Elizabeth Braw, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and author of *Goodbye Globalisation*, teams up with Sir William Patey, a former British Ambassador, to delve into the escalating tensions in the Middle East. They discuss Netanyahu's alarming threats toward Lebanon and Hezbollah, weaving in perspectives on global security threats from Russia and Iran. The duo also anticipates the upcoming Nobel Peace Prize, examining nominees and the humanitarian efforts of groups like World Central Kitchen, alongside thought-provoking commentary on contemporary issues.

Lin O'Donnell, a columnist for Foreign Policy, discusses the fallout of Hurricane Milton as Mexican authorities prepare for its impact. Oscar Juadiola Rivera, a professor specializing in climate change, critiques Mexico's political response and the challenges of transitioning from fossil fuels. Zoltan Varga, a media CEO from Hungary, highlights the irony of the Taliban's financial gains from diverted flights while exploring the age-old tensions between artistic value and society in a mishap at a Dutch museum.

Daniela Pellet, Managing Editor at the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, offers a deep dive into the Middle East conflict a year after the October 7th attacks, analyzing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and global attention disparities. Sir Mark Lowcock, former UN humanitarian chief, discusses the ongoing war in Sudan and the intricate challenges leaders face in engaging young voters ahead of the US election. They also touch on Sweden's innovative 'grandparent' leave policies, highlighting societal acceptance and men's involvement in caregiving.

David Hale, a former US ambassador and expert on Middle Eastern diplomacy, discusses the escalating tensions in Lebanon, particularly focusing on Hezbollah's evolving role amidst regional instability. He dives into the historical context of Lebanon's governance challenges, while Steve Diggle, Buzzcocks guitarist, shares insights on the punk music scene's impact on culture. The episode also touches on unique topics like Fat Bear Week and the upcoming Quality of Life Conference in Istanbul, blending serious geopolitical analysis with light-hearted anecdotes.

Ingar Thordar, a seasoned international affairs commentator, and Terry Stiatsny, a global evacuation strategies expert, discuss the urgent evacuation efforts as residents in Lebanon flee escalating Israeli airstrikes. They analyze the chaotic humanitarian crisis that has led to mass displacement and overwhelmed shelters. The conversation also dives into the geopolitical implications of such conflicts, shedding light on the complexities of military actions in the region amid rising violence.

As the world reacts to Iran’s missile attack on Israel, we unpack the international community’s affirmations of Israel’s right to defend itself. Next: we assess whether the US vice-presidential debate will affect November’s election and we learn why Marine Le Pen and her far-right party, the National Rally, are currently on trial. Plus: an Italian politician gets his bachelor’s degree after more than 20 years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Allison Kaplan Sommer, a journalist in Tel Aviv, shares vivid accounts of life under the threat of Iranian missile attacks, painting a picture of chaos and anxiety. Meanwhile, former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte discusses his new role as NATO's leader, addressing key challenges like defense spending amidst rising threats. The conversation also touches on the use of AI to solve unsolved crimes, highlighting its potential impact on justice. These insights combine to provide a gripping look at current global tensions and technological advancements.

As Israel hints at a ground invasion into Lebanon, we discuss what might happen next as the Middle East braces for wider conflict. We also find out how Austria’s far-right Freedom Party secured a win in the nation’s parliamentary election and explore the new trend of young women becoming more liberal and young men more conservative. Plus: the problems with regularly changing your passwords, according to the US National Institute of Standards and Technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump says he would work with both Ukraine and Russia to end their war, why vets’ incomes are rising faster than doctors’ in South Korea, Tesla checks in on home workers calling in sick and we report from the new Northern Lights CCS facility in Norway. Plus: Yaroslav Trofimov’s new novel ‘No Country for Love’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, now under a bribery charge, discusses the fallout on his re-election chances and the city’s political climate. House Speaker Mike Johnson weighs in on demanding Ukraine replace its ambassador amidst rising foreign policy tensions. The conversation also shifts to the newly opened Nintendo museum in Kyoto, sparking nostalgic reflections on gaming's cultural significance. The guests share personal anecdotes, illustrating how politics and childhood memories intertwine in today’s complex landscape.