Hassan Nasrallah’s killing and Mexico’s leadership change
Sep 30, 2024
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Hassan Nasrallah, the former secretary-general of Hezbollah, discusses his assassination and its expected impact on the Middle East's power dynamics. Meanwhile, Claudia Sheinbaum reflects on Mexico's historic leadership change as the country's first female president, juxtaposed against AMLO's legacy. The conversation also touches on Russia’s growing influence in West Africa and the ongoing humanitarian crises sparked by violence in Lebanon. There's a fascinating exploration of geopolitical alliances and the implications for global security.
The assassination of Hassan Nasrallah by Israel is likely to shift the geopolitical balance and escalate ongoing regional conflicts.
Claudia Sheinbaum's leadership as Mexico's first female president presents opportunities and challenges in continuing poverty reduction and infrastructure development efforts.
The rise of a new alliance in West Africa, turning toward Russia for support, underscores significant shifts in regional security dynamics and anti-terrorism strategies.
Deep dives
Hezbollah's Engagement in Warfare
Hezbollah, under Hassan Nasrallah, has made a significant decision to join the conflict initiated by Hamas, marking a critical escalation in the ongoing tensions in the region. As Israel responds with intensified military operations, the death of key Hezbollah figures has further complicated the dynamics, with Israeli forces recently striking deep within Beirut. The aftermath has left over a thousand individuals dead in Lebanon, prompting a humanitarian crisis that sees countless displaced people, many of whom are sleeping on the streets of Beirut. The Lebanese government's response has been deemed inadequate, relying heavily on volunteers and NGOs to assist those affected, as the authority struggles to address the escalating needs.
Legacy of Mexico's First Female President
Claudia Scheinbaum has stepped into her role as Mexico's first female president, following a significant tenure by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Obrador is lauded for his transformative policies aimed at poverty reduction and economic growth, lifting millions from poverty and achieving historical lows in income inequality. However, challenges remain, particularly in infrastructure development, with some projects lagging behind expectations. Scheinbaum's administration will face the difficult task of maintaining the momentum while addressing pressing issues such as immigration, security, and diplomatic relations, particularly with Spain, as tensions linger from historical grievances.
Emergence of New Alliances in West Africa
Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have distanced themselves from traditional Western allies and established a new alliance, seeking support from Russia to combat growing Islamist insurgencies. This shift includes withdrawing from regional agreements and forming a defense pact while also discussing the introduction of a shared currency. The military juntas in power have turned towards Russia, inviting its space agency to provide telecommunications and satellite support, aimed at improving surveillance in these turbulent regions. However, the overall security situation remains precarious, with significant violence escalating amid the geopolitical shifts.
Indonesia's Political Landscape Amidst Local Elections
As Indonesia gears up for local elections, the spotlight is on the upcoming gubernatorial race in Jakarta, which carries implications for future presidential aspirations. The current administration of President Joko Widodo is transitioning power, with candidates such as Ridwan Kamil, a former architect and governor of West Java, leading the pack. This election is pivotal not only for Jakarta but also for setting the stage for future political dynamics, particularly as Jokowi's legacy continues to influence political maneuvering. As challenges related to urban flooding and infrastructure loom large, the new governor will need to navigate complex issues while also fostering the city’s development.
The Silent Pandemic of Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a significant global health challenge, with potential implications for millions of lives due to the ineffectiveness of standard treatment protocols. AMR arises primarily from the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, often exacerbated by inadequate healthcare infrastructure, especially in developing regions. The recent United Nations General Assembly focused on AMR, likening its urgency to climate-related crises, but emphasized the need for specific actions to combat these rising threats. Without concrete roadmaps and international cooperation, countries may struggle to tackle AMR effectively, underscoring the necessity for both preventive measures and responsible antibiotic use.
Hassan Nasrallah, the secretary-general of Hezbollah, was killed in a huge Israeli air attack on Beirut. Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, says that the assassination will change the balance of power in the region. What happens next? Also in the programme: Mexico bids farewell to Andrés Manuel López Obrador and welcomes its first-female president, Claudia Sheinbaum; Russia eyes a satellite deal in West Africa; and Jakarta braces for a mayoral election. Plus, we discuss the UN’s meeting on the “slow-motion pandemic” and we head to Ibiza Town for a gastronomic tour.