Sarah Rainsford

Sarah Rainsford, a BBC correspondent, reports from Crans-Montana on a tragic fire that claimed around 40 lives, delving into community reactions and ongoing investigations. Pallab Ghosh shares fascinating insights into new research showing how psychedelics might treat mental health disorders. Chantelle Hartel discusses a groundbreaking virtual reality initiative helping traumatized children in Gaza. Mimi Swaby covers the neutralization of a key leader from the Tren de Aragua gang, emphasizing its international implications.

In this installment, Sarah Rainsford, a BBC correspondent, provides a poignant account of the deadly Swiss ski-resort bar fire, detailing the emotional toll on families searching for their missing loved ones. She explains how the fire likely erupted from sparklers used on champagne bottles and the rapid spread due to the building's layout. The conversation also touches on U.S. backing for Iranian protestors and the complexities this brings to regional security, alongside the latest on Trump's health and the inauguration of New York's new mayor.

Kazran Arji, a BBC Persian commentator, shares on-the-ground insights into the Iranian protests and the Supreme Leader's harsh criticism of demonstrators. Weira Davis, reporting from Ukraine, highlights the devastating impact of Russian missile strikes on civilian infrastructure and the human cost of the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Sarah Rainsford covers Switzerland's mourning for New Year's Eve fire victims, while Ione Wells explores regional tensions through her interview with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, discussing US actions in South America.