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Battle Lines

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Rating
★★★★☆
4.3
from
199 reviews
This podcast has
437 episodes
Language
English
Publisher
The Telegraph
Explicit
No
Date created
2023/10/20
Latest episode
2026/10/22
Average duration
36 min.
Release period
2 days

Description

Battle Lines is The Telegraph’s defence, security and foreign affairs podcast. It offers expert analysis and on-the-ground reporting from around the world, everywhere from China and the United States to the Middle East and Europe. Three times a week, veteran foreign correspondents Roland Oliphant and Venetia Rainey bring you on-the-ground dispatches from the world’s most volatile regions and informed analysis from world-class experts. Every Wednesday on Battle Lines x Global Health Security they’re joined by Arthur Scott-Geddes to look at the intersection between health and security, from bioweapons to warzone diseases to frontline medicine. You can watch these episodes here. Whether it’s the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Gaza conflict, Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific, tensions between India and Pakistan, or the civil war in Sudan, Battle Lines covers the world’s most critical flashpoints with depth and clarity. When will China invade Taiwan? Can Donald Trump bring peace to the Middle East? What should Europe do to help Ukraine beat Russia? Is Iran building a nuclear bomb? What is the point of NATO? Can the United Kingdom still defend itself?  Created by David Knowles, Battle Lines answers all these questions and more, bringing together the best of The Telegraph’s international, geopolitical, and conflict reporting in one place. Don’t forget to follow and leave a review to stay updated on the latest in global conflict and foreign affairs. Battle Lines: Global Health Security is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Peter Apps: US and Israel plan 3-day Iran blitz, how China and Russia back Tehran
2026/10/22
Further details have emerged regarding US-Israeli plans for a joint military campaign against Iran after the midterm elections. Following sightings of Israeli Air Force jets flying up to the Iranian border on Monday, plans for a three-day military blitz on Iran’s nuclear facilities and energy infrastructure were revealed to the New York Times. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Roland Oliphant speaks to Reuters global defence commentator Peter Apps about whether a renewed campaign can force Tehran’s hand or if it will trigger a devastating cycle of retaliation across Gulf energy fields. They examine the collapse of Iran’s shadow tanker fleet, escalating Houthi strikes in Saudi Arabia, and whether expanding cyber warfare and drone technology mean the West is already entangled in a broader global conflict. Plus, what would be the global impact of Iranian attacks on undersea cables in the Persian Gulf, and why Russian trawlers are spying on critical British subsea infrastructure. Highlights Iran’s ‘shadow fleet’ has run out of oil after a monthslong US blockade.How conflicts around the world are inextricably linked and are AI cyber attacks dragging the West into global war? CONTRIBUTORS: Roland Oliphant, co-host and chief foreign affairs analyst @RolandOliphant Peter Apps, global defence commentator for Reuters @pete_apps WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: US and Israel practise fresh strikes on Iran’s border https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/22/us-and-israel-practise-fresh-strikes-on-irans-border/ US withdraws diplomats from Saudi Arabia https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/22/us-withdraws-diplomats-from-saudi-arabia/ Netanyahu pushes for new strikes against Iran before Israeli election https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/21/netanyahu-wants-new-strikes-on-iran-before-israel-elections/ Iran threatens to cut Hormuz internet cables https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/20/iran-threatens-cut-hormuz-internet-cables/ Exclusive: Putin sends fishing trawlers to spy on Britain https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/21/exclusive-putin-sends-fishing-trawlers-to-spy-on-britain/ Winner Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Israel and the US weigh fresh Iran strikes as the Houthi siege deepens
2026/10/21
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed his military to plan a multi-day bombing campaign targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and power grids, as talks with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signal preparation for joint military action against Iran. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Roland Oliphant speaks with global health security editor Paul Nuki about Netanyahu’s vow to dismantle the Iranian regime, the political calculations behind Trump delaying military action until after the midterms, and whether an Israeli election could derail Netanyahu’s foreign policy plans. They examine the domestic atmosphere in Israel and consider the key factors that will decide the vote in next week's election. Plus, how IRGC threats against undersea internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz threaten global commerce, and how Houthi missile strikes are driving Saudi Arabia toward economic breaking point. Highlights Netanyahu’s multi-day bombing campaign against Iran revealedThe key factors that will decide next week’s Israeli general election IRGC target subsea internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz CONTRIBUTORS: Roland Oliphant, co-host and chief foreign affairs analyst @RolandOliphant Paul Nuki, global health security editor @PaulNuki WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Two RAF Fairford suspects arrested for spying for Iran https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/20/police-re-arrest-two-raf-fairford-terror-suspects/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Winner Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
UK sends Typhoon jets to protect Saudi Arabia against the Houthis
2026/10/20
British RAF Typhoon fighter jets will be deployed to defend cities and critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, following the Yemen-based militant group’s deadliest attack yet, a devastating assault that killed at least 70 people, all new recruits aged 18 to 20, at a training camp. On today’s episode of Iran: The Latest, Sophia Yan is joined by former UK Ambassador to Yemen Edmund Fitton-Brown to examine the escalating Houthi missile campaign, Britain's military role in the Gulf, and whether Donald Trump will expand US strikes following the midterms. They discuss whether Iran can keep control over the ‘violent’ and ‘ambitious’ Houthi militants, the origin story of the Yemen-based mlitant group, and the strength of their support base. Plus, Fitton-Brown reveals inside details of the near-miss 2016 peace deal between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, and why the militants walked away at the final hour to insist total victory. Highlights UK RAF Typhoon jets deploy to defend Saudi ArabiaNetanyahu insists he and Trump “have a job to finish” as speculation rises over whether Trump will launch another attack on Iran after the midterms. CONTRIBUTORS: Sophia Yan, co-host and senior foreign correspondent @sophia_yan Edmund Fitton-Brown, former UK ambassador to Yemen and current senior fellow at FDD @EFittonBrown WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: RAF fighter jets to defend Saudi cities from Houthi attacks https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/20/raf-fighter-jets-to-defend-saudi-cities-from-houthi-attacks/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Egypt weighs entering war against the Houthis as strikes threaten global shipping
2026/10/19
Houthi ballistic missile strikes kill 20 people in Yemen as Egypt considers sending military support to help Saudi Arabia counter Iranian threats in the Red Sea. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Sophia Yan speaks to the Telegraph’s Executive Defence and Foreign Affairs Editor Con Coughlin and Chatham House Middle East expert Dr. Lina Khatib. They analyze Iran’s turn to asymmetric proxy warfare as Houthi strikes continue. Meanwhile, Western intelligence faces a renewed threat as Tehran appoints Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi, known as Iran’s "Missile Man", as its new defence minister to rebuild its degraded ballistic missile arsenal. Plus, Donald Trump endorses Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel's national election, and why Iran’s remaining, highly ideological leadership core could make Tehran more dangerous than ever. Highlights Iran’s "Missile Man" appointed as new Defence Minister and what this means for the war.A sign of expanding regional support against the Houthis, as Egypt considers sending troops to support Saudi Arabia CONTRIBUTORS: Sophia Yan, co-host and senior foreign correspondent @sophia_yan Con Coughlin, executive defence and foreign affairs editor @con_coughlin Dr. Lina Khatib, Chatham House Middle East expert @LinaKhatibUK WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: The Houthis are Europe’s problem https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/15/houthis-are-europe-problem/?recomm_id=c1d5b4ae-93da-41d2-af79-bec524a0c34e Iran’s proxies are propping up Tehran with financial support, says US https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/17/irans-proxies-propping-up-tehran-financial-support-us/?recomm_id=b2d4de18-e667-484b-a32a-eac0926b890a Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘Hegseth is unfit’: US tank commander on Iran war failures, impeachment and running for Senate
2026/10/18
The Iran war has stretched the US Congress to breaking point and exposed Pete Hegseth’s leadership of the Pentagon as fundamentally lacking, according to an ex-tank commander who is neither a Republican nor a Democrat. On today’s bonus episode of Iran: the Latest, Venetia Rainey speaks to Todd Achilles, a US veteran of the First Gulf War who is running as an independent for Senate in Idaho. With the November midterm elections just weeks away, Achilles’ battle against Republican stalwart Jim Risch is a window into the problems facing the GOP as Donald Trump’s Iran war leads to rising fuel prices and fertiliser shortages back home. Is this the moment for a rise in independent military veteran candidates such as Achilles? Highlights ‘We lost 15 bases - Hegseth is unfit for duty’US tank commander Todd Achilles on Iran war failures and running for Senate CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey Todd Achilles, US Senate Idaho candidate @Achilles4Idaho WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Green Beret leads ‘double haters’ in mission to blow up midterms https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/politics/2026/10/05/rhodes-scholar-green-beret-end-two-party-politics-montana/ US midterm elections 2026: How do they work and what could they mean for Trump? https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2026/10/16/us-midterm-elections-2026/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Iran’s terror network exposed & how pinpoint IRGC strikes smashed up the Gulf
2026/10/16
A new report exposes how pinpoint strikes by Iran and its proxies hit at least 84 Gulf infrastructure targets a total of 135 times, systematically disabling key infrastructure throughout the war. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Sophia Yan speaks to national security editor Rozina Sabur and Iranian terrorism specialist Roger Macmillan about the widening scope of Tehran's hybrid warfare, from the Middle East to Europe. They unpack how the IRGC is weaponising criminal networks to orchestrate hit squads and sabotage operations on Western soil - including a growing number of foiled terror plots targeting military and Jewish sites in the UK. MI5’s boss this week issued a rare warning - but is anyone paying attention? Plus, Houthi ballistic missiles kill five at the presidential palace in the port city of Aden, and how US President Donald Trump is balancing escalating nuclear strike options ahead of the US midterm elections - and why it could make Iran more dangerous. Highlights How pinpoint Iranian strikes smashed up the Gulf’s key sitesIRGC’s terror network across Europe exposed CONTRIBUTORS: Sophia Yan, co-host and senior foreign correspondent @sophia_yan Rozina Sabur, national security editor @RozinaSabur Roger Macmillan, former Director of Security at Iran International TV @Rogermacmillan WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Iran-backed Houthis on brink of taking Taiz in massive blow to Saudi Arabia https://youtu.be/cSyCHTlh9Vo?si=nWqBqSjpqgOa2Ixp Iran’s precision strikes picked apart Gulf infrastructure, blunting US war plans https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/iran-crisis-infrastructure-attacks/ Iran’s terrifying global campaign of revenge – and how it targets enemies https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/09/27/irans-terrifying-revenge-countries-that-oppose-it/ Teenage assassin sent to Britain by Iranian proxy jailed for 20 years https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/16/teenage-assassin-sent-to-britain-by-iranian-proxy-jailed/ Migrant who ‘planned UK terror attack’ claimed asylum in Germany https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/03/israel-anti-semitism-iran-ahmadyan-salehi/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Iran sinks two ships in Strait of Hormuz as Houthis ‘days’ from taking Yemen’s Taiz
2026/10/15
Iran has sunk two cargo vessels in under 24 hours in the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since the war began in March. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Venetia Rainey speaks to chief foreign affairs commentator David Blair about why Tehran is expanding its pace of attacks. So far the US has avoided a military response but how long can that last? Meanwhile, news that US President Donald Trump is considering using the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb - aka the “mother of all bombs”. Plus, the Iran-backed Houthis have encircled Yemen’s Taiz and are on the cusp of taking the strategic city for the first time in the war in what would be a major blow to Saudi Arabia. Maysaa Shuja Al-Deen, a Yemeni senior researcher from the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies, explains why the Houthis are so desperate to capture Taiz as a stepping-stone to oil-rich Marib and port city Aden and how it could take just “days” to fall. With around a million people trapped inside and news of food and medicine shortages, a humanitarian disaster is looming and Iran’s proxy group is on the brink of a major victory. Highlights Iran sinks two ships in Strait of Hormuz as attacks escalateHouthis ‘days’ from taking Yemen’s key city of Taiz CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey David Blair, chief foreign affairs commentator @davidblairdt Maysaa Shuja Al-Deen from the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies @maysaashujaa WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Iran hits six oil tankers in single day https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/13/iran-hits-six-oil-tankers-day-hormuz-war-america-trump/ Trump lines up ‘mother of all bombs’ to strike Iran https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/15/trump-mother-of-all-bombs-strike-iran-moab/ Houthis on brink of taking their biggest scalp https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/13/houthis-on-brink-of-seizing-their-biggest-scalp/ Con Coughlin: The Houthis are Europe’s problem https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/15/houthis-are-europe-problem/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Iran cornered but still dangerous: ex-general on the IRGC, Yemen’s Houthis and the special forces
2026/10/14
The Houthi offensive in Yemen is reaching a critical tipping point as the Iran-backed militants encircle the strategic city of Taiz, threatening to tip the war in their favour. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Roland Oliphant speaks with Lieutenant General Graeme Lamb, former director of UK Special Forces and commander of the British Field Army, about the battle for Taiz and whether the West is underestimating Saudi Arabia’s capability to push them back. As US President Donald Trump scolds the “nasty” Houthis for “bad behaviour”, Lt Gen Lamb unpacks the ways in which the Yemen war folds into Iran’s strategy of global economic warfare and how Russia is helping Tehran keep going. Plus, the importance of civil society resilience in a time of war, why aid cuts don’t make us safer, and how special forces soldiers navigate international humanitarian law in tricky war zones. Highlights Trump scolds ‘nasty’ Houthis for ‘bad behaviour’ by attacking Saudi ArabiaLt Gen Graeme Lamb on the IRGC, Yemen’s Houthis and the special forces Highlights Trump scolds ‘nasty’ Houthis for ‘bad behaviour’ by attacking Saudi ArabiaLt Gen Graeme Lamb on the IRGC, Yemen’s Houthis and the special forces CONTRIBUTORS: Roland Oliphant, co-host and chief foreign affairs analyst @RolandOliphant Lt Gen Graeme Lamb, former director of UK Special Forces and commander of the British Field Army WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Houthis on brink of taking their biggest scalp https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/13/houthis-on-brink-of-seizing-their-biggest-scalp/ Sal Mercogliano: The ayatollahs have been humbled by the power of capitalism https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/14/strait-of-hormuz-iran-war-shipping-oil-gas-diesel-drones/ Iran hits six oil tankers in single day https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/13/iran-hits-six-oil-tankers-day-hormuz-war-america-trump/ Diesel crisis to drag on for months, warns IEA https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/10/14/diesel-crisis-to-drag-on-for-months-warns-iea/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
MI5 warns Iran targeting UK military sites & the war’s looming food price crisis
2026/10/13
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the US-Iran war is throttling global fertiliser supply chains, driving up transport costs, and sparking a looming food price crisis. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Roland Oliphant talks to Joseph Glauber from the International Food Policy Research Institute about the nuts and bolts of how the Iran war is impacting food security - and why the worst is yet to come. They discuss how farmers and markets have adapted to the drop off in exports, and why Russian attacks on Black Sea ships and the strengthening ‘super’ El Niño are creating a food time bomb for 2027. Plus, Yemen warns of a “catastrophe” in Taiz amid the Houthi siege, MI5 says Iran is now targeting British military sites showing a “major shift” in its ambitions, and why Donald Trump is wrong to insist that China and Russia aren’t helping Tehran. Highlights The Iran war’s looming food price crisis, from fertiliser to gasMI5 warns IRGC targeting UK military sites CONTRIBUTORS: Roland Oliphant, co-host and chief foreign affairs analyst @RolandOliphant Joseph Glauber, senior research fellow International Food Policy Research Institute @JoeGlauber1 WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: MI5 chief: Terrorists plotting AI drone attacks on Britain https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/13/mi5-chief-terrorists-plotting-ai-drone-attacks-on-britain/ RAF terror plot ‘highly likely’ to be work of IRGC, Burnham says https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2026/10/12/burnham-highly-likely-irgc-behind-raf-terror-plot/ Cowering MBS faces biggest challenge to Saudi ambitions https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/12/cowering-mbs-challenge-to-saudi-ambitions/ The hunger crisis experts warned of is here – and it’s likely to get worse https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/the-food-crisis-experts-have-been-warning-about-is-here/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trump weighs US strikes after Houthi missiles shut Riyadh airport
2026/10/12
A brutal wave of Houthi missiles have struck Saudi Arabia’s main Riyadh airport, killing at least 14 in the deadliest attack on a Gulf nation since the US-Iran war began. On today’s episode of Iran: The Latest, Venetia Rainey is joined by Riyadh-based Saudi analyst Salman Al-Ansari to examine the catastrophic attacks on King Khalid International Airport and why Iran’s Houthis are able to cause so much damage. They also discuss what might happen next: will Donald Trump launch US strikes in Yemen? Will a new Arab-led coalition emerge? And why does Saudi Arabia think it has a better chance of defeating the Iranian proxy group now than before? Plus, as Iranian officials threaten to destroy US data centres and other infrastructure in the Gulf if the conflict restarts, Aramco’s CEO warns of severe global crude oil shortages while the Strait of Hormuz remains under attack. Highlights Trump weighs US strikes after Houthi missiles shut Riyadh airportSaudi Arabia vows ‘serious response’ CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey Salman al-Ansari, Saudi analyst @alansari WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: The Houthi missiles that will make Trump think twice https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/12/houthi-missiles-trump-think-twice/ The UAE-backed ‘Giants Brigade’ changing the Saudi-Houthi war https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/09/giants-brigade-militia-changing-saudi-houthi-war/ Trump may join Saudi war after Houthi strike on airport kills 12 https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/10/saudi-yemen-king-khalid-iran-gulf-war/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
US veteran midterms revolt as Trump’s Iran war causes $6 diesel spike
2026/10/11
US military veterans are turning on Donald Trump and the Republican party as the Iran war drives fuel prices past $6 a gallon ahead of the 2026 US midterm elections. In today’s bonus episode of Iran: the Latest, Venetia Rainey is joined by US reporters Poppy Wood and Ben Smith, who have been speaking to ex-military voters and candidates at the Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia and key midterm races. They examine why Republican ex-servicemen are increasingly choosing to sit out the vote and how an ex-Green Berets independent candidate is part of a broader veteran movement to challenge both mainstream parties. Plus, leaked audio shows Ken Paxton, a close Trump ally running for a Republican Senate seat in Texas, criticising the war’s economic fallout for Americans, and the latest predictions for who will win what in Congress. Highlights US veterans revolt against Trump and Republicans ahead of midtermsIran war causes $6 diesel spike for Americans CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey Poppy Wood, US correspondent @poppyeh Benedict Smith, Washington correspondent @bsmithjourno WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Veterans turn on Trump over Iran war https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/09/28/veterans-trump-iran-war-midterms-dispatch/ Green Beret leads ‘double haters’ in mission to blow up midterms https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/politics/2026/10/05/rhodes-scholar-green-beret-end-two-party-politics-montana/ The Left-wing streamer becoming a toxic liability for Democrats https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2026/09/25/hasan-piker-controversy-abdul-ed-sayed-us-midterms/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pentagon prepares 3-day Iran blitz as Houthi missiles kill Riyadh airport pilot
2026/10/09
Houthi ballistic missiles have struck Riyadh international airport for the third time in a week, killing three Saudis including a pilot, destroying a plane and prompting major carriers to cancel flights. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Venetia Rainey speaks to Africa correspondent Ben Farmer to discuss why Saudi airports are particularly “painful” targets for the Iran-backed Houthis to be hitting even as they face growing military pressure from government forces within Yemen. Fresh from Djibouti’s Red Sea coastline, Ben shares testimonies from Yemeni refugees about what the war looks like on the ground, Houthi forced recruitment, and why many are more scared of Saudi planes than the militants. Plus, Donald Trump insists no strikes on Iran will take place prior to the US midterms, even as reports reveal the Pentagon has drawn up plans for a three-day campaign targeting the regime’s missile arsenal and command centers. What would a resumption of the war mean for Africa? Highlights Houthi missiles kill three including pilot at Riyadh airportPentagon draws up three-day Iran blitz CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey Ben Farmer, Africa correspondent @benfarmerDT WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: ‘The dogs were eating their bodies’: Thousands of Yemenis flee war across the sea https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/thousands-flee-across-the-red-sea-to-escape-war-in-yemen/ The UAE-backed ‘Giants Brigade’ changing the Saudi-Houthi war https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/09/giants-brigade-militia-changing-saudi-houthi-war/ Houthis destroy passenger jet at Riyadh airport https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/08/houthis-destroy-passenger-jet-riyadh-airport/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trump readies new Iran strikes as Strait of Hormuz attacks ramp up
2026/10/08
Donald Trump is reportedly readying to restart major combat operations against Iran and alongside former war-partner Israel - before the US midterm elections. On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Venetia Rainey speaks to Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd’s List, about how such an escalation would impact the dangerous and costly shuttle service that has emerged in the Strait of Hormuz to stabilise oil prices. They discuss how growing Iranian attacks on tankers in the key waterway has led to a “violent equilibrium” that is having a global knock-on impact. Is it sustainable? Plus, new figures show more US military aircraft have been damaged or destroyed since the conflict began than previously reported, Yemen’s Houthis down a drone from Saudi Arabia, and UK-Israel crisis talks save Britain's diplomatic presence in Jerusalem. Highlights Trump readies new Iran strikes as Strait of Hormuz attacks ramp upHow the US’s deadly oil shuttle defies Iranian strikes CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey Richard Meade, editor-in-chief Lloyd’s List @Lloydslisted WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Trump ‘preparing for Iran strikes before midterms’ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2026/10/07/trump-preparing-for-iran-strikes-before-midterms/ Tom Sharpe: It’s advantage Trump in the Strait of Hormuz https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/06/strait-hormuz-oil-crude-iran-war-strikes-red-sea-trump/ Britain and Israel back down over Jerusalem consulate closure https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/08/israel-british-consulate-jerusalem-miliband-sanctions/ Richard Meade: Markets adapt, but disruption still pays https://www.lloydslist.com/LL1158639/The-Daily-View-Markets-adapt-but-disruption-still-pays Ships’ captains paid $100,000 a month to transit Strait of Hormuz https://www.ft.com/content/0d665e5b-d8c8-4f1e-acf5-bba7193b4e6e U.S. Aircraft Combat Losses in Operation Epic Fury: Considerations for Congress https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IN12692 Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - London Press Club Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Houthi strikes shut Yemen airport & how October 7 has changed Israel
2026/10/07
Three years on from the October 7 attacks by Hamas, how has Israel been changed by the massacre and ensuing wars in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran and beyond? On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Sophia Yan catches up once again with Israeli best friends Adam Ben-Shabbat and Nadim Tali from the Oasis of Peace, a Jewish and Palestinian Israeli village. They discuss the impact of the Iran war, rising racism and anti-Semitism, and the prospects for a two-state solution. Plus, did Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu know October 7 might happen? Venetia Rainey looks at the lack of accountability amid news that the UAE warned Israel, and the growing toll on Palestinians in Gaza. Meanwhile, the Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have fired ballistic missiles and drones at Saudi capital Riyadh and Aden’s international airport, even as they face growing military pressure around the Red Sea. Highlights Houthi strikes shut down Yemen airport and target RiyadhTwo best friends on how Oct 7 and the Iran war has changed Israel CONTRIBUTORS: Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiarainey Roland Oliphant, co-host and chief foreign affairs analyst @RolandOliphant Sophia Yan, co-host and senior foreign correspondent @sophia_yan WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Iranians ‘used ChatGPT while spying on journalists’ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/06/iranians-used-chatgpt-while-spying-on-journalists/ This is the story of death and survival in Oct 7’s yellow dumpster https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/07/oct7-israel-yellow-dumpster/ Listen to Sophia’s previous conversations with Adam and Nadim >> October 2025: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/10/06/inside-gaza-city-how-hamas-survived-and-what-next/ October 2024: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/10/09/israels-oasis-of-peace-one-year-later/ January 2024: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/02/14/battle-lines-israel-oasis-of-peace-palestine/ Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze winner, Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Meghan Searle Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How the Iran war exposed the US Navy’s chronic problems
2026/10/06
The US Navy is facing increasingly long deployments as depleted interceptor stockpiles as aircraft carriers struggle to cope with Donald Trump’s eight-month Iran war and other commitments. Is America overstretched at sea? On today’s episode of Iran: the Latest, Roland Oliphant is joined by RUSI naval warfare experts Dr. Sidharth Kaushal and Professor Kevin Rowlands to discuss the chronic problems within the US Navy, from an ageing carrier fleet to the lack of regular maintenance. They discuss why the Strait of Hormuz has been so hard to resolve militarily and how much longer Trump can continue to fight Iran. Plus, in Yemen, the Iran-backed Houthis have fired ballistic missiles at Saudi airports as the Riyadh-backed government forces recapture the key Red Sea port of Mocha as part of a major push. What does this latest news mean for the Bab al-Mandeb chokepoint? Highlights How the Iran war exposed the US Navy’s chronic problemsHouthis strike Saudi airports as Yemen forces retake Mocha port CONTRIBUTORS: Roland Oliphant, co-host and chief foreign affairs analyst @RolandOliphant Kevin Rowlands, RUSI journal editor @c21st_sailor Dr Sidharth Kaushal, RUSI senior research fellow sea power WATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dk CONTENT REFERENCED: Saudi-backed forces run over surrendering Houthis with trucks https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/10/05/saudi-deploys-100-fighter-jets-to-retake-red-sea/ Iran ‘plotted Spider Web-style drone attack on RAF Fairford’ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2026/10/05/vance-bombers-fairford-iran-threat/ Tom Sharpe: It’s advantage Trump in the Strait of Hormuz https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/06/strait-hormuz-oil-crude-iran-war-strikes-red-sea-trump/ RUSI: The Overstretch Facing the US Navy https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/overstretch-facing-us-navy Winner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Bronze Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026 Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026 The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026 Producers: Peter Shevlin and Max Bower Researcher and Social Producer: Anna Hindmarsh Studio Operator: Andy Watson Executive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor ► EMAIL US: Contact the team on [email protected] ► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Podcast reviews

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4.3 out of 5
199 reviews
★★★★★
Johnny jagoaf 2026/08/31
Informative
These cats really hit the jackpot on this podcast. Like everyday there’s something nuts that happens. We’re back in a hot war boys! Let’s do this! Yee...
★☆☆☆☆
David Sander 2026/08/24
They could be journalists-but mostly propaganda
The telegraph has a lot of resources, and the potential to be a truly great journalistic product. Unfortunately, you only have to listen for about 30 ...
★★★★☆
villans of Rose 2026/08/21
Great and week
A well done podcast until they dip into editorial opinion.
★★★☆☆
RaylanGivens90210 2026/08/20
Ok, different perspectives.
Generally good but we gotta moderate some of these people. The woman on 19 Aug who gave 10 minutes of disclaimers of how she couldn’t speak for all 90...
★★★★☆
Nothing Artificial 2026/08/15
Enjoy It But Have Some Questions
I really enjoy this podcast and the sharp analysis and variety of guests. But it does seem to have a definite pro-Iran, pro-China, anti-US slant. The ...
★☆☆☆☆
Dexember 2026/07/26
Anti-Semitic Reporters, Anti-Semitic Focus
The Telegraph is so good about the Ukraine War but they only seem to have contempt for Israel. Israel is attacked and suddenly we need a ceasefire! Ho...
★★★★☆
EarnestoAuga 2026/06/25
Trump derangement syndrome
Today’s host Missed a great opportunity to have an objective report. The report started out decidedly negative dismissing the potential merit of any ...
★☆☆☆☆
Procrastinate 2026/06/22
Rather biased
Essentially every justification they use in defense of Ukraine on this show's sister pod they fail to apply to Israel. This show is mostly a string o...
★★★☆☆
hal schrieve 2026/05/04
Axel Springer Clearly Impacted Tone
Since the acquisition of the telegraph by ultra conservative german conglomerate axel springer, the tone of this show has become markedly partisan in ...
★★☆☆☆
Marsheagle 2026/04/29
Much better and...
Great show. More up to date info than others. Venetia, please slow down your speech and build empathic relationships with your guests. You can be shor...
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