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Oct 8, 2024 • 31min

The Boris Johnson Interview (Unpacked)

In this engaging discussion, Matt Chorley, a BBC journalist, shares insights from his lively interview with Boris Johnson. They delve into the complexities of interviewing a former PM known for his evasiveness, examining political accountability and legacy. The conversation highlights key controversies in Johnson's career, like Partygate, while humorously dissecting the ongoing Conservative leadership race. Chorley also analyzes James Cleverly's surge and the implications of these dynamics for the future of the Tory party.
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Oct 8, 2024 • 33min

Matt Chorley interviews Boris Johnson

Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the UK, shares insights from his controversial tenure marked by Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses whether Brexit facilitated the rapid COVID vaccination rollout and reflects on his exit from Downing Street. The conversation includes humorous anecdotes about political integrity, the ethics of gifts during his office, and the challenges of engaging with a scrutinizing public. Johnson also touches on his hopes for a political comeback and the importance of his book 'Unleashed' as a governance guide.
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Oct 7, 2024 • 26min

Sue Gray + Keir Starmer... What Went Wrong?

In this engaging discussion, Alex Thomas, Programme Director at the Institute of Government and former Principal Private Secretary, provides insight into Sue Gray's resignation from her role as Keir Starmer's chief of staff. They explore the implications of her departure on Downing Street's efficiency and leadership dynamics. The conversation highlights the challenges faced within the UK government's structure, discussing the complexities of communication, strategic alignment, and the impact of recent high-profile appointments on party strategies.
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Oct 6, 2024 • 29min

The Conflict: One Year On

Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor, brings a wealth of experience from Jerusalem. Anna Foster, the Middle East correspondent, offers insights from Beirut, while Rusty Abu Aluf shares firsthand accounts from Gaza. They reflect on the year since the conflict escalated, discussing the human toll and the fragility of peace efforts. The emotional stories of families affected by violence are highlighted, revealing deep grief and a struggle to keep hope alive. The dire situation in Lebanon and the increasing tensions with Hezbollah are explored, showcasing the complexity of the ongoing crisis.
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Oct 6, 2024 • 29min

How Is The Middle East Shaping UK Politics?

Nick Watt, BBC News political editor, dives into the turbulent intersection of Middle Eastern conflict and UK politics. He discusses the Labour Party's struggle with pro-Palestinian sentiments amid rising tensions abroad and the challenges it poses for the UK government. The conversation touches on the unique diplomatic role the UK plays and the domestic repercussions of international crises. Additionally, Watt addresses the concerning rise in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in local communities, along with the legal aspects of protests linked to these conflicts.
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Oct 5, 2024 • 25min

How Might Israel Respond to Iran?

In this insightful discussion, Baran Abbasi, a seasoned BBC Persian reporter, shares his expertise on Iran's role in the escalating Middle East tensions. He highlights the gulf between the Iranian regime's aggression and the people's sentiments towards Israeli PM Netanyahu's threats. Idit Ohel, whose son Alon was taken hostage during the October 7th attacks, poignantly recounts her heartbreak and determination. Their narratives provide a profound look at the conflict's human side, emphasizing public opinion shifts and the resilience of those affected by violence.
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Oct 4, 2024 • 33min

The Week: Middle East, Tory Conference + Assisted Dying

This week, tensions rise as the UK responds to the Middle East crisis, grappling with Israel's ground invasion and the threat of Hezbollah. Meanwhile, parliament takes a significant step towards discussing assisted dying, reflecting evolving public sentiment. The Conservative Conference showcases leadership pitches amidst calls for unity, as candidates face scrutiny over recent electoral setbacks. The podcast navigates the complexities of legislative debates and the ethical challenges surrounding these pressing issues.
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Oct 3, 2024 • 35min

Jeremy Bowen’s Hamas Interview

Khalil Al-Hayya, a senior member of Hamas, discusses the complexities of the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict in his candid interview. Jeremy Bowen reveals how he managed to arrange the conversation and challenges Al-Hayya’s perspectives on the events following October 7. They also delve into the repercussions of the recent Iranian missile strike on Israel, addressing its impact on regional stability. The episode further touches on the geopolitics surrounding the Chagos Islands and their strategic significance in global security.
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Oct 2, 2024 • 37min

4 Tory Leadership Hopefuls Take The Stage

Chris Mason, a political reporter, dives into the lively atmosphere of the Tory Party Conference, revealing surprising enthusiasm among attendees. He offers insights into the speeches from Conservative leadership hopefuls, spotlighting the strategies of Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenok. Meanwhile, Paul Adams, a BBC diplomatic correspondent, discusses recent Iranian missile strikes on Israel, analyzing regional implications and the human toll of conflict. Their conversation unveils the interconnectedness of domestic political dynamics and international crises.
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Oct 1, 2024 • 13min

Iran Fires Missiles at Israel

Frank Gardner, a seasoned security correspondent for the BBC, breaks down Iran's missile strike on Israel, revealing it as a retaliation for Israeli operations against Hezbollah and Hamas. He discusses the scale of the attack, with around 180 missiles fired, and highlights the effectiveness of Israel's defenses in intercepting most of them. The conversation dives into the international response to Iran's aggression, examining the complexities of US and UK stances amid escalating tensions in the region.

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