Foreign Policy Live

North Korea and Iran are fascinating countries for many reasons, but also because they're part of an emerging alliance of autocracies. China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are increasingly helping each other out in a range of global hotspots, often stymieing U.S. interests. But what is their end goal?FP Live asks Barbara Slavin, an Iran expert at the Stimson Center, and Chung Min Lee, a Korea expert at the Carnegie Endowment.Suggested reading(FP links are paywall-free):Daniel R. DePetris and Jennifer Kavanagh: The ‘Axis of Evil’ Is OverhypedRobbie Gramer: Looks Like ‘Axis of Evil’ Is Back on the MenuThe Economist: A new “quartet of chaos” threatens America Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel and set in motion a new cycle of violence that has rocked the Middle East. Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East advisor to both Republican and Democratic secretaries of state, joins FP Live to look back—and ahead. Suggested reading (FP links are paywall-free):Aaron David Miller and Steven Simon: Oct. 7 Changed Everything–but What if It Didn’t?Aaron David Miller and Lauren Morgenbesser: Don’t Blame Biden for the Yearlong War in GazaFP’s Oct. 7 Roundup: Is the Israel-Hamas War Closer to Its Beginning or Its End? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unrest, even violence, could be a concern heading into the U.S. presidential election in November. What should be done to strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions? And what lessons can be learned from other countries facing similar challenges? Author and political scientist Barbara Walter joins FP Live to share her findings from her research on civil wars around the world.Suggested reading (FP links are paywall-free):Transcript: Could Civil War Erupt in America?Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware: How Bad Will Political Violence in the U.S. Get?Stephen Marche: Why the U.S. Military Isn’t Ready for Civil WarCameron Abadi and Adam Tooze: What a Real Civil War Would Do to the U.S. Economy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ronald Lamola, South Africa's Foreign Minister, shares insights on the nation's foreign policy, rooted in its history of apartheid. He discusses the moral stance against Israel's actions in Gaza and how this parallels South Africa's commitment to international law. The conversation delves into the complexities of relationships with countries like Russia and Iran, emphasizing dialogue over conflict. Lamola also reflects on the ANC's declining power, stressing the need for political renewal and a consistent, non-aligned approach to international issues.

Richard Gown, a seasoned observer of U.N. activities, shares his insights as the General Assembly unfolds. He discusses the mounting pressures facing the U.N. amid global crises, including the Israel-Hamas conflict. Gown highlights the call for Security Council reform and the aspirations of countries like India and Brazil for permanent seats. The conversation also touches on the U.N.'s role in maintaining accountability, especially concerning Russia's actions, and the importance of inclusive platforms for marginalized voices in global politics.

Jens Stoltenberg, the Secretary General of NATO, shares insights as he prepares to step down. He discusses the pressing challenges Ukraine faces, including drone threats and power outages. The conversation dives into the complex debate around providing long-range missiles and NATO's potential expansion. Stoltenberg highlights the surprising role of North Korea in supplying Russia and the growing threat of authoritarian regimes. He emphasizes NATO's strategic balancing act amid evolving global alliances and the critical importance of military support for Ukraine.

An exclusive episode for our podcast listeners: Host and FP editor in chief Ravi Agrawal gives a preview of the latest print issue: “Letters to the Next President.”Suggested reading (FP links are paywall-free):Martin Kimani: How to Restore the American CenterArancha González: Isolationism Doesn’t ProtectDanny Quah: Why America Should Drop Its Obsession With Being No. 1Joseph E. Stiglitz: Play by the RulesCatherine Ashton: The Trans-Atlantic Partnership Still MattersJason Bordoff: Clean Energy Is SecurityMark Malloch-Brown: Muster Global MajoritiesJoseph S. Nye Jr.: Invest in Soft PowerNirupama Rao: Strategic Autonomy Is Nothing to Fear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

H.R. McMaster, former National Security Advisor during the Trump administration, provides insights on the recent Harris-Trump debate. He delves into the implications of foreign policy amidst global tensions and discusses the need for military modernization. McMaster critiques past U.S. actions in the Middle East, particularly regarding Iran, and emphasizes the importance of a unified international response to threats. With humor, he navigates the unpredictable political landscape and addresses the need for coordinated approaches to economic and military challenges.

Nicholas Burns, the U.S. ambassador to China since 2022, shares insights on the complex U.S.-China relationship during a pivotal period. He discusses strategies for addressing rising tensions, focusing on diplomacy over hostility. The conversation delves into critical issues like the fentanyl crisis and military competition, highlighting the need for responsible engagement. Burns emphasizes balancing national interests with people-to-people ties and the importance of maintaining open communication to prevent conflict.

The violence on Oct. 7 and the war in Gaza seem to have derailed any hope for a two-state solution. With tensions in the Middle East continuing to escalate, and a cease-fire agreement proving elusive, what does a path forward for both the Israelis and Palestinians look like? Former Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayyad shares his insights with FP Live.Suggested reading (FP links are paywall-free):Foreign Affairs: Salam Fayyad: A Plan for Peace in GazaJohn Aziz: Violence Has Failed the PalestiniansFP Contributors: How Will This War End? How Can the Next One Be Prevented? Stephen M. Walt: The Dangerous Decline in Israeli StrategyTickets to see FP's Ones and Tooze podcast live at Sixth & I in Washington, DC:https://www.sixthandi.org/event/foreign-policys-ones-and-tooze-podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices