ABC News Daily

Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the ideological rift within the MAGA movement over Donald Trump's decision to bomb Iranian nuclear facilities. She discusses how this move challenges the 'America First' promise, revealing divisions among influential supporters like Tucker Carlson and Steve Bannon. The conversation highlights Trump's fluctuating reputation as a peacemaker amid ongoing global conflicts and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly regarding Israel and Iran.

Anna Borshchevskaya, a Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute and an expert on Russia’s Middle East policy, delves into the complexities of Russia-Iran relations. She discusses why Putin hasn't provided substantial military aid to Iran despite their close ties, especially amid Israeli and American threats. The potential consequences for Iran's nuclear ambitions and the balancing act of Moscow's interests in the region are highlighted, revealing the intricate dance of diplomacy in a turbulent geopolitical landscape.

Jonathan Panikoff, Director of the Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative at the Atlantic Council, discusses Donald Trump's unexpected ceasefire in the Israel-Iran conflict. He delves into Iran's motivations following recent missile attacks on U.S. bases, questioning the sustainability of peace. The conversation explores Israel's military strategies to counter Iranian threats and the complexities of diplomatic relations. Panikoff emphasizes the fragile nature of the ceasefire and its broader implications for regional stability amid changing global alliances.

Ali Vaez, Director of the Iran Project at the International Crisis Group, offers deep insights into Iran's political landscape following U.S. airstrikes on its nuclear facilities. He discusses the three strategic options available to Iranian leaders, emphasizing that surrender is not on the table. The conversation explores the complexities of Trump's regime change rhetoric and its implications for Iran's alliances. Vaez also highlights the geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and the potential for civil unrest amid Iran's internal challenges.

Rajan Menon, a prominent international relations expert, shares insights on the recent escalation of U.S. military actions against Iran, including bombings of nuclear sites. He discusses the historical parallels to past U.S. interventions and the legality of these military strikes. The conversation also delves into the divided opinions within Donald Trump's supporter base regarding the conflict, highlighting the tensions between pro-intervention and anti-war sentiments. Menon analyzes potential Iranian responses and the broader geopolitical consequences for the region.

Alan Kohler, ABC TV's finance expert, discusses the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict's implications for Australia's economy. He highlights that, while the situation could escalate oil prices and inflation, there’s no immediate cause for concern. Kohler emphasizes the strategic significance of the Straits of Hormuz and potential disruptions in oil production. He also explores how rising petrol prices could trigger broader economic effects, resembling interest rate hikes, while predicting that financial markets will remain stable unless complications arise.

Eric Tlozek, ABC's Middle East Correspondent based in Israel, provides valuable insights into the ongoing conflict with Iran. He discusses the surprise airstrikes and their immediate impact on Israeli civilians, as many grapple with increasing missile threats. Tlozek also dives into public sentiment towards Prime Minister Netanyahu's military strategies, highlighting growing skepticism amid ongoing protests. Moreover, he sheds light on the challenges of obtaining reliable information about the situation in Iran due to heavy censorship, revealing the complexities of the conflict from both sides.

Dr. Ben Zala, a Senior Lecturer in International Relations at Monash School of Social Sciences, explores Iran's nuclear ambitions and the geopolitical tensions involving Israel and the U.S. He discusses whether Iran is genuinely on the brink of building a nuclear bomb, analyzing Israel's military strategies against Iranian sites. The conversation delves into the fallout from collapsed U.S.-Iran negotiations and the implications of potential military actions on regional security and the future of nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.

Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, delves into the recent surge of anti-Trump protests, highlighting a significant shift in public sentiment. She discusses the contrasting atmosphere of a military parade while protests erupt against perceived authoritarianism. Molly emphasizes the unity among various groups fighting for democracy and critiques the complexities of immigration policies under Trump. The conversation also touches on the legal challenges facing the administration and the implications for upcoming elections.

Hussein Ibish, a Senior Resident Scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, breaks down the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He explains the implications of Israel's military operations, particularly the precision targeting of Iranian nuclear sites. The discussion touches on Benjamin Netanyahu's strategic moves to rally Iranian citizens against their government. Ibish also warns about the potential U.S. involvement and the risks of a broader regional war. His insights help navigate the complex political dynamics fueling this ongoing tension.