Can Pakistani violence sabotage a fragile truce between their neighbours?

Recent attacks in Pakistan have killed nearly 50 people, many of them security forces. The Pakistani Taliban says it is behind them. Islamabad accuses Kabul of backing the armed group. Can the violence sabotage a fragile truce between the neighbours? In this episode:  Masood Khan, Former Permanent…

Could differences over Taiwan lead to conflict between the US and China?

Donald Trump calls his visit to China 'incredible', and Xi Jinping says it was a 'landmark' meeting. But the Chinese president's comments about Taiwan are raising concerns. Could a dispute over the territory lead to conflict between Beijing and Washington? In this episode:  Ali Wyne, Senior Resear…

What will be discussed during the Lebanon-Israel negotiations?

As Israeli attacks in Lebanon continue despite a ceasefire, the United States is hosting the third round of talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials. Hezbollah opposes the meeting in Washington. But can the process help find a way forward for Lebanon after decades of war?  In this episode:  Al…

Is Eurovision's future under threat because of Israel's participation?

Five nations boycott Eurovision, citing Israel's participation. Their action is against Israel's war in Gaza and allegations of vote manipulation in the song contest. But why is it so important for Israel to take part? And is the competition's future under threat?  In this episode:  Steve Wall, mu…

Is there hope for an end to the war in Sudan?

A drone attack on Khartoum's international airport. The UN says such strikes have killed nearly 900 people in Sudan this year. And the conflict between the army and a paramilitary group is only intensifying. So, is there hope for an end to the fighting? In this episode:  Caroline Bouvard, Country …

Who is behind the new wave of violence in eastern DR Congo?

A new wave of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Attacks by two lesser-known armed groups have killed dozens of people. So, who are they? And how serious a threat do they pose? In this episode:  Henry-Pacifique Mayala, Kivu Security Tracker Project Co-ordinator at Ebuteli  R…

Could the Russia-Ukraine war be entering its final phase?

Russia's President Vladimir Putin says the Ukraine war may be over soon. Attacks have been intensifying in recent weeks. Stalemate on the battlefield is increasing political pressure for an end. So could the conflict be entering its final phase? In this episode: Dmitry Polyanskiy, Ambassador and P…

How the Covid-19 pandemic experience could help deal with Hantavirus?

The World Health Organization says public health risks from hantavirus are low. Arrangements are being made to repatriate passengers from a cruise ship, after three people who'd been on board, died.  How's the experience from the Covid-19 pandemic being used?  In this episode: Dr. Mukesh Kapila - …

What caused the backlash against UK PM Keir Starmer?

There's been a backlash against UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in local and regional elections across England, Scotland, and Wales, despite a huge parliamentary majority. He's rejecting calls to quit, but faces new challenges from both the left and the right. So, why are these elections so signific…

Can China help end the Iran war?

China's diplomatic role in the Middle East is under sharp focus, as foreign ministers from Beijing and Tehran meet. It's calling on the US and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and for a 'comprehensive' ceasefire. So, can China help end the war? In this episode:  Setareh Sadeqi, Assistant Profe…