The mood at the United Nations’ annual climate conference is often tense, even accusatory. But this year, the war with Iran is looming over the event, as is the prospect of US President Donald Trump, who has long championed fossil fuels, becoming the world’s accidental climate saviour.

Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on the hopeful progress we don’t often hear about, and why Australia has copped a serve at the talks.

Further reading:

• How Donald Trump could become an accidental climate saviour
• 35-by-35: A catchy slogan, a mammoth negotiation and a plan to save the world

The Morning Edition brings you the story behind the story with the best journalists in Australia. Join host Samantha Selinger-Morris, from the newsrooms of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, weekdays from 5am.
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