The Inside Story Podcast

Pavel Felgenhauer, a Defence and Russian foreign policy analyst, joins Steven Erlanger, Chief Diplomatic Correspondent for The New York Times, and Niall Stanage, a White House columnist at The Hill, to discuss the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict. They delve into the implications of recent drone attacks, the skepticism surrounding NATO's commitment to Ukraine, and the critical role of U.S. support. The trio also explores the impact of energy sanctions on Russia's military funding and the prospects for a resolution amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.

Muhanad Seloom, an expert in Critical Security Studies at the Doha Institute, Omar Rahman from the Middle East Council, and Chris Hedges, former bureau chief for The New York Times, dive into the escalating tensions in the Gulf. They discuss the international backlash to Israel's attack on Qatar and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. The guests explore potential strategic shifts among Gulf states, pondering how they might respond militarily and diplomatically. Their insights reveal the delicate balance of power and the evolving alliances in the region.

Join Greg Swenson, a political commentator and chairman of Republicans Overseas UK, Eric Ham, a U.S. political analyst and author, and Richard Schoeberl, a former FBI agent and counterterrorism expert, as they delve into the alarming trend of political violence in the U.S. They discuss the polarizing climate following a shooting incident, explore the roots and implications of increasing political violence, and dissect how divisive rhetoric and online radicalization contribute to this chilling phenomenon, calling for urgent dialogue and action.

Glenn Carle, a former CIA officer, and Hassan Mneimneh, a Middle East scholar, delve into the complexities of U.S.-Israel relations. They discuss the U.S.'s unwavering support for Israel despite rising global accusations against its actions in Gaza. Carle and Mneimneh analyze Netanyahu's political maneuvers amid changing administrations and public opinion. They also explore strategic reasons behind the alliance, how it shapes American politics, and whether this support truly fosters peace or heightens regional tensions.

Ali Ghanem Al-Hajri, a political commentator and expert in international law, joins Stephen Zunes, a professor of politics and Middle Eastern studies, to tackle the recent Israeli strike on Qatar. They delve into the implications of this action for peace talks and the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Their conversation reveals Qatar's precarious diplomatic position and the potential for increased violence in the region. The duo also examines the broader geopolitical consequences, including U.S. relations and regional stability.

In this discussion, Jean-Christophe Gallien, a political analyst and communications strategist from Paris, dives into the recent resignation of France's prime minister following a confidence vote. He highlights the financial crisis gripping the nation and the historical challenges faced by successive leaders. The conversation explores the waning public confidence in the president and the complex political landscape looking ahead. Gallien also assesses the European Union's potential role in stabilizing France amid rising discontent and the implications for the Eurozone.

Milena Ansari, a Palestinian lawyer and researcher at Human Rights Watch, sheds light on the escalating violence in East Jerusalem under the far-right Israeli government. She discusses the fear and repression faced by Palestinians, highlighting their struggles with movement restrictions and arbitrary arrests. The conversation touches on the systemic issues driving settler aggression and the urgent need for international recognition of Palestinian rights. Ansari emphasizes how these tensions impact regional stability and the daily lives of those living under occupation.

Se-Woong Koo, founder of Korea Expose, and Jenny Town, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center, dive into the recent immigration raid on South Korean workers in the U.S. They explore how this incident could signal deeper disruptions in U.S.-South Korea relations. Topics include the implications for trade and public perception and the broader impacts on South Korean investments. Tensions surrounding military spending and the evolving geopolitical landscape, especially concerning China, further complicate this alliance.

Join political commentator Peter Geoghegan, Professor Jonathan Tonge, and journalist Mark Devenport as they dissect the troubles facing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. They delve into the impact of a cabinet reshuffle after a tax controversy, the growing challenges from the right-wing Reform UK party, and the unsettling gap between parliamentary wins and voter approval. The conversation also touches on immigration policy debates, public sentiment, and Starmer's foreign policy dilemmas, all while navigating the stormy waters of British politics.

Theresa Fallon, Director of the Centre for Russia Europe Asia Studies, discusses the intriguing alliance of China, Russia, and North Korea seen at a military parade. The trio's shared yet competing interests highlight a shift towards a multipolar world, raising questions about global stability. Fallon elaborates on the impact of U.S. foreign policy and the resulting strengthening of ties among these nations. Delving into the complexities of international relationships, she emphasizes the need for nuanced cooperation over rigid military alliances.