The Inside Story Podcast

The world is entering a new reality where climate extremes are the norm. That's the stark warning from the UN Secretary-General, as nearly 200 countries meet for the 31st Conference of the Parties, or COP. When COP meetings began in 1995, the goal was to adopt a global approach to tackle the climate crisis. Over the years, several agreements have been reached but their implementation has been the subject of constant debate. So, what's the cost of inaction?

In this episode:

Host:James Bays

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Iran warns that any conflict with the US would have no geographical limits, as fears grow of a return to all-out war. With tensions rising across the region and President Donald Trump warning of possible attacks on Iran, mediators are working to bring Tehran and Washington closer to a peace deal.

In this episode:

Host: Imran Khan

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Millions of South Africans are voting in the country’s seventh municipal elections since the end of apartheid, in what many see as a referendum on the African National Congress. The party that helped defeat white minority rule has dominated politics for three decades, but its support has steadily eroded, and two years ago it lost its parliamentary majority for the first time. That raises questions about what’s driving the ANC’s decline, and whether it can reverse it.

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Host: Imran Khan

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing alliance has fallen short of a majority after a historic election, while the opposition also lacks enough seats to govern alone. Palestinian Israeli parties have made unprecedented gains, raising questions about whether the opposition will work with them as Israeli military assaults on Gaza and the Occupied West Bank continue.

In this episode:

Host: Sami Zeidan

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With the US and Israel signalling possible attacks, and Iran promising to respond, top officials from the Mecca pact nations – Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkiye – have sat down with Iranian leaders in Tehran. It’s being viewed as the last chance to defuse tensions in the Gulf. Diplomacy has so far failed to secure a peace agreement between Iran and the US. So, with fighting in Yemen spilling over into Saudi Arabia, can the Mecca alliance work with Iran to help secure the region?

In this episode:

Host: Folly Bah Thibault

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Another weekend - another wave of protests in many European countries. But it's in France where some of the largest demonstrations have taken place. It's a similar story across other parts of the continent. So, what would it take for governments to enact the changes protesters are demanding?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Three-and-a-half years of war in Sudan have forced millions of people from their homes. Most remain in limbo in temporary camps and shelters, facing a worsening food crisis, while aid agencies say a sharp global funding shortfall means they can’t reach everyone. So will anyone step in to help the civilians caught up in the fighting?

In this episode:

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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The US brokered a ceasefire to end Israel's war on Gaza. But since then, Israel has not stopped its attacks. Meanwhile, funding shortages are forcing the World Food Programme to cut back its operations in Gaza, leaving half a million Palestinians without badly needed food aid. So how can that gap be closed?

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Host: Imran Khan

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Weeks of student protests in France have grown into some of the worst unrest in recent years. They started as a call for reforms to the education system. But they've since expanded into demonstrations against the high cost of living and planned cuts to social services. And France isn't alone. Demonstrators have taken to the streets in other parts of Europe. So how will Europe deal with the protests?

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Host: James Bays

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Joseph Kabila, who ruled DR Congo for almost two decades, is making a comeback. He will lead the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a political-military alliance with M23 fighters that opposes President Felix Tshisekedi's government in Kinshasa. Several attempts at a peace deal between government forces, rebels and armed groups have already failed, and many fear the move will worsen the fighting in eastern DR Congo. Is this coalition likely to escalate the conflict?

In this episode:

Host: Dareen Abughaida

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NATO says it is ready to fight as it unveils a new defence strategy using low-cost drones, artificial intelligence and rapid strikes to deter potential attacks. With the US planning to withdraw thousands of troops from Europe and concerns growing over Russia, European leaders are increasing military spending. Will NATO’s new strategy be enough to address the perceived Russian threat and protect its members?

In this episode:

Host: Rishaad Salamat

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US President Donald Trump has announced a deal to bring Russian diesel into the United States, a move welcomed by the Kremlin. He's accused Ukraine of ignoring his calls to halt strikes on Russian refineries. Ukraine insists it will only stop striking Russian refineries if Moscow ceases attacks on its energy facilities. With Washington and Europe diverging further on Ukraine, how long can European leaders continue their economic and military support for Kyiv?

In this episode:

Lisa Yasko, Member of the Ukrainian Parliament

Andrey Kortunov, Russian affairs analyst

John Lough, Head of Foreign Policy at the New Eurasian Strategies Centre

Host: Rishaad Salamat

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Zionism should be treated as any other form of racism. That's what members of the Green Party have agreed on at their annual conference in the UK. Israel has condemned the decision, calling it antisemitic. So, what's the motivation? And what impact will the Greens' new policy have on British politics and beyond?

In this episode:

Tim Bale, Professor of Politics at Queen Mary University of London

Yossi Beilin, former Israeli Justice Minister

Jonathan Lis, Journalist and Broadcaster

Host: Neave Barker

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Voters in Bosnia and Herzegovina go to the polls for the 10th time since the end of the war more than three decades ago. They're electing more than 500 members of a complex government structure. But deep political and ethnic divides remain. So, how will it play out, both in Bosnia and in the region?

In this episode:

Jahja Muhasilovic, Assistant Professor at the International University of Sarajevo

Nina Sajic, Professor in the School of Political Science at the University of Banja Luka 

Bodo Weber, Senior Associate at the Democratization Policy Council

Host: Sami Zeidan

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The Malaysian government is facing accusations of forcibly deporting Rohingya refugees, a charge the government denies. It says the process is voluntary and coordinated with Myanmar’s government. But human rights groups say this process violates international law by sending refugees to countries where they risk facing persecution or torture. So, will this concern stop the Rohingya being sent back to Myanmar?

In this episode:

Phar Kim Beng, Director of the Institute of International and ASEAN Studies and Geopolitics Professor at the University of Malaysia

Lucky Karim, Democracy and Human Rights Advocate and Founder of Refugee Women for Peace and Justice

Maung Zarni, Genocide Scholar and Co-Founder of the scholar-activist network, Forces of Renewal Southeast Asia

Host: Imran Khan 

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The last remaining US troops have left Iraq, ending a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion to oust Saddam Hussein. After years of conflict and instability, Iraq is entering a new phase without US forces on the ground. Is the Iraqi government ready? And who stands to gain from the US withdrawal?

In this episode: 

Host:Dareen Abughaida

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Unacceptable. That was the immediate reaction from US President Donald Trump to Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran says it's still awaiting what it called a "definitive response" from Washington through mediators. But Trump has said Iran needs a deal because, in his words, it's "losing badly." So, is his rejection of the proposal an effort to pressure Tehran for more concessions?

In this episode: 

Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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Fighting is intensifying between Yemen's Ansar Allah Houthis and Saudi Arabia. For the first time since a ceasefire in 2022, the Houthis have fired missiles towards the capital, Riyadh. The Iran-backed group says it will respond to any escalation with an escalation of its own. But it also risks dragging the wider region into conflict. What will it take to stop the attacks?

In this episode: 

Host:Rob Matheson

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Climate change has contributed to major melting in the Arctic, making it navigable for greater stretches of the year. Some countries are already taking notice. The first South Korean container ship to transit the Arctic route arrived in the UK on Saturday. But can it become a viable alternative to existing shipping corridors?

In this episode: 

Host:Neave Barker

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The Ansarullah Houthis seize Yemen's Red Sea coast, cementing their hold on the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The advance of the Tehran-aligned group threatens an alternative route for energy supplies - with traffic in the Strait of Hormuz already limited. Will it give Iran leverage in its war with the US?

In this episode: 

Ahmed Al-Ashwal - Military and security researcher, and a former pilot officer with Yemen's armed forces.

Jennifer Gavito - Former U.S. Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Middle East and a former State Department Official 

Abas Aslani - Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Middle East Strategic Studies

Host:Neave Barker

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The Alternative for Germany is on top in Sunday's election in the east German state of Saxony-Anhalt, with about 44 percent of the vote. It's benefitted from voters' economic concerns and anger over immigration. The party is also leading in national polls. So what are the implications of the AfD's electoral rise for Germany and for Europe?

In this episode: 

Olaf Boehnke - Berlin Director of the political consultancy Rasmussen Global and former Senior Advisor in the German Bundestag

Max Otte - Founder of Privatinvestor Capital and a 2022 German presidential candidate

Ulrich Bruckner - Professor of European Studies at Stanford University in Berlin

Host:Rishaad Salamat

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Reigniting the centuries-old Falklands dispute. Argentina's president says sovereignty over the islands remains a national objective. The UK insists the territory is British. What's really triggered the latest argument about the Falkland Islands?

In this episode: 

Diego Guelar - Former Argentinian ambassador to the U.S., EU and China

Christopher Sabatini - Director of the Latin America Programme at Chatham House

Javier Farje - Journalist and historian specialising in Latin American affairs

Host:Cyril Vanier

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International efforts intensify to find a way forward for Libya.  The country is controlled by two rival governments.  And diplomacy is aimed at holding elections - to help find a way to govern the fractured country.  So, can a way forward be found? 

In this episode: 

Host:Cyril Vanier

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Will Donald Trump's new sanctions against Iran work? The US president says he will impose 'crushing measures' on Tehran. While the Iranian leadership has warned countries not to join what it calls America's 'economic warfare'. What does this mean for the conflict?

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Host:James Bays

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Israel opens construction bids for new illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. That's despite widespread international condemnation. What's driving this land grab? And what does it mean for the future of Palestinians -- and an independent Palestinian state?

In this episode: 

Ammar Hijazi - Ambassador and Head of the Palestinian Mission to the Netherlands

Alon Pinkas - Former Israeli Ambassador and Consul General in New York

Host: James Bays

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Israeli settler attacks in the occupied West Bank trap Palestinian families in their homes. The violence takes place as Israel's far-right government fights elections in October. Why are attacks by settlers intensifying and what are the consequences? 

In this episode: 

Ofer Cassif, Member of the Knesset.

Mouin Rabbani, Co-editor, Jadaliyya online magazine.

Ori Goldberg, Israeli political commentator.

Host:Imran Khan

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The Ebola outbreak in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo has already killed two thousand people. And it's spreading faster than any before - outpacing efforts to contain it, says the WHO So, what's driving this crisis? And what are the dangers? 

In this episode: 

Alex Lock - Communications Co-ordinator for the Ebola response with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Kinshasa

Dr Marie Roseline Belizaire - Emergency Director for the World Health Organization Africa 

Dr Margaret Harris - Global health consultant

Host:James Bays

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Can the Doha Framework end the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo? Kinshasa has handed over 15 prisoners to a powerful rebel alliance. It's part of an agreement signed last year in the Qatari capital. So, what are the hurdles to lasting peace?

In this episode: 

Kambale Musavuli, Analyst, Center for Research, Congo-Kinshasa.

Felix Ndahinda, Researcher, Great Lakes region, specialising in conflict resolution, peace and transitional justice.

Abdulla Al Etaibi, Assistant Professor, International Affairs, Qatar University.

Host:Per Nyberg

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What are the hurdles facing the Mecca agreement? The defence pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan comes at a time of heightened tension in the Middle East. So, who stands to gain from the new alliance? And how is it viewed in the region and beyond?

In this episode: 

Abdulaziz Alghashian - Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Gulf International Forum

David Des Roches - Professor at the Thayer Marshall Institute

Zaid M Belbagi - Managing Partner at Hardcastle Advisory

Host:Anna Burns-Francis

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New Israeli attacks in Lebanon, after soldiers were killed for the first time since a fragile truce with Beirut began in June. It comes despite more Lebanese-Israeli talks in Rome in a U.S.-brokered peace process. So where do things stand now? 

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Host:James Bays 

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A surge in missile and drone attacks by Russia and Ukraine with civilians killed on both sides. Little movement on the diplomatic front, while U.S. attention is largely focused on Iran. So, what's next for Europe's worst conflict since World War Two? 

In this episode: 

Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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How much of a challenge are wildfires to Europe? Rapidly spreading blazes are scorching the continent, destroying forests, farmland, homes and businesses. They're becoming bigger and more difficult to control. So, what's fuelling the flames?

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Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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Israel says it has doubts about Hamas disarming. The group and other Palestinian factions in Gaza have agreed to lay down their weapons. But they say it's dependent on the withdrawal of Israeli troops — which Israel has refused to do unless they disarm. Where does this leave Gaza?

In this episode: 

Host: Frankie McCamley

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Venezuela's government and a section of the opposition plan to hold talks, backed by the United States. But prominent opposition politician and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado has been excluded. So, what can the talks achieve and what's Washington seeking to get from it?

In this episode: 

Host: Frankie McCamley

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Tens of thousands of migrants crossed into Spain's north African territory of Ceuta from Morocco. While most of them have since returned - Spain's been condemned by right-wing politicians in Europe and the United States. Is the criticism about border management or is it politics?

In this episode: 

Host: Anna Burns-Francis

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FIFA is facing a growing backlash after its proposal to sell a stake in its top events. Europe's governing body UEFA has threatened to boycott the World Cup if this plan goes ahead. So, does FIFA need private investment?

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Host: Scott McLean

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Anger in Iraq after Saudi Arabia attacked an umbrella paramilitary group with ties to Iran. Riyadh accuses the Popular Mobilization Forces of targeting its oil facilities. As the US-Iran war drags on, what are the risks of the conflict spreading?

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Host: James Bays

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Sudan's army says it's regained control of a highway connecting the capital to North Kordofan state. The area has become the latest front in the conflict with paramilitaries, which has killed tens of thousands of people. Will it be enough to shift the outcome of the fighting?

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Host:James Bays

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Peru is getting its ninth president in ten years. Keiko Fujimori is taking the reins more than 25 years after her father's polarising presidency. But the scars of that era still divide Peru. Will her government move beyond his legacy? 

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Host: James Bays

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Europe engulfed in flames as wildfires spread rapidly. Hundreds of thousands forced from their homes; swathes of land scorched. Climate change has contributed to this unprecedented fire season. But what will it take to bring the situation under control?

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Host: Per Nyberg

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Israel says it's planning a major military operation in the occupied West Bank. Settler attacks on Palestinians are intensifying, becoming increasingly violent. As Israel is gearing up for an election, how does this escalation serve Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right partners?

In this episode: 

Alon Pinkas - Former Israeli ambassador and consul general in New York

Sari Bashi - Human rights lawyer and executive director of the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel

Mairav Zonszein - Senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, focused on Israel and Palestine

Host: Per Nyberg

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What's the significance of the U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal? The two countries signed an agreement to co-operate on what they say is generating energy for civilian purposes. But in a volatile Middle East, could this deal lead to a new global nuclear arms race?

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Host: Frankie McCamley

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India's government is under pressure. Tens of thousands of students are on the streets - demanding the Education Minister's resignation. What started as a protest after exam papers were leaked has turned into a campaign for better living conditions. So, can the youth-led movement bring lasting political change?

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Host: Anna Burns-Francis

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Southeast Asian nations are gathering for the 2026 ASEAN Summit where topics such as Myanmar and regional security are on the agenda. But officials are gathering amidst an escalating war between the US and Iran. So, will the conflict overshadow the other issues facing ASEAN?

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Host:James Bays

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Khalil al-Hayya has been appointed head of the Hamas political bureau. He played a major role in the ceasefire talks to end Israel's devastating war on Gaza. How significant is his election for both Hamas and the Palestinian territory?

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Host:James Bays

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Ukraine hits back after Russia carries out one of its largest missile attacks of the war. At the same time, Kyiv is dealing with demonstrations and the political fallout following the dismissal of the defence minister. How will the president handle the crisis?

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Host:James Bays

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From mayor to prime minister. Labour Party leader Andy Burnham has promised to steer the UK in a new direction. He'll have to balance challenges at home with growing uncertainty abroad. So, what will his appointment mean for Britain's role and position on the international stage?

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Host: James Bays

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No safety or security for Palestinians in Gaza. A truce is in place, but Israeli strikes target the Strip nearly every day. Hundreds of people have been killed since it took effect in October. So, what's the purpose of the ceasefire deal? What can be done to bring the attacks to an end?

In this episode: 

Host: Scott McLean

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Extreme weather is causing havoc across much of the world, from record-breaking heatwaves to drought, storms and floods. Scientists warn it's the new normal and that the consequences of climate change are likely to get even worse. So, how will governments cope?

In this episode: 

Host: Sami Zeidan

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Apple is taking OpenAI to court. The tech giant is suing the artificial intelligence company, accusing it of stealing trade secrets. With the AI race in overdrive, firms are competing to release the latest products. But how's that competition being regulated?

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Host:Anna Burns-Francis

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He's the man behind Qatar's rise on the international stage. Former Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani has died. He'll be remembered as the architect of modern Qatar. What lessons will be learned from his legacy?

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Host: Scott McLean

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Pakistan carries out another wave of deportations of thousands of Afghan migrants and refugees.
It cites national security concerns. But is politics involved in the rising tension between the neighbours? And how is Kabul dealing with the influx of returnees?

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Host: Scott McLean

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This year's NATO summit in Turkiye is overshadowed by the Iran war. The U.S. wants allies to help it protect shipping in the vital waterway, but what are the risks?

In this episode: 

Host:Adrian Finighan

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Mounting violence in Mali. A coalition of rebels and armed groups has carried out another series of assaults, highlighting the military government's failure to contain the attacks. With the junta under increasing pressure, how will it address this growing security threat?

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Host: Scott McLean

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Promising to crack down on crime and promoting strong ties with President Trump - right-wing populists are winning elections across Latin America. Is this a passing phase coming out of voters' economic and safety concerns or a lasting shift? And will this tie the region more to the United States?

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Host: Scott McLean

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Long lines at petrol stations in one of the world's largest energy producers. Relentless Ukrainian strikes have caused a fuel crisis in Russia. Will economic pressure turn into a political problem for President Vladimir Putin - and move the Kremlin towards talks with Kyiv?

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Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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China's new ethnic unity law has come into effect. Rights groups and activists overseas say it will further shrink the rights of minorities. Will the law help forge a shared national identity, as Beijing says? Or is it a step towards forced assimilation?

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Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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Pakistan has said India's suspension of a decades-old treaty could amount to an act of war. And tensions between the two are already high. So, how could they avoid a further escalation?

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Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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The Rapid Support Forces are trying to seize the strategic southern city of el-Obeid from the Sudanese military. Rights groups are warning of a potential humanitarian catastrophe. But why is the battle to control the city so important?

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Host: Mohammed Jamjoum

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A June 30th deadline set by anti-migrant groups for undocumented foreigners to leave, has come and gone. Thousands protested across the country, against what they say is a broken immigration system. So, what's driving this debate? And what are the political, economic and diplomatic costs?

In this episode: 

Host: Imran Khan

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Several senior politicians have been detained in a wave of arrests. The government says it's just the beginning. But is this about graft, or is politics involved?

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Host: Imran Khan

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The Democratic Republic of Congo takes Rwanda to the International Court of Justice. Kinshasa seeks to hold Kigali responsible for the war in the eastern DRC. But can international law help end one of Africa's longest running conflicts?

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Host: James Bays

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Crimea under a state of emergency. The move comes as Ukraine intensifies attacks on the Russian-controlled region. Kyiv says its aim is to press Moscow to end the war. But is that realistic? And why is Crimea so critical to the wider conflict?

In this episode: 

Leonid Ragozin, independent journalist who focuses on Russia, Ukraine and Eastern Europe.

Yulia Kazdobina, Senior Fellow in the Security Studies Program at the Ukrainian Prism Foreign Policy Council.

Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security at the University of Birmingham.

Host: James Bays

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Death and destruction after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela. The disaster comes just months after U.S. forces abducted the former president. So, how may that impact the flow of aid from Washington? And what kind of politics are at play?

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Host: James Bays

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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has wrapped up his three-day tour of the Gulf. Regional states want a greater say in security--after coming under attack during the Iran war. So, can Washington rebuild trust with its regional allies? And will Gulf states be able to steer the future of the Strait of Hormuz?

In this episode: 

Host:James Bays

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Benjamin Netanyahu says he's grateful to the US for its military aid but that it's time for Israel to build its own weapons-production capacity. The Israeli prime minister's announcement comes as tensions grow over the US agreement with Iran. But demand soars for Israel's weapons — its arms exports hit a record $19 billion last year. Supporters say that it strengthens Israel's ability to stand on its own. Can Israel afford to lose its greatest ally?

In this episode: 

Host: Folly Bah Thibault

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Keir Starmer is the latest to step down, after nearly two years in office. He'd been expected to put an end to the political chaos. So, what went wrong? And what does it mean for the future of the UK?

In this episode: 

Host: Imran Khan

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The US and Iran have finished the first round of talks with an agreement on a roadmap to a final deal.

But is there enough trust to end the conflict?

In this episode: 

Host:Anna Burns-Francis 

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Iranian armed forces say they've closed the Strait of Hormuz after Israeli attacks on Lebanon, just days after an agreement with the U.S. reopen it. Disruption to the crucial waterway has had a huge economic impact worldwide. So, what happens next? 

In this episode: 

Host:Tom McRae

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A landslide win, only two years ago - yet now UK prime minister Keir Starmer's resisting calls to step down. The return to parliament of Andy Burnham makes a leadership challenge more likely.  What's gone wrong so fast, for Starmer? And why so much turmoil at the top of British politics? 

In this episode: 

Host:Per Nyberg

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Fury from Israeli ministers over the agreement US President Donald Trump has signed with Iran. 
And a sharp rebuke in response from his vice president JD Vance. What are the implications for Israel and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu? 

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Host:Per Nyberg

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China calls for stronger representation for the Global South. It warns that the international rules-based order is at a critical crossroads. Beijing says it has a solution to a more equitable system. But does it have the leverage and tools to enforce it?

In this episode: 

Steve Tsang, Director of the SOAS China Institute

Cobus van Staden, Head of Research at the China-Global South Project

Allen Carlson, Associate Professor in the Government Department at Cornell University

Host:Sami Zeidan

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Kyiv has just started formal talks to join the bloc. It comes after Moscow declined an offer of direct talks to end the war. So, would membership protect Ukraine? And what would it mean for Europe?

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Host:Imran Khan

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An agreement between Washington and Tehran has all but ended the Iran war, both claiming victory despite the huge cost. Among that is damage to Iranian relationships with its Gulf neighbours, which it attacked. So, what has Iran won and lost in the region from this war? 

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Host: Scott McLean 

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The UK says it's banning access to social media for those under 16. Its government argues it's the right choice to protect young people from online harm. But will this policy work? And how will it be enforced?

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Host: Scott McLean

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The annual G7 summit is set to be held in France. But this time, differences within the group are growing. From tensions in the Middle East to the war in Ukraine, can the G7 help resolve global crises as geopolitical realities shift?

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Host: Scott McLean

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The European Union's new migration pact is now in force,, tightening border controls and overhauling asylum rules. Will it reduce migration to Europe? And what does it reveal about the political forces shaping the bloc?

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Host: Anna Francis-Burns

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Donald Trump says a new agreement with Iran is within reach. Tehran insists key issues remain unresolved. So is a deal finally close? What would it mean for tensions in the region? And if an agreement is signed, can it survive the political pressures on both sides?

In this episode: 

Host: Sami Zeidan

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The nine countries believed to hold nuclear weapons have spent a record $119bn on their arsenals. The US budget was more than all the others combined, according to an anti-proliferation group. So why the huge surge? And what does it mean for the future of disarmament?

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Host:Folly Bah Thibault

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Turmoil in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. A banned group has been protesting against a court ruling that kept in place legislative representation for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. What are the political implications of the demonstrations?

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Host:Imran Khan

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Chinese President Xi Jinping visits North Korea. Beijing is Pyongyang's main political and economic backer. Xi has voiced his opposition to what he called hegemonism and power politics. So, how could his visit shape geopolitics in the region?

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Host: Scott McLean

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Protests in the UK after the release of police video of an 18-year-old stabbing victim handcuffed by officers after his attacker alleged racial abuse. The case has caused outrage with the Prime Minister rejecting claims of police bias against white people. So, why are racial issues so prominent now in the UK? 

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Host: Imran Khan

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Armenians are voting in pivotal parliamentary elections. With Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan facing pro-Russia rivals, why is the outcome being watched so closely in Brussels, Moscow and Washington?

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Host: Anna Burns-Francis 

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The US has announced another ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. But Israeli strikes continue and Hezbollah remains engaged. Can the truce hold, and what lies ahead for Lebanon?

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Host: Sami Zeidan 

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The head of the World Health Organization seems confident and says there's hope. But with an already volatile security situation in the region, what are the risks of the virus spreading?

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Host: Folly Bah Thibault

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A proposal to tighten EU migration policy. Negotiators from the European Parliament and Council have provisionally agreed on a new deal. It includes the deportation to third countries of people whose applications are rejected. But where would that leave the rights of those seeking safe haven in Europe?

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Host:Tom McRae

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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? 

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Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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Israel continues killing Palestinians in Gaza and threatens to seize more of the Strip - all in breach of October's ceasefire deal. Attacks go on everyday, with more than 900 killed since then. So, is the US-backed peace process in serious danger? 

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Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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What's at stake in Ethiopia's elections? The governing party is seeking to cement its power, but in a country embroiled in conflicts and deeply fragmented, will this vote solve Ethiopia's many woes? And how are these elections viewed across the Horn of Africa?

In this episode: 

Samuel Getachew, Journalist and Ethiopian politics and security commentator.

Martin Plaut, Senior Research Fellow, King’s College London.

Bizuneh Yimenu, Lecturer in Comparative Politics, Queen's University Belfast. 

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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NATO says it's ready to defend allied territory against Russian attacks. Ukraine warns Moscow is preparing for a major aerial assault, and appeals for more military support. Both sides seem confident they are advancing on the battlefield. So, is the war entering a new phase?

In this episode: 

Olesia Horiainova - Co-founder of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Centre

Donald Jensen - Adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University  

Alexey Muraviev - Russian defence and security specialist

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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France has repealed a controversial law called Code Noir, or Black Code. It classified people in its colonies as property. But why now? What does it mean for the millions of victims of French colonialism? 

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Host:Tom McRae

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What's behind the recent anti-migrant protests in South Africa? Thousands of foreign workers are under increasing pressure to leave the country. So, what's driving this anti-migrant sentiment that many have called xenophobic? And is politics involved? 

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Host: Tom McRae

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Israel intensifies its military action in Lebanon, killing and injuring dozens of people, despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Iran insists those attacks must also end as part of any deal with the United States. So, why is Israel ramping up its strikes?

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Host:James Bays

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In the first keynote policy statement of his papacy, Pope Leo has warned that artificial intelligence must be for the benefit of humanity, not geopolitical or corporate dominance. Will his views have any impact on big tech and governments? 

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Host: James Bays

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A possible US-Iran deal to end the conflict is taking shape. While mediators try to bridge some critical divides, Israeli officials are reportedly worried. What are their concerns? And will they throw a spanner in the works?

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Host:James Bays

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The Iran war has caused the worst energy crisis in history, according to the International Energy Agency. It's been politically unpopular in the US too ahead of crucial mid-term elections in November. So, even after it ends, could this war have long-lasting implications?  

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Host: James Bays

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The US and India are seeking to mend ties after a year of diplomatic see-saw...tariffs imposed then quickly scrapped because of the war in Iran. 

It's one example of how international relations and conflict have become more complex and interlinked in recent years. 

So, is pragmatism replacing ideology in today's diplomatic world? 

In this episode: 

Host: Scott McLean 

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Israel keeps up its attacks on Lebanon despite a ceasefire. The US has sanctioned nine people, including two Lebanese army officers accused of links to Hezbollah. It comes while Washington brokers more talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials. So, why these sanctions now?

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Host: Scott McLean 

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Detained and ridiculed by a senior Israeli minister. The mistreatment of Gaza flotilla activists has sparked global outrage. They were part of the latest attempt to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians. Most efforts have failed. So, what difference do flotillas make?

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Host: Tom McRae

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