The historic deal brokered by China for a Saudi-Iran rapprochement reflects not only a changing region, but a shifting world order. While the US focuses on its proxy war in Ukraine, with US officials essentially blocking meaningful peace discussion both there and in Yemen, its “strategic competitor” China now looks like the adult in the room. Its diplomatic ... Show More
Apr 14
Are Israel & the US Failing in Lebanon and Iran? w/ Jon Elmer
As war spreads across Lebanon and Iran, the U.S. and Israel claim they are making progress.But on the ground, the picture looks far more complicated.After a supposed pause in fighting and failed negotiations, Israel escalated dramatically, launching massive strikes on Beirut whil ... Show More
1h 6m
Apr 10
Before Hezbollah: The Leftist Resistance Israel Crushed in Lebanon
As Israel escalates its war on Lebanon, one narrative dominates: that Hezbollah is the cause of the conflict.But that story erases decades of history.Long before Hezbollah existed, southern Lebanon was already a frontline of anti-colonial struggle led by Palestinian fighters, Leb ... Show More
1h 8m
Apr 7
Iran Defiant as Trump Threatens ‘A Civilization Will Die Tonight,’ w/ Mouin Rabbani
Donald Trump has issued a shocking ultimatum to Iran: submit, or face the destruction of its civilian infrastructure and the total devastation of the country within hours.As Washington and Tel Aviv escalate their war threats, Iran says it will retaliate in kind with potentially c ... Show More
58m 37s
Sep 2023
China's role in conflict mediation in the Middle East
In this episode, We embark on a thought-provoking journey into the realm of China's involvement in conflict resolution within the region. Your host, Jonathan Fulton, is joined by the insightful voices of Helena Legarda and Dr. Sanam Vakil. Together, they dissect China's strategic ... Show More
41m 48s
Jan 2024
Is Iran the world’s biggest threat?
Iran is a key player in the Middle East – the country supports extremist Islamic groups across the region, notably the Houthis in Yemen, and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Following UK airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen last week, defence secretary Grant Shapps on Monday gave a major sp ... Show More
19m 2s
May 2023
Riyadh and the World: What to Make of Saudi Arabia’s Recent Diplomacy
<p>Saudi Arabia’s diplomacy is flourishing after a decade in which Riyadh has been entangled in regional conflicts and rivalries. Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has turned the page on the Gulf Cooperation Council dispute, opened talks with Huthi rebels in Yemen, agreed to ... Show More
47m 32s