The Global Story

In this discussion, Lyse Doucet, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent with over 30 years of experience in the Middle East, dives deep into Benjamin Netanyahu's enduring rapport with U.S. presidents. She highlights Netanyahu's strategic maneuvers to maintain influence, including his defiance and flattery tactics. Doucet recounts the historical context of Netanyahu's ties with American leaders, especially during the rough patches with Obama and the favorable policies under Trump. The conversation also touches on recent tensions and Netanyahu's stance on the latest 21-point peace plan.

Adam Rutherford, a science journalist and author specializing in genetics and misinformation, delves into the notorious Wakefield controversy. He unpacks the 1998 Lancet paper that falsely linked MMR vaccines to autism and the resulting media frenzy. Rutherford highlights how Wakefield's claims became a medical disaster, fueled by public fear and celebrity endorsements. He also examines Wakefield's move to the U.S. and his influence on current vaccine denialism, emphasizing the long-lasting damage this misinformation continues to inflict.

Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia editor for BBC Monitoring and a Ukrainian from Zaporizhia, offers unique insights into recent shifts in Donald Trump's rhetoric regarding Ukraine. He dissects Trump's claim that Ukraine could win the war, pondering the potential influence of Zelensky's UN appeal. The conversation shifts to frontline realities amidst costly Russian advances and explores whether Trump's statements signal an actual policy change. Vitaly also examines the Kremlin's response and the complexities of sustaining the conflict, making it a thought-provoking discussion.

A whirlwind of activity surrounds the 80th UN General Assembly as world leaders converge. President Trump questions the UN's relevance, claiming it’s merely symbolic. His surprising diplomatic successes and criticisms of immigration and green energy stir controversy. As tensions rise, discussions reveal how cuts in U.S. funding exacerbate the UN's challenges. In a striking twist, Trump tells Zelensky that Ukraine can reclaim lost territory, signaling a shift in his stance. The intricate balance of diplomacy unfolds amid chaos.

Patrick McGee, a former Financial Times reporter and author of *Apple in China*, explores Apple's ambitious $600bn plan for US manufacturing. He discusses the intricate history of Apple's reliance on Chinese factories and Foxconn's pivotal role in its success. McGee delves into the challenges posed by US political pressures and Xi Jinping’s policies, revealing why completely disentangling from China is nearly impossible for Apple. Can the tech giant balance its commitments and navigate this geopolitical maze? Tune in for insights!

Paul Adams, a seasoned BBC diplomatic correspondent with a deep understanding of the Middle East, shares insights on the recent wave of countries recognizing a Palestinian state. He discusses the strategic timing behind this shift among Britain, France, Canada, and others. The conversation delves into the implications of the UN General Assembly discussions and how international dynamics are reshaping the recognition landscape. Additionally, Adams highlights the pressure this recognition might place on Israel and the constraints imposed by U.S. opposition.

In a riveting discussion, Steve Rosenberg, BBC Russia editor and Eurovision aficionado, delves into the revival of Intervision, a Soviet-era song contest. He shares insights on its Cold War roots and contrasts it with Eurovision, highlighting Kremlin's soft-power motives. Steve questions the timing of the revival amidst the ongoing geopolitical climate and analyzes the significance of the U.S. entry. With humor and depth, he reveals how music intertwines with politics and international relations.

In this engaging discussion, Mike Wendling, a BBC correspondent renowned for his insights on UK free speech issues, dives into why American conservatives are obsessed with free speech debates across the Atlantic. He highlights key legal differences and delves into specific UK cases, such as those involving Graham Linehan and Lucy Connolly, revealing how these incidents are reshaped by US media. This fixation offers a lens into the transatlantic dynamics of free speech as American right-wingers navigate their own speech controversies.

Imogen Foulkes, a BBC Geneva correspondent, breaks down a recent UN report accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. She discusses the legal definitions surrounding genocide and the evidence presented, addressing the complexities of establishing intent. Foulkes emphasizes the implications of these accusations amidst ongoing humanitarian crises, while also highlighting Israel's strong denials. The conversation delves into the role of international law and the challenges of accountability in conflict zones, making for a thought-provoking discussion on a contentious global issue.

Marianna Spring, BBC's Social Media investigations correspondent, dives deep into the chilling assassination of Charlie Kirk. She unpacks the mysterious inscriptions on the murder's bullet casings, linking them to radical online subcultures and the complexities of political ideology. The conversation reveals how social media amplifies violent sentiments and the resurgence of historical symbols like 'Bella Ciao' as contemporary cultural touchstones. Spring expertly navigates the dark motivations fueling online discourse, highlighting the profound impact of memes and trolling.