The Inside Story Podcast

Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping have met more than 40 times in the last 10 years, and Putin's latest visit to China comes as Russia's dependence on Beijing has increased due to sanctions imposed over its invasion of Ukraine. So, could this deepening friendship lead to a shift in alliances and the global balance of power? 

In this episode:

Host: Elizabeth Puranam

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Donald Trump has accepted a challenge to face off against President Joe Biden in two TV debates, setting the stage for the US Presidential Election. But will they actually take place? And what difference could they make in the race to the White House?

In this episode:

Host: Elizabeth Puranam

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Angry protests in Georgia. The Parliament has approved a so-called 'foreign agents' bill.
Critics say it steers the country away from democracy, by adopting a Russian-style system. So what's next for Georgia? And could this end its aspirations to join the EU?

In this episode:

Host: Tom McRae

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A predicted sharp right turn. From Italy to France, Germany and the Netherlands, right-wing and far-right parties have made significant gains across Europe ahead of June's parliamentary elections. So, what's at stake? And what are the consequences for the continent and the world?

In this episode:

Host: Folly Bah Thibault 

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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his troops are locked in fierce battles in northeastern Ukraine, where the Russian army is taking control of villages and attacking energy facilities. How significant is this latest Russian offensive in Kharkiv?

In this episode:

Host: Sami Zeidan

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Voters are going to the polls in Indian-administered Kashmir. It's the first parliamentary elections since Narendra Modi's government cancelled the region's partial autonomy in 2019. And for the first time in years, people aren't boycotting the vote.The prime minister says repealing Kashmir's special status has helped integrate it with the rest of the country. He also says it's brought peace and development after decades of separatist violence. Why then has Modi's party not nominated a candidate to contest the three seats in the Muslim-majority region?

In this episode:

Host: Laura Kyle

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Overwhelming support at the UN General Assembly for Palestine's bid for full membership. It comes as condemnation of Israel's war on Gaza increases. But the US says it will veto the motion again at the Security Council. So what difference could the resolution make?

In this episode:

Host: Neave Barker 

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China's president Xi Jinping has wrapped up his first trip to Europe in five years, visiting France, Serbia and Hungary. So, what did he achieve during this tour?

In this episode:

Host: Neave Barker 

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Joe Biden has issued the strongest warning yet over a potential ground invasion of Rafah by Israeli forces, threatening to stop supplying arms which have been part of the United States' efforts 'to secure Israel'. So, what's behind Biden's warning?

In this episode:

Host: Neave Barker 

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Israel's seizure of the Rafah Crossing worsens an already dire situation for 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza. Their last gateway to the outside world, is now closed. Why has Israel defied the US over this? And what could the consequences be for all sides?

In this episode:

Host: Tom McRae

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Russia's president Vladimir Putin has been installed for a fifth term with his hold on power firmer than ever. But the war in Ukraine has led to the worst relations with the West since the Cold War. So what will six more years of Putin mean for Russia and the world?

In this episode:

Host: Tom McRae

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Al Jazeera banned in Israel. The government's move condemned by the network as a criminal act against international and humanitarian law. Al Jazeera has shown the realities of what's happening in Gaza. But what's behind this ban? And how effective will it be?

In this episode:

Host: Tom McRae

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After a landslide win in the last general election, the UK's governing Conservative Party's support collapses in local elections in England. Gains for the Labour Party - dented however by its stance on the war on Gaza. So, how significant are these election results?

In this episode:

Host: Neave Barker 

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For years, Israel and Turkey had been crucial trade partners. It was a commercial relationship worth nearly 7-billion dollars a year. But Israel's war on Gaza changed all that. The Turkish government has been demanding a halt to the violence that's killed nearly 35,000 Palestinians. Ankara has now announced a total trade ban until Israel agrees to a ceasefire. But has President Recep Tayyip Erdogan acted under domestic pressure, after a setback in local elections was blamed partly for continuing to do business with Israel? And how will this affect the economies of both sides? 

In this episode:

Host: Neave Barker 

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Successive US administrations across the political divide have backed Israel since it was created in 1948.  But polls suggest that unequivocal public support now appears to be waning, especially among the young.
A Pew Research study two years ago indicated that only 41% in the age-group of 18 to 29 had a favourable view of Israel. And many from this generation are now protesting in university campuses against the war on Gaza. 
So, is the anger among young Americans highlighting a generational divide in Washington's policy towards Israel? And what are the reasons reshaping public opinion?

In this episode:

Clair Davenport-- Student, Columbia Journalism School 
Julie Norman-- Deputy Director, UCL Centre on US Politics
Keir Milburn-- Author, 'Generation Left' 

Host:  Nick Clark

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Standoffs between police and Palestine solidarity protesters on US college campuses are intensifying. Violent confrontations are giving rise to fears of outside interference. Politicians are taking sides. How will the protests affect President Joe Biden's bid for a second term?

In this episode:

Niambi Carter -- Associate Professor, University of Maryland 
Rami Khouri -- Political analyst  
James Davis -- Republican strategist  

Host:  Nastasya Tay

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The 'time is now' -  Antony Blinken striking an urgent tone in his attempts to get a ceasefire in Gaza. America's top diplomat says a strong proposal is on the table, as he makes his seventh visit to the Middle East since fighting began in October. That's as indirect negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, carry on in Egypt. But questions are being raised about the chances of an agreement after Israeli Prime Minister reiterated his plan to invade Rafah. Can Benjamin Netanyahu's threat disrupt talks to end the war ?

In this episode:

Daniel Levy, President, US Middle East Project. 

Nour Odeh, Political Analyst. 

William Lawrence, Professor, American University. 

Host: Nick Clark 

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A political standoff in Georgia. The government says a bill it's trying to pass for a second time would regulate foreign influence and protect the country's sovereignty. But critics are protesting it would crush freedoms. European leaders have criticised the bill. Can the crisis undermine Georgia's ambition to join the European Union?

In this episode:

Mariam Lashkhi, Member, Georgian Parliament.

Thornike Gordadze, Fellow, Jacques Delors Institute.

Khatia Dekanoidze, Member, Georgian Parliament. 

Host: Laura Kyle

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All eyes are on the International Criminal Court. It's investigating Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank. And Israeli officials fear it's preparing to issue arrest warrants against the Prime Minister and other senior figures. So what would legal action mean for the country and its leaders?

Host: Nick Clark and Guests.

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A wasteland of rubble. The UN says clearing the debris from Israel's war on Gaza will be a huge challenge that could take 14 years. Unexploded munitions will also make this a dangerous task. So, what will this mean for the millions of Palestinians who hope to return to their homes?

In this episode:

Jonathan Guthrie, Director of Operations, Norwegian People's Aid.

Federico Dessi, Middle East Director, Humanity and Inclusion.

Raja Khalidi, Director General, Palestine Economic Policy Research Institute.

Host: Folly Bah Thibault

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30 years of Freedom. South Africans are marking three decades since the end of apartheid. But the country is facing major challenges as it heads into an election So, has the governing ANC failed to live up to its promises?

In this episode:

Host: Neave Barker

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From coast to coast, anger is rising in US universities against Israel's war on Gaza. 
Students are defying a crackdown and demanding their schools cut off links with Israel. 
But have these protests become politicised? And is freedom of speech under threat?

In this episode:

Host:  Laura Kyle

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There's a global outcry after the discovery of more mass graves in two Gaza hospitals. Israel is under pressure to provide answers. But will it? And how will it be held to account?

In this episode:

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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How can we reduce food insecurity? A report by 16 agencies finds the lives of nearly 300 million people globally are in danger. And that spreading conflict, rather than climate change, is the biggest cause. Has enough been done to address the crisis?

In this episode:

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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The first senior Israeli official has resigned over Hamas' October attack. The military intelligence chief took responsibility for major security failures. What message does it send during Israel's war on Gaza? And could it be the first step towards accountability?

In this episode:

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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Rafah in southern Gaza, the last refuge for 1.5 million Palestinians, is sheltering in fear of an Israeli ground invasion. The US and European allies are all opposed. So will Israel push ahead regardless? What would be the consequences?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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The US House of Representatives agrees to a 61 billion dollar aid package to Ukraine after months of political wrangling. More than a-third will go to weapons to battle Russian forces.
Will this help end the war? Or will it just prolong the fighting?

In this episode:

Chris Hedges, Former Middle East Bureau Chief, New York Times.

Anatol Lieven, Director, Eurasia Programme, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft.

Patrick Bury, Defence and Security Analyst.

Host: Tom McRae

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Six weeks of voting in an election where India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third term. Opponents say repression and sectarianism have increased under his leadership. So, what are the issues for Indians? And will this election be free and fair?

In this episode:

Mohan Krishna, Spokesperson, Bharatiya Janata Party or BJP.

Arshpreet Khadial, Chief Spokesperson, Indian National Congress.

Sravasti Dasgupta - Reporter, The Wire. 

Host: Sami Zeidan

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Iran has shot down Israeli drones in the latest confrontation, igniting global calls for restraint. Both east and west are fearful of what more conflict could mean for the region and the world. So, what are Iran and Israel thinking? And what's next?

In this episode:

Mohammad Marandi, Dean of Faculty of World Studies at the University of Tehran.

Gideon Levy, Columnist for the Haaretz Newspaper.

Roxane Farmanfarmaian, Professor of Modern Middle East Politics at the University of Cambridge.

Host: Elizabeth Puranam

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Federal leaders are invited to discuss insecurity and constitutional changes with the aim of ending divisions in Somalia. But with Somali politics so deeply fragmented, is national unity possible? And what role do Somalia's neighbours play in achieving a more peaceful future?

In this episode:

Abdi Ismail Samatar, Somali Senator for Somaliland.

Afyare Elmi, Research Professor at City University of Mogadishu.

Omar Mahmood, Senior Analyst for Eastern Africa at the International Crisis Group.

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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Why is Pakistan expelling Afghan refugees? Afghanistan says the move is illegal. Pakistan insists it's for security reasons. Is this politically motivated? And how will Taliban officials deal with it?

In this episode:

Nilofer Afridi Qazi, Social Worker by Trade. 

Faiz Zaland, Professor, Political Science, Kabul University. 

Devon Cone, Senior Advocate, Women and Girls, Refugees International.

Host: James Bays

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A conflict with no end in sight. The war in Sudan is taking a heavy toll on civilians, with millions forced from their homes and on the verge of famine. What does it take to stop the humanitarian crisis? And can diplomacy stop the fighting?

In this episode:

Hala Al-Karib, Regional Director, Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa.

Duncan Riddell, Norwegian Refugee Council. 

Host: James Bays

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Will Israel respond to Iran's first ever direct attack? The Israeli government is under pressure not to retaliate, but says it's weighing its options. What could they be? And what would a direct confrontation between the regional rivals mean for an already volatile Middle East?

In this episode:

Randa Slim, Senior Fellow and Director, Conflict Resolution, Middle East Institute.

Robert Geist Pinfold, Lecturer, Peace and Security, Durham University.

Host: James Bays

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For the first time ever, a direct Iranian attack on Israel - a barrage of drones and missiles fired in retaliation for a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria. Most were shot down, but the world watches with deepening concern. Who'll be saying what to whom to try to bring calm?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Iran is threatening retaliation for the Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria. The US talks up the possibility of an imminent strike by Tehran and vows to defend Israel. How dangerous is the situation? What's the risk of a wider conflict?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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'Humanity has only two years left to save the world' - according to the UN's climate chief.
As more people worldwide deal with record-breaking temperatures and natural disasters, what more can be done to cut emissions and cool our heating planet?

In this episode:

Suzanne Lynch, Associate Editor at Politico, Global Playbook Author.

Host: Laura Kyle

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The three sons and four grandchildren of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh have been assassinated in Gaza. Their names added to a long list of people killed by Israeli targeted operations worldwide. So, why does Israel pursue such a policy? And what impact does it have?

In this episode:

Colin Clarke, Director of Research at The Soufan Group.

Host: Sohail Rahman

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Germany denies supplying Israel with weapons of war, yet it's one of the staunchest supporters of Israel's war on Gaza. What's behind Germany's position? And what are the long-term consequences for its diplomacy in the Middle East?

In this episode:

Shir Hever, Director of the Alliance for Justice between Israelis and Palestinians.

Host: Laura Kyle

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Germany is complicit in Israel's genocide in Gaza and that must end, according to Nicaragua's argument before the UN's top court. Germany says Nicaragua has a one-sided view of the war in Gaza. So, what does this case mean for countries supplying Israel with weapons?

In this episode:

Kenneth Roth, Sisiting professor at the Princeton School for Public and International Affairs. 

Host: James Bays

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Is Myanmar's military losing ground? A daring attack by rebel groups is seen as a turning point. The country has been in turmoil since a coup three years ago. So, is Myanmar on a path to civil war? And what would that mean for the region?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Yet, another round of talks to reach a truce in Gaza. Repeated attempts have so far failed to end Israel's 6-month war on the strip. With both Israel and Hamas sticking to their positions, will this round be any different? And is a deal even possible?

In this episode:

Dan Perry, Author, "Ask Questions Later", Substack.

Munir Nuseibah, Professor, International Law, Al Quds University.

Hafsa Halawa, Non-resident Fellow, Middle East Institute.

Host: James Bays

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The sharpest criticism yet of Israel's actions in Gaza among its allies with even the US joining the global chorus of condemnation. After more than 33,000 Palestinian deaths, Israel's killing of seven international aid workers triggered the west's most furious response to date. So how have events this week affected Israel's international standing?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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A deal between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland has further worsened diplomatic relations with Somalia. Its government is furious at the agreement that would give landlocked Ethiopia access to the Red Sea. Why is this dispute worsening? And could there be wider consequences?

In this episode:

Host: James Bay

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A state of emergency has been declared in Zimbabwe due to extreme drought putting millions of people in danger. As wars rage in Gaza and Ukraine, there's another battle: climate change, which arguably makes fewer headlines. So, is the world paying enough attention to this global threat?

In this episode:

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom 

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US president Joe Biden says he's outraged by Israel's killing of international aid workers in Gaza. The seven victims join the nearly 200 Palestinian relief workers killed by Israeli forces in the past few months. Is attacking aid supplies one of the tactics in Israel's genocidal war?

In this episode:

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Al Jazeera targeted. Benjamin Netanyahu says the network will no longer broadcast from Israel because it threatens national security. The channel says that's inflammatory slander. What's really behind the ban? And what does it mean for Israel's war on Gaza?

In this episode:

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Will Narendra Modi serve a third term? The Indian prime minister has launched his party's campaign for the upcoming elections - boasting of his achievements in the past decade. But what about his controversial policies on Hindu nationalism?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Will Ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel serve in its military? The government is under growing pressure to end their decades-long exemption. That's as calls are growing for ALL groups to join the army, as the war rages on in Gaza. But what would a change mean for Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Turks go to the polls again, this time for municipal elections. President Erdogan's party hopes to re-take control of major cities, while the opposition wants to cement gains made in 2019. But what shapes these elections? And what direction could Turkiye take?

In this episode:

Ahmet Kasim Han, Professor, Political Science and International Relation, Beykoz University.

Vehbi Baysan, Assistant Professor, İbn Haldun University.

Mehmet Celik, Editorial Coordinator, Daily Sabah Newspaper.

Host: James Bays

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The International Court of Justice tells Israel to allow supplies into Gaza - saying famine is setting in there. But its previous orders in the war have so far been ignored. So, what's the significance of this latest decision? And can it help Gaza's people?

In this episode:

Host: James Bay

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A new law in Florida will restrict or ban children from social media. Supporters say it gives them much needed protection. But it's opposed by tech corporations, and free speech and privacy advocates. So, what are the arguments for and against it? And what's the rest of the world doing?

In this episode:

Host: Nick Clark

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A report by a UN special rapporteur accuses Israel of genocidal acts in Gaza. The entire area has been classified as a military objective, making all Palestinians there potential targets. So, how does the report reflect the reality on the ground?

In this episode:

Host: Mohammed Jamjoom

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Israel reacts with fury as the United Nations Security Council votes for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The US abstained and didn't use its veto. What does the resolution mean for the Palestinians, Israel and its allies?

In this episode:

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Another blow to UNRWA. A new US law includes a year-long ban on funding to the UN agency that supports Palestinian refugees. Washington stands with Israel - accusing some employees of taking part in Hamas' attacks. What does this mean for the people of Gaza?

In this episode:

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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How will Russia retaliate to the mass shooting in Moscow? An affiliate of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant has claimed responsibility. The group has targeted Russia before. What are the implications of this latest attack?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Can the United Nations Security Council agree on a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza? It's rejected the latest text drafted by the US. Other members will present a new one. But how likely is it to pass? And if it does, how would it be enforced?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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The US Secretary of State is on his sixth visit to the Middle East since Israel started its war on Gaza. So what has Antony Blinken got to offer this time? And can Washington pressure Israel's government to change direction?

In this episode:

Host: Nick Clark

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Vietnam's president is being forced out after only a year in office. Vo Van Thuong is the latest high-profile figure to be toppled in a country important to both China and the West.
So why has he gone? And what are the international implications?

In this episode:

Host: Rob Matheson

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Israel's war on Gaza has relied mostly on western arms and technology to kill around thirty-two thousand Palestinians. And despite growing opposition, those weapons keep flowing. So who's supplying Israel with the tools for genocide? And could there be legal consequences?

In this episode:

Host: Elizabeth Puranam 

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 Elizabeth Puranam 

Famine in Gaza. Israel's genocidal assault is continuing after five months of slaughter, mostly with western supplied weapons. International pressure has amounted to little more than words. What can bring Gaza's suffering to an end?

In this episode:

Host: Cyril Vanier

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Niger has cut military ties with the United States - a setback from what was once a crucial ally in West Africa. It follows other leaders in the Sahel in forging closer ties with Russia, after taking power in military coups. So, what impact will this have on the region?

In this episode:

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Could Haiti be on the brink of collapse? Gangs control most of the capital, people are starving as humanitarian aid is blocked, and a political vacuum is only worsening the crisis. What's caused this unprecedented chaos in Haiti? And what's the way out?

In this episode:

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Under growing US pressure to reform the Palestinian Authority, leader Mahmoud Abbas has appointed a new prime minister. Other factions have criticised the move. Israel's war in Gaza is still raging, so what purpose will he serve? And is the PA still relevant?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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Vladimir Putin is running for a fifth term in Russia's presidential election as the war in Ukraine is entering its third year.  At home, he's accused of cracking down on political opponents. So, what would another six years of Putin mean for Russia?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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A US bill has passed that could make the Chinese platform unavailable in the country. The reason given is that Tiktok is a national security threat. But what about freedom of speech? And how will Beijing respond?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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US intelligence agencies have concluded Hamas cannot be destroyed - a core aim of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's merciless onslaught on Gaza. So why is the US continuing to arm Israel - to fight a war it doesn't believe can be won?

In this episode:

Host: James Bays

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China's plans for the coming year have been set out at its National People's Congress.
The fortunes of the planet's second-largest economy are now of global interest - as are its political intentions. So what's in store for China and the rest of the world?

In this episode:

Einar Tangen, Senior Fellow at the Taihe Institute, Beijing.

Bert Hofman, Professor, East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore.

Vicky Pryce, Chief Economic Adviser, Centre for Economics and Business Research. 

Host: Jonah Hull

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Pope Francis calls for talks and an end to the war in Ukraine - in comments rebuffed by Kyiv but welcomed in Moscow. The war which has cost thousands of lives continues with little movement by either side. Should Ukraine talk or fight on?

In this episode:

Volodymyr Yermolenko, Chief Editor, Ukraine World.

Pavel Felgenhauer, Independent Russian Foreign Policy Analyst, Moscow.

Patrick Bury, Senior Lecturer, University of Bath.

Host: Jonah Hull

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As Gaza's people face starvation from Israel's war and siege, the US and EU reveal plans to send supplies. But the US and EU members have also been busy supplying weapons to Israel. Will their new initiatives help Gaza? Or are they just a PR exercise for US President Joe Biden and his EU allies?

In this episode:

Mansour Shouman, Aid activist who has been in Gaza throughout the war until two weeks ago.

Dr Mads Gilbert, Professor of Emergency Medicine, University of Tromso. 

Marwan Bishara, Al Jazeera's Senior Political Analyst.

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Why can’t Nigeria stop the kidnapping of schoolchildren? Almost 300 pupils are missing after the latest in years of similar attacks. The mass abductions are blamed on armed groups and bandits demanding ransom. So how is the Nigerian government failing to deal with the long-running problem?

In this episode:

Kemi Okenyodo, Founder and Executive Director, Partners West Africa.

Bulama Bukarti, Senior Fellow, Tony Blair Institute for Global change.

Sadeeq Garba Shehu, Security and Defence Consultant.

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra

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Joe Biden lashed out at Donald Trump during his State of the Union address, who'll almost certainly be his election rival again in November. The US President also came up with an initiative to get food into Gaza. But how many will be convinced by what Biden had to say? And was the address also an early election campaign speech? 

In this episode:

Host: Jonah Hull

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Angry farmers in Poland and elsewhere are protesting against cheap imports from Ukraine, and governments are under pressure to take action. So, what does this mean for Ukraine as its war with Russia enters its third year? And is European public support for it faltering? 

In this episode:

Host: Jonah Hull

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Will Joe Biden and Donald Trump face each other in the US election in November? The current and former presidents swept polls in the Super Tuesday vote. Now, they hope to get their parties' nominations. But what are American voters' priorities this time round?

In this episode:

James Zogby, President, Arab American Institute.

Arshad Hasan, Democratic Party Political Strategist. 

Rina Shah, Conservative Political Adviser.

Host: Adrian Finighan

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Parts of Haiti are under a state of emergency following an escalation in violence. Gangs have taken control of most of the capital, and they want Prime Minister Ariel Henry out. So, what's behind this unrest? And what will it take to restore long-lasting stability to the country?

In this episode:

Francois Guillaume, Haitian Ambassador to Qatar.

Erwan de Cherisey, Principal, Janes Defence Intelligence Company.

Vanda Felbab-Brown, Director of Initiative on Non-state Armed Actors, Brookings Institution.

Ralph Emmanuel Francois, Haitian Social Entrepreneur and Activist.

Host: Jonah Hull

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The US has vetoed every resolution at the UN Security Council calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. That's since Israel launched its war in October. So is Washington misusing its veto power? And does the council's voting system need to change?

In this episode:

Richard Gowan, UN Director, International Crisis Group.

Mouin Rabbani, Non-resident fellow, Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies.

Carne Ross, Adviser, UN Summit of the Future.

Host: Adrian Finighan

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The U.S. begins airdropping food into Gaza as Palestinians there face starvation. But aid agencies say it's an ineffective way to deliver much-needed assistance. So can the airlift make a big difference for the many who are desperate to eat?

In this episode:

Bushra Khalidi, Policy Lead, Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel, Oxfam.

Tamer Qarmout, Professor, Doha Institute, Graduate Studies.

Aseel Baidoun, Acting Director, Advocacy and Campaigns, Medical Aid for Palestinians.

Host: Adrian Finighan

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Calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza are growing louder. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains defiant - insisting his military won't back down until Hamas is wiped out. So, what does this mean for ceasefire negotiations? And how serious is Netanyahu about diplomatic efforts?

In this episode:

Yossi Beilin - Former Israeli Justice Minister.

Ibrahim Fraihat - Associate Professor, Conflict Resolution, Doha Institute.

Mohammed Cherkaoui - Professor, Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy, George Mason University.

Host: Jonah Hull

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There's renewed debate in Israel about ultra-Orthodox Jews being exempted from military service. With the war on Gaza escalating, there are now calls to remove that exemption.  But what will take to do it? And how much politics is at play in this debate?

In this episode:

Efraim Inbar, President of the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security.

Akiva Eldar, political analyst and former columnist for Haaretz newspaper.

Yehoshua Pfeffer, community Rabbi and executive member of Netzah Yehuda.

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra 

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Iranians are choosing a new legislature, and many hope it will pave the way for reform. But with a strict vetting system and anti-establishment candidates barred from running, is change possible in the Islamic Republic? What role does parliament actually play? 

In this episode:

Mohammad Marandi, Professor at the University of Tehran and and Iranian political analyst.

Roxane Farmanfarmaian, Professor of International Relations and Modern Middle East Politics at the University of Cambridge.

Adnan Tabatabai, Iranian affairs analyst and chief executive of CARPO, a think tank focused on the Middle East.

Host: Hashem Ahelbarra 

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Russia is making gains in the war with Ukraine, and the West is considering its response. France has not ruled out sending troops to Ukraine, but the idea's rejected by its allies. So is the West's existing support enough for Kyiv? And what else might it need to face Russia?

In this episode:

Peter Zalmayev, Executive Director, Eurasia Democracy Initiative.

Oana Lungescu, Former Principal Spokesperson, NATO. 

Alexander Clackson, Founder, Global Political Insight.

Host: Nastasya Tay

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After attacking Gaza for nearly five months, the Israeli prime minister is focusing on Rafah. Benjamin Netanyahu says a ground offensive is vital to eliminating Hamas -- and any ceasefire would only delay the inevitable. But what about the 1.5 million Palestinians trapped there?

In this episode:

Akbar Shahid Ahmed, Senior Diplomatic Correspondent, Huffpost.

Najla Shawa, Country Relations Manager, Oxfam.

Host:Laura Kyle

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Heavy fighting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee for their lives. And the conflict between the government and M23 fighters has escalated in recent weeks in the north east. So what's driving rebel activity? And can peace be achieved?

In this episode:

Host:Adrian Finighan

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Palestinian police escorting aid trucks in Gaza, are being regularly attacked by Israel's military. That's as tens of thousands of people are starving in the strip, and civil order is breaking down. Is Benjamin Netanyahu's government creating a security vacuum in Gaza - and if so, why?

In this episode:

Host:Dareen Abughaida 

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Tens of thousands dead on both sides and millions of Ukrainians displaced. As a third year of war begins, we examine what Russia has achieved since its full-scale invasion. So who's benefiting? And is this a war that can be won?

In this episode:

Pavel Felgenhauer, Defense Analyst, Moscow.

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

Hanna Shelest, Security Studies Program Director, 'Ukrainian Prism'.

Host:Laura Kyle 

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The consequences of Israel's war on Gaza is causing a maritime crisis in the Red Sea, one that has drawn in major powers like the United States, the UK and China. So, is the Red Sea becoming fully militarised? 

In this episode:

Betul Dogan-Akkas, Researcher at Ankara University.

Stavros Karamperidis, Head of the Maritime Transport Research Group at the University of Plymouth. 

Farea Al-Muslimi, Research fellow at Chatham House’s Middle East and North Africa Programme. 

Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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Israel is blamed for blocking aid deliveries to Gaza - an accusation the government denies. So, what mechanisms are in place for Israel to ensure food and humanitarian assistance reaches the millions of people the UN says are at risk of starvation?

In this episode:

Andreas Krieg, Associate Professor of Security Studies at King's College London.

Sarah Davies, Spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross in Israel and the Occupied Territories. 

Raymond Johansen, Secretary General of Norwegian People's Aid.

Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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Already under relentless Israeli bombardment for months, Palestinians in northern Gaza are also going hungry. The UN food agency has halted aid deliveries, saying civil order has collapsed. So, how can Israel be stopped from using starvation as a weapon of war?

In this episode:

Shaina Low, Communications Adviser, Noregian Refugee Council.

Nebal Farsakh, Spokesperson, Palestine Red Crescent Society.

Sara Pantuliano, Chief Exeuctive, ODI - A Humanitarian Policy Think Tank.

Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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South Sudan is facing a hunger catastrophe. The effects of civil war and natural disasters are compounded by an influx of refugees fleeing the conflict in neighbouring Sudan. So, how desperate is the situation? And who should step in to help South Sudan?

In this episode:

Angelina Nyajima, Executive Director, Hope Restoration South Sudan.

Alan Boswell, Horn of Africa Director, International Crisis Group.

Gemma Snowdon, Head of Communications, World Food Programme, South Sudan.

Host:Mohammed Jamjoom

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Israel is once again before the ICJ. This time for public hearings on the legal consequences of its occupation of Palestinian territories. It's more pressure while its military wages war on Gaza. But does Israel care about international justice? And what difference would a verdict make?

In this episode:

Riad Malki, Foreign minister, State of Palestine.

Ardi Imseis, Legal counsel, State of Palestine.

Nour Odeh, Palestinian Political Analyst.

Mehran Kamrava, Professor of Government, Georgetown University, Qatar.

Host:Adrian Finighan 

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Calls are growing louder in Israel for the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu - and for elections to be held. Many who were dissatisfied before the war on Gaza began are even more unhappy now with how the country is being led. So, can Netanyahu be toppled from what many say is his disastrous leadership?

In this episode:

Oren Ziv, Journalist and Commentator, +972 Magazine.

Thabet Abu Rass, Co-Executive Director, Abraham Initiatives.

Akiva Eldar, Political Analyst and Journalist.

Host:Adrian Finighan 

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World leaders blame Vladimir Putin for the death of his most outspoken critic. Will the unexplained passing in prison of Alexey Navalny change anything in Russia? Or will the voices of dissent become too afraid to challenge the power of the Kremlin?

In this episode:

Vladimir Sotnikov, Associate Professor, International Relations, Higher School of Economics University. 

Samuel Ramani, Associate Fellow, Royal United Services Institute.

Peter Nikitin, Russian Pro-Democracy Activist and Lawyer.

Host:Adrian Finighan 

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Israel has ramped up its strike on Hezbollah, killing civilians in Lebanon. Combined with the war on Gaza, could this exchange escalate into a regional one?

In this episode:

Gilbert Achcar, Professor of Development Studies and International Relations at SOAS.

Hala Jaber, Journalist and Author. 

Elijah J Magnier, Military analyst. 

Host:Adrian Finighan 

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Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are living under the never-ending threat of famine because of the shortage of humanitarian aid.  So, is the starvation of civilians being used by Israel as a weapon of war? 

In this episode:

Fidaa Al Araj, Food Security & Livelihood Co-ordinator, Oxfam.

Donatella Rovera, Senior Crisis Response Adviser, Amnesty International.

Dr Abdel-Mannan, a paediatric neurology doctor 

Host:Hashem Ahelbarra

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Yet, another inconclusive meeting to reach a deal between Hamas and Israel. It comes as the Israeli military is threatening a ground offensive in Rafah, at the southern tip of Gaza. So, does diplomacy still stand a chance in this war? And why does Rafah matter?

In this episode:

Robert Geist Pinfold, Lecturer, Peace and Security, Durham University.

Hafsa Halawa, Independent Political Consultant, Middle East, North Africa and the Horn of Africa.

Omar Rahman, Fellow, Middle East Council on Global Affairs.

Host:Hashem Ahelbarra

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The United Nations' top court has ordered Israel to prevent destruction in Gaza. Yet its military is razing entire neighbourhoods to the ground. Large swathes of the strip have become uninhabitable. So, what will it take for Israel to stop its war?

In this episode:

Ahmed Abofoul, Advocacy Officer, Al Haq.

Kate Mackintosh, Executive Director, University of California Los Angeles Law Promise Institute Europe. 

Mohammed Abu-Nimer, Chair, Abdula Aziz Said for Peace and Conflict Resolution,  American University.

Host:Hashem Ahelbarra

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Is Israel obstructing aid deliveries to Gaza? The UN says some Palestinians are on the brink of starvation. That's even after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to allow humanitarian assistance into Gaza. So, who can force it to comply?

In this episode:

Ardi Imseis, International Law Professor, Queen’s University. 

Chris Gunness, Former UNRWA Spokesperson.

Host:Hashem Ahelbarra

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Is Israel in breach of the UN court's ruling? The International Court of Justice ordered its military to end acts of genocide, as well as prevent incitement to commit genocidal acts. But with more Palestinians killed in Gaza every day, who can force Israel to comply?

In this episode:

Yousef al Hammash, Advocacy officer, Norwegian Refugee Council.

Neve Gordon, International Law Professor, Queen Mary University.

Host:Adrian Finighan

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An inconclusive general election in Pakistan - with rival former prime ministers Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif both claiming victory. Horsetrading between different parties will now follow on forming the next government. Who's likely to lead Pakistan next? And what does the outcome mean for the country with deep political divisions and serious economic problems?

In this episode:

Zulfi Bukhari, Chairman, Tehreek-e-Insaf Party.

Farzana Shaikh, Associate Fellow, Asia Pacific Programme, Chatham House. 

Haider Zaman Qureshi, Member, Central Executive Committee, Pakistan Peoples Party.

Host:  Adrian Finighan

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European organisations have no plans to ban Israel from events such as the UEFA football championships and Eurovision song contest, despite its war on Gaza. Why does Israel compete in Europe? And why are European organisations defending its continued participation?

In this episode:

Andrew Feinstein, Writer and campaigner.

Omar Barghouti, Co-founder of the Boycott, Divestments and Sanctions movement.

Chris Rose, Director of Amos Trust, a creative human rights organisation.

Host:  Adrian Finighan

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