The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim

Insightful discussions emerge as Richard shares his experiences at Evin prison, recently targeted by an airstrike. The two dive into Iran’s intense crackdown on Afghan refugees, who the government claims might be spies for Israel—raising questions of truth and bias. Yalda reveals intriguing insights from her Mossad contact. They ponder the fragile prospects for a ceasefire in Gaza, reflecting on the deeper humanitarian crises and political tensions intertwining the region, while exploring the complexities of national identity amidst conflict.

The hosts reveal the stark realities of life in Iran amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. They discuss public sentiment shifting from hope to betrayal following recent conflicts. Insights into Iran's nuclear ambitions spark concern about international trust and diplomacy. The intricate relationship between Iran and Israel unfolds, highlighting deep historical animosities. Listeners hear about local resilience during cultural events, providing a glimpse into the spirit of the Iranian people amid crisis.

The hosts provide an exciting travel update as they gear up for a significant upcoming story. They emphasize the importance of listener engagement and invite feedback to enrich future discussions. Anticipation builds as they hint at intriguing developments to come, creating a buzz around their next adventure.

The podcast dives into the tumultuous Israel-Iran situation, sparked by President Trump's provocative remarks on the ceasefire. Richard and Yalda dissect Trump's phone call to Netanyahu, aiming to prevent escalation. The discussion touches on the rising tensions between Iran and the U.S., with a special look at Qatar's mediating role. They also explore the complexities surrounding potential regime change in Iran, referencing historical lessons. The episode challenges listeners to consider the unpredictable future of leadership in Iran.

This discussion delves into the U.S. military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, examining the immediate damage and the broader geopolitical implications. Personal accounts from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem capture the urgency and chaos following the attack. The conversation also tackles the complexities of Iran's uranium enrichment and the escalating tensions in the region. Finally, they ponder the potential for regime change in Iran, navigating the fine line between diplomacy and conflict.

In Tel Aviv, the hosts unpack the dire realities of the Israel-Iran conflict, sharing insight on recent military escalations and their toll on citizens. Yalda discusses her interviews with key figures from both nations, while Richard provides firsthand accounts from missile sites. They analyze the complex dynamics of air supremacy and its impact on diplomatic negotiations. The podcast delves into the political motivations of leaders and the intricate balance of defense and negotiations underway amidst ongoing tensions.

Dominic Waghorn, Sky News' international affairs editor, joins Yalda Hakim to discuss Israel's recent military actions against Iran. They delve into the timing of these strikes and the potential for a larger conflict. Waghorn shares insights from his trip to Iran, explaining how leaders there feel trapped. The conversation also touches on world reactions, including the possibility of U.S. involvement and the implications for UK interests. It's a captivating look at escalating tensions and the geopolitical landscape.

John Brennan, the former CIA director from 2013 to 2017, joins Richard and Yalda to delve into the evolving landscape of intelligence operations in Ukraine. He shares why he believes Ukrainian spies have become some of the best globally. The trio discusses the recent surge in drone attacks, with Richard reporting live from Mykolaiv on its resilience amid conflict. They also critique Trump's naive peace proposals and explore the impact of ongoing protests in Los Angeles, linking them to broader geopolitical tensions.

Imagine a bunker filled with former ministers and military experts navigating a simulated threat from Russia. They role-play various national defense strategies, revealing the intricate layers of geopolitical decision-making. The conversation dives into the potential risks of escalating tensions and highlights Britain's vulnerabilities. It's a gripping exploration of how the past and present shape future responses to aggression, all wrapped in the high-stakes tension of a war game scenario.

Discover the audacious Operation Spiderweb, where Ukraine launches a drone assault likened to 'Russia's Pearl Harbor.' Delve into the complexities surrounding media access in Gaza as Yalda reflects on shocking interviews about the humanitarian crisis. Explore the peculiar intersection of tech and politics with Elon Musk's playful mishap and Trump's humorous response. Gain insights into the turbulent Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the intricate dynamics of US-Iran relations, shedding light on the urgent need for accurate narratives in global geopolitics.