

Sanam Vakil
Director of the Middle East program at Chatham House in London. Expert on Iran's nuclear program and regional geopolitics.
Top 10 podcasts with Sanam Vakil
Ranked by the Snipd community

33 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 24min
Iran’s nuclear talks could reshape the Middle East
Sanam Vakil, the Director of the Middle East Program at Chatham House, shares her expertise on Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional geopolitics. She discusses the urgent nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, emphasizing the potential for military action prompted by Israel. The conversation navigates shifting alliances, particularly Iran's diplomatic overtures to Saudi Arabia, and the complexities of U.S. foreign relations involving both nations. Vakil highlights the implications of these talks on Middle Eastern stability and the prospects for future agreements.

28 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 24min
The Rachman Review: Iran’s nuclear talks could reshape the Middle East
Sanam Vakil, Director of the Middle East program at Chatham House, shares her insights on Iran's nuclear negotiations and their impact on regional stability. She discusses how the evolving dynamics involve major players like the U.S., Israel, and emerging alliances with Russia and China. The conversation touches on the urgent need for a new nuclear deal and the tensions surrounding military options. Additionally, shifting relationships between Iran and Gulf states are explored, shedding light on the future of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

7 snips
May 15, 2025 • 58min
Trump‘s Middle East odyssey, a hostage returns, Gaza on the brink
Dr. Sanam Vakil, Director at Chatham House, dives into the complexities shaping the Middle East. She discusses Trump's tour and its implications for US-Iran relations, amid talks of a nuclear deal. The emotional toll of hostage negotiations is highlighted with the release of Edan Alexander, shedding light on Israel’s role and the broader impacts on society. Vakil also addresses the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ethical considerations involved, emphasizing the urgent need for action in the face of geopolitical tensions.

5 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 26min
What does the Iran-Israel war mean for the region and the world?
In this insightful discussion, Sanam Vakil, a Middle East scholar at Chatham House, and Mohamed Baharoun, a Gulf expert, tackle the escalating Iran-Israel conflict. Vakil highlights the existential threats to Iran's leadership, particularly its nuclear ambitions, while Baharoun outlines the nuanced responses from Gulf states as tensions rise. They explore the possible diplomatic pathways to de-escalation and the broader implications for regional stability, military dynamics, and shifting alliances in today's geopolitical landscape.

Oct 3, 2024 • 24min
Israel presses its military advantage
Sanam Vakil, a director at Chatham House specializing in Middle Eastern affairs, shares insights on the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. They discuss recent military actions, Iran's missile strikes, and the effectiveness of Israel's Iron Dome. The conversation delves into the complex U.S.-Israel relationship and the balance of support and stability concerns. Vakil emphasizes the risks of escalating conflict and the imperative for renewed negotiations to address humanitarian crises and regional instability.

Jun 17, 2024 • 41min
The latest ceasefire proposal in the war in Gaza and why Hamas won’t accept it; What the West plans to do with $300 billion in frozen Russian assets; Bill Gates on his new nuclear reactor; How AI will revolutionize education
Sanam Vakil and Gillian Tett discuss Hamas' rejection of the ceasefire proposal in Gaza and the debate on using $300 billion in frozen Russian assets. Bill Gates explains the importance of nuclear energy. Sal Khan talks about AI in education. The podcast also covers British PM Rishi Sunak's controversial asylum plan.

Jun 24, 2025 • 34min
America vs. Iran – What does Trump actually want?
Dr. Sanam Vakil, Director of the MENA Programme at Chatham House and an expert on Iran, joins the conversation to unpack the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. They delve into Trump’s assertive military actions and the implications of targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. The discussion includes Iran's internal protests and challenges to the regime, the complexity of potential regime change, and the diplomatic dilemmas faced by Western allies amidst international law. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of a critical geopolitical situation.

Apr 9, 2025 • 31min
Trump vs Iran: deal or war?
In a riveting discussion, Holly Dagres, a Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute, and Sanam Vakil, Director at Chatham House, delve into the precarious U.S.-Iran relations. They dissect the potential outcomes of U.S. negotiations and the looming threat of military action. The conversation highlights the internal divisions within both the Trump administration and Iranian society over war and diplomacy. Listeners gain insights into Iran's socio-political unrest, the nuclear dilemma, and the complex interplay of sanctions and public sentiment in shaping future outcomes.

Nov 4, 2024 • 51min
Jeremy Bowen: Making Sense of the Modern Middle East, Part Two
Join experts Sanam Vakil, a director at Chatham House specializing in Iranian policy, and historian James Barr, who authored key works on Middle Eastern geopolitics. They delve into the complexities of foreign interventions in the region and discuss the evolving roles of the U.S. and Russia. The conversation also reflects on the legacy of the Oslo Accords, missed opportunities in peace negotiations, and the implications of regional dynamics for Palestine's statehood. With tensions flaring, they explore the potential for a broader international approach to peace.

Oct 9, 2024 • 43min
Bonus: The World Debate: What is the path to peace in the Middle East?
Ehud Olmert, former Israeli Prime Minister, discusses his peace deal offer to the Palestinians. Ambassador David Satterfield shares insights on U.S. humanitarian efforts in the region. Afif Safieh emphasizes the need for Palestinian self-determination. Lord Ricketts reflects on historical challenges during Israel's invasions. Dr. Sanam Vakil highlights Iran's influence in the Middle East. Jeremy Bowen provides on-the-ground perspectives while exploring paths to lasting peace amid the complexities of negotiations and regional dynamics.