Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new de facto leader of Syria and head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, shares his insights on the country's current state, claiming Syria is exhausted from war and poses no threat to its neighbors or the West. He discusses the aftermath of the Assad regime, emphasizing advancements in healthcare and education in Idlib while addressing concerns about his group's authoritarian practices. Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor, intricately navigates this complex landscape, exploring the need for dialogue with global powers amid evolving political dynamics.

In a captivating discussion, Jeremy Bowen, the BBC's International Editor and author, shares his insights on the escalating tensions in the Middle East following the October 7 attacks. He explores the historical complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the impact of key events like the Balfour Declaration. Bowen touches on the rise of Hamas and its implications for Palestinian politics, while emphasizing the enduring human desire for connection amidst conflict. His deep understanding sheds light on the region's troubled past and present.

In this engaging discussion, Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor, interviews Ahmed al-Sharaa, the newly emerged leader of HTS and the de facto ruler of Syria. They explore al-Sharaa's rapid rise from local rebel to influential leader in the wake of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The conversation delves into critical issues like governance reforms in Idlib, the respect for women's rights in Syria, and the challenges of uniting diverse factions. Al-Sharaa reveals his vision for a transformed Syria and the ethical foundations necessary for lasting change.

In this insightful discussion, Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor and seasoned expert on global affairs, delves into the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. He evaluates the potential for peace and the stirring tensions in Gaza. Bowen explores the shifting dynamics of U.S. influence, particularly the contrasting approaches of Biden and Trump, and considers how Iran's role may evolve amid regional changes. The complexities of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Saudi Arabia’s position round out this compelling examination of Middle Eastern politics.

Lyse Doucet and Jeremy Bowen discuss the aftermath of the Hamas attack on Khfar Azar kibbutz in southern Israel, violent attacks and retaliation, traumatic experiences of families in the conflict, and the complexities of hostage rescues and negotiations in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Jeremy Bowen, Daniel Levy, Lord Ricketts, and Ghada Karmi join this podcast to discuss the aftermath of the Israel-Gaza conflict, including the challenges in rebuilding, the potential consequences of removing Hamas leadership, advocating for a one-state solution, creating an equal rights regime, and the need for new leadership to prevent further escalation.

Lyse Doucet and Jeremy Bowen discuss the Israel-Gaza conflict, including the entry of aid into Gaza, US influence on Netanyahu, and the uniqueness of this conflict. They also delve into the significance of Al-Shifa Hospital and express skepticism towards government claims and intelligence failures. The ongoing war between Israel and Gaza is analyzed, along with its global implications. The podcast closes with remarks and podcast recommendations.

Jeremy Bowen, the International editor of BBC News, shares poignant insights on the first anniversary of the Hamas attacks, reflecting on the devastating impact in Israel and Gaza. He highlights the ongoing grief during memorial services and the complexities of resilience amid loss. Jonathan Bate, a Professor of English, tackles the alarming decline in reading among students, connecting it to digital distractions and emphasizing the importance of fostering literacy for mental health and critical thinking. It's a compelling discussion on both current events and education.

Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor, brings a wealth of experience from Jerusalem. Anna Foster, the Middle East correspondent, offers insights from Beirut, while Rusty Abu Aluf shares firsthand accounts from Gaza. They reflect on the year since the conflict escalated, discussing the human toll and the fragility of peace efforts. The emotional stories of families affected by violence are highlighted, revealing deep grief and a struggle to keep hope alive. The dire situation in Lebanon and the increasing tensions with Hezbollah are explored, showcasing the complexity of the ongoing crisis.

Jeremy Bowen, the BBC's international editor and seasoned expert in global affairs, joins the discussion on the newly brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. He delves into the unique implications of this agreement for Lebanon and Israel, contrasting it with the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The conversation highlights the geopolitical stakes, including Iran's influence and the roles of global leaders like Biden and Macron. Bowen also examines local sentiments and the challenges faced by the Lebanese army in maintaining peace, underscoring that addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is crucial for lasting stability.