पडकास्ट
BBC World Service
५९२ एपिसोड · en
Where the world and America meet, with episodes each weekday. The world is changing. Decisions made in the US and by the second Trump administration are accelerating that change. But they are also a symptom of it. With Asma Khalid in DC, Tristan Redman in London, and the backing of the BBC’s international newsroom, The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption.
२०२६ जुन ३० · ३२ मिनेट
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, all this week The Global Story is exploring the surprising and often hidden ways the US has shaped the modern world. One of the most powerful and enduring American ideas is that of the American Dream. Today, we hear the story of one extraordinary American Dream seeker. The BBC first spoke to Abdi Nor Iftin in 2014, when he was living in one of Kenya's toughest neighbourhoods after fleeing conflict in Somalia. When he won the US green card lottery his problems seemed to be solved – but it turned out to be the start of a whole new struggle. Producer: Viv Jones Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Digital producer: Matt Pintus Senior news editor: China Collins Image: An illustration of the Statue of Liberty. Credit: BBC
२०२६ जुन २९ · २७ मिनेट
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, all this week The Global Story is exploring the surprising and often hidden ways the US has shaped the modern world. Today, we are joined by Roman Mars – the host of 99% Invisible and the new BBC series A History of the United States in 100 Objects – who sets out his theory of how the US used design to shape the world in its image. Producer: Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Image: An illustration of a US city rising high above the world’s surface)
२०२६ जुन २६ · ३ मिनेट
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, The Global Story is launching a landmark series exploring the surprising and often hidden ways the United States has shaped the modern world.
२०२६ जुन २६ · २७ मिनेट
For two decades, PEPFAR, the US program to curb AIDS/HIV, enjoyed support and financial backing from both Republicans and Democrats, saving an estimated 26 million lives in what is described as the largest ever commitment by any nation to address a single disease. Previous presidents - including Donald Trump in his first term - continued to praise and support the effort. But last week, the State Department announced that it would be ending its support for PEPFAR in South Africa. The UN has warned the decision could end up costing lives. US officials told the BBC that the funding cut was in part a response to South Africa's alleged failure to protect the white-minority Afrikaner community, an accusation Pretoria rejects. Asma speaks to the BBC’s Senior Africa Producer Ed Habershon about what drove this decision and what the impact could be. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Valerio Esposito and Aron Keller Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Digital producer: Richard Kenny Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Bottles of antiretroviral ARV drugs used to prevent HIV. Credit: Thomas Mukoya/Reuters
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The United States has been a staunch ally of Israel for decades, and Americans used to be steadfast in their support for the country. But in recent years - and recent weeks - the special relationship between the two counties has come under fire. Several polls indicate that Americans have increasingly negative views of Israel and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. And as the midterms approach, support for Israel is on the ballot in some races. Asma briefs Tristan on shifting US public and political opinion on Israel. And Jon Donnison discusses how fluctuating US sentiment on Israel is affecting domestic Israeli politics. (Photo: President Donald Trump (R) gestures with an extended index finger at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (L) as they stand face to face in front of an Israeli flag. Credit: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)
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Growing concerns over young people using anti-aging products, have prompted industry regulators in Italy to investigate claims that some brands are using young influencers to promote skincare products to other children. Investigators say that the practice is linked to the broader issue of ‘cosmeticorexia’ - a new term coined by some healthcare professionals to describe an obsession with skincare. Asma speaks to the BBC’s health and wellbeing reporter Ruth Clegg, about how harmful skincare is for the social media generation. Producer: Sam Chantarasak Sound engineer: Travis Evans Digital producer: Tom Bage Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Young content creator Ellie-May. Credit: Sophie/BBC)
२०२६ जुन २३ · २८ मिनेट
Britain has had six prime ministers in the past decade. It’s about to get a seventh after Keir Starmer announced his resignation on Monday. The country used to be seen as a bastion of political stability. But this latest resignation comes ten years - almost to the day - that Britain voted to leave the European Union. In this episode we speak to The BBC’s Adam Fleming, Brexit expert, and host of the BBC podcast Newscast. And we ask if Britain is still experiencing the same political forces that produced Brexit. Why Britain keeps losing prime ministers: bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct8mks Producer: Sam Chantarasak and Lucy Pawle Sound engineer: Travis Evans Editor: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces his resignation outside 10 Downing Street, in London, Britain, June 22, 2026. Credit: Jaimi Joy/Reuters)
२०२६ जुन २२ · २६ मिनेट
During the pandemic, for the first time in most of our living memories, the balance of power shifted from employer to employee. By 2021, the percentage of people in the US quitting their jobs was the highest it had been in decades, with tens of millions of people quitting in a single year, confident that they could find something better elsewhere - a trend dubbed ‘The Great Resignation’. Five years on, and the quitting rates are way down. People are staying in jobs longer, if they are lucky enough to have one. Why? On today’s show, Tristan is joined by Anthony Klotz, a professor of organisational behaviour at University College London and author, who coined the term ‘The Great Resignation’ and Sarah O'Connor, a columnist for the Financial Times and author of We Are Not Machines: The Fight for the Future of Work, to explore how the world of work has been changed by AI, political and economic instability, and to consider how we can better enjoy the jobs we are in. Producer: Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Woman working on laptop at home)
२०२६ जुन १९ · २७ मिनेट
On Wednesday, President Trump met with Iranian leaders to sign an initial memorandum of understanding towards ending the months-long war. In a press conference after the signing, Trump was triumphant. Specifically, he touted the deal’s firmness on one of the US’s key priorities: ensuring that Iran can never develop a nuclear weapon. Whilst Iran has agreed to “not procure or develop nuclear weapons," there are many questions left unanswered. What does it actually look like to police the weapons programmes Today, we speak to someone intimately familiar with the weapons inspection process: President of the Institute for Science and International Security, David Albright. In the 1990s, Albright worked in Iraq with the UN, investigating the nation’s weapons programme under Sadaam Hussein. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Cat Farnsworth Executive producers: Bridget Harney and China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Video producer: Matt Pintus Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump holds a press conference during the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, June 17, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein
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On Sunday, Colombia will elect a new president. A Trump-endorsed outsider, Abelardo de la Espriella, nicknamed ‘The Tiger,’ is now ahead in the polls, and within striking distance of the presidency. His platform promises a military crackdown on narcoterrorism and closer collaboration with the United States. Many Latin American nations have shifted to the right in recent elections, and the Colombia vote is seen as a crucial litmus test for the wider region’s political landscape. Could Colombia be the next country in Latin America take a hard turn to the right? And how might that benefit President Donald Trump? We speak to BBC South America correspondent, Ione Wells. Producers: Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Video producer: Matt Pintus Senior news editor: China Collins Phto: Colombian right-wing presidential candidate Abelardo De La Espriella. REUTERS/Cesar Quiroz
२०२६ जुन १७ · २७ मिनेट
Global fertility rates are at record lows globally, and governments around the world are urging couples to grow their families. Under Viktor Orbán’s leadership, Hungary implemented some of the most aggressive pro-natalist policies in the world — including generous subsidies for couples who promise to have children, lengthy paid maternity leave, and thousands of dollars in interest-free loans. But does paying people to have kids actually work? We speak to BBC populations correspondent Stephanie Hegarty about the possibilities and limitations of pro-natalist government policies. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A mother holding the feet of her baby. Credit: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire
२०२६ जुन १५ · २७ मिनेट
The US and Iran have agreed a deal to end the war, which – if all goes to plan – will be signed at a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday. But the agreement remains shrouded in mystery, and major questions remain about whether both sides can reach a long-term peace deal. We speak to the BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, about how the past few months have affected the global economy, the region, Iran’s nuclear capabilities, its regime and its people. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Audio mix: Travis Evans Video producer: Matt Pintus Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A drone view shows vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 15, 2026. Photo credit: Reuters
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In the centre of Albania's capital, Tirana, thousands have been taking to the streets. The target of the protests are not just the government, but also Donald’s Trump daughter, Ivanka, and her husband, Jared Kushner. The pair have been working on a new multi-billion dollar luxury tourism project that will see part of Albania’s unspoiled coast turned into luxury hotels and villas, sparking what some have dubbed the, 'Flamingo Revolution’', due to risk to the local flamingo population. We speak to Emily Wither, the reporter behind the BBC documentary, 'Albania: Land, Money and Sea', about how a stretch of Albanian coastline has become the latest battleground in the Trump family's global business ambitions. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Video editor: Matt Pintus Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: An inflatable flamingo is seen on the beach in the area planned for the coastal resort project linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump near Vlora, Albania, 06 June 2026. Credit: Malton Dibra/EPA/Shutterstock. Clip: The Money Pit/TM & © Universal (1986)/Tom Hanks/Shelley Long/Richard Benjamin/David Giler, Kathleen Kennedy, Art Levinson, Frank Marshall, Steven Spielberg.
२०२६ जुन १२ · २८ मिनेट
The 2026 World Cup kicked off last night in Mexico, after a series of controversies in the lead up, including over visas for foreign teams, fans, media and officials hoping to go to the host countries: US, Canada and Mexico. The latest scandal involves FIFA dropping Somali referee Omar Artan, after the US refused him entry. FIFA‘s president Gianni Infantino said “we don't control everything”, and asked critics to ‘chill’. US Customs and Borders protection said in a statement that “derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organisations” was discovered after Omar Artan landed at Miami International Airport to attend the tournament. Artan says he told border officials he knows nothing about the Somali militant group Al Shabab. Today, we speak to Charles Gitonga, senior journalist and host of the BBC’s Focus on Africa podcast, about how Africans are reacting to the news, and whether the controversies will have long-term consequences for US-Africa relations. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: Bridget Harney Video editor: Matt Pintus Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: Somali referee Omar Artan. Credit: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images
२०२६ जुन ११ · २८ मिनेट
As a Florida senator, Marco Rubio seemed to hold an opposing world view to Donald Trump; on Russia-Ukraine, on China, on USAID, and more. He notably called Trump a “con man”, and Trump in turn dubbed him, “little Marco”. And yet now, as US Secretary of State, Rubio has made himself indispensable to the president on foreign affairs, bringing his own background to play in policy on Venezuela and Cuba, and shaping the US’ approach to further interventions abroad. Trump has even indicated that he wants Rubio to run on a joint ticket with JD Vance for the next US presidency. How has Rubio tailored himself to Trump’s world view? And what difference would he bring as a potential presidential candidate? Tom Bateman, the BBC’s State Department correspondent, regularly travels with Rubio, and he joins Asma on today’s show. Producers: Hannah Moore and Aron Keller Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Marco Rubio attends a Senate Appropriations subcommittee to testify about the proposed 2027 budget for the Department of State, June 3, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein.
२०२६ जुन १० · २७ मिनेट
The Fifa World Cup kicks off this week. Beginning Thursday, football - or soccer - matches, depending on your preference, will be played in the US, Mexico, and Canada, with a record 48 nations competing for the trophy. However, the tournament has been beset by controversies over ticket prices, travel bans that affect fans and officials, and security concerns. We answer questions from the audience about what to expect from this year’s World Cup, with BBC Sports football issues correspondent, Dale Johnson. Producer: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A Fifa soccer ball in a locker room at Kansas City Stadium ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup. Credit: Denny Medley/Reuters)
२०२६ जुन ९ · २७ मिनेट
A British immigrant backed by President Trump is running to be the next governor of California. Once a senior advisor to former prime minister David Cameron, Steve Hilton has since been on a journey – swapping Downing Street for Silicon Valley. Having made his home in the US, Hilton is now running to become California’s Republican governor on a platform of cutting taxes and regulation. We speak to Nicholas Watt, political editor of BBC Newsnight, who has known Hilton since his days advising Cameron. Producers: Viv Jones and Aron Keller Mix: Travis Evans Video producer: Matt Pintus Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton. Credit: Reuters /Mike Blake Audio for this episode was updated on 9th June 2026 to clarify Steve Hilton's views on Brexit.
२०२६ जुन ८ · २७ मिनेट
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has announced plans to expand the country's nuclear arsenal at ‘an exponential rate’, according to state media reports. His announcement comes as China’s president, Xi Jinping, is making his first visit to Pyongyang this week since 2019 – the same year Donald Trump met Kim Jong Un several times for failed talks on denuclearisation. We speak to the BBC’s Celia Hatton about why China might now be trying to keep North Korea in check. Producers: Xandra Ellin, Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Studio manager: Mike Regaard Digital producer: Tom Bage Photo: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un speaks during the fifth session of the Ninth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), in Pyongyang, North Korea, February 23, 2026. Credit: KCNA/Reuters Clip: Team America: World Police/Trey Parker/Scott Rudkin/Trey Parker/Matt Stone
२०२६ जुन ५ · २७ मिनेट
Scientists warn that a “super” El Niño could be on its way which, combined with the effects of human-caused climate change, could result in 2027 being the warmest year on record. Yet El Niño is not just a climate story - throughout history, this recurring weather pattern has helped shape global events, triggering everything from famines and revolutions to impacting the Cold War. In this episode, we speak to historian Peter Frankopan, Professor of Global History at Oxford, to discuss what historical El Niños tell us about what cou be coming our way, and how we can collectively prepare. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield and China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A woman rides a bicycle in the rain in Yangon, Myanmar, 22 May 2026. Credit: Nyein Chan Naing/EPA/Shutterstock
२०२६ जुन ४ · २९ मिनेट
Casting is finally underway for a new James Bond. But why has it taken five years to even begin the search? Since Daniel Craig retired as Bond in 2021, there have been reports of a behind-the-scenes David and Goliath battle between the family business which has held creative control of the franchise since the 1960s and its new owners, Amazon. It is now up to Jeff Bezos’s tech giant to decide who will play 007 – and how to run the series. In an era when Hollywood studios are desperate to eke out every last dollar from movie franchises, can James Bond retain its mystique and appeal to a new generation of cinema goers? We speak to Wall Street Journal enterprise reporter Erich Schwartzel. Producer: Lucy Pawle and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Daniel Craig at the world premiere of the Bond film, No Time to Die, London, 28 September, 2021 Credit: Neil Hall/European Pressphoto Agency)
२०२६ जुन ३ · २७ मिनेट
On Sunday, two prominent left-wing political commentators in the US — Hasan Piker and his uncle, Cenk Uygur – said they had been barred from visiting the UK. Both men were due to appear at the SXSW London festival, but say the British government blocked them from entering the country because of their criticism of Israel. The British government confirmed that it had denied them entry on the grounds that their presence in the UK “may not be conducive to the public good” but did not elaborate further. Their cases have sparked renewed debate about the limits of free speech in the UK. We speak to American political activist Shabbos Kestenbaum – who was due to debate Cenk Uygur in London – and to the legal academic and host of the BBC’s The Law Show, Joelle Grogan. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Lucy Pawle and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Hasan Piker speaks to members of the media at the venue for New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani's election night rally in Brooklyn, New York, November 4, 2025. Credit: Jeenah Moon/Reuters
२०२६ जुन २ · २७ मिनेट
***This episode includes details of alleged sexual offences and misconduct and includes descriptions which some listeners might find distressing*** Married at First Sight UK is one of the UK’s biggest reality TV shows. The dating format sees complete strangers marry in a mock-wedding, before moving in together and sharing a bed. Cameras follow what happens next. The BBC has uncovered allegations that raise serious concerns that welfare procedures on the reality show have failed contributors, leaving them at risk. Three women have told the BBC they were victims of sexual assault, and misconduct, by their former on-screen husbands. The men deny all the allegations against them, and both Channel 4 and CPL - the independent production company that makes the series - say the welfare protocols are robust and comprehensive. Following this investigation, Channel 4 has announced an external review into contributor welfare and has removed all previous seasons of MAFS UK. Noor Nanji, BBC culture correspondent, tells the story behind her investigation which has shaken the reality TV industry. And she discusses whether a scandal like this could provoke a new reckoning in the genre. (Photo: Shona Manderson, a ‘bride’ on Married at First Sight UK)
२०२६ जुन १ · २६ मिनेट
On prediction markets such as Polymarket people are placing sometimes huge wagers on questions ranging from the sublime (‘will Jesus Christ return by the end of the year?’) to the very serious (‘will the US invade Iran?’). Gambling is restricted across many US states but prediction markets are not classified as gambling. Their rapid rise over recent years speaks – some say – to an increasing nihilism among young men in particular, who feel they may as well try to profit from world events they cannot control. Supporters say prediction markets are a smart way to make money. Critics say they are enabling insider trading. So what is the truth behind their rise? We speak to senior business journalist at the BBC, Mitch Labiak. Producer: Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Executive producers: Richard Fenton-Smith and James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Polymarket logo appears in this illustration. Credit: Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
२०२६ मे २९ · २७ मिनेट
At the Vatican on Monday, Pope Leo XIV issued his first encyclical, a letter issued to the world’s bishops. In it, he criticised artificial intelligence and what he called the “culture of power” fuelling its rise, urging world leaders to regulate the technology more forcefully. The Pope’s scepticism towards AI does not exist in a vacuum. It comes after several weeks in which numerous commencement speakers championing artificial intelligence on US college campuses were booed by Gen Z graduates. Is a backlash to AI brewing? We speak to BBC religion editor Aleem Maqbool about the Pope’s AI-critical encyclical, and to Rachel Janfaza, founder of the Gen Z research firm The Up and Up, about why Gen Z’s relationship with AI is far more complicated than many think. Producer: Xandra Ellin, Cat Farnsworth, and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Pope Leo XIV during a meeting with Italian bishops in Vatican City, 28 May 2026. Credit: Vatican Media/EPA)
२०२६ मे २८ · २९ मिनेट
Politics, power and money have always been part of international sporting competitions, and football (or soccer) is no exception. However, this year’s World Cup faces new challenges. The United States is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico, and its relationship with its neighbours has at times been rocky. Two countries at war with each other – the US and Iran – have never played in the same competition before. Some fans are anxious about travelling to games at a time of high tension. And the cost of attending the event has led some to ask whether this World Cup is really worth it. Mehreen Khan, economics editor of The Times of London and a lifelong fan of the sport, joins us to discuss what this World Cup could mean for a divided world. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: FIFA World Cup on display in Toronto. Credit: Kevin Sousa/ Imagn Images
२०२६ मे २७ · २७ मिनेट
This week President Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have said negotiations with Iran are going well and suggested a deal could be days away. Iran has disputed this. Donald Trump says he wants “a great deal for all or no deal at all” but leaked details of a possible plan have some wondering if one side might be coming out on top. We speak to the BBC’s International Editor, Jeremy Bowen, and ask if this might be the week Donald Trump loses the art of the deal – and the perhaps the whole war – with Iran. CREDITS Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Lucy Pawle Digital Producer: Matt Pintus Executive producer: James Shield Studio Director: James Piper Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: An Iranian woman walks next to an anti-US mural in Tehran, Iran. (Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock)
२०२६ मे २६ · २९ मिनेट
In 2025, the Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD overtook Tesla as the world’s biggest seller of electric vehicles. As conflict in the Middle East pushes up fuel prices and boosts demand for EVs, Chinese carmakers are seizing the opportunity. Driven by years of state-backed investment and industrial policy, China has quietly become the global powerhouse of EV production, leading the industry in technology, innovation and affordability, while the US struggles to keep up. In today’s episode, we speak to Suranjana Tewari, Asia Business Correspondent for BBC News. She explains what BYD cars are really like, and how China won the EV race. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Aron Keller Executive Producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: A newly presented electric roadster Formula X of BYD's brand Fang Cheng Bao appears at the company’s booth at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (Auto China), in Beijing, China April 24, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Maxim Shemetov.
२०२६ मे २५ · २७ मिनेट
An Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization. The latest outbreak involves a rare species of Ebola for which there is no vaccine, and the epicentre is in an area affected by conflict. The WHO says the outbreak may be spreading faster than originally thought. James Gallagher, the BBC’s health and science correspondent, explains why this outbreak is in some ways more worrying than previous ones, and discusses what it might reveal about global preparedness for international health emergencies. Producer: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin, Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Red Cross workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Credit: Reuters/Gradel Muyisa Mumbere)
२०२६ मे २२ · २७ मिनेट
US Secretary of State Marco Rubia has said Cuba poses a "national security threat" to the US and the likelihood of a peaceful agreement is "not high". His comments come days after the US announced criminal charges against Cuba’s former president Raul Castro, the brother of Fidel Castro. The charges relate to his alleged role in the shooting down of two planes in 1996, which killed four people, including three Americans. The Cuban government say the move is “a political manoeuvre, devoid of any legal foundation.” The indictment has drawn comparisons to the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, and whether the US has set the stage for military intervention. Asma speaks to Cecilia Barria, a journalist based in Miami for BBC Mundo, and Will Grant, the BBC’s Mexico, Central America and Cuba correspondent, about the story behind the charges — and why three decades on, the indictment is only happening now. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Raul Castro attend the International Labor Day commemoration in Havana, Cuba, 01 May 2026. Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock
२०२६ मे २१ · २७ मिनेट
At the inaugural Enhanced Games this weekend, something unprecedented is taking place; professional athletes from around the world will be encouraged to swim, lift, and sprint with the aid of performance enhancing drugs. The competition — nicknamed the 'Doping Olympics' — has provoked enormous controversy in the world of sport. Enhanced runs counter to the many athletic organisations who have spent decades prioritising a crackdown on performance enhancing drugs. Many in the sporting world say that a competition that endorses doping will normalise unfair and possibly dangerous drug use. But supporters argue that the competition will facilitate the safe, open use of drugs that are often taken unsafely and without medical supervision at competitions elsewhere. BBC sports editor Dan Roan joins us to break down all things Enhanced Games. His documentary, Enhanced Games: A Sporting Revolution or Dangerous Doping?, is available now on YouTube. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producers: James Shield and China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Olympic swimming medallist Ben Proud has become the first British athlete to join the Enhanced Games, an event which allows athletes to take performance-enhancing drugs. Credit: Zac Goodwin/PA Wire.
२०२६ मे २० · २७ मिनेट
In the decade since Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country has cycled through six prime ministers, victims of both their own decisions, and global pressures. Now, Sir Keir Starmer, the current prime minister and leader of the left-leaning Labour party, could be the seventh leader to fall, under pressure from members of his own party who feel he has failed to tackle key issues like the cost of living, immigration, and sluggish economic growth. To top it off, recent local elections across the country proved disastrous for Labour as it lost ground to populist parties on both the left and right, and only two years after a landslide victory some of Sir Keir’s own party members are calling for him to step down. How did British politics become so volatile? BBC diplomatic correspondent James Landale joins us to explain. Producers: Hannah Moore and Aron Keller Executive producer: Richard Fenton-Smith Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo:Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer makes a statement in number 10 Downing Street, Westminster. Credit: Jack Taylor/PA Wire
२०२६ मे १९ · २७ मिनेट
President Donald Trump has warned Iran the "clock is ticking" as talks to bring their war to an end have stalled. "They better get moving, FAST, or there won't be anything left of them," he wrote on his Truth Social platform. "TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!” There are multiple thorny issues to be resolved between the US and Iran, but one of them concerns another country altogether: Lebanon. Iran has reportedly insisted on an end to the war in Lebanon before talks can continue with the US. A ceasefire in Lebanon was announced back in April, but Israel and Hezbollah have continued to exchange fire since then and hundreds have been killed. Hugo Bachega, Middle East Correspondent, discusses why the war in Lebanon is so hard to end, and what that means for the chances of a deal between the US and Iran. Producer: Viv Jones and Aron Keller Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Smoke rises following an Israeli strike in Choukine, Lebanon (Reuters)
२०२६ मे १८ · २७ मिनेट
The mayor of the Californian city of Arcadia has agreed to plead guilty to charges she acted as an illegal agent for China. Prosecutors say Eileen Wang was directly co-ordinating with a Chinese official to disseminate news stories downplaying human rights concerns in China, with the aim of trying to influence US government and public opinion. US authorities say the extent of China’s covert activity and espionage in the United States goes well beyond this case. According to the FBI, Chinese counterintelligence and espionage efforts are a “grave threat to the economic well-being and democratic values of the United States”. We speak to Andrew Badger, former CIA case officer and co-author of The Great Heist: China's Epic Campaign to Steal America's Secrets. Producer: Viv Jones and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Eileen Wang. Credit: City of Arcadia City Hall/ Reuters)
२०२६ मे १५ · २६ मिनेट
Donald Trump has concluded his final round of talks with Xi Jinping and wrapped up his state visit to Beijing. Trade, oil, Iran and Taiwan were among the topics discussed over two days of meetings. The US president said the meeting was ‘’successful” and “unforgettable” – and said he expects the relationship will be better than ever. Does Xi Jinping see things the same way? We speak to the BBC’s senior China correspondent, Laura Bicker. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Trump and Xi. Reuters/Evan Vucci/Pool
२०२६ मे १४ · २७ मिनेट
This Saturday, the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest final takes place in Vienna, and this year’s competition is again mired in controversy. A boycott over Israel’s participation by several countries, including Spain and Ireland, threatens to put the competition’s stance of political neutrality to the test. And it is part of a wider debate over which countries should be allowed to compete in prestigious international arts and sports competitions. We speak to William Lee Adams, a culture reporter at the BBC who also runs a Eurovision YouTube channel, to unpack the controversy surrounding this year’s contest and discuss whether politics and art can ever really be separated. Producer: Sam Chantarasak Sound engineer: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior News Editor: China Collins (Photo: Noam Bettan of Israel performs during the first semi-final of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, Austria, 12 May 2026. Credit: Hannibal Hanschke/EPA/Shuttershock.)
२०२६ मे १३ · २८ मिनेट
For the first time in nearly a decade a sitting American President is travelling to China. While tensions between the US and China have been simmering for a while now, over everything from tariffs to Taiwan, Donald Trump has expressed admiration for his powerful Chinese counterpart. Meanwhile in China, President Xi has been conducting a years long “purge” on the military elite. The BBC’s Celia Hatton joins us to discuss whether this should be seen as a weakness… or a strength. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump meets with China's President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit in 2019.
२०२६ मे १२ · २७ मिनेट
The British comedian Russell Brand is due to stand trial in the UK this year on charges of rape and sexual assault, to which he pleads not guilty. Over the course of his decades-long career, he has had many guises; Hollywood actor, MTV presenter, radio host, author, religious sceptic, and political agitator among them, moving between mainstream and ‘alternative’ media platforms. His latest appearances, on podcasts hosted by Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly and Piers Morgan, have gone viral for his admissions about his past behaviour, and his conversion to Christianity. With BBC media editor Katie Razzall. Producer: Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: British actor and comedian Russell Brand arrives at Southwark Crown Court, February 24, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Toby Melville.
२०२६ मे ११ · २८ मिनेट
At the outset of the war in Iran, US President Donald Trump suggested that regime change was one of its goals. He later said it had been had achieved, a claim that is disputed by critics who point out that the same repressive forces in Iran still hold power. American attempts at regime change in Iran have a long history. In 1953 the CIA, assisted by British intelligence, led a deadly coup that toppled Iran’s last democratically elected leader. It’s a moment in history that poisoned US-Iranian relations, and helped launch the theocratic revolution to come. But the immediate success of ‘Operation Ajax’ would convince the CIA to carry out a wave of similar plots around the world. We get the full story from Scott Anderson, author of King of Kings: The Fall of the Shah and the Revolution That Forged Modern Iran. Producers: Viv Jones and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Supporters of the Shah of Iran in Tehran, 1953. Credit (Getty/Bettmann)
२०२६ मे ८ · २७ मिनेट
**Warning: this episode includes discussions of sexual abuse, suicide and upsetting scenes** In just the last few years, AI chatbots have become routine aspects of many people’s everyday lives. They are being used as search engines, agony aunts, and sources of companionship. In rare cases though, AI chatbots have sent users down a dark path. In a new BBC investigation, population correspondent Stephanie Hegarty speaks to people who have experienced delusions after talking to chatbots – including one man who grabbed a hammer and prepared for war after his chatbot told him it was sentient. Producers: Valerio Esposito, Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Studio manager: Jonathan Greer Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Adam Hourican. Credit: BBC.
२०२६ मे ७ · २७ मिनेट
It’s been a year since billionaire tech entrepreneur Elon Musk left his informal position in President Trump’s White House in May 2025. But behind the scenes, Musk has been busy. Musk has spent the last few weeks in a California courtroom, where he is suing his former business partner, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. In January, Musk applied for permission with the US government to launch a million satellites into orbit, some of which he says will serve as solar AI data centres. And he is preparing to take his company SpaceX public, with an estimated valuation of over $1 trillion. Though his political presence has waned, is it possible that Elon Musk is more powerful than ever? We speak to the BBC’s North America technology correspondent Lily Jamali about what the world’s richest man has been up to since leaving the White House. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Elon Musk appears in the courthouse during the OpenAI trial. Credit: Reuters/Manuel Orbegozo
२०२६ मे ६ · २७ मिनेट
Iranians living in Tehran tell us what they think of the war and reveal how the conflict has affected their day to day lives. In recent days, attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz has raised fears that an already fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran could collapse. Donald Trump's "Project Freedom", which began on Monday, aims to use the US military to escort cargo ships out of Strait of Hormuz. Iran, however, insists that it controls the key waterway and has warned that it is “just getting started” in the Strait of Hormuz. This escalation of hostilities risks tipping the region back into full-scale war. As the conflict enters its third month with no clear end in sight, there has been mounting anxiety about what comes next. But what is the view inside Iran? In today’s episode we speak to the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet who recently returned from a ten day trip to Tehran where she spoke to government officials and ordinary Iranians about their fears and expectations as this war continues. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Executive Producer: Richard Fenton Smith Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: Daily life in Tehran amid continued tensions over Strait of Hormuz. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/ EPA/Shutterstock.
२०२६ मे ५ · २७ मिनेट
When Donald Trump began his second term in the White House, many European leaders chose to pursue flattery instead of a fight. Most sought to avoid public confrontation even as Trump instituted tariffs, spoke of annexing Greenland, and went to war with Iran. But lately more European leaders across the political spectrum - from longtime allies to ideological opponents - are willing to openly contradict and criticise the American president. The White House appears to be retaliating, especially against Germany, from which the Pentagon has announced it will withdraw 5,000 troops. Has Europe suddenly become more defiant? And what happens next? Asma speaks to the BBC’s Europe editor, Katya Adler. Producers: Valerio Esposito, Chris Benderev and Hannah Moore Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Photo: US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hold a bilateral meeting at the White House, 03 March 2026. Credit: Samuel Corum/Pool/EPA/Shutterstock
२०२६ मे ४ · २७ मिनेट
In recent months, the Russian government has been restricting access to messaging apps such as Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat, and at points, even shutting down internet access completely. Russian officials insist that curbs on communication are in the interests of public safety. They claim that mobile internet blackouts disorient Ukrainian attack drones, although such attacks have continued even in areas where the internet has been switched off. How have these blackouts been affecting peoples’ ability to access news, communicate, even find their way around? And how are people reacting to the restrictions on their freedoms? BBC Russia editor Steve Rosenberg joins Asma to discuss. Producers: Chris Benderev and Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Passengers use mobile phones aboard a themed metro train honouring the Russian National Guard in Moscow, Russia, March 31, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Ramil Sitdikov
२०२६ मे १ · २७ मिनेट
Since the start of the US-Israel war with Iran, there has been an ongoing debate over the role played by Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in convincing Donald Trump to go to war. But when it comes to ceasefire announcements, it has been the US President taking the lead - if the Israelis are present at all. So when it comes to ending the wars in Iran and Lebanon, are the Americans leaving Netanyahu out in the cold? We speak to Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent at The Economist, and author of Bibi: The Turbulent Life and Times of Benjamin Netanyahu. Producer: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivering an address from the roof of the Kirya in Tel Aviv, Israel, 1 March 2026. Credit: Avi Ohayon/EPA-EFE)
२०२६ अप्रिल ३० · २७ मिनेट
For the first time in history a country has apparently won a battle using only robots, without a soldier on the ground put at risk. Ukraine claims to have recently taken over a Russian position – forcing Russian soldiers to surrender – using robotic systems alone. President Zelensky has been asking the world for help to fight Russia since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. But in the years since, Ukraine has revolutionised the technology of warfare with battlefield robots and drones, and now other countries are turning to it for its technology and expertise. We speak to the journalist and defence expert Mark Urban about how Ukraine went from needy to needed. Producers: Lucy Pawle and Viv Jones Executive producer: Richard Fenton-Smith Mixed by: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: The "ASLAN" unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) is tested during a NATO exercise in Germany, February 20, 2026. Photo by: Liesa Johannssen/Reuters
२०२६ अप्रिल २९ · २७ मिनेट
When President Trump talks about his attempts to reach an agreement with Iran, he often mentions a previous deal: the 2015 JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), or Iran nuclear deal. Trump pulled America out of the Obama-era accord during his first term and has called it, "the worst deal in history". His own deal, he says, "will be FAR BETTER". Asma speaks to Ambassador Wendy Sherman, the lead US negotiator on the JCPOA, to get the inside story on how the deal was done, and ask what it might take for Trump to get a deal now. Producers: Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Wendy Sherman. Credit: Michael Reynolds/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
२०२६ अप्रिल २८ · २७ मिनेट
As the US-Israel war with Iran reaches a diplomatic stalemate - one idea seems to be taking hold: that China is the real winner. Some have argued that the US’s biggest rival is quietly boosting its international standing, leverage and reputation as a reliable partner. Yet beneath the surface the economic situation in China looks far less triumphant. We speak to the BBC China Correspondent Laura Bicker who has been reporting from inside China’s factories and trading hubs to explore whether the potential political gains China may be accruing from the Iran war are being offset by the acute economic cost - and what this means for China’s long-term geopolitical ambitions. Producers: Aron Keller and Sam Chantarasak Digital producer: Matt Pintus Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, 14 February, 2023. Credit: WANA/Reuters)
२०२६ अप्रिल २७ · २७ मिनेट
King Charles is visiting America at a tense moment for the ’special relationship' between the United States and the United Kingdom. Can he help turn things around? In a special live recording at the BBC’s Maida Vale Studios in London, Asma and Tristan speak to the former British ambassador to the United States, Lord Kim Darroch. Recorded on Saturday 25 April as part of Castfest, a one-day celebration of BBC podcasts. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: BBC. Kim Darroch talked to Asma Khalid and Tristan Redman at BBC Maida Vale Studios.
२०२६ अप्रिल २४ · २६ मिनेट
Donald Trump has promised to release government files on UFOs and Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, telling a crowd at Turning Point USA this month, “ we found many very interesting documents”. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance has said he is “obsessed” with the search for aliens, which he believes are demons, rather than innocuous little green men. Their comments follow a slew of congressional hearings about the subject in recent years, as well as pronouncements from other political figures, such as Barack Obama. Why has the search for extra-terrestrial life – a fascination that began in the 1940s in the US – become mainstream again? What deeper meaning are people seeking when they look to the skies? Daniel Lavelle, an award-winning British journalist, set out on a road trip across the States to answer these questions for his forthcoming book, Chasing Aliens: Conspiracy in the UFO Heartlands, and he joins Tristan on today’s episode. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Meteors in the night sky. Credit: Georgi Licovski/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock.
२०२६ अप्रिल २३ · २७ मिनेट
Why were scheduled talks between the US and Iran suddenly cancelled? On Tuesday, as US vice president JD Vance was due to be flying to Pakistan for mediated talks on ending the war in Iran, Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that he was extending the ceasefire agreement, but that the US will continue to block Iranian ports. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane through which 20% of the world’s oil, as well as critical supplies of gas, aluminium and fertiliser is transported, remains a flashpoint, with Iran attacking cargo ships attempting to get through. Today, we speak to the BBC’s diplomatic correspondent, Paul Adams, who is in the capital of Pakistan. Plus, in response to listener demand, we speak to Charlotte Smith, the long-time presenter of the BBC’s Farming Today, about how the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz is affecting the farming and food industries globally. Producers: Hannah Moore, Lucy Pawle and Valerio Esposito Executive producers: James Shield and Richard Fenton-Smith Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins
२०२६ अप्रिल २२ · २७ मिनेट
*** This episode includes discussions of child sexual abuse and upsetting scenes *** The BBC has been following a global team of undercover officers as they investigate the most hidden corners of the internet to stop those who exploit and harm children. A dedicated network of specialist investigators has successfully tracked and caught serial paedophiles who operate across the dark web with the same sophistication and secrecy as international organised crime syndicates. We speak to Special Agent Greg Squire who has dedicated his life to rescuing children who might otherwise never be found. His story is featured in the BBC documentary The Darkest Web and the BBC podcast World of Secrets: The Darkest Web. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Producer: Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Greg Squire in The Darkest Web: Inside the internet’s most hidden corners to save kids – BBC World Service Docs)
२०२६ अप्रिल २१ · २७ मिनेट
For decades, Pakistan sat on the margins of global diplomacy. But now it’s due to be the unlikely venue for another round of peace talks between the US and Iran. We speak to the BBC’s Pakistan correspondent, Carrie Davies, to ask how the country became a trusted intermediary between the parties in this conflict, and whether it can use this moment to increase its influence on the world stage. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Studio managers: Mike Regaard and Ricardo McCarthy Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: U.S. Vice President JD Vance with Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir after arriving for first round of talks with Iranian officials in Pakistan, April 11, 2026. Credit: Jacquelyn Martin / Reuters
२०२६ अप्रिल २० · २७ मिनेट
When the ceasefire deal was announced more than six months ago, there was celebration and relief in Gaza and Israel. But since the US-led Board of Peace announced plans to rebuild Gaza, the Trump administration’s attention has been occupied by other matters. The success of the ceasefire deal hinges on Hamas disarmament and the full withdrawal of Israeli troops. So what progress has been made? We speak to Yolande Knell, the BBC's Middle East correspondent, about life inside Gaza since the Iran War began. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Lucy Pawle and Xandra Ellin Studio managers: Dafydd Evans and Mike Regaard Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo credits: A displaced Palestinian woman stands on a balcony inside a building damaged during the war at Al-Aqsa University, now used as a shelter, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, April 5, 2026. Photo: Reuters/Haseeb Alwazeer.
२०२६ अप्रिल १७ · २७ मिनेट
In 2024, reports emerged of a highly sophisticated cyber espionage campaign against US telecoms companies, which some analysts believe went all the way up to the Chinese government. The group behind this campaign would later be codenamed Salt Typhoon, and it is believed to have quietly infiltrated critical US telecoms infrastructure in order to collect private information on influential Americans – including presidential candidates. In the process, it may have also swept up data from millions of ordinary Americans. The Chinese government has denied responsibility for Salt Typhoon. We speak to former Deputy National Security Adviser Anne Neuberger, who was working inside the White House when the attacks were first uncovered. We also speak to BBC cyber correspondent Joe Tidy about how this hack unfolded – and what it reveals about who may be winning the cyber war. Producer: Aron Keller Sound engineer: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Analysts in the Security Operations Center at the Dell Secure Works office in South Carolina, US. Credit: Stephen Morton/Getty Images)
२०२६ अप्रिल १६ · २७ मिनेट
Anthropic, one of Silicon Valley’s leading AI firms, have built a new model which they say is too dangerous to be released to the public. Instead, they are only giving access to Claude Mythos Preview to a handful of big companies to help them find and fix security vulnerabilities. The company says the model has already found weak spots in “every major operating system and web browser”. Is this a genuine example of an AI company acting responsibly, or more of a carefully calibrated publicity move? We speak to the BBC’s North America tech correspondent, Lily Jamali, about whether this is a watershed moment for AI. Producers: Viv Jones and Aron Keller Digital producer: Matt Pintus Mix: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Credit: Jurassic Park (1993) / Dir: Stephen Spielberg / Universal Pictures Photo: Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei. Reuters/Denis Balibouse.
२०२६ अप्रिल १५ · २७ मिनेट
Pope Leo XIV has said he has “no fear of the Trump administration”, after his criticism of the Iran war drew scorn from President Donald Trump. On Sunday, the US President called the Pope “weak on crime and terrible on foreign policy”, and posted a now-deleted AI image of himself depicted as a Christ-like figure.The posts caused outrage among Catholics and the religious right, but he has said he will not apologise to the Pope. We speak to BBC presenter and author Edward Stourton, who has reported on religious affairs and US politics for decades, about what happens when an American president takes on an American Pope. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Xandra Ellin and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Pope Leo XIV addresses journalists during the flight heading to Algiers on April 13, 2026. Credit: Reuters/Alberto Pizzoli.
२०२६ अप्रिल १४ · २८ मिनेट
The United States began implementing a blockade of all ships entering and exiting Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday. President Trump took to social media and warned that any Iranian ships trying to approach the blockade would be “immediately ELIMINATED.” The blockade and escalating threats come after weeks of Iran being in control of one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. And over the weekend, delegates from the US and Iran failed to reach a resolution after 21 hours of peace talks. The Trump administration has repeatedly insisted it’s winning the war, but so has the government in Tehran, which believes it is negotiating from a position of power. To help us understand why - and what Iran wants - Tristan and Asma are joined by Parham Ghobadi from the BBC Persian Service. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Xandra Ellin and Aron Keller Sound engineer: Travis Evans Executive producer: Richard Fenton Smith Senior news editor: China Collins
२०२६ अप्रिल १३ · २७ मिनेट
The Artemis II crew are back on solid ground having travelled further from earth than any human has before. The mission was an undoubted success. But aside from getting some stunning photos of the moon’s surface and the tiny blue dot we call home, what did we actually learn? And was it just a big PR exercise? BBC science correspondent Georgina Rannard joins us to discuss the point of the mission and what is next for Nasa. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Valerio Esposito Sound engineer: Travis Evans Executive producer: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: The Artemis II crew of Nasa astronauts attend a press conference the day after splashing down in the Pacific Ocean, at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston, Texas, US. Credit: Lexi Parra/Reuters)
२०२६ अप्रिल १२ · ५७ मिनेट
In this episode of the BBC Radio 4 series, Archive on 4, our very own Tristan Redman tells the story of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s rise and fall. The former French President was jailed last year for conspiring to fund his 2007 election campaign with money from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi. He’s currently appealing his sentence. And he has some powerful supporters. Using archive recordings and contemporary interviews with those who know Sarkozy well, Tristan Redman tells the story of how he became the first former French head of state to end up behind bars since Nazi collaborator, Philippe Pétain. Featuring investigative journalist, Fabrice Arfi from Mediapart; Daniele Klein whose brother was killed in the ‘French Lockerbie’ and her niece Melanie who lost her father; Alain Minc, one of Nicolas Sarkozy’s closest friends and advisers; the British writer and academic Andrew Hussey and Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, who was Sarkozy’s finance minister. Presenter: Tristan Redman Producer: Adele Armstrong Sound: Peregrine Andrews Editor: Penny Murphy Credits: Mediapart, Euronews, France Télévisions, TF1 and France 2
२०२६ अप्रिल १० · २७ मिनेट
One condition of the US and Israel’s two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran is that ships must be able to safely use the Strait of Hormuz, the route through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil and liquified natural gas supplies travel. In theory, the deal should cut the prices of fuel worldwide, as well as allowing essential supplies of fertiliser, helium and other goods to reach businesses. But the fragility of the ceasefire is leaving markets uncertain, and prices remain volatile. Will the ceasefire eventually help lower costs? And if so, when? Sean Farrington, presenter of the BBC’s Wake Up To Money, joins us to explain. For our explainer on the conflict in Lebanon, listen back to our episode from March 19th: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct71b5. Producers: Hannah Moore, Aron Keller and Cat Farnsworth Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins
२०२६ अप्रिल ९ · २७ मिनेट
Kanye West’s history of antisemitic behaviour caught up with him this week. The UK banned him from visiting; preventing his recently-announced performance at the Wireless festival later this summer. His appearances in the UK are part of his ‘comeback’ tour for his new album, with performances scheduled in multiple countries this year. Kanye has apologised for his actions, which include releasing a song glorifying Hitler and selling t-shirts with swastikas, and blamed his bipolar diagnosis. With rising levels of global antisemitism, his appearances have become increasingly controversial. But despite his UK ban Kanye is selling out shows in US stadiums. So will Kanye West be able to make a comeback? Producer: Viv Jones, Lucy Pawle, Valerio Esposito, Xandra Ellin Digital producer: Matt Pintus Executive producer: James Shield Editor: China Collins (Photo: Kanye West in North Charleston, South Carolina, US, 19 July, 2020. Credit: Randall Hill/Reuters)
२०२६ अप्रिल ८ · २८ मिनेट
Iran and the US have agreed to a conditional two-week ceasefire. Donald Trump says the US has “met and exceeded all military objectives”, while Iran says the ceasefire is a “humiliating retreat” for Washington. So what has actually been agreed, and is this ceasefire likely to pave the way for an ending to the war? We speak to Jane Corbin from the BBC’s Panorama, who has reported from the world's major conflict zones for three decades. Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Studio manager: Mike Regaard Senior news editor: China Collins Photo:Iranians wave the country's flag following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock
२०२६ अप्रिल ७ · २७ मिनेट
A BBC investigation has heard from hundreds of people who say they developed sex and gambling addictions after taking a category of prescription drugs called dopamine agonists. Millions of people in the US and around the world have been prescribed these medications, which are used to treat various illnesses, from Parkinson’s to depression. But they have well-established side effects: around 1 in 6 people who take them develop impulse control disorders. Noel Titheradge, investigations correspondent, shares the story of one American woman who developed hypersexuality after she took a dopamine agonist drug. Like many of the patients Noel has spoken to, she says she was not warned that her medication could dramatically change her personality. Noel’s investigation is also a BBC podcast series. Search for ‘Shadow World: Impulsive’. If you have any concerns about medication you’re taking, speak to your doctor. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Producers: Viv Jones Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A mixture of pills. Credit: Lauren Hurley/PA Wire
२०२६ अप्रिल ६ · २७ मिनेट
After 16 years as prime minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbán – often credited with shaping the populist playbook – could be voted out in next week’s parliamentary elections. It could be one of the most consequential contests of 2026. Among claims of Russian interference, staged assassination attempts and threats to release a sex tape, the campaign has taken a series of dramatic and unexpected turns. Ahead of an expected visit by US Vice President JD Vance, we ask the BBC’s Europe editor, Katya Adler, how such a small country became a pivotal geopolitical battleground - and whether a defeat for Orbán could signal a shift for the populist right worldwide. Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Renee Park Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: US President Trump meets with Hungary's Prime Minister Orbán at the White House. Credit: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters.
२०२६ अप्रिल ३ · २७ मिनेट
King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit Washington DC this month at a time when the transatlantic relationship is at its lowest point in decades. The King is facing a difficult time at home in the UK too, with significant public opposition to the visit and anger over his brother Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Can the King and Queen sprinkle some royal magic on President Trump and improve the royal image at the same time? Asma and Tristan are joined by the BBC’s senior royal correspondent, Daniela Relph. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Renee Park Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: President Donald Trump and King Charles III at a state banquet at Windsor Castle, in September 2025.
२०२६ अप्रिल २ · २९ मिनेट
Roughly 10,000 additional US troops have now arrived in the Middle East, giving President Trump options ranging from an invasion of Kharg Island to an elaborate special forces operations to seize Iran’s ‘nuclear dust’. For years, the Pentagon has run war games to try and plan for what might happen if the US went to war with Iran. Our guest, Ilan Goldenberg, was in the room during the Obama years, taking part. Ilan Goldenberg is Senior Vice President and Chief Policy Officer at J Street. Previously, he was an adviser on Iran for President Barack Obama, and for Vice President Kamala Harris. Producers: Lucy Pawle and Viv Jones Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: President Donald Trump. Credit: Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters)
२०२६ अप्रिल १ · २७ मिनेट
When Donald Trump was re-elected on a ‘no more wars’ promise, his vice-president was his staunchest ally, criticising previous US foreign interventions, most notably in Iraq, as well as the US’ recent financial support for Ukraine. And yet, the vice-president, who has substantial MAGA support and is expected to run for the 2028 presidency, now finds himself among Trump’s team negotiating an end to the US-Israel war on Iran, a war he was reportedly skeptical of launching. What tactics will Vance use to secure both the interests of the president abroad, and his own domestic popularity among MAGA supporters who do not support the war? BBC Washington correspondent Daniel Bush joins us to discuss. Producer: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins
२०२६ मार्च ३१ · २७ मिनेट
While still engaged in a war with Iran, Donald Trump’s attention is also on Havana. The US president suggested last week that he expects to soon have the “honour” of “taking Cuba, in some form”. He added “Whether I free it, take it—I think I can do anything I want with it.” The Trump administration has tightened a longstanding US economic embargo on the Caribbean island, and created a near-total fuel blockade. Cuba was already in the grip of a severe economic crisis, and while a Russian oil tanker has recently reached the island, the blockade has pushed the country to the brink of collapse. We speak to the BBC’s Will Grant, who has recently returned from the island, to discuss what Trump wants in Cuba, and whether the Cuban Revolution can survive its biggest test in decades. Producers: Aron Keller and Viv Jones Executive producer: Penny Murphy Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Havana street during a blackout. Credit: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock
२०२६ मार्च ३० · २८ मिनेट
With the world’s attention on the war in Iran, Vladimir Putin appears to be stepping up Russia’s war in Ukraine. Last week saw the biggest Russian drone attack since the beginning of the war. Some Ukrainians believe Putin is doing this precisely because the world is looking the other way. Russia also appears to be benefiting from the Iran war in other ways – oil prices have skyrocketed at the same time as Trump has loosened sanctions on Russian oil. On the other hand, it’s been a difficult few months for Russian allies in Tehran, Caracas and Havana. The author, academic and Russia analyst Mark Galeotti joins us to examine the ways in which the war in Iran could help or hinder Putin. Apply for Castfest tickets: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026 Email us: theglobalstory@bbc.com Producers: Xandra Ellin and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin, in Russia, March 27. Credit: Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Kremlin/Pool/EPA/Shutterstock.
२०२६ मार्च २७ · २८ मिनेट
In a bellwether case, a jury in Los Angeles found on Wednesday that Meta and YouTube are responsible for a young woman’s childhood addiction to social media, and intentionally built addictive platforms that harmed her health. The companies say they intend to appeal against the verdict, which could set a legal precedent and have far-reaching consequences. Marianna Spring, the BBC’s social media investigations correspondent, has spent the past year speaking to whistleblowers and insiders from social media companies, revealing how algorithms designed to connect people have been helping to tear them apart. We ask if this week’s verdict is just the start of something much bigger. The BBC is throwing open the doors to Maida Vale Studios on Saturday 25 April for Castfest, a one-day celebration bringing its biggest news podcasts directly to fans. Apply for Castfest tickets below. Producer: Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Sopund engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg leaves the court at the case accusing Meta and Google's YouTube of harming kids' mental health through addictive platforms, 18 February, 2026. Credit: Mike Blake/Reuters)
२०२६ मार्च २६ · २७ मिनेट
Have you ever received a call from a stranger regarding student loans you don’t owe? An Amazon order you never placed? An unpaid parking ticket for a car you don’t own? If so, it’s possible that you’ve been the target of a scam orchestrated by a criminal syndicate thousands of miles away. The so-called “scam centres” of Southeast Asia bring in billions of dollars a year, expertly swindling unsuspecting foreigners out of their savings. Today, BBC Southeast Asia correspondent Jonathan Head offers an inside look at these formidable hubs of corruption and human trafficking, and explains how governments around the world are working to intervene. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Viv Jones Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: New high rises in the city of Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, visible from Thailand's border. Credit: Jonathan Head/BBC.
२०२६ मार्च २५ · २८ मिनेट
It has been almost a month since Israel and the US launched their war against Iran, and already there have been strikes in more than a dozen countries, with reports of over 2,000 people killed across the region. As the war drags on and more countries get involved, there are concerns this conflict could escalate into something truly global. We speak to emeritus professor of International History at the University of Oxford, Margaret MacMillan, and explore how world wars start, how they end and what can be done to avoid them. Producers: Chris Benderev and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: US Military aircraft perform 4th of July flyover past New York City and New Jersey, 4 July 2020. Credit: Mike Segar/Reuters)
२०२६ मार्च २४ · २७ मिनेट
Nicolas Maduro, the deposed president of Venezuela, is due to appear in court in New York this week alongside his wife, Cilia Flores. The pair face charges of cocaine trafficking and possession of machine guns, which they deny. Meanwhile in their home country, the Trump-approved interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, has been making deals with the US government over Venezuela’s oil and critical minerals. The BBC’s South America correspondent, Ione Wells, has been in Caracas to find out how much life has altered under Rodriguez’s leadership, and to what extend Donald Trump may see this regime change as a blueprint for US intervention elsewhere. Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Valerio Esposito and Hannah Moore Executive producers: Bridget Harney and James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez. Credit: Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria
२०२६ मार्च २३ · २७ मिनेट
As the US and Israel war with Iran enters its fourth week, there are growing number of people in the United States calling for it end. But the military operations are increasing, not winding down. This is a critical moment where the war could turn into a long drawn-out conflict. Or it could be a moment where Donald Trump dashes for a quick exit. The BBC’s world affairs correspondent Joe Inwood and the BBC’s Persian service’s Ghoncheh Habibiazad discuss with Tristan where this could all go next? Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump gestures as he steps from Air Force One, March 20, 2026. Credit: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters
२०२६ मार्च २० · २७ मिनेट
Social media platforms this week have been flooded with a wild rumour: that Benjamin Netanyahu was dead (which he is not). Fake photos and videos of his body, coated with dust and debris, seemed to show that the Israeli prime minister had been killed in an Iranian air strike. The rumour was false – Netanyahu had not died, nor been involved in a strike. The photos and videos were AI-generated. But when Netanyahu posted several videos of himself, debunking and mocking the rumour, some people on social media still refused to believe these were really him. Today on the show, Thomas Copeland from BBC Verify explains how the economics of social media drive the creation of AI-generated fake videos – sometimes by people with no strong feelings about the war itself. And we speak to Peter Pomerantsev, author of Nothing Is True and Everything is Possible, who says the essential strategy behind wartime disinformation remains unchanged since ancient times. Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shows his hand as he speaks at a cafe Credit: Benjamin Netanyahu/Reuters)
२०२६ मार्च १९ · २७ मिनेट
Shortly after the US-Israeli war with Iran began, a second war broke out between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Lebanese authorities say that more than 900 people, including at least 111 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks since 2 March. More than a million others have been forced to leave their homes. On Wednesday, Israel widened its air strikes from the southern suburbs of Beirut into the city centre. And there are fears that what Israel has called a “limited” ground operation could lead to an occupation of the south. Israel says it is targeting not only Hezbollah fighters and leaders, but also businesses it claims are linked to the group and help finance its military operations. From his post in Beirut, BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega explains the long history of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, and we ask what could come next. Producers: Chris Benderev and Aron Keller Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo Credit: Smoke rises after an Israeli strike in central Beirut's Bachoura neighbourhood, following an escalation between Hezbollah and Israel, amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Beirut, Lebanon, 12 March, 2026. Creit: Claudia Greco/Reuters
२०२६ मार्च १८ · २७ मिनेट
Since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran, The Global Story listeners have been contacting us with questions: about the causes of the war, the legality of it, and how other countries are responding. As Gulf states get drawn further into the conflict, might they send military reinforcement? And if the Iranian regime were to fall, could islamist groups such as Isis seize an opportunity to claim more power? In today’s episode, we answer all of these and more, with BBC world affairs editor, John Simpson. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A woman marches with an Iranian monarchy flag during a 'Freedom for Iran' protest in New York, New York, USA, 15 March 2026. Credit: Olga Fedorova/Shutterstock
२०२६ मार्च १७ · २७ मिनेट
For nearly forty years, Fergal Keane has reported for the BBC from some of the world’s most brutal conflicts – in Gaza, Iraq, Rwanda, Sudan, Ukraine and beyond – and in that time interviewed scores of children who are the innocent victims of adult wars. As he came to understand the impacts of trauma on young minds, Keane began too to experience his own mental breakdowns – the result of a troubled childhood and a career spent running towards danger – and was eventually diagnosed with PTSD. In today’s episode, he reflects on what he has learned from his own experiences and reporting about how childhood traumas can be treated, and the hope for those living through today’s wars. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Displaced children play in Gaza, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Haitham Imad/ EPA/ Shutterstock.
२०२६ मार्च १६ · २८ मिनेट
WARNING: This episode contains some graphic descriptions of violence. Since an air strike on a school in Iran two weeks ago, the Pentagon has faced mounting questions over the possible involvement of the US military. Iranian officials say the strike killed 168 people, including about 110 children. US media have reported that military investigators believe American forces were likely responsible for hitting the school unintentionally – but that they have not reached a final conclusion. Today, Merlyn Thomas from BBC Verify explains what we know so far about the strike. And we speak to Oona Hathaway, a professor of international law at Yale University who previously worked at the US Department of Defence, about the potential legal consequences. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Studio manager: Mike Regaard Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: People attend the funeral of the victims following a reported strike on a school in Minab, Iran, March 3, 2026. Credit: Amirhossein Khorgooei/ISNA/WANA via Reuters.
२०२६ मार्च १४ · १५ मिनेट
In this special essay, the BBC’s international editor Jeremy Bowen explains what can happen when an American president calls for an uprising – and then doesn’t get involved when it starts. A version of this piece first ran on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on 11 March. Producer for The Global Story: Xandra Ellin Mix: James Shield Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Jeremy Bowen, October 2025
२०२६ मार्च १३ · २७ मिनेट
On Sunday, many of the film industry’s biggest stars will gather in Los Angeles for Hollywood’s biggest night: the 98th annual Academy Awards. Looming over the celebrations are some major upheavals in Hollywood: big corporate mergers, the incursion of AI, and mass layoffs. And it’s against that backdrop that the Oscars are increasingly nominating films, filmmakers, and actors from elsewhere in the world. BBC film reporter and critic Tom Brook explains how the Oscars went global, and what it can tell us about the status of American soft power. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Workers make preparations for the 98th annual Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles Credit: Reuters / Caroline Brehman
२०२६ मार्च १२ · २७ मिनेट
At a recent White House event, President Trump assessed how America’s allies have responded to the US-Israel war in Iran. He praised some, but was angry with others, notably Britain and its prime minister Keir Starmer. His anger with the UK seemed to centre around a British-owned island in the Indian Ocean, which he referred to as “that stupid island”. The island is one of about 60, known as the Chagos Islands. Tropical, remote, and very mysterious. So mysterious that one person who knows what goes on there said that if you did too, it would give you vertigo. The BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale joins us to discuss what happens on the Chagos Islands that makes them so important to President Trump. What have they got to do with Iran, and why are they at the centre of an ever-growing diplomatic row? Producer: Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: File photo of Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos archipelago and site of a major United States military base in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Credit: Reuters
२०२६ मार्च ११ · २७ मिनेट
As the US-Israeli strikes on Iran continue and the death toll continues to rise, so too does the war of words. President Trump has described Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's choice for new supreme leader, as "unacceptable". He has also said he believes the war will be over “pretty quickly”, but it’s not clear how - or when. Nate Swanson, a former State Department official who spent nearly two decades in the US government working on American policy towards Iran, answers our questions on how the next stage of the conflict is likely to unfold - and whether a negotiated peace with Iran is still an option. Producers: Chris Benderev, Cat Farnsworth and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Bridget Harney Studio managers: James Piper and Mike Regaard. Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: People walk past a banner depicting the Iran's supreme leaders since 1979. The late supreme leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini; the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei; and his son, the new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA via Reuters.
२०२६ मार्च १० · २६ मिनेट
Oil prices surged to a four-year high on Monday, before dipping after President Trump said the Iran war will end “very soon”. Just days ago, Trump said that he would not stop the war until Iran’s “unconditional surrender”. Turmoil in the region had led to the near complete shutdown of shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran has reportedly said it will not allow “one litre of oil” to be exported from the Gulf if US-Israeli attacks continue. We speak to BBC economics correspondent Andy Verity about the lessons both the US and Iran might be learning from the oil crises of the 1970s, and ask whether oil could determine how and when the war ends. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Studio manager: Mike Regaard Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: 3D-printed oil pump jacks, Iranian flag, and a rising stock graph appear in this illustration. Credit: Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
२०२६ मार्च ९ · २८ मिनेट
As European leaders have struggled to find a unified response to the US-Israel war in Iran, Pedro Sanchez has stood out as a voice of dissent. He said in a televised address last week: “The position of the government of Spain can be summarised in three words: no to war.” The Spanish Prime Minister and US President have butted heads on many issues; the war in Gaza, immigration and defence spending among them, but in the past week their relationship got even more fiery, with Donald Trump threatening to cut off all trade with Spain. What makes Sanchez willing to stand up to Trump? And will his gamble be worth it? Guy Hedgecoe, a reporter for the BBC based in Madrid, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore, Valerio Esposito and Chris Benderev Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez delivers a speech during closing ceremony of the 'Spain, Vanguard in the Green Industry', in Madrid, Spain, 08 September 2025. Credit: Daniel Gonzalez/EPA/Shutterstock.
२०२६ मार्च ६ · २७ मिनेट
For Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, the war on Iran is the culmination of a long-standing political ambition. On Sunday, Netanyahu said he was finally doing what he had “hoped to achieve for 40 years – to crush the regime of terror completely.” Polling suggests the war is popular in Israel too. But it’s a lot more complicated for Donald Trump. He was elected on a promise to end foreign wars, and current polling suggests the war is not supported by most Americans. We talk to the BBC’s international editor Jeremy Bowen about whether this war, which Netanyahu says is an opportunity, complements or collides with Donald Trump’s own interests. And ask if Benjamin Netanyahu has everything to gain from this war, and Donald Trump a lot more to lose? Producers: Lucy Pawle and Sam Chantarasak Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters. U.S. President Donald Trump points his finger towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as they shake hands during a press conference after meeting at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S., December 29, 2025.
२०२६ मार्च ५ · २८ मिनेट
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement over the weekend that the United States was launching an offensive in Iran alongside the Israeli military, comparisons to past US interventions in the region began to proliferate. Many Americans asked whether this latest military operation would become another ‘forever war’, as the US invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan came to be called. We talk to Gordon Correra, security analyst for the BBC, about America’s complicated history of intervention in the Middle East and surrounding region, and ask what these past conflicts might tell us about possible outcomes for the war in Iran. Producer: Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A US soldier watches as a statue of Iraq's President Saddam Hussein falls in central Baghdad in 2003. Credit: Reuters/Goran Tomasevic
२०२६ मार्च ४ · २७ मिनेट
Five days since the first US–Israeli strikes on Iran, and the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei, the country is once again in a communications blackout. With limited access to reliable information, it is difficult to know how ordinary Iranians are coping. Parham Ghobadi, senior reporter and presenter at BBC Persian, has been speaking to people inside Iran to guage their fears, their expectations, and how they are navigating a moment that could reshape their country’s future. Producer: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Chris Benderev Executive producer: Bridget Harney Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A woman reacts on the street following an Israeli and US strike on a police station, amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/West Asia News Agency/Reuters)
२०२६ मार्च ३ · २६ मिनेट
The Gulf states are some of the wealthiest places on earth, and have until recently been mostly insulated from Middle East conflicts. But the US-Israel war with Iran is now engulfing the Gulf. The BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner joins us to discuss whether this is a moment that could change the entire region and affect all of us. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Xandra Ellin Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Smoke billows from Jebel Ali port in Dubai after an Iranian attack. Credit: Raghed Waked/Reuters.
२०२६ मार्च २ · २७ मिनेट
This weekend, Iranian state media confirmed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who ruled Iran with an iron fist for more than 30 years, had been killed in joint US-Israeli strikes. In Iran, his death was met with an outpouring of grief by his supporters, while many across the country and in the diaspora met the news with jubilation and a tentative sense of hope. But what happens now? President Trump has urged Iranians to “seize control of your destiny, and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close within your reach,” but how realistic are the prospects of them forming a new – and significantly different - government? And how will the weakened regime retaliate against the US and Israel’s strikes? Caroline Hawley, Diplomatic Correspondent for the BBC, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore, Aron Keller and Chris Benderev Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A woman holds an image of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, Iran. Credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA via Reuters.
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी २७ · २७ मिनेट
Mexico’s most wanted man – Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho” – was killed during a security operation to arrest the cartel leader on Sunday. In the days that followed, the operation was celebrated by President Trump in his State of the Union address. But it came at a cost, as cartel members carried out retaliatory rampages across Mexico and turned many towns and cities into war zones. El Mencho’s death came after months of pressure from the Trump administration on Mexico to do more to fight the drug cartels. According to one NBC News report, the US even considered sending troops into Mexico. Our correspondent, Will Grant, examines the dilemma Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum now faces – and we ask if she is now caught between Trump and the cartels. Producers: Chris Benderev and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Image Credits: FILE PHOTO: Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), led by Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” poses for a photo at an undisclosed location in Michoacan state, Mexico, October 15, 2022. REUTERS/Stringer
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी २६ · २७ मिनेट
As the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, the prospect of peace feels as distant as ever. President Trump hasn’t yet succeeded in striking a deal, and negotiations between the US, Russia and Ukraine have yet to produce a breakthrough. Fiona Hill is one of the foremost authorities on Vladimir Putin and a former White House advisor on Russia during Trump’s first term. Over the course of her career, she has sat across the table from the Russian president and helped shape US policy at the highest level. She tells us what it is really like to be in the room Putin and Trump, and whether a durable peace in Ukraine is still within reach. Producers: Chris Benderev and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin together. Credit: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी २५ · २७ मिनेट
This week marks four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the largest and deadliest conflict in Europe since WW2. Ukraine has put its official losses at 55,000 soldiers, and the BBC has verified the deaths of more than 180,000 on the Russian side, although the true toll is likely to be much higher. Tens of thousands of civilians have been killed or wounded, and millions have been displaced. In today’s episode, the BBC’s international editor Jeremy Bowen, travels through Ukraine, speaking to people living on the front line, to soldiers, and to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, about what they would concede – if anything - for a peace deal with Russia. Producer: Hannah Moore Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: A Ukrainian woman attends a memorial ceremony for fallen servicemen at the Military Cemetery in Kharkiv. Credit: Sergey Kozlov/EPA/Shutterstock.
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी २४ · २७ मिनेट
Tensions between the US and Iran are once again escalating, as President Trump has threatened military strikes if Iran refuses to accede to its demands. Iran has responded with warnings that any US strikes will lead to all-out war in the region. The Iran nuclear talks come as the Iranian government faces the biggest challenge to its survival since 1979. Last month, a protest about the rising costs of living exploded into a nationwide uprising. The response was a brutal crackdown which killed thousands of people. Having returned from a reporting trip to the capital Tehran, the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, gives us a rare insight into how Iranians are dealing with the aftermath of last month’s protests, continuing economic hardship, and the prospect of a US attack. Producers: Aron Keller, Viv Jones and Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Iranians walking in Tehran. Credit: Abedin Taherkenareh/EPA/Shutterstock
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी २३ · २६ मिनेट
More than 50 years since the last Apollo mission, Nasa is preparing to send astronauts back to the Moon. Artemis II will take its crew farther from Earth than any human has travelled in decades - a crucial step towards landing on the lunar surface once again. At the same time, China has been quietly advancing its own plans for a crewed Moon landing. Some experts say this signals the start of a new space race – not just for prestige, but to build a long-term presence on the Moon, tap its resources and use it as a stepping stone to Mars. We speak to the BBC’s Science Editor, Rebecca Morelle. Producers: Valerio Esposito and Cat Farnsworth Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Official Artemis crew portrait. Josh Valcarcel/NASA Handout/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी २० · २७ मिनेट
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince and brother to King Charles, was arrested by British police on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest came after police said they were assessing a complaint that Andrew allegedly shared confidential material with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. We’re joined by BBC Royal Correspondent Sean Coughlan to discuss what Andrew’s arrest means for the future of the British monarchy. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin. Executive producer: James Shield. Senior news editor: China Collins. Photo: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, leaves Aylsham Police Station. Credit: Phil Noble/Reuters.
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी १९ · २७ मिनेट
***This episode contains discussions of body dysmorphia, self-harm, sex and drug use, and references to language that may cause offence*** A controversial internet streamer who goes by the name Clavicular has taken the internet by storm, going to extreme lengths to try to enhance his looks – from using steroids and testosterone to hitting his face with a hammer. Clavicular has become the poster boy for an online movement called ‘looksmaxxing’, centred on maximising physical attractiveness. Like many subcultures, it has given rise to a whole new lexicon which is gradually migrating from the margins of the internet to the mainstream. In today’s episode, we turn to journalist and documentary filmmaker Matt Shea to explain whether Clavicular – and the movement he champions – is just another viral curiosity, or a strange symptom of modern masculinity. Producers: Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: A hand holding a mobile phone showing an influencer holding a hammer to his face on screen. Credit: Yui Mok/PA Wire)
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी १८ · २७ मिनेट
Next week marks four years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In that time, there’s been an intense crackdown on freedom of speech and dissent in Russia, which has led to many western media organisations leaving the country. Today, we speak to Steve Rosenberg, the BBC’s Russia editor, on the tightrope of reporting from Moscow under Vladimir Putin. Producer: Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow. Credit: Sputnik/Alexander Kazakov/Pool/Reuters.
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी १७ · २६ मिनेट
***This episode contains distressing details of rape and sexual assault*** Gisèle Pelicot earned international recognition after waiving her anonymity at her mass-rape trial in 2024, in which her former husband, Dominique, was sentenced to 20 years in jail for drugging her and inviting dozens of other men to their home in the south of France to rape her while she was unconscious. In court, Gisèle Pelicot bravely faced her abusers, and in public, she stood stoically in defence of sexual assault survivors, saying that, “shame must change sides”. The BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire talks through her recent interview with Gisèle Pelicot, as her memoir, A Hymn to Life, is published. If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at befrienders.org. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Producer: Hannah Moore Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Gisèle Pelicot in Paris, France. Credit: Dmitry Kostyukov/BBC Newsnight)
२०२६ फेब्रुअरी १६ · २६ मिनेट
**This episode contains discussion of bullying, abuse and suicide** A landmark trial is underway in Los Angeles where tech giants Instagram and YouTube will face a jury for the first time over claims that their platforms are deliberately designed to be addictive for children. Lawyers for the plaintiff – a 20 year-old woman – say she developed mental health issues after becoming addicted to the social media at an early age. They argue these companies built “addiction machines” with algorithms that learn what users want and keep feeding it to them. Instagram and YouTube deny the allegations, saying that they have no incentive to turn children into addicts and have introduced various safety measures. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to testify later this week. We speak to the BBC’s North America Technology Correspondent Lily Jamali, who has been following the case, to ask whether social media is having a generational reckoning – its Big Tobacco moment. Producers: Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Vigil outside the courthouse ahead of a social media addiction trial in Los Angeles. Credit: Reuters/ Jill Connelly.
पछिल्लो १०० एपिसोड देखाइएको।
