In this engaging discussion, Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, analyzes the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, highlighting potential escalations and global implications. Jeremy Page, the Asia diplomatic editor, explores the challenging landscape for India's Congress party amid elections, questioning its future strength against the BJP. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to the first foreign-born grand champion of sumo, sharing insights into his journey through cultural barriers to achieve greatness in Japan's traditional sport.
Israel responded to Iranian attacks with a limited symbolic strike, leading to heightened regional tensions.
India's Congress party struggles against the BJP due to ideological differences and organizational inefficiencies.
Deep dives
Tensions Escalate Between Israel and Iran
Israel responded to an Iranian drone and missile strike with a limited symbolic strike reportedly targeting a military base in Isfahan, Iran. Despite limited official details, Iran activated air defenses and suspended flights. Rumors about attacks on nuclear sites were debunked, leading to heightened oil prices amid regional tensions.
Challenges Faced by India's Congress Party
India's Congress party struggles ideologically against the BJP's Hindu nationalism and development focus. Organizational inefficiencies, such as poor leadership decisions and message discipline issues, hinder its political impact. Rahul Gandhi's leadership qualities and lack of administrative experience pose internal challenges for the party.
Akibono: The Foreign Sumo Grand Champion
Akibono, the first foreign-born Yokozuna in Japan, brought significant changes to sumo wrestling. His dominance and impact led to restrictions on foreign wrestler numbers to maintain Japanese representation. A proponent of opening up sumo traditions, he retired feeling unfulfilled from making broader rule changes due to traditional resistance.
A missile has reportedly struck a site in the Islamic Republic. If this is retaliation for Iran’s most recent attacks, then it is a muted response. But is there still a risk of escalation? As India’s election kicks off, a look into why the opposition is likely to have a poor showing (09:07). And, a tribute to the first foreign-born grand champion of sumo (19:15).