Novara Media

Peter Oborne, a seasoned journalist and author of 'Complicit: Britain’s Role in the Destruction of Gaza,' delves into the troubling dynamics of UK support for Israel post-October 7th. He reveals how British media's narratives have been shaped and silenced critical voices, discussing the influence of neoconservatism on coverage. Oborne critiques the legal and ethical implications of UK complicity in Gaza's plight and explores international alternatives, including the role of South Africa. His insights challenge the mainstream perspective and highlight the escalating risk of wider conflict.

Ash Sarkar is joined by Aaron Bastani, a political commentator and co-founder of Novara Media, for a deep dive into the tumultuous events of 2025. They discuss the complexities surrounding potential ceasefires in Ukraine and the implications of nuclear non-proliferation failures for global stability. The duo also tackles Britain's shifting political landscape regarding immigration and critiques Labour's recent budget. Additionally, they explore the rise of new left parties and make bold predictions for the political climate in 2026.

Norman Finkelstein, a prominent political scholar and staunch critic of Israeli policy, reflects on his parents' Holocaust experiences and their silence surrounding it. His insights into Gaza reveal a desperate struggle, where he likens Hamas's actions to slave rebellions born from oppression. He critiques contemporary left intellectuals and discusses the complicity of academic corruption. Finkelstein argues that Israel's policies resemble genocidal tactics aimed at making Gaza uninhabitable. His commitment to truth-seeking and rigorous scholarship underscores his views on the dire situation in Palestine.

The hosts dive into the emergence of Mainstream, a new soft-left faction within Labour, highlighting its notable figures like Andy Burnham. They explore the intriguing dynamics between radicalism and realism while examining Labour's historical divides. Further discussions unravel factionalism, contrasting the soft-left's social-democratic aims with more revolutionary traditions. The impact of past crises and alliances is assessed, emphasizing the fragile future of soft-left politics in the context of electoral strategy.

In this engaging discussion, Tareq Baconi, a Palestinian scholar and author of 'Hamas Contained' and 'A Fire in Every Direction', delves into the intricate history and evolution of Hamas. He examines its origins in the Muslim Brotherhood, the dynamics of governance under blockade, and the misconceptions around its use of violence. Tareq also reflects on the miscalculations surrounding the October 7 attacks and their implications on regional politics. With keen insights, he articulates how Israel's ongoing actions impact resistance and shape future possibilities.

Cory Doctorow, a digital rights activist and the author of 'Ensh*tification', discusses the alarming decline of the internet due to monopolistic practices. He reveals how companies like Google intentionally degrade services for profit, leading to a rise in surveillance and conspiracism. Doctorow outlines the stages of 'ensh*tification', highlights Amazon's tactics against sellers, and emphasizes the urgent need for competition and regulatory reform. He argues for Europe to seize the opportunity to create open alternatives to US tech dominance.

Dive into a lively debate on what 'mainstream' means today. The hosts tackle whether 'woke' is at the forefront or an opposition. They explore cultural fragmentation due to streaming and how norms of femininity are shaped. Unearth insights on the Overton Window and shifting political landscapes. Pop culture icons like Taylor Swift stir conversations about liberal feminism and the emergence of unusual cultural forms. Finally, they celebrate the joy of radical ideas that subvert the mainstream and reclaim public spaces.

Roger Hallam shares insights from his unique perspective as an activist and co-founder of Extinction Rebellion. Fresh from prison, he discusses the potential for a global revolution and the importance of membership momentum. Hallam emphasizes using Zoom as a tool for mobilization, transitioning online energy to local action through door-knocking and community organizing. He highlights the significance of emotional engagement over rational arguments and introduces sortition as a way to empower ordinary people within political structures.

Zack Polanski, the dynamic leader of the Green Party, discusses his rapid success, with membership soaring from 70,000 to 150,000. He explores the party's strategy to challenge the Labour Party while preventing the rise of Reform. Polanski emphasizes inclusivity, anti-racist principles, and a commitment to socialism, all while prioritizing living standards and community issues. He also tackles climate policy through systemic changes and advocates humane immigration reforms. Throughout the discussion, he envisions a compassionate society with a focus on creativity and sustainability.

Branko Milanovic, a former World Bank macroeconomist and expert on global inequality, dives into the shifting geopolitical landscape. He discusses how the rise of China compares to the Industrial Revolution, the implications of the new elite class, and the declining social mobility in the West. Branko critiques neoliberal globalization and explores the potential for conflict between the US and China. He also touches on the factors behind the USSR's collapse and examines the economic forces driving Russia's pivot towards Asia.