Ian Bremmer is in Tokyo, Japan, to check in on America’s “pivot to Asia.” How’s that going? Given that neither Ukraine nor Israel is located in the Asia Pacific, it is not so great! In 2011, then-President Obama announced on a trip to Australia that US foreign policy would be shifting its focus away from costly wars in the Middle East and towards strengthening partnerships in the Asia-Pacific to curb a rising China. Twelve years later, we’re still pivoting. But if we ever do get there, we will have to take Japan, one of our closest regional allies, along with us. To talk about US-Japan relations, as well as a whole host of sticky policy issues, foreign and domestic, Ian is joined by US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel. Ian will also get his take on the Israel-Hamas war and the fighting in Ukraine. Subscribe to the GZERO World with Ian Bremmer Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform, to receive new episodes as soon as they're published.

Ian Bremmer explores the transformative potential of human-enhancing biotech with Siddhartha Mukherjee, discussing gene editing, AI prosthetics, and growing organs in labs. They delve into ethical questions, risks, and benefits, including the concept of the 'new human' reshaping our definition of humanity. This conversation touches on brain implants, CRISPR gene editing, synthetic genomes, bionics with AI, and the changing idea of the soul. They also address ethical concerns surrounding unauthorized use of CRISPR, AI bots spreading misinformation, and privacy issues.

The podcast explores the need for software security and the role of governments. Topics covered include software vulnerabilities and exploitation, best practices for reporting vulnerabilities, bug bounty programs, and government involvement in vulnerability disclosure.

Former Prime Minister Ehud Barak discusses the ongoing war with Hamas, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the potential for a two-state solution with Palestine. Barak criticizes Benjamin Netanyahu's policies, emphasizes the goal of destroying Hamas, reflects on the failed peace summit in 2000, and explores strategies for Israel to overcome anti-Semitism and revive the peace process.

In this podcast, the proposed UN cybercrime treaty is discussed, raising concerns about its effectiveness and potential harm. The lack of transparency and its impact on civil liberties and international cooperation are highlighted. Recommendations include specific offenses, transparency, and clear rules on dual criminality. There is a need to incorporate human rights safeguards and oversight mechanisms while limiting cooperation to genuine cyber crimes.

Exploring the dangers of AI-generated deep fake videos and the growing threat of foreign influence operations aimed at spreading misinformation online and influencing elections. Detection and investigation of information operations, preserving free speech while combating disinformation, the influence of AI on elections, and addressing societal changes for combating disinformation and influence operations.

Iran's role in the Gaza war and the potential for escalation are the most interesting topics discussed in this episode. The podcast explores Iran's involvement in the conflict, including their support for militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. It also examines Israel's proximity to war with Iran and the implications of their ongoing invasion of Gaza. Additionally, the podcast analyzes the future of the US-Iran relationship, the impact of the conflict on oil flow and the interests of the United States and China.

The podcast discusses the growing threat of cyber mercenaries and their use of malicious spyware. It explores efforts by governments and private enterprises to combat the cyber mercenary industry. The role of the CyberPeace Institute and civil society organizations in addressing this challenge is also highlighted. The podcast explores various initiatives, litigation, regulation, and principles outlined in the Tech Accord to address the global surveillance-for-hire market. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation, regulation, and investment in academia, civil society, and government to stop cyber mercenaries.

Samir Saran, an expert in international relations and diplomacy, discusses the tensions between India and Canada following the alleged assassination of a Sikh separatist leader. They explore the history of the Khalistan separatist movement in Canada and the strained diplomatic fallout. Saran also touches on India's relationship with China, tensions on the Himalayan border, India's role in the BRICS partnership, and its ambitious renewable energy goals.

Explore the world of cyber diplomats and their role in combating online threats. Learn about multi-stakeholder cyber diplomacy, the Cybersecurity Tech Accord, and the significance of tech sector engagement. Discover Russia's use of cyber attacks in Ukraine and the defense efforts of Western governments.