international embarrassment”, arguing the UK cannot pretend to be uninvolved while allies in the Gulf come under attack. She questions whether Starmer is prioritising legal technicalities over moral clarity at what she describes as a historic inflection point in the Middle East.

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Ian Collins hosts a fierce debate on the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, after Sir Keir Starmer confirmed British bases can be used by Washington to target Iranian missile systems.

Journalist and broadcaster Peter Oborne argues the intervention is illegal under international law, insisting there was no imminent threat and no UN Security Council mandate. He warns that removing Iran’s leadership could plunge the country into chaos, trigger civil war and unleash a refugee crisis affecting Europe and the UK. Drawing comparisons with Iraq in 2003, Oborne claims regime change without a clear plan risks repeating “catastrophic consequences”.

In stark opposition, Iranian-British human rights activist Lily Moo says Iranians are “rejoicing” at the fall of senior regime figures and reject comparisons with Iraq. She argues the Islamic Republic has waged war on its own people for decades and insists support for Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as a transitional figure is real and widespread. Moo frames US and Israeli action as a “rescue mission” under the international principle of Responsibility to Protect, saying the Iranian people are ready for change — not civil war.

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Ian Collins examines what happens next after US and Israeli strikes on Iran, asking whether this is the beginning of regime collapse or the start of a prolonged regional conflict.

Security and intelligence expert Professor Anthony Glees warns Britain is “in a very weak place”, arguing the UK has alienated Washington, angered Tehran and offered mixed signals over the use of RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia. He cautions that removing senior Iranian figures will not automatically end the threat, describing Shia Islamism as a wider ideological movement that cannot be defeated with a single strike. Glees fears the conflict could become a “forever war”, with major consequences for oil prices, economic stability and UK security, particularly after a reported drone incident at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.

In stark contrast, UK-based anti-regime Iranian journalist Niyak Ghorbani insists the Islamic Republic’s core support is minimal, claiming only a small percentage of Iranians back the regime. He says many inside Iran are celebrating the strikes and looking to Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as a potential unifying figure for democratic transition. According to Ghorbani, ordinary Iranians see US and Israeli action as a chance to end decades of repression rather than the start of another Iraq-style disaster.

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On Talk War, Alex Phillips is joined by Rear Admiral Mike Hewitt, former US Navy officer, to analyse the escalating US and Israeli strikes on Iran, Donald Trump’s shift from diplomacy to military action, and the growing strain on the UK-US special relationship.

Hewitt explains that negotiations in Oman ultimately collapsed over Iran’s refusal to give up uranium enrichment, which he describes as the core pathway to a nuclear weapons capability. He outlines what a true nuclear programme entails — enriched uranium, missile delivery systems and a functioning detonator — and argues there is “no doubt” Iran possesses key elements of that infrastructure. According to Hewitt, Trump even offered to fund a civilian nuclear energy programme for Iran, but the regime refused to abandon enrichment, making military escalation increasingly likely.

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On Talk War, Alex Phillips is joined by barrister and UK Lawyers for Israel legal director Natasha Hausdorff to dissect the escalating row over Iran, US airstrikes and the UK government’s position on international law. The discussion centres on reports that the Prime Minister initially refused permission for US forces to use RAF Fairford or Diego Garcia for strikes on Iranian missile systems, before apparent backpedalling amid Iranian retaliation targeting British assets in Cyprus.

Hausdorff backs the legal analysis set out by Lord Wolfson, arguing that international law permits force in the face of imminent threat and within the context of an ongoing armed conflict. She maintains that Iran’s long record of proxy attacks, direct strikes and nuclear ambitions provides a clear legal framework for collective self-defence by Israel and the United States. In her view, critics focusing narrowly on “pre-emptive strikes” are ignoring the broader reality of an entrenched conflict and misapplying international humanitarian law.

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