Politics Theory Other

Eskandar Sadeghi-Boroujerdi, a historian specializing in Iran's modern political history, and Nathaniel George, an author focused on Lebanon, analyze Israel's escalating conflict with Hezbollah. They discuss the implications of Hassan Nasrallah’s assassination for Hezbollah's future, the effectiveness of Iran's missile retaliation, and the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Lebanon amidst ongoing violence. The conversation also critiques U.S. involvement and highlights the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, emphasizing resilience amid turmoil.

In part one of a two part listener's questions episode Richard responds to questions on Israel's murderous attack on Lebanon, the prospects for Gaza, the appointment of Michel Barnier as French prime minister and psychoanalytic insights into nationalism. Become a £5 supporter of the show at patreon.com/poltheoryother to get access to this episode and all other episodes of PTO Extra

Jeremy Gilbert, a cultural commentator and music expert, returns to share insights on Oasis's reunion and its significance. He explores the overwhelming nostalgia for the 90s and why Oasis became the forefront of that era's music scene. The conversation highlights how their unique sound resonated with a diverse audience, uniting fans across various rock subgenres. Gilbert discusses the media's vital role in crafting the band's public image and the lasting impact of their music on contemporary culture.

Jake Romm, a keen observer of political theory, dives deep into the controversial ties between Zionism and anti-semitism, highlighting influences of European colonialism. He discusses how Zionism has historically sought to undermine Palestinian identity rather than merely exploit their labor. The conversation also touches on themes of machismo in Israeli society, the fallout of the October 7th event on masculinity, and the grim possibility of a permanent occupation of Gaza, framed within the socio-political dynamics of the region.

Phil Burton-Cartledge joins PTO to discuss the first few weeks of Keir Starmer's Labour government. To get access to this episode of PTO Extra please consder becoming a £5 supporter on patreon: https://www.patreon.com/poltheoryother

Nesrine Malik, a Guardian columnist and author of *We Need New Stories*, delves into the recent wave of Islamophobia and racist violence in the UK following the tragic Southport stabbings. She discusses how the language used to describe these events can obscure the racial and religious dimensions involved. Malik also highlights the role of right-wing media in fueling divisive narratives, the importance of solidarity with Palestine in anti-fascist movements, and critiques the political climate's complicity in enabling such violence.

Richard Seymour returns to the show to respond to more listener's questions and to address the recent outbreak of racist and Islamophobic violence in the UK. Become a £5 supporter on patreon to get access to all episodes of PTO Extra: https://www.patreon.com/poltheoryother

Bue Rübner Hansen, an insightful essayist, explores the complex history of the German-Israeli alliance. The discussion reveals how public attitudes in Germany toward Israel vary widely, often influenced by political elites. Hansen examines the pervasive memory culture surrounding Nazism and the Holocaust, illustrating its impact on contemporary views, particularly regarding Palestinians. He also sheds light on the emergence of anti-German sentiments within the left and the marginalization of historical working-class opposition to the Nazis.

In today's episode Richard Seymour returns to answer some of the excellent questions sent in by PTO patrons. To become a PTO supporter go to patreon.com/poltheoryother

On January 22nd the new Ram temple in Uttar Pradesh was consecrated in a ceremony led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event kicked off Modi's election campaign that was widely expected to lead to a landslide for Modi and the BJP. Instead, the Hindu nationalist party lost 63 seats and the opposition coalition led by congress made significant gains. In today's episode I spoke with Radhika Desai about the causes of the electoral upset, the image and reality of the Indian economy and what the election results announced in June might mean for Indian Muslims.