UN speeds up the with­draw­al of its peace­keep­ers from Mali as new con­flict breaks out. Published on 20 August 2023. The UN peacekeeping mission in Mali says the deteriorating security situation is forcing it to speed up its withdrawal from the country. A week ago, six UN troops and dozens of fighters from an armed group were killed in confrontations near the northern city of Ber. The UN is already in the process of wrapping up its operations. In June, the UN Security Council voted to terminate the decade-long mission, announcing the 13,000 peacekeepers would leave Mali by the end of the year. It followed a request from the military government, which accused the UN of failing to act against armed groups. So how important is the role of foreign players in stabilising Mali? Presenter: Nick Clark Guests: Moussa Kondo – Former adviser to the president of Mali Ovigwe Eguegu – Analyst focusing on West Africa and the Sahel for Afripolitika Fatima al-Ansar – Analyst specialising in the Sahel and founder of Tilwalte Peace Network

The Russ­ian space­craft crashed in­stead of mak­ing a soft land­ing at the lu­nar south pole. Published on 21 August 2023. It was a mission to elevate Russia’s standing at home and in space, but the Luna-25 spacecraft failed to stick its landing. Its crash is raising questions about Moscow’s space programme, particularly as Russia becomes more isolated from the West. Like Russia, China, India and the United States are also looking to explore whether ice and other resources can be found at the lunar south pole. So, how big a setback has the Kremlin suffered? And what does it mean for rival programmes and business ventures out of this world? Presenter: Laura Kyle Guests: Steve Maran – Retired astronomer from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and author of the guidebook Astronomy for Dummies Anil Kumar Bhatt – Retired lieutenant general from the Indian Army and director general of the Indian Space Association Derrick Pitts – Chief astronomer and planetarium programmes director at The Franklin Institute

Par­ty once op­posed to mil­i­tary gov­ern­ment gets mil­i­tary back­ing to form new ad­min­is­tra­tion. Published on 23 August 2023. Thailand’s democracy enters another phase just as a towering political figure from its past returns from exile. Thaksin Shinawatra was whisked from the airport to prison to start serving an eight-year sentence. But there is strong speculation that he and his Pheu Thai party have an arrangement with the powerful military for his return and for the formation of a new government. The Move Forward party, which won May’s election, is meanwhile sidelined. The country’s democracy has been fragile – with governments overthrown by the generals who remain in overall control. So what’s next for Thailand? And what will the public reaction be to the latest political manoeuvres? Presenter: Laura Kyle Guests: Punchada Sirivunnabood – Specialist on Thailand’s electoral system and an associate professor at Mahidol University Duncan McCargo – Professor of public policy and global affairs at Nanyang Technological University and co-author of, The Thaksinisation of Thailand Kasit Piromya – Former foreign minister of Thailand, Democrat Party politician and former Yellow Shirts activist

Batoul Karbijha decides to make a film about her disappeared sister to find out what happened and as a way of dealing with the pain of her loss. On August 24, 2014, 20-year-old Maysoon Karbijha disappeared in the Mediterranean Sea. She was on her way from Libya to Europe when her boat capsized. Of the 712 people on board, 352 were rescued, 24 bodies were taken from the water by the Italian navy, and about 170 people have been missing ever since. Maysoon is among them. Her filmmaker sister Batoul, who fled to Europe earlier, is determined to find her. Batoul’s search takes her from Italy to Tunisia and Libya. She is confronted with graveyards full of missing migrants and refugees, and a labyrinth of ignorance, indifference and powerlessness. But, by making the film, Batoul can finally bring her family together to talk about their loss after years of silently refusing to accept that Maysoon may no longer be alive. My Maysoon is a film by Batoul Karbijha. Published on Thursday 24 August 2023. Classification: G-CV

101 East investigates the battle to control the world's silicon chip industry. Published on 24 August 2023. From computers to toasters, smartphones to refrigerators, semiconductors are essential in our daily lives. Advanced chips power military hardware, artificial intelligence and supercomputers. But a persistent shortage is reshaping geopolitical relations, fuelling inflation and increasing tensions between the United States and China. While demand for cutting-edge chips grows, only a few countries have the specialised knowledge and ability to produce them. Taiwan produces 90 percent of the world’s most advanced chips, making its stability critical to global economic and geopolitical security. 101 East investigates the battle to control the world’s semiconductor industry.

List of pas­sen­gers on the plane that crashed on Wednes­day in­clud­ed Wag­n­er group chief Yevge­ny Prigozhin. Published on 24 August 2023. Was it an accident or payback from the Kremlin? Speculation is rife after the plane crash in Russia on Wednesday. The only thing beyond doubt about what happened is the wreckage of the plane that was scattered far and wide. Russia’s aviation agency said there were no survivors from among the 10 people on board. There were three crew and seven members of the Wagner mercenary group, including its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, listed to be on board. Prigozhin led a brief revolt against the Russian army in June – described as “treason” by President Vladimir Putin, before apparently being forgiven. What other facts can be drawn from what happened? Presenter: Cyril Vanier Guests: In Moscow: Pavel Felgenhauer – Defence and military analyst In Brussels: Donnacha Ó Beacháin – Professor of post-Soviet politics and author of, The Colour Revolutions in the Former Soviet Republics: Successes and Failures In Rome: Owen Matthews – Author of, Overreach: The Inside Story of Putin’s War on Ukraine

Group of five na­tions plans to wel­come six more in Jan­u­ary. Published on 25 August 2023. A new era for BRICS nations has begun. The five members of the bloc have agreed to invite six new ones. And they are planning new currency arrangements aimed at reducing reliance on the US dollar. So can BRICS really shake up the world’s political and economic architecture? Presenter: Nick Clark Guests: Berlin – Ben Aris, founder and editor-in-chief, BNE IntelliNews, a business media company focusing on emerging markets Johannesburg – Arina Muresan, senior researcher, Institute for Global Dialogue, and South African foreign policy specialist Beijing – Einar Tangen, China affairs analyst and senior fellow, Taihe Institute

For­mer Pak­istani leader has been con­vict­ed of cor­rup­tion and barred from elec­tions for five years. Published on 6 August 2023. He was once Pakistan’s most powerful politician. But Imran Khan, the country’s former prime minister, is now in prison. His supporters say political persecution fuelled his arrest. However, reactions are mixed, particularly in light of his contentious legal battles. The arrest comes just months before elections in November, which some observers say could lead to social unrest. So will this end Khan’s political career? And will it further deepen divisions among Pakistan’s political parties? Presenter: Cyril Vanier Guests: Shandana Gulzar Khan – Joint secretary of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party Nawab Muhammad Taimur Talpur – Ruling Pakistan Peoples Party minister in Sindh province Azeema Cheema – Founding director of the firm Verso Consulting

Eight coun­tries are meet­ing in Brazil to dis­cuss chal­lenges fac­ing the crit­i­cal ecosys­tem. Published on 7 August 2023. It’s been 14 years since the last summit of Amazon rainforest nations – a time during which the impact of climate change has worsened well beyond what might have been imagined back then. Floods, wildfires and extreme temperatures have destroyed lives and communities worldwide. Meanwhile, countries are missing international targets to reduce emissions as the climate crisis worsens. Leaders meeting in Brazil all agree on the need to act, but big divisions remain on what’s to be done. There are deep disagreements on oil exploration and deforestation as well as conflicting domestic interests. So what will this summit achieve? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Carlos Peres – professor of tropical conservation ecology at the University of East Anglia Jan Rocha – freelance journalist and author Bram Ebus – lead journalist and research coordinator at Amazon Underworld

Rebels in Amhara have tak­en up arms against Ethiopia’s mil­i­tary. Published on 8 August 2023. Conflict has returned to Ethiopia – this time in Amhara, the second-largest region in the country. Many Amharas say they’ve been sidelined by the government in Addis Ababa, which is dominated by the Oromo ethnic group. Rebels in Amhara – known as Fano – helped the government in its two-year war in neighbouring Tigray. Now they’ve taken up arms against the military. The rebels have in turn been accused of trying to overthrow the government. So, what’s driving this conflict? And how’s the government addressing the region’s long-simmering grievances? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Kemal Hashi Mohamoud – Member of the Ethiopian Parliament Yohannes Woldemariam – Academic and Ethiopia researcher specialising in the Horn of Africa Tewodrose Tirfe – Chairman and founding member of the Amhara Association of America

Coup lead­ers con­tin­ue to ig­nore in­ter­na­tion­al calls to re­in­state the oust­ed pres­i­dent. Published on 9 August 2023. Niger is in crisis two weeks after a military coup. The generals in control are ignoring international demands to reinstate deposed President Mohamed Bazoum. So what’s the future for the vast country and a key Western ally? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Idayat Hassan – Director of the Centre for Democracy and Development, a policy and research organisation based in Abuja Alexis Akwagyiram – Managing editor at news site Semafor Africa Cameron Hudson – Senior associate at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies

Heavy fight­ing be­tween the Con­golese army and M23 rebels is fu­elling dis­place­ment and re­gion­al ten­sions. M23 rebels have closed in on the capital of North Kivu as fighting with government forces escalates in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Hundreds of thousands of people are arriving in Goma in the hope of finding food, water and shelter. This situation is expected to worsen when United Nations peacekeepers withdraw from the country at the end of this year. What is driving this conflict? Can a lasting peace be achieved? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Patrick Muyaya Katembwe – Minister of Communication and Media and spokesperson for the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo Lawrence Kanyuka – Political spokesperson, M23 rebel group Crystal Orderson – Journalist at The Africa Report Fred Bauma – Executive director, senior fellow at the NYU Center on International Cooperation Published on Monday 26 February 2024.

Today on The Stream: How is Israel's war sparking dialogue around the diversity of the Palestinian identity and co-existence? The Old City of occupied East Jerusalem has long been a symbol of co-existence among Muslims, Christians and Jews, but the Palestinians’ diverse identities are often overshadowed by Israel’s occupation. In this episode, Palestinians from different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds share their experience of life under occupation and their quest for a shared future of freedom and justice. Presenter: Anelise Borges Guests: Zachary Foster – Palestine historian John Munayer – Palestinian theologian and writer Amira Mohammed – Palestinian activist Shaden Qous – Afro-Palestinian activist Published on Tuesday 27 February 2024.

Benjamin Netanyahu says a ground offensive on Rafah is vital to eliminating Hamas. Palestinians displaced by Israel’s war on Gaza have crowded into Rafah in the south of the territory. The Israeli military had previously described the city as a safe zone. But daily air strikes are intensifying and a ground offensive is planned – putting 1.5 million people in the line of fire. There are also reports of a possible deal between Israel and Hamas that could involve a pause in hostilities and the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel’s assault on Rafah will go ahead at some stage, regardless of an agreement. Is there any hope for Palestinians trapped in the city? And will anything stop Israel’s ground operation? Presenter: Laura Kyle Guests: Akbar Shahid Ahmed – Senior diplomatic correspondent at HuffPost Najla Shawa – Country relations manager at the aid agency Oxfam Patrick Bury – Senior Lecturer in security studies at the University of Bath Published on Tuesday 27 February 2024.

Rus­sia is mak­ing gains in the war with Ukraine, and the West is con­sid­er­ing its re­sponse. The war in Ukraine has raged for more than two years. Western allies are in talks over boosting their support to Kyiv in the hope of turning the tide against Russia. But direct intervention has been off the table – until now. French President Emmanuel Macron has floated the idea of more direct involvement, perhaps even putting troops on the ground. Could Western powers ever unite behind a move like this? How would Russia react? Presenter: Nastasya Tay Guests: Peter Zalmayev – executive director of the Eurasia Democracy Initiative Oana Lungescu – distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute Alexander Clackson – founder of Global Political Insight Published on Wednesday 28 February 2024.

Video of two trib­al women be­ing as­sault­ed has caused out­rage with ques­tions for the gov­ern­ing BJP. Published on 22 July 2023. It happened more than two months ago, but video only released last week of a mob in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, attacking two women has led to outrage. The women were stripped naked and paraded in public with no help from the police. The governing BJP is also in charge of the state – and changes it has made to tribal land rights have been behind the region’s recent ethnic unrest. So will this have any impact on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP, with elections next year? Could it have any influence on women’s rights in India? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Tora Agarwala – Independent journalist who covers India’s northeastern region Mohan Krishna – Spokesperson for India’s governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Binalakshmi Nepram – Convenor at the Northeast India Women Initiative for Peace

Don­ald Trump is the fron­trun­ner for the Re­pub­li­can nom­i­na­tion de­spite crim­i­nal charges. Published on 23 July 2023. Donald Trump stunned the United States political establishment and the world by winning the race for the White House nearly seven years ago. Two impeachments, a lost election and a failed insurrection later, the 77-year-old is hoping to do the same in next year’s US presidential poll. So far, Trump is the frontrunner to become the Republican nominee. At the same time, he has been facing dozens of criminal charges and several investigations. But will these sink his political ambitions? Or will they help him win more support? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Rina Shah – Political strategist and commentator who served as a senior staffer to Republican members of Congress Amy Koch – Republican strategist and former majority leader of the Minnesota state senate Melanie Sloan – Attorney and former US federal prosecutor, and an expert on government ethics

The so­cial me­dia com­pa­ny’s own­er changes Twit­ter’s logo to an ‘X’ in a bid to leave his mark on the pop­u­lar plat­form. Published on 24 July 2023. He bought Twitter for $44bn so perhaps it shouldn’t be unexpected that Elon Musk wants to leave his mark on the social media website. Musk’s takeover has been turbulent with mass layoffs, concerns over how content is moderated and criticism of changes to the social media platform. So what’s behind this branding transformation? How will it go down and what’s Musk hoping to gain from it? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: James Greenfield, CEO and co-founder, brand agency Koto, London Elaine Burke, science/technology journalist, host of For Tech’s Sake podcast, Dublin Allyson Stewart-Allen, CEO, International Marketing Partners, London

Months of mass demon­stra­tions fail to stop the far-right gov­ern­ment from lim­it­ing the ju­di­cia­ry’s in­de­pen­dence. Published on 25 July 2023. Months of the biggest protests Israel has ever seen did not stop the far-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from pushing through a law to weaken the Supreme Court. Its judges can no longer overturn government decisions they consider unreasonable. Opponents from across Israeli society say ministers can now do what they like. Some say it will enable Netanyahu to stop his prosecution on corruption charges. Supporters say the legislation will stop judicial interference in politics. As Israel trumpets its democracy and argues with itself over the law, what does it mean for Palestinians living under constant oppression? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Diana Buttu – Lawyer and former legal adviser to the Palestine Liberation Organization Judy Maltz – Senior correspondent for Haaretz newspaper Hassan Jabareen – Lawyer and founder of Adalah: The Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel

Prime Min­is­ter Abiy Ahmed says the high costs of re­ly­ing on coun­try’s neigh­bours for ac­cess to ports are un­sus­tain­able. Published on 26 July 2023. Ethiopia has been landlocked since Eritrea gained its independence in 1993. For 30 years it’s been dependent on its neighbours – especially Djibouti – for access to ports and international shipping routes. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed says the high costs are unsustainable. He’s reportedly said that Ethiopia will secure direct access to a port – peacefully or, if necessary, by force. What does he mean? And what are the implications for neighbouring nations? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Kemal Hashi Mohamoud – Member of the Ethiopian Parliament Martin Plaut – Journalist specialising in the Horn of Africa and a fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London Kwaku Nuamah – Senior lecturer and chairman of the International Peace and Conflict Resolution Program at American University

Sol­diers re­move Pres­i­dent Bazoum, blam­ing him for de­te­ri­o­rat­ing se­cu­ri­ty in the West African na­tion. Published on 27 July 2023. Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum was elected two years ago in the first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since independence in 1960. But on Wednesday, members of his own presidential guard removed him from office. The coup leaders say they want to prevent further economic and security problems. Niger’s neighbours, Mali and Burkina Faso, have seen four military takeovers since 2020. So what does this coup mean for Western countries, who have increasingly relied on Niger as a base for operations against armed groups in the Sahel? Presenter: Sohail Rahman Guests: Kabir Adamu – Managing director of Beacon Consulting, a security risk management and intelligence firm that operates in the Sahel Nicholas Norbrook – Managing editor of The Africa Report magazine, which covers pan-African politics and business Alex Vines – Director of the Africa Programme at Chatham House

101 East meets the women wrestlers and boxers battling for their rights in and out of the sporting arena in India. Published on Thursday 27 July 2023. In India, wrestling is generally a man’s world. The practice dates back more than 1,000 years but, traditionally, girls were not allowed to even step onto a wrestling mat. Girls have also been unwelcome in another combat sport – boxing. Yet a few women have bravely defied convention and risen to the top of their sport, inspiring a new generation of girls. And they are also taking the fight to the streets, sparking the country’s first MeToo movement in Indian sport. 101 East meets India’s women wrestlers and boxers who are battling for their rights in and out of the sporting arena.

Vladimir Putin is host­ing lead­ers from the con­ti­nent, promis­ing aid and lash­ing out at the West. Published on 28 July 2023. African leaders are in Russia for an economic forum hosted by President Vladimir Putin. Moscow says it wants to bring Africa closer, but in a polarised world after the war in Ukraine, that isn’t an easy task. The collapse of the Black Sea deal on Ukrainian grain exports is causing concern in Africa about rising food prices and shortages. So can Putin reassure Africans he is a reliable partner? And do African countries risk being caught in the middle of the crisis between Russia and the West? Presenter: Cyril Vanier Guests: Victor Olevich – Lead Expert at the think tank, Center for Actual Politics. Eric Acha – Executive Director of the Africa Policy Forum. Abdiwahab Sheikh Abdisamad – Chairman of the Institute for the Horn of Africa Strategic Studies.

Internet blackouts, media silence and political neglect – the case of the Indian state of Manipur. Plus, reporting conflict using satellite imagery. Published on 29 July 2023.

The cur­rent and for­mer pres­i­dents swept polls in the Su­per Tues­day vote, but both have vul­ner­a­bil­i­ties. A rematch between United States President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump now seems almost certain. Both swept to impressive victories in Super Tuesday elections when primaries were held in more than a dozen US states. But despite strong showings, both candidates face challenges in rallying their base. What are American voters’ priorities this time round? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: James Zogby – President of the Arab American Institute Arshad Hasan – Democratic Party political strategist and co-founder of Convey Communications Rina Shah – Conservative political adviser and Republican opposed to Donald Trump’s leadership Published on Wednesday 6 March 2024.

An­gry farm­ers in Poland and else­where are protest­ing against cheap im­ports from the war-torn coun­try. The European Union has been one of Ukraine’s biggest backers in its fight against Russia. One of the many ways it’s given its support is by reducing tariffs on Ukrainian agricultural imports. But now, European farmers are pushing back. They say their livelihoods are being undermined by foreign competition and they want the trade barriers reimposed. Is this part of a bigger backlash? And can European leaders ease discontent while maintaining their support for Ukraine? Presenter: Jonah Hull Guests: Aleksandra Rybinska – journalist and commentator Tymofiy Mylovanov – president of the Kyiv School of Economics and former minister of economic development, trade and agriculture Suzanne Lynch – chief Brussels correspondent for Politico Europe Published on Thursday 7 March 2024.

Today on The Stream: International solidarity campaigns have managed to bring attention to DRC’s decades old conflict, but how can they make a real impact? The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been brought to the world’s attention over the last few months through awareness campaigns on social media. Many of them have also called for the boycott of electronics made with minerals mined from the DRC. But organisations on the ground struggle to achieve change with a corrupt Congolese government that falls short in prioritising its citizens’ interests over those of international mining companies. Presenter: Anelise Borges Guests: Hadija Ali – Volunteer, Friends of the Congo Pappy Orion – Founder, Focus on Congo Reagan Miviri – Analyst, Ebuteli and Congo Research Group Published on Friday 8 March 2024.

Joe Biden lash­es out at Don­ald Trump, who will al­most cer­tain­ly be his elec­tion ri­val again in No­vem­ber. The president of the United States has made his case for another four years in the White House in a State of the Union address that sounded more like a campaign speech. Joe Biden touted his achievements and took aim at his Republican rival Donald Trump. Polls are predicting a close race for the election in November. And Biden will have to work hard to convince undecided voters. He’ll also have to overcome divisions within the Democratic Party over his support for Israel and its war on Gaza. So, is he doing enough to win over voters so far? And will pro-Palestine Democrats make a difference at the ballot box? Presenter: Jonah Hull Guests: Anish Mohanty – Communications director of Gen-Z for Change, a collective of Gen-Z activists who leverage the power of social media to drive progressive change Julie Norman – Associate professor in politics and international relations, University College London Steve Herman – Voice of America’s chief national correspondent, who has covered both the Trump and Biden administrations Published on Friday 8 March 2024.

About 300 school­child­ren are miss­ing af­ter the lat­est mass kid­nap­ping in Nige­ria. It is every parent’s nightmare: the kidnapping of their children. It happens all too often in Nigeria. In the second mass abduction within a week, gunmen kidnapped what some reports say are about 300 school children. Many viewers may remember the Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram fighters 10 years ago. Kidnappings remain common – with thousands of Nigerians seized in the past few years. The government has promised to improve security, but the army is spread thin. So why are the attacks still happening? And what needs to be done to make them stop? Presenter: Hashem Ahelbarra Guests: Kemi Okenyodo – Founder and executive director, Partners West Africa Bulama Bukarti, Senior fellow, Tony Blair Institute for Global change Sadeeq Garba Shehu – Security and defence consultant Published on Saturday 9 March 2024.

Is­rael has ramped up at­tacks in Lebanon – and Hezbol­lah has promised to re­tal­i­ate. The Israeli military has been exchanging almost daily fire with Lebanese group Hezbollah since the war on Gaza began on October 7. Hezbollah says it is acting in solidarity with its ally in Gaza, Hamas, and that it will continue attacks as long as Israel bombards the besieged Palestinian strip. This week, Israeli attacks killed 10 civilians – including children – in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has promised to retaliate. Both sides say they are not looking for all-out war, but increasingly, attacks are happening far beyond the border area. So what does each party want to achieve? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Elijah Magnier – Military and political analyst who has covered conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa for more than 35 years Hala Jaber – Award-winning journalist and author of the book, Hezbollah: Born With A Vengeance Gilbert Achcar – Professor of development studies and international relations at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies Published on Friday 16 February 2024.

World lead­ers blame Russ­ian Pres­i­dent Vladimir Putin for the death of his most out­spo­ken crit­ic. Alexey Navalny was respected worldwide and – despite being locked up for years in a prison cell – was Russian President Vladimir Putin’s most vocal critic. That voice of dissent was silenced as Russia announced his death on Friday at the age of 47. World leaders have been quick to blame Putin for getting rid of yet another Russian who dared to challenge him. The Kremlin is describing that reaction as “unacceptable” and “rabid”. Russians will get to choose whether Putin is re-elected for a fifth term next month. The vote is already widely viewed as a foregone conclusion, given the lack of opposition voices allowed to oppose his long rule. So, who might ever replace him? What does the lack of free-speech mean for future opposition voices in Russia? And how will Russians remember Alexey Navalny? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Vladimir Sotnikov – Associate professor of international relations, Higher School of Economics University Samuel Ramani – Associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, a defence and security think tank Peter Nikitin – Russian pro-democracy activist and lawyer Published on Saturday 17 February 2024.

Calls are grow­ing loud­er in Is­rael for the res­ig­na­tion of the Is­raeli prime min­is­ter. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under growing pressure, both from politicians within his own government and from world leaders who are increasingly uneasy at the rising death toll and destruction of Israel’s war on Gaza. The prime minister is facing mounting domestic pressure to secure the release of Israeli hostages seized during the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October that triggered the Israeli assault on the Palestinian territory. Netanyahu has long been a controversial leader. His government’s plans to overhaul the judiciary prompted months of widespread demonstrations last year. On Saturday, thousands rallied across the country to demand elections now. Netanyahu has dismissed the demands for elections to be brought forward from their scheduled date in 2026. Can Netanyahu be toppled? And is he continuing the war in Gaza to try and stay in power? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Oren Ziv – Journalist and commentator with +972 Magazine Thabet Abu Rass – Co-executive director, Abraham Initiatives Akiva Eldar – Political analyst and journalist Published on Sunday 18 February 2024.

Is the horror of Rafah being downplayed or do we not have the words to describe it? Plus, pro-war messaging in Russia's school syllabus. Published on Saturday 17 February 2024.

UN’s International Court of Justice holds public hearings on consequences of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. The International Court of Justice is hearing submissions on Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories. It will consider the legal consequences of Israel’s ongoing breach of Palestinians’ right to self-determination as well as how Israeli policies impact not only the occupied areas but also other countries and the United Nations. Advisory opinions by the UN’s top court are nonbinding, but they carry significant moral and legal authority. When a decision is announced, will it have global implications? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Riad Malki – foreign minister of Palestine Ardi Imseis – legal counsel for Palestine Nour Odeh – Palestinian political analyst Mehran Kamrava – professor of government at Georgetown University in Qatar Published on Monday 19 February 2024.

Today on The Stream: Made in Israel, tested in Palestine. The war on Gaza seems to be a testing ground for Israel’s new weaponry, with devastating effect. Despite the country’s relatively small size, Israel is one of the world’s largest weapons exporters. In 2022, its arms sales reached $12.5bn, a 20 percent increase over the previous year. Praised for their innovation, Israeli manufacturers proudly advertise their “battle-tested” products but what is the cost to the test subjects, the Palestinians, especially in the context of the current bloodshed in Gaza? We look at how this brutal business is profiting from the destruction of Gaza as well as how technology, money and the lack of accountability are fueling the flames of war. Presenter: Anelise Borges Guests: Antony Loewenstein – Author, The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World Sophia Goodfriend – Journalist Marwa Fatafta – Access Now, MENA Policy and Advocacy Director Saleh Hijazi – BDS Movement activist Published on Tuesday 20 February 2024.

In war-torn Ukraine, a family weighs the dangers of leaving their makeshift bunker for the promise of freedom outside. In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a young family endures life in Mykolaiv’s subterranean haven, “The Garages”. As the front line shifts, volunteer soldier Yuri is determined to keep his family safe underground even when their neighbours return to life outside. But his wife, Svetlana, is craving a normal home, and their teenage daughters are growing restless in isolation. When a chance for a new life emerges in the countryside, the family must reach an agreement, balancing their dreams and fears. Ukraine: Escaping the Darkness is a film by Clement Gargoullaud. Published on Monday 19 February 2024.

UN warns Africa’s youngest na­tion is fac­ing a food cri­sis. South Sudan is on the verge of a devastating hunger catastrophe, the World Food Programme has warned. In its short history, Africa’s youngest country has been battered by armed conflict and the effects of climate change. Now, the influx of half a million people – escaping the violence in neighbouring Sudan – is worsening an already precarious humanitarian situation. Aid agencies say more funding and unhindered access is vital to provide millions of South Sudanese with desperately needed food assistance. But how challenging is it to secure this funding? And what can be done to address the mass displacement of people from across the border? Presenter: Mohammed Jamjoom Guests: Angelina Nyajima – Executive director of Hope Restoration South Sudan, a non-governmental organisation that runs humanitarian and peace-building programmes Alan Boswell – Horn of Africa director for the International Crisis Group Gemma Snowdon – Head of communications at the World Food Programme in South Sudan Published on Tuesday 20 February 2024.

Ira­ni­ans are choos­ing a new leg­is­la­ture and many hope it will pave the way for re­form. Iran’s parliamentary elections look set to be a major test for the government. While anti-establishment candidates are not expected to win many seats, a low voter turnout could indicate widespread discontent. In 2022, the country was rocked by mass protests, and many Iranians are still calling for reforms. So how is the government responding? And what lies ahead for the Islamic republic? Presenter: Hashem Ahelbarra Guests: Mohammad Marandi – professor at the University of Tehran and and Iranian political analyst Roxane Farmanfarmaian – professor of international relations and modern Middle East politics at the University of Cambridge Adnan Tabatabai – Iranian affairs analyst and chief executive of CARPO, a think tank focused on the Middle East Published on Thursday 29 February 2024.

Following the tragic loss of Alexei Navalny and the approaching Russian presidential election seemingly set in stone, what are the hopes of Russia’s Gen Z? With the approaching Russian presidential election predetermined, what are the hopes of young Russians? Russia’s Gen Z has only known life under Vladimir Putin – they have grown up with his increasingly anti-Western, patriarchal and patriotic narratives. Polling shows that young Russians are currently the group most critical of Putin’s rule and the most dissatisfied with Russia’s political system. As dissent grows on social media, research also shows that most of Russia’s Gen Z is apolitical. With the upcoming presidential election seemingly predetermined and the opposition sidelined, what drives the activism of young Russians? Most importantly, how does the death of prominent opposition figure Alexey Navalny resonate with the generation he profoundly influenced? Presenter: Anelise Borges Guests: Apollinaria Oleinikova – Political Activist Yulia Zhivtsova – Political Activist and Teacher Anna – Political Activist and Student

101 East investigates alleged human traffickers, scammers and middlemen profiting from the desperation of Chinese asylum seekers in America. Reaching the United States has long been the dream for would-be migrants travelling across Latin America. Thousands of Chinese have embarked on the dangerous route this year. But reaching their final destination is no guarantee that their troubles will be over. In Part 2 of The Route, 101 East heads to the US to explore an industry that has mushroomed around the Chinese citizens desperately seeking asylum. From alleged human traffickers, scam artists and opportunists operating in Los Angeles, to the migrants who have been tricked, cheated and exploited, this undercover investigation explores the price of pursuing the so-called American Dream. Published on Thursday 29 February 2024.

There is re­newed push to force ul­tra-Or­tho­dox Jews to serve in the Is­raeli mil­i­tary. Israel has called on its reserves to wage its ground war on Gaza. But its ultra-Orthodox Jewish community has an exemption to military service going back decades. Now, the defence minister says they need to join the fight. But can a national consensus be reached on such a divisive issue? And can Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government survive the fallout from such a policy change? Presenter: Hashem Ahelbarra Guests: Efraim Inbar – President of The Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security Akiva Eldar – Political analyst and former columnist for Israel’s Haaretz newspaper Yehoshua Pfeffer – Community rabbi and executive member of Netzah Yehuda Published on Friday 1 March 2024.

Calls for an im­me­di­ate cease­fire in Gaza are grow­ing loud­er. More than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed and tens of thousands injured in Israel’s war on Gaza. The United Nations has warned of famine, and says the healthcare system is on its knees. But nearly five months since the start of the devastating war, there is no let up in Israel’s daily attacks. Qatar, the United States and Egypt have been mediating talks for a ceasefire, but there are fears the constant bombardment could threaten those discussions. Israel’s killing of more than 100 Palestinians as they waited to collect food on Thursday is threatening to inflame the region. But Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists his military offensive will continue until his goals are achieved. So, what does that mean for ceasefire negotiations? Presenter: Jonah Hull Guests: Yossi Beilin – Former Israeli justice minister Ibrahim Fraihat – Associate professor of conflict resolution at the Doha Institute Mohammed Cherkaoui – Professor of conflict resolution and diplomacy at George Mason University Published on Saturday 2 March 2024.

The US has ve­toed three res­o­lu­tions call­ing for a sus­pen­sion of hos­til­i­ties in Gaza since Oc­to­ber 7. Nearly five months since Israel launched its war on Gaza, the United Nations has failed to adopt a resolution calling for a pause in the hostilities. Three votes have been held in the Security Council – but the United States has vetoed them all. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has described the veto as an instrument that’s paralysed the council from taking action on Gaza. Palestine’s ambassador to the UN has said US vetoes have cost Palestinians their lives. The US is one of only five permanent members that can veto resolutions, and it’s been accused of misusing its power. So is use of the veto a hindrance to decision-making in the UN Security Council? And does it serve the agenda of only a select group of countries? Presenter: Adrian Finighan Guests: Richard Gowan- UN director at the International Crisis Group Mouin Rabbani – non-resident fellow at the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies Carne Ross – adviser for the UN Summit of the Future Published on Monday 4 March 2024.

Today on The Stream: Beyond the devastating Israeli aerial and ground offensive in Gaza, how does the Israeli occupation connect to environmental justice? From protests at COP28 in December last year, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, to social media campaigns such as #NoClimateJusticeWithoutHumanRights, climate activists are making a case for the inclusion of Palestine in the global climate justice conversation. According to a recent study published by British and American researchers, the first months of Israel’s war on Gaza produced more planet-warming gases than 20 climate-vulnerable nations do in a year. But beyond carbon emissions from the war on Gaza, how does the decades-long Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories connect to the broader narrative of global climate justice? Presenter: Anelise Borges Guests: Rania Harrara – Environmentalist Mikaela Loach – Climate Justice Activist Celine Semaan – Slow Factory Founder Published on Tuesday 5 March 2024.

An Indigenous mother rises in Chilean politics when she is caught in the crossfire of a polarised nation. On her way to work, Fabiola Campillai was blinded when she was shot in the face with a tear gas canister by police during Chile’s 2019 uprising. Despite having no experience in politics, the Indigenous mother and former factory worker decides to fight for justice and run for parliament. Campillai is elected Chile’s first blind senator. The policeman who attacked her goes on trial as she meets other survivors of police brutality seeking reparations. Campillai knows her fight is far bigger than just her case. But she faces another unexpected attack – this time from within Chile’s polarised parliament. A Vision of Justice is a documentary film by Nancy Roberts. Published on Monday 4 March 2024.

State of emer­gency de­clared af­ter un­rest wors­ens and thou­sands of pris­on­ers break out of jail. Haiti’s director of National Police has warned the capital is at war. Port-au-Prince has been overrun by gangs. A state of emergency has been declared after gang members attacked two prisons over the weekend – freeing several thousand prisoners. The security situation worsened after President Jovenel Moise was assassinated three years ago. For months, protesters have been calling for Prime Minister Ariel Henry to step down. They are angry about delayed elections, the rising cost of living and insecurity. The United Nations says the violence has forced 300,000 people from their homes this year. The foreign minister has likened Haiti to a warzone. To help restore order, the UN has proposed sending a multinational force. So what has led to this crisis? And is international intervention the way to resolve it? Presenter: Jonah Hull Guests: Francois Guillaume – Haitian ambassador to Qatar Erwan de Cherisey – Principal, Janes defence intelligence company Vanda Felbab-Brown – Director of initiative on non-state armed actors at the Brookings Institution Ralph Emmanuel Francois – Haitian social entrepreneur and activist Published on Tuesday 5 March 2024.

Human rights advocate Moazzam Begg returns to Afghanistan, battling demons and championing justice in the shadow of war. Haunted by nightmares of torture and abuse, British human rights campaigner Moazzam Begg decides to return to Afghanistan to confront the horrors of his past. Moazzam was detained at the notorious Bagram and Guantanamo Bay prisons without charge or trial, before being released in 2003. Ever since, Moazzam has fought for the rights of those imprisoned during the so-called, US-led war on terror. In Afghanistan, Moazzam advocates for the freedom of Mohammad Rahim, the last Afghan held in Guantanamo Bay. As the nation grapples with the scars of war under new Taliban leadership, can Moazzam ever make peace with his past? Echoes of Bagram is a film by Michael McEvoy and Horia El Hadad. Published on Monday 12 February 2024.

Beyond the headlines to the heart of the news of the day. Al Jazeera gets the Inside Story from some of the best minds in the Middle East and beyond. Al Jazeera journalists and guests dissect and discuss the day’s top story.

The Is­raeli mil­i­tary is threat­en­ing a ground of­fen­sive in Rafah at the south­ern­most tip of Gaza. Israel is threatening a ground offensive in Rafah, the last place of relative safety in southern Gaza. Humanitarian organisations have warned of a catastrophe if it goes ahead. Behind the scenes, mediators are still trying to broker a ceasefire. The possible ground offensive into Rafah has raised the stakes at the negotiations, which resumed this week. So what would it take for Hamas and Israel to reach a truce? Presenter: Hashem Ahelbarra Guests: Robert Geist Pinfold – lecturer on peace and security at Durham University with expertise on the Israeli military Hafsa Halawa – independent political consultant who focuses on the Middle East, North Africa and the Horn of Africa Omar Rahman – fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs Published on Wednesday 14 February 2024.

Pales­tini­ans in Gaza are liv­ing in famine-like con­di­tions be­cause of the short­age of hu­man­i­tar­i­an aid. The United Nations has warned that hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza are on the brink of starvation. About two million Palestinians are facing acute levels of hunger after many of them lost their homes and livelihoods. Desperate people, unable to feed themselves or their children, are living in famine-like conditions, some resorting to eating animal feed and weeds to survive. Is the strangling of food, medicine and other humanitarian supplies being used as collective punishment by the Israeli government? Presenter: Hashem Ahelbarra Guests: Fidaa Al Araj – Food security and livelihood co-ordinator, Oxfam Donatella Rovera – Senior crisis response adviser, Amnesty International Dr Omar Abdel Mannan – Paediatric neurologist who co-founded the doctors’ help group, Health Workers of Palestine Published on Thursday 15 February 2024.