Danny Citrinowicz, a former head of Iranian intelligence, analyzes Iran's provocative actions and possible Israeli retaliation. Kim Ghattas reports from Beirut on the fallout from Israel's military campaigns against Hezbollah. Bernard-Henri Lévy advocates for Western support of Israel, while Ta-Nehisi Coates shares insights from his time in Israel and the West Bank, calling attention to systemic inequalities reminiscent of apartheid. This dynamic discussion highlights the complexities of conflict and the urgent need for understanding diverse perspectives.

In a gripping discussion, Kim Ghattas, a distinguished Middle Eastern affairs expert and FT contributing editor, analyzes the fallout of Israel’s actions in Lebanon on Syria's landscape. She touches on the rebel advances in Aleppo and their implications for Assad’s brittle alliances with Russia and Iran. Ghattas delves into the evolving dynamics of regional powers, the shifting influence of Hezbollah, and the complex realities faced by civilians caught in conflict. The conversation also touches on the hope and resilience of Lebanese citizens amid ongoing chaos.

Kim Ghattas, a journalist and author on Middle Eastern dynamics, teams up with Salman Rushdie, a controversial author known for his fight against censorship. They dive into the historical animosity between Sunni Saudi Arabia and Shia Iran, sparked by the 1979 revolution. The discussion highlights how religious distortion fuels sectarian violence and cultural suppression. Rushdie’s experience with Iran's fatwa is linked to the rise of groups like Hezbollah and ISIS, illustrating the lasting impact of these geopolitical struggles.

CNN correspondent Jeremy Diamond gives an update on Israel's fight against Hamas. Former Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Nasser al-Kidwa discusses the need for a new Palestinian Authority to integrate Hamas. Journalist Kim Ghattas talks about the possibility of Hezbollah joining the war. Bill Maher discusses US politics, social media, cancel culture, and higher education.

Alon Pinkus, a former Israeli diplomat and columnist, joins journalist Kim Ghattas to dissect the recent Iran-Saudi diplomatic thaw, notably brokered by China. They discuss how this agreement signals a shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics and challenges for U.S. influence. Pinkus explores Israel's potential constitutional crisis driven by its own domestic turmoil. Ghattas emphasizes the cautious nature of the Saudi-Iran rapprochement, questioning its impact on stability and broader regional dynamics.

Kim Ghattas, an FT contributing editor based in Beirut, shares her insights on Israel’s intensified conflict with Hezbollah. She breaks down the fears gripping Lebanese citizens amid increasing bombardments. Ghattas explains Hezbollah's strategic restraint and the internal challenges Lebanon faces, including economic crises and public discontent. The episode also touches on Syria's position and the cautious responses from Gulf states, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation.

Kim Ghattas, a seasoned Middle East journalist and conflict analyst, joins Jon and David to dissect the ramifications of the escalating war between Israel and Hamas. She shares insightful predictions on potential outcomes and the region's reaction. The discussion delves into the complex dynamics involving Hezbollah, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, highlighting historical precedents and the strategic calculations at play. They also ponder the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader implications for international relations, especially U.S. foreign policy.

Marc Polymeropoulos, a former CIA officer, and Kim Ghattas, a seasoned Middle Eastern politics expert, delve into the shocking pager explosions in Beirut attributed to Israeli intelligence. They discuss the immediate regional fallout and civilian impact, while highlighting how these events might influence U.S. politics, particularly for Kamala Harris. The conversation also touches on the internal conflicts within the Democratic Party over foreign policy, the implications for U.S.-Israel relations, and the challenges posed by the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Beirut-based journalist Kim Ghattas, author of Black Wave, discusses the recent airstrikes between Israel and Iran. They delve into the motivations of leaders, potential outcomes, and wider regional implications. The conversation explores the dynamics of the ongoing conflict and the significance of diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

Kim Ghattas, a Distinguished Fellow at Columbia's Institute for Global Politics, discusses the potential for war spreading across Israel's border with Lebanon. The podcast explores Lebanon's concerns, Israel's goals, Hezbollah's presence, and the changing perception of Israel in the region.