The Inside Story Podcast

Global hunger has hit a new high. The United Nations says nearly 300 million people faced acute hunger last year. And the outlook for 2025 is bleak due to wars and cuts in aid. So which countries are experiencing the worst of the global food crisis? And who are the most vulnerable? In this episode:  Chris Gunness, Former Director, Communications, United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine and the Near East. Elise Nalbandian, Regional Advocacy and Campaign Manager, Oxfam, Africa. Sara Hayat - Specialist in Climate Change Law and Policy. Host: Adrian Finighan Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

In this engaging discussion, Pavel Felgenhauer, an independent defense analyst, shares insights into Russia's military strategies. Anatol Lieven, a security policy expert, analyzes shifting geopolitical dynamics amid the conflict. Peter Zalmayev offers a unique perspective on Ukraine's political landscape. The trio delves into recent peace talks focusing on the complexities of a prisoner exchange and the challenges in achieving a lasting ceasefire, highlighting the unresolved demands from both sides and the implications of military aid on negotiations.

Giorgio Cafiero, CEO of Gulf State Analytics, Hassan Barari, Professor at Qatar University, and Alon Pinkas, former Israeli Ambassador to New York, delve into a transformative period for US-Gulf relations under Trump. They discuss the economic pledges made during Trump's Gulf tour and how Gulf nations may be shaping U.S. foreign policy. The conversation also touches on Israel's evolving role, missed diplomatic opportunities, and the regional tensions regarding Iran and the Gaza conflict, highlighting the complex interplay of alliances and interests.

Faisal Al Mudahka, Editor in Chief at The Gulf Times, shares insights on Qatar's pivotal role in U.S.-Gulf relations during Trump's visit. Andreas Krieg from King’s College discusses the shifting geopolitical landscape and security concerns in the region. Paul Musgrave from Georgetown University analyzes U.S. leverage in dealings with Gulf states. They explore significant economic agreements, including a deal with Boeing, and the implications for regional stability and diplomacy, revealing the intertwined nature of politics and economics in the Gulf.

In this insightful discussion, guests Sinan Hatahet, a Non-Resident Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Syria Project, and Omar Alshogre, Director of Detainee Affairs at the Syrian Emergency Task Force and a Syrian refugee, analyze the U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria. They delve into the complexities of rebuilding a battered nation, the hopes of its citizens for economic revival, and the challenging path of transitional justice for victims of the civil war. Both highlight the need for caution amid optimism about future changes.

In this engaging discussion, Jayant Menon, a former lead economist at the Asian Development Bank, and Huiyao Wang, founder of the Center for China and Globalization, dive into the intricate US-China tariff negotiations. They explore how the recent deal aims to prevent a full-blown global trade war and its implications for the world economy. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of both nations, the challenges of unilateral trade policies, and the critical importance of cooperation for future growth. Will this ceasefire spark renewed business confidence?

Olesia Horiainova, co-founder of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Center and former advisor to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, teams up with Vasily Kashin from the Russian International Affairs Council. They dive into the complexities of a proposed direct meeting between Russia and Ukraine to potentially end the war. Discussion highlights include the implications of a ceasefire, the historical context of Russia's demands, and Ukraine's firm stance on sovereignty. The ever-evolving dynamics of the conflict create a tense backdrop for any peace negotiations.

Elijah Magnier, a seasoned military and political analyst, joins Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor of The Economist, to dissect the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan. They discuss the unprecedented military escalations, including the use of strike drones. The evolving military strategies of India are highlighted, especially following recent terror attacks. Moreover, they examine the changing dynamics in regional air power and the complex geopolitics of Kashmir, emphasizing the diminishing role of the U.S. in mediation.

A ceasefire has been announced to stop a bitter conflict over one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Kashmir has repeatedly been troubled by a dispute dating back nearly eight decades between India and Pakistan. Will the latest truce resolve differences going back to colonial times?  In this episode:  Victoria Schofield, British Biographer and Historian.  Radha Kumar, Negotiator, Kashmir Crisis. Ayesha Jalal, Professor, Tufts University.  Host: Sami Zeidan Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

A new Pope has been elected, the first from the US to lead the Catholic Church. It's church that's divided between progressives and traditionalists, and in a world polarised by conflict and widening political division. So, what role might Pope Leo XIV play within his church and on the world political stage? In this episode:  Stan Chu Ilo, Research Professor of World Catholicism at DePaul University  Joanne Pierce, Professor Emerita at the Department of Religious Studies at College of the Holy Cross Neil Thorns, Director of Advocacy and Communications at CAFOD, Catholic Agency for Overseas Development Host: James Bays Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook