Battle Lines

Emily Thornberry, the straight-talking Labour MP and chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, dives into a whirlwind of pressing global topics. She debates whether Trump could usher in peace in the Middle East and the UK's stance on recognizing Palestine. Thornberry argues for utilizing frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine and critiques the UK-Israel relationship amid rising tensions. She also tackles the challenges of diplomatic detentions abroad and explores the intricate balance of cooperation and security in UK-China relations.

New footage raises questions about Israel's narrative surrounding a deadly attack on ambulances in Gaza, highlighting the complexities of the conflict. The conversation shifts to Sudan, where the Sudanese Armed Forces have regained control of Khartoum amid escalating violence. This ongoing crisis is labeled the deadliest in the world, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation and international indifference. The impact on humanitarian efforts is profound, showcasing the urgent need for awareness and support for those affected.

Tony Diver, Associate Political Editor at The Telegraph, discusses the controversial Chagos Islands deal and its geopolitical ramifications, including rising tensions with China and implications for UK-US relations. Bruce Peabody, Political Science Professor, tackles the contentious idea of Trump serving a third term, reviewing six constitutional scenarios that could make it possible. They explore the complexities of the 22nd Amendment and the potential for Trump's camp to navigate uncharted legal waters in pursuit of another presidency.

Sarah Newey, an Asia correspondent with firsthand insights from Myanmar, discusses the devastating impact of a recent earthquake amidst a brutal civil war. She explains how this disaster may weaken the junta's grip on power and worsen the humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Sam Roggeveen, Director of the Lowy Institute's International Security Program, analyzes Australia's evolving defense strategy against China's assertiveness. He addresses the controversy over defense spending increases and the implications of recent military provocations. Together, they shed light on critical geopolitical challenges.

Kurt Mills, Executive Editor of The American Conservative, offers deep insights on U.S. foreign policy. Anders Vistisen, a Danish MEP, discusses Greenland’s sovereignty in light of recent U.S. ambitions for annexation. Charly Salonius-Pasternak analyzes Arctic geopolitics, including security implications from the 'Signal-gate' incident. The trio examines how American actions could destabilize global dynamics, especially in relation to Russia and NATO. They engage in heated debates about nationalism, diplomacy, and the complexities of foreign relations in a changing world.

Raphael Geiger, Istanbul correspondent for Süddeutsche Zeitung, discusses the recent protests in Turkey following President Erdogan's controversial arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. Highlighting youth-led movements, he emphasizes the aspiration for democracy amidst governmental oppression. Meanwhile, Henry Bodkin, a Jerusalem correspondent, delves into the political unrest in Israel, sparked by Netanyahu's actions and the firing of Shin Bet's director. This conversation uncovers the alarming erosion of democratic values in both nations.

Mark MacKinnon, Senior International Correspondent at The Globe and Mail, shares insights on Canadian fury towards Trump's annexation rhetoric. He discusses how the current political climate is intensifying nationalism among Canadians and shaping their identity. The podcast explores the historical parallels with geopolitical tensions like those in Ukraine and critiques media portrayals of these issues. MacKinnon also highlights the unforeseen impacts of the ongoing tariff war on Canadian industries and the evolving dynamics of Canada-U.S. relations.

Violence has reignited between Israel and Hamas, just two months after a shaky ceasefire. Extensive airstrikes on Gaza have resulted in a rising death toll, largely impacting children. A Palestinian aid worker shares insights from the ground, while personal stories illuminate the human cost of the conflict. The discussion also delves into the broader geopolitical implications and the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution amidst escalating humanitarian crises. Families grapple with the emotional toll and the ongoing hostage situation adds to the complexity.

Over the weekend, the United States launched what it called 'powerful and decisive' airstrikes against the Houthis, the Iranian backed rebel group that controls much of Yemen. The Houthis say the death toll so far stands at 53, including two children. American officials said the strikes aimed at the Houthi leadership and came in response to the group's threat to resume strikes on shipping in the Red Sea. But it's not just about Yemen. On Monday afternoon, Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social that 'Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, and from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of Iran.'Iran, he said, will be held responsible and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire. So what does this new wave of strikes mean for the people of Yemen and for the wider Middle East? Roland Oliphant speaks with Farea Al-Muslimi, research fellow at Chatham House's Middle East and North Africa program.Plus: as a UN helicopter is attacked in South Sudan raising fears of a return to civil war, we hear diary extracts from Dr Ryan McHenry who spent three months working with MSF in the country's arduous circumstances.Contact us with feedback or ideasbattlelines@telegraph.co.uk @venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful discussion, Memphis Barker, a Telegraph foreign correspondent in Alberta, explores the separatist sentiments in Canada and the controversial idea of annexation, revealing surprising opinions from locals. Tom Wright, a strategic advisor in the Biden White House, offers a deep dive into U.S. relations with Russia and China. The conversation addresses national security concerns, emotional ties to independence in Alberta, and the complicated diplomacy surrounding the Ukraine conflict, all while examining the currents of U.S. foreign policy under both Trump and Biden.