Podcast · News

The Inside Story Podcast

by Al Jazeera · English · News

The Inside Story Podcast -- where we dissect, analyse and help define major global stories.

New episodes: Daily
Typical length: 25 min
Latest: 12 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026 · 24 minNew

How will Ukraine respond to the growing pressure from Washington?

US President Donald Trump has announced a deal to bring Russian diesel into the United States, a move welcomed by the Kremlin. He's accused Ukraine of ignoring his calls to halt strikes on Russian refineries. Ukraine insists it will only stop striking Russian refineries if Moscow ceases attacks on its energy facilities. With Washington and Europe diverging further on Ukraine, how long can European leaders continue their economic and military support for Kyiv? In this episode: Lisa Yasko, Member of the Ukrainian Parliament Andrey Kortunov, Russian affairs analyst John Lough, Head of Foreign…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E1628 · 7 Oct 2026 · 20 min
Is Zionism a form of racism?
Zionism should be treated as any other form of racism. That's what members of the Green Party have agreed on at their annual conference in the UK. Israel has condemned the decision, calling it antisemitic. So, what's the motivation? And what impact will the Greens' new policy have on British politics and beyond? In this episode: Tim Bale, Professor of Politics at Queen Mary University of London Yossi Beilin, former Israeli Justice Minister Jonathan Lis, Journalist and Broadcaster Host: Neave Barker Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1627 · 5 Oct 2026 · 26 min
Will elections bring change to multi-ethnic Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Voters in Bosnia and Herzegovina go to the polls for the 10th time since the end of the war more than three decades ago. They're electing more than 500 members of a complex government structure. But deep political and ethnic divides remain. So, how will it play out, both in Bosnia and in the region? In this episode: Jahja Muhasilovic, Assistant Professor at the International University of Sarajevo Nina Sajic, Professor in the School of Political Science at the University of Banja Luka Bodo Weber, Senior Associate at the Democratization Policy Council Host: Sami Zeidan Connect with us:…
E1626 · 1 Oct 2026 · 25 min
Why is Malaysia sending back Rohingya refugees to Myanmar?
The Malaysian government is facing accusations of forcibly deporting Rohingya refugees, a charge the government denies. It says the process is voluntary and coordinated with Myanmar’s government. But human rights groups say this process violates international law by sending refugees to countries where they risk facing persecution or torture. So, will this concern stop the Rohingya being sent back to Myanmar? In this episode: Phar Kim Beng, Director of the Institute of International and ASEAN Studies and Geopolitics Professor at the University of Malaysia Lucky Karim, Democracy and…
E1625 · 30 Sep 2026 · 25 min
Can Iraq handle future security challenges alone?
The last remaining US troops have left Iraq, ending a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion to oust Saddam Hussein. After years of conflict and instability, Iraq is entering a new phase without US forces on the ground. Is the Iraqi government ready? And who stands to gain from the US withdrawal? In this episode: Ahmed Rushdi, President of the House of Iraqi Expertise Foundation Kenneth Katzman, Senior Fellow at The Soufan Center Abdullah AlShayji, Professor at Kuwait University Host: Dareen Abughaida Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1624 · 28 Sep 2026 · 25 min
Why has Trump rejected Iran's peace proposal?
Unacceptable. That was the immediate reaction from US President Donald Trump to Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran says it's still awaiting what it called a "definitive response" from Washington through mediators. But Trump has said Iran needs a deal because, in his words, it's "losing badly." So, is his rejection of the proposal an effort to pressure Tehran for more concessions? In this episode: Abas Aslani, Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Middle East Strategic Studies Henry Ensher, former US diplomat and former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Zeidon…
E1623 · 21 Sep 2026 · 25 min
How will Saudi Arabia deal with the Houthis?
Fighting is intensifying between Yemen's Ansar Allah Houthis and Saudi Arabia. For the first time since a ceasefire in 2022, the Houthis have fired missiles towards the capital, Riyadh. The Iran-backed group says it will respond to any escalation with an escalation of its own. But it also risks dragging the wider region into conflict. What will it take to stop the attacks? In this episode: Nawaf Obaid, Senior Research Fellow at King’s College London and former advisor to the Saudi government Muhanad Seloom, Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs Ibrahim…
E1622 · 14 Sep 2026 · 25 min
Can a warming Arctic become an important commercial highway?
Climate change has contributed to major melting in the Arctic, making it navigable for greater stretches of the year. Some countries are already taking notice. The first South Korean container ship to transit the Arctic route arrived in the UK on Saturday. But can it become a viable alternative to existing shipping corridors? In this episode: Mads Frederiksen, Executive Director at the Arctic Economic Council Vyacheslav Mishchenko, Russia energy expert Jimmy Suroto Huang, Founder of Nava Analytics and Research Host: Neave Barker Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and…
E1621 · 12 Sep 2026 · 25 min
Will the Houthis seizing the Red Sea coast give Iran leverage in the war?
The Ansarullah Houthis seize Yemen's Red Sea coast, cementing their hold on the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The advance of the Tehran-aligned group threatens an alternative route for energy supplies - with traffic in the Strait of Hormuz already limited. Will it give Iran leverage in its war with the US? In this episode: Ahmed Al-Ashwal - Military and security researcher, and a former pilot officer with Yemen's armed forces. Jennifer Gavito - Former U.S. Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Middle East and a former State Department Official Abas Aslani - Senior Research…
E1620 · 8 Sep 2026 · 25 min
How will the far-right AfD's electoral rise impact Germany?
The Alternative for Germany is on top in Sunday's election in the east German state of Saxony-Anhalt, with about 44 percent of the vote. It's benefitted from voters' economic concerns and anger over immigration. The party is also leading in national polls. So what are the implications of the AfD's electoral rise for Germany and for Europe? In this episode: Olaf Boehnke - Berlin Director of the political consultancy Rasmussen Global and former Senior Advisor in the German Bundestag Max Otte - Founder of Privatinvestor Capital and a 2022 German presidential candidate Ulrich Bruckner -…
E1619 · 5 Sep 2026 · 25 min
What's triggered the latest argument about the Falkland Islands?
Reigniting the centuries-old Falklands dispute. Argentina's president says sovereignty over the islands remains a national objective. The UK insists the territory is British. What's really triggered the latest argument about the Falkland Islands? In this episode: Diego Guelar - Former Argentinian ambassador to the U.S., EU and China Christopher Sabatini - Director of the Latin America Programme at Chatham House Javier Farje - Journalist and historian specialising in Latin American affairs Host: Cyril Vanier Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1618 · 29 Aug 2026 · 25 min
Can Libya find a way to govern the fractured country?
International efforts intensify to find a way forward for Libya. The country is controlled by two rival governments. And diplomacy is aimed at holding elections - to help find a way to govern the fractured country. So, can a way forward be found? In this episode: Mustafa Fetouri - Independent Libyan academic and award-winning journalist William Lawrence - Director of the North African Area Studies Program at the National Council on US-Arab Relations, former US diplomat in Libya Faraj Najem - Libyan historian and political researcher and author of 'Tribe, Islam and State in Libya' Host: Cyril…
E1617 · 23 Aug 2026 · 26 min
Will Trump's new sanctions against Iran work?
Will Donald Trump's new sanctions against Iran work? The US president says he will impose 'crushing measures' on Tehran. While the Iranian leadership has warned countries not to join what it calls America's 'economic warfare'. What does this mean for the conflict? In this episode: Jamal Abdi, President, National Iranian American Council. Hassan Ahmadian, Professor, University of Tehran. Mark Pfeifle, Founder, Off the Record Strategies. Host: James Bays Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1616 · 22 Aug 2026 · 26 min
Why is Israel bidding for new illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank?
Israel opens construction bids for new illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. That's despite widespread international condemnation. What's driving this land grab? And what does it mean for the future of Palestinians -- and an independent Palestinian state? In this episode: Ammar Hijazi - Ambassador and Head of the Palestinian Mission to the Netherlands Alon Pinkas - Former Israeli Ambassador and Consul General in New York Host: James Bays Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1615 · 16 Aug 2026 · 25 min
What's driving the escalating Israeli settler violence against Palestinians?
Israeli settler attacks in the occupied West Bank trap Palestinian families in their homes. The violence takes place as Israel's far-right government fights elections in October. Why are attacks by settlers intensifying and what are the consequences? In this episode: Ofer Cassif, Member of the Knesset. Mouin Rabbani, Co-editor, Jadaliyya online magazine. Ori Goldberg, Israeli political commentator. Host: Imran Khan Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1614 · 15 Aug 2026 · 26 min
What is driving the Ebola crisis?
The Ebola outbreak in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo has already killed two thousand people. And it's spreading faster than any before - outpacing efforts to contain it, says the WHO So, what's driving this crisis? And what are the dangers? In this episode: Alex Lock - Communications Co-ordinator for the Ebola response with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Kinshasa Dr Marie Roseline Belizaire - Emergency Director for the World Health Organization Africa Dr Margaret Harris - Global health consultant Host: James Bays Connect with us:…
E1613 · 9 Aug 2026 · 26 min
Can the Doha Framework end the conflict in Democratic Republic of Congo?
Can the Doha Framework end the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo? Kinshasa has handed over 15 prisoners to a powerful rebel alliance. It's part of an agreement signed last year in the Qatari capital. So, what are the hurdles to lasting peace? In this episode: Kambale Musavuli, Analyst, Center for Research, Congo-Kinshasa. Felix Ndahinda, Researcher, Great Lakes region, specialising in conflict resolution, peace and transitional justice. Abdulla Al Etaibi, Assistant Professor, International Affairs, Qatar University. Host: Per Nyberg Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X ,…
E1612 · 8 Aug 2026 · 26 min
What are the hurdles facing the Mecca agreement?
What are the hurdles facing the Mecca agreement? The defence pact between Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan comes at a time of heightened tension in the Middle East. So, who stands to gain from the new alliance? And how is it viewed in the region and beyond? In this episode: Abdulaziz Alghashian - Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Gulf International Forum David Des Roches - Professor at the Thayer Marshall Institute Zaid M Belbagi - Managing Partner at Hardcastle Advisory Host: Anna Burns-Francis Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1611 · 6 Aug 2026 · 26 min
How fragile is Lebanon's uneasy peace?
New Israeli attacks in Lebanon, after soldiers were killed for the first time since a fragile truce with Beirut began in June. It comes despite more Lebanese-Israeli talks in Rome in a U.S.-brokered peace process. So where do things stand now? In this episode: Maha Yahya, Director of the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut Jennifer Gavito, Former U.S. Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Rami Khouri, Distinguished Public Policy Fellow at the American University of Beirut Host: James Bays Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook ,…
E1610 · 5 Aug 2026 · 25 min
Is the conflict between Russia and Ukraine deepening?
A surge in missile and drone attacks by Russia and Ukraine with civilians killed on both sides. Little movement on the diplomatic front, while U.S. attention is largely focused on Iran. So, what's next for Europe's worst conflict since World War Two? In this episode: Andrey Kortunov, Russian affairs analyst and a former Director General of the Russian International Affairs Council Oleksiy Goncharenko, a Member of the Ukrainian parliament Thomas Graham, Henry A. Kissinger Distinguished Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York Host: Mohammed Jamjoom Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts…
E1609 · 4 Aug 2026 · 28 min
How much of a challenge are wildfires to Europe?
How much of a challenge are wildfires to Europe? Rapidly spreading blazes are scorching the continent, destroying forests, farmland, homes and businesses. They're becoming bigger and more difficult to control. So, what's fuelling the flames? In this episode: Paleologos Paleologou -- Geographer and an Associate Professor of Forest Protection at the Agricultural University of Athens Marta Yebra, Director of the Bushfire Research Centre of Excellence, Australian National University Carlo Buontempo, Director of Copernicus Climate Change Service Host: Mohammed Jamjoom Connect with us:…
E1608 · 3 Aug 2026 · 26 min
Will Israel withdraw from Gaza if Hamas disarms?
Israel says it has doubts about Hamas disarming. The group and other Palestinian factions in Gaza have agreed to lay down their weapons. But they say it's dependent on the withdrawal of Israeli troops — which Israel has refused to do unless they disarm. Where does this leave Gaza? In this episode: Xavier Abu Eid, Political analyst and former adviser to the Palestinian negotiating team Michael Mulroy, Former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East Nimrod Novick, Former special envoy and senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres Host: Frankie McCamley…
E1607 · 2 Aug 2026 · 26 min
What does the US hope to gain from Venezuela's government-opposition talks?
Venezuela's government and a section of the opposition plan to hold talks, backed by the United States. But prominent opposition politician and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado has been excluded. So, what can the talks achieve and what's Washington seeking to get from it? In this episode: Elias Ferrer, Political Economy Analyst. Vanessa Neumann, Founder and CEO, Asymmetrica. Charles Shapiro, Former US Ambassador to Venezuela. Host: Frankie McCamley Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1606 · 1 Aug 2026 · 12 min
Why did thousands of migrants cross into Spain's Ceuta?
Tens of thousands of migrants crossed into Spain's north African territory of Ceuta from Morocco. While most of them have since returned - Spain's been condemned by right-wing politicians in Europe and the United States. Is the criticism about border management or is it politics? In this episode: Anna Terron Cusi - Spain’s former Secretary of State for Immigration and Emigration, who's now a Senior Fellow at the Migration Policy Institute. Daniel Gros - Director of the Institute for European Policymaking at Bocconi University and an Advisor to the EU parliament. Deborah Fleischaker -…
E1605 · 31 Jul 2026 · 24 min
Does FIFA need private investment?
FIFA is facing a growing backlash after its proposal to sell a stake in its top events. Europe's governing body UEFA has threatened to boycott the World Cup if this plan goes ahead. So, does FIFA need private investment? In this episode: Chris Brady, Football finance expert and Chief Intelligence Officer for the Sportsology Group Bassirou Sakho, FIFA-licensed football agent and professor in the sports department at the Sorbonne University Keir Radnedge, Football journalist covering politics and business and a former Editor of World Soccer magazine Host: Scott McLean Connect with us:…
E1604 · 31 Jul 2026 · 26 min
Will Saudi Arabia be dragged further into the war in Iran?
Anger in Iraq after Saudi Arabia attacked an umbrella paramilitary group with ties to Iran. Riyadh accuses the Popular Mobilization Forces of targeting its oil facilities. As the US-Iran war drags on, what are the risks of the conflict spreading? In this episode: Ahmed Rushdi, Head of the House of Iraqi Expertise Foundation, a policy think-tank and research organisation Ahmed Al Maimouni, Head of Research at the Rasanah International Institute of Iranian Studies And Muhanad Seloom, Assistant Professor in Critical Security Studies at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies Host: James Bays…
E1603 · 28 Jul 2026 · 26 min
What will it take to stop the conflict in Sudan?
Sudan's army says it's regained control of a highway connecting the capital to North Kordofan state. The area has become the latest front in the conflict with paramilitaries, which has killed tens of thousands of people. Will it be enough to shift the outcome of the fighting? In this episode: Sanosi Zakaria, Editor-in-chief of the Sudan Mirror and former Sudanese army officer Shashwat Saraf, Sudan Country Director for the Norwegian Refugee Council Elbashir Idris, Sudan analyst Host: James Bays Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1602 · 27 Jul 2026 · 24 min
Will Peru's Keiko Fujimori administration move beyond her father's legacy?
Peru is getting its ninth president in ten years. Keiko Fujimori is taking the reins more than 25 years after her father's polarising presidency. But the scars of that era still divide Peru. Will her government move beyond his legacy? In this episode: Jose Ragas, Historian and Assistant Professor at the Catholic University of Chile Renata Segura, Programme Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the International Crisis Group Christopher Sabatini, Director of the Latin America Programme at Chatham House Host: James Bays Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and…
E1601 · 26 Jul 2026 · 26 min
What will it take to bring the wildfires under control in Europe?
Europe engulfed in flames as wildfires spread rapidly. Hundreds of thousands forced from their homes; swathes of land scorched. Climate change has contributed to this unprecedented fire season. But what will it take to bring the situation under control? In this episode: Eduardo Rojas, Chairman of the Board, Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. Soraya Fettih, Global Campaigns Coordinator, 350.org. Laurie Laybourn, Executive Director, Strategic Climate Risks Initiative. Host: Per Nyberg Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube
E1600 · 25 Jul 2026 · 26 min
Why are settler attacks on Palestinians intensifying?
Israel says it's planning a major military operation in the occupied West Bank. Settler attacks on Palestinians are intensifying, becoming increasingly violent. As Israel is gearing up for an election, how does this escalation serve Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right partners? In this episode: Alon Pinkas - Former Israeli ambassador and consul general in New York Sari Bashi - Human rights lawyer and executive director of the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel Mairav Zonszein - Senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, focused on Israel and Palestine Host: Per Nyberg Connect…

About The Inside Story Podcast

The Inside Story Podcast -- where we dissect, analyse and help define major global stories.

The Inside Story Podcast is a English news podcast from Al Jazeera. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Al Jazeera
Language: English
Category: News
New episodes: Daily
Typical length: 25 min
Latest episode: 12 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1587936366

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