The Belgrano Diary

In the days after 9/11, George W. Bush declared a state of emergency and initiated what would become an unprecedented expansion of US power. Public debate narrowed: there were new limits on what was acceptable, and not acceptable, to say. The London Review of Books published a number of pieces that challenged this consensus, forcing its editor, Mary-Kay Wilmers, to defend the paper on national radio. This is the first episode in a six-part series. To listen to the rest of the series follow Aftershock: The War on Terror in: Apple Podcasts: https://lrb.me/wotapple Spotify: https://lrb.me/wotspotify Other podcast apps: https://lrb.me/wotlinktree Archive:Rutgers Law Review, ‘CNN Live’/CNN, ‘Good Morning America’/ABC, ‘Good Day New York’/FOX5 New York/FOX, ‘SmackDown’/USA Network/WWE, ‘Meet the Press’/NBC/NBC News Productions and ‘Broadcasting House’/BBC Radio 4/BBC

After 9/11, George W. Bush launched a global War on Terror. What followed was an unprecedented expansion of American power, from Guantánamo Bay to drone strikes, mass surveillance to the weaponisation of the financial system. Asked when it would end, Vice-President Dick Cheney replied: ‘Not in our lifetime.’ Two decades later, we’re still living in its shadow. Aftershock: The War on Terror is a new six-part podcast from the London Review of Books. Daniel Soar, a senior editor at the paper, revisits the magazine’s coverage and reflects on the ways 9/11 has changed the world we live in. First episode coming 20 November. Find the series in: Apple Podcasts: https://lrb.me/f16f79 Spotify: https://lrb.me/eb54a6 Or wherever you get your podcasts.

Narendra Sethia, former supply officer of HMS Conqueror, shares his gripping firsthand accounts in this compelling discussion. He delves into the tumultuous legal battles alongside whistleblower Clive Ponting, both facing immense state pressure. Sethia recounts the chilling atmosphere of surveillance and secrecy during the trials, revealing how he hid crucial diary entries. He also candidly opens up about the personal toll of his experiences, from PTSD to a surprising reconciliation with Belgrano survivors. Their journeys intersect in unexpected and poignant ways.

Lieutenant Narendra Sethia, a young officer whose diary challenged Margaret Thatcher's account of the Belgrano sinking, shares gripping details of his journey. He reveals the mystery of the missing HMS Conqueror logbooks, hinting at possible government cover-ups. Amidst a media frenzy, he faces accusations of theft, leading to intense scrutiny from journalists and security forces. The narrative dives into personal integrity, the complexities of military secrets, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding truth in the face of political upheaval.

Lieutenant Narendra Sethia, a Royal Navy officer whose diary from HMS Conqueror sheds light on a significant naval incident, joins the discussion alongside Michael Heseltine, former Defence Secretary, and Tam Dalyell, a Labour MP known for his persistent inquiries. They delve into the political fallout surrounding the sinking of the General Belgrano, uncovering how diary insights contradicted official narratives. The conversation touches on the controversial prosecution of Clive Ponting, the role of leaked documents, and the ongoing battle for accountability within the Ministry of Defence.

Tam Dalyell, a tenacious anti-war MP, dives into the murky waters surrounding the sinking of the Belgrano during the Falklands War. He uncovers discrepancies in government narratives, highlighting the complexities and political ramifications of the event. Dalyell's investigation reveals personal accounts that challenge established truths and debates the ethical responsibilities of officials. The conversation grapples with themes of trust and deception, exposing how political motives can shield critical decisions from the public eye.

Tensions rise as a British submarine stalks the Belgrano, leading to a pivotal decision by Margaret Thatcher. The emotional struggles of the crew during a 40-hour wait unfold, highlighting their fears and sense of duty. The chaos of the Belgrano’s sinking portraits the deep scars left on survivors, while reflections on military strategy reveal the complexities of warfare and leadership. The aftermath stirs a national sentiment, showcasing the intertwining of political rhetoric and public emotion during this tumultuous time.

Lieutenant Narendra Sethia, who served on the HMS Conqueror during the Falklands War, shares his gripping diary entries that challenge the official narrative. He reveals the haunting aftermath of the General Belgrano's sinking, igniting debates about accountability. The personal toll of war is evident as Sethia reflects on his chaotic experiences aboard the submarine amid rising tensions. Listeners are drawn into a world of military duty, family legacy, and the intense emotions that define conflict, through his storytelling and insights.

On 2 May 1982, the British submarine HMS Conqueror sank the Argentinian warship, the General Belgrano, killing 323 men. It was the bloodiest event of the Falklands War – and the most controversial.The account of the sinking given by Thatcher's government was inaccurate in every crucial detail – and the truth would only emerge from the pages of a private diary, written by an officer onboard the submarine.The Belgrano Diary is a story of war in the South Atlantic, iron leadership, cover-ups and conspiracies, crusading politicians and competing journalists, and an unlikely whistleblower.A new six-part series from the Documentary Team at the London Review of Books, hosted by Andrew O’Hagan.Archive:‘Good Morning Britain’/ITV/TV-Am, Parliamentary Recording Unit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.