The Story

Lina Khatib, an expert on Middle Eastern politics and director at the SOAS Middle East Institute, dives into the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. She discusses the devastating humanitarian impact, with thousands dead and millions displaced amid recent attacks. Khatib traces the complex history from the Israeli invasions of Lebanon to Hezbollah's rise as a political force. She also evaluates the ongoing conflict, the struggle of Lebanese civilians, and the implications for peace in the region.

Peter Conradi, the Europe Editor of The Sunday Times, delves into the escalating drug wars gripping Marseille. He highlights the alarming rise in gang violence and how social media is disastrously recruiting young teens to join these deadly conflicts. Conradi paints a stark picture of the city's dual identity, where beauty coexists with a harsh criminal underbelly. He also discusses the troubling economics of the drug trade and the challenges faced by local communities battling insecurity and violence.

Dominic O’Connell, a Business presenter on Times Radio, sheds light on the thrilling antitrust case against Google. He discusses how the company went from a Stanford project to a dominating force in the digital world. O’Connell elaborates on the implications of the U.S. Justice Department's lawsuit and the potential breakup of the tech giant. He connects these legal battles to historical precedents and explores how modern antitrust standards may redefine competition. The candid insights spark a vital conversation about monopolistic power in technology.

Megan Agnew, a senior features writer for The Times, shares insights into Kamala Harris's rise in California politics. Discover how Harris, fresh out of law school, strategically navigated the opulent political landscape of San Francisco. Agnew reveals the influential social networks that bolstered Harris's ambitions, as well as her captivating charm and courtroom prowess. This engaging narrative highlights the blend of personal connections and political strategy that propelled Harris on her path to becoming a national figure.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former Palestinian Foreign Minister Nassr al-Qudwa dive deep into the prospects for peace in the Middle East. They discuss Olmert's proposed two-state solution and the complex issues surrounding borders and Jerusalem's status. The conversation addresses the challenges posed by current Israeli leadership and the urgent need for public support from both communities. Reflecting on personal losses from ongoing conflicts, they emphasize hope and dialogue as essential for lasting peace.

In this discussion, Sir Anthony Seldon, a distinguished historian and author known for his insights into British Prime Ministers, shares his expert views on Keir Starmer's first 100 days in office. The conversation dives into the essential qualities of successful leaders, comparing historical figures like Churchill and Thatcher to today's modern challenges. They explore the competencies needed for effective governance and the unique pressures contemporary Prime Ministers face, alongside the impact of social media on leadership dynamics.

Amal Helles, a Gazan journalist for The Times, shares her harrowing journey escaping Gaza amidst ongoing violence. She recounts the emotional turmoil of leaving her home, grappling with her children's trauma, and the struggles of raising them while adjusting to life in Egypt and the Netherlands. Amal sheds light on the challenges faced by female journalists in conflict zones and the heartbreaking choices mothers must make for their children's safety. She also addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, bringing a powerful personal narrative to the forefront.

Boris Johnson, former Prime Minister of the UK and author of "Unleashed," shares candid thoughts about his time in office. He discusses his controversial handling of the Partygate scandal and addresses perceptions of his leadership. The conversation also dives into Brexit's role in pandemic vaccine rollout and the implications for future EU relations. Johnson reflects on pandemic management strategies and the importance of being prepared for future health crises, revealing a mix of defiance and introspection about his political legacy.

Gabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor at The Sunday Times and investigative journalist, dives into the explosive freebies scandal shaking up the Labour Party. He recounts how his team uncovered a major donor's access to Downing Street, fueling public outrage. The discussion highlights political donations' ethical dilemmas and the internal turmoil within Labour, as leadership faces scrutiny and challenges in maintaining transparency. Pogrund provides insider insights on navigating scandals and the complex motivations behind political contributions.

Hannah Betts, a writer for The Times, reflects on her ten years of sobriety and her father's battle with alcohol addiction. She explores the societal obsession with drinking, sharing personal anecdotes that reveal the chaos and allure of alcohol culture. Hannah's journey highlights the profound challenges of staying sober amid grief, especially during her mother's cancer diagnosis. She discusses the duality of alcohol's appeal and the road to recovery, culminating in a celebration of milestones and the importance of social acceptance in a sober life.