

Global News Podcast
BBC World Service
The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Episodes
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70 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 30min
Trump keeps world guessing on Iran strikes
Nomia Iqbal, a correspondent in Washington, shares insights on the rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. She discusses President Trump's indecisiveness on potential military actions and the implications for negotiations. Iqbal emphasizes the complex dynamics of targeting Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the domestic struggles faced by its citizens. Additionally, she highlights the fading involvement of Western businesses in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, reflecting broader geopolitical shifts.

16 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 27min
Iran warns Trump against joining war with Israel
Iran's leaders issue stern warnings against U.S. intervention in the Israeli conflict, raising alarming tensions that could disrupt regional stability. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, highlighted by heartbreaking personal stories. Meanwhile, tennis legend Martina Navratilova reflects on her storied career and the ongoing conversations surrounding equality in sports, particularly for transgender athletes. Additionally, groundbreaking research from China aims to revolutionize organ transplants, sparking discussions on ethics and health care.

89 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 29min
Trump demands Iran's 'unconditional surrender'
Tom Bateman, a US State Department correspondent, discusses President Trump's dramatic demands for Iran's 'unconditional surrender' and the debates within the U.S. about military action. Baron Abbasi from BBC Persian highlights the escalating tensions and a Nobel laureate's call for peace amid conflict. Richard Hamilton shares insights into the discovery of a Viking burial site in Denmark, linking ancient history with current geopolitical issues. The conversation further touches on the pressing issue of e-waste in Thailand, revealing its environmental impact.

19 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 28min
Dozens of Palestinians killed in Israeli fire at aid site in Gaza
Tragedy unfolds in Gaza as reports indicate over 50 Palestinians were killed near an aid distribution site due to drone strikes and tank fire. The dire humanitarian crisis deepens, with aid attempts proving inadequate against rising desperation and violence. Meanwhile, tensions escalate globally, highlighted by Israel's assassination of an Iranian commander, and the ongoing turmoil in Ukraine and Afghanistan adds to the urgent need for humanitarian and military support. Emotional narratives also touch on the aftermath of a devastating airplane crash, revealing the chaos of recovery efforts.

63 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 29min
Israel attacks Iranian state TV
Tensions rise as Israel targets Iranian state TV amidst diplomatic overtures from Tehran. The conflict's humanitarian toll is examined, revealing mixed feelings within Israel regarding military strategies. A chilling murder case involving a Minnesotan lawmaker is uncovered, showcasing disturbing planning by the suspect. Additionally, the rise of extravagant pet birthday celebrations highlights societal trends, blending humor with insights into media and consumer behavior.

25 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 31min
Iran and Israel exchange heavy strikes for fourth day
Damien McGuinness, a BBC correspondent based in Berlin, shares insights into the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, where military strikes have reached alarming levels. He discusses the significant casualties and the urgent international response to the violence. The podcast also sheds light on the geopolitical ramifications and the humanitarian crises unfolding in both countries, creating a somber backdrop against the ongoing military dynamic.

87 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 29min
Israeli strikes kill an Iran intelligence chief as conflict intensifies
Sarah Rainsford, a seasoned correspondent reporting from Barcelona, discusses escalating global tensions, particularly the conflict between Israel and Iran. She details the recent Israeli airstrikes that killed an Iranian intelligence chief and the subsequent Iranian retaliation. Rainsford also sheds light on the protests against mass tourism in Barcelona, exploring the complexities of local economies versus environmental concerns. Additionally, she touches on historical treasures found in mudlarking, weaving a narrative that connects community issues with broader geopolitical landscapes.

7 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 28min
The Happy Pod: The tiny dog back home after a big adventure
Georgia Gardner shares the heartwarming tale of her dachshund, Valerie, who returned home after 529 days in the wild. The emotional reunion highlights the deep bonds between pets and their owners. The discussion also touches on incredible stories of resilience, including a hero who saved 41 lives in a dramatic rescue and a school in Mumbai supporting impoverished children. Additionally, the podcast features an inspiring project empowering women through cycling and the celebration of Senegal's remarkable football achievement.

73 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 30min
Minnesota Democratic politician killed in targeted shooting
A tragic targeted shooting of a Democratic politician in Minnesota sparks a nationwide manhunt and ignites discussions on political violence and public safety. Meanwhile, tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, threatening regional stability amid stalled diplomacy. The podcast also dives into unique communities, exploring life in a West Virginia town that avoids modern technology to combat electromagnetic radiation. Personal stories of residents reveal the profound impact of such a lifestyle in today's tech-saturated world.

51 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 17min
Israel and Iran continue strikes
Tensions escalate as Israel targets Iranian sites while Iran retaliates with air strikes on Israeli territory. Perspectives from military experts reveal the complex implications for U.S.-Iran relations amid this turmoil. Personal stories shed light on the emotional toll on citizens, illustrating the human cost of this conflict. The podcast dives deep into Iran's strategic military response, including missile strikes and possible cyber actions. It also examines the damage to Iranian defenses and the challenges posed by underground installations, adding layers to this fraught geopolitical landscape.