PRI's The World

The war in Lebanon has displaced roughly 1 million people from the south of the country. Despite a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, and although some have returned to what's left of their homes, others say they have no choice but to stay in Beirut. Also, Japan has rolled back restrictions on its sale of weapons abroad, reinterpreting its pacifist post-World War II constitution. And, a new wave of investors is eyeing Venezuela, drawn by the promise of massive natural resources, cheap assets and a potential economic rebound after years of crisis. Plus, a look at the issues of funding, gender and access in the Brazilian film industry. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Six months after a ceasefire was announced in Gaza, conditions remain dire. The cost of rebuilding the enclave's infrastructure alone is estimated at more than $71 billion. Also, Spain takes the lead as European relations with Israel fray. And, New York City stalwart rockers The Strokes made headlines with their with their song “Oblivius" at Coachella, accompanied by a video montage of US and CIA involvement in overseas assassinations and regime change efforts. Plus, a robot called Lightning won a half marathon in Beijing on Sunday, several minutes faster than the human world record-holder, Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Nearly 900 Rohingya refugees were reported missing or dead in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal in 2025, making it the deadliest year on record. Also, Turkey sees two school shootings in one week. And, India launches a new generation of night trains. Plus, Mehmet Ali Sanlikol brings us the sounds of the electric oud. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Today the Trump administration announced a temporary 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel. Also, long-time foes in Libya took part in joint US-led military exercises this week in an attempt by Washington to unite rival factions. And, leaders in northern Nigeria react to US accusations of “Christian genocide.” Plus, dating companies in Japan are finding ways to work around a law requiring  couples to officially have the same last name. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Today marks three years since the start of Sudan's civil war in which thousands are believed to have died and as many as 14 million have been forced to flee. Also, a new video game that's designed to help people get on H-1B visas to work in the US. And, Ukraine showcases its rapid advances in high-tech warfare, complete with unmanned robots. Plus, Turkey thanks Spain for its opposition to the Israeli-US war in Iran — with hair transplants. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

For the first time in more than 30 years, delegations from Israel and Lebanon are meeting for direct talks in Washington, DC. Also, a new documentary by PBS's FRONTLINE looks at a deportation deal between the presidents of the US and El Salvador. And, Pope Leo XIV, who is in Algeria as part of his Africa tour, has condemned those who wage war and brushed off criticism from US President Donald Trump. Plus, the induction of Fela Kuti and Sade Adu to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame marks the first time Nigerians have been honored by the Hall's voters. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The election results in Hungary are seismic. After four consecutive terms under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, people voted overwhelmingly on Sunday for opposition leader Péter Magyar to take the country in a new direction. Also, as negotiations between the US and Iran fail, a discussion about how the dismantling of diplomatic expertise in the US has hindered current efforts to end the war. And, the largest international group representing commercial pilots is calling for pilots to have "final and non-negotiable" authority to refuse flights over conflict zones. Plus, a tribute to Bollywood singer Asha Bhosle, whose music has been a soundtrack for people's lives for multiple generations. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The Trump administration has deported as many as 15,000 people to countries they are not from, ranging from Mexico to South Sudan. Also, whale sightings in the Gulf of California have dropped in recent years, telling us something about the health of a vital ecosystem. And, the US and Israel saw groups of ethnic Kurds based in Iraq as potential forces to arm Iranian protesters and help bring regime change, but such an intervention never materialized. Plus, how our brains' process for making memories seems to be vulnerable to generative AI. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Waves of deadly Israeli airstrikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon are threatening to derail the US-Iran truce. Also, concerns are growing that authoritarian tactics to squash basic rights are returning to Indonesia, given increasing threats made against activists, influencers and journalists. And, the UK and Norway are tracking Russian submarines in the North Sea. Plus, the jar of Nutella that appeared across the screen during a livestream of the Artemis II mission around the moon. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The two‑week ceasefire between the US and Iran, brokered by Pakistan just hours before US President Donald Trump's threat of “total annihilation,” remains highly tentative. Also, countries in Africa react to the economic shocks triggered by the war in Iran. And, a high-profile visit by US Vice President JD Vance to Budapest is drawing attention to crucial elections in Hungary this Sunday. Plus, a nonprofit in Bangladesh is studying how heat waves are impacting mental health, and offering counseling to alleviate the burden. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As US President Donald Trump threatens to destroy Iran's “whole civilization” we take a look back at Iran's heritage over the centuries. Also, opposition politician Cheng Li-wun visits China to bolster Taiwan's ties to the mainland as the war in Iran raises concerns about the US's military bandwidth. And, people in South India are creating mechanical elephants to replace real ones during Hindu religious services. Plus, a visit to Akira Comics in Spain, which attributes its success to immersive fantasy. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A look at the tensions currently on display between diplomacy and escalation in the Iran war. Also, scientists in Southeast Asia are bio-hacking mosquitoes to curb the spread of disease. And, the editor-in-chief of an independent newspaper in Afghanistan tells the story of trying to protect his paper from the Taliban. Plus, Pakistani American doctor Seema Jilani defines what it means to find home while working in war zones. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Bridges, vaccine and public health institutes, and cultural sites are among the latest locations targeted by Israeli and American forces in Iran. Also, the military leader of Burkina Faso has said that its citizens should forget about democracy. And, who is Reza Pahlavi, and how did his name suddenly become so prominent? Plus, Gen-Z is all in for Baby Boomer jazz-rock guitarist Masayoshi Takanaka. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The US lifted sanctions against acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez yesterday. It's the latest in a series of changes that began when President Nicolás Maduro was captured and brought to the US to face criminal charges. Also, Afghan refugees in India face challenges getting government benefits. Also, a conversation with novelist Sahar Delijani on the struggles of Iranians at home and abroad. Plus, we raise a glass to wine-making traditions around the world. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A look at how security feeds and traffic cameras have become tools in some of the most high-level killings in recent wars. Also, Bologna, Italy, has established a certification process to distinguish authentic pasta and the artisans who make them from imposters. And, the European Broadcasting Union has announced the launch of the international song competition Eurovision in Asia. Plus, new scientific research finds that “googly eyes” can help deter seagulls. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A Russian oil tanker has reached Cuba, offering brief relief after months of severe fuel shortages; but for many Cubans, the crisis runs much deeper. Also, Israeli settler violence, raids and  demolitions are forcing West Bank residents from their homes in unprecedented numbers. At the same time, a new Israeli law imposes the death penalty as the default sentence for Palestinians convicted in fatal attacks. And, The World's Transportation Correspondent Jeremy Siegel gains exclusive access to information about allegations of forced labor violations at a factory for global EV giant BYD in Hungary. Plus, as Jewish people across the globe prepare for Passover, Kat Romanow discusses her cooking classes and the global influences that shape Jewish cuisine in Montreal, including variations on seder staples like homemade matzo. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

This weekend, the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, arrived in the waters off of Split, Croatia, after being pulled from combat operations in the Red Sea. Also, in a blunt Palm Sunday sermon, Pope Leo XIV implicitly criticized the world powers behind the war in Iran, arguing that God “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war but rejects them.” And, recovery in Jamaica from Hurricane Melissa is a slow and ongoing process five months on. Plus, Composer Sami Yusuf's musical journey continues with his newest album, “Ecstasy: Voices of the Earth.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

On the first day of US and Israeli attacks in Iran, a school bombing in the village of Minab that killed many children triggered global outrage. The World investigates another similar attack that also resulted in the death of children in the city of Lamerd that went mostly unnoticed. Also, a new amendment to the national security law in Hong Kong allows police to demand the password to a person's phone in order to search it. And, the British colonial-era diamond giant De Beers is now up for sale, and former African colonies, like Botswana, are looking to buy the company that long profited from their diamond mines. Plus, a new swing set celebrates a wacky border shared by two towns between the Netherlands and Belgium. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The International Olympic Committee has announced that transgender women will be banned from competing in women's events at the Olympic Games, under new rules coming into force from 2028. Also, ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who was abducted early this year in a US military raid, is in court today. And, a look at financial scams targeting women in Yemen. Also, the UN votes to name the trans-Atlantic slave trade “the gravest crime against humanity.” Plus, composer and trumpet player John Vanore releases a new composition inspired by the ancient statues on Easter Island. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Ukraine's president recently said he had a "very bad feeling" about the impact of the Middle East conflict on the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin is reaping windfall profits as the price of oil rises, and the air defense weaponry Kyiv needs is in increasingly short supply. Also, Europe sees a rise in antisemitic attacks. And, it's been 10 years since The Rolling Stones performed in Cuba. Plus, a look at the relationship between K-Pop and Black music. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In this fourth week of the war in Iran, the uncertainty of bombing, and even just finding food and shelter, has taken a toll on millions across the region. Also, the UN is warning that a roiling political feud in South Sudan could escalate into another fractious conflict. And, a new climate report finds this past decade to be the hottest on record — and that the Earth's energy balance is off. Plus, a modern revamp of a beloved character from the days of the Soviet Union, and its sequel, are huge box office hits in Russia. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As Argentines prepare to mark the 50th anniversary of the coup that began years of brutal military dictatorship in their country, that very history is now being contested, with President Javier Milei stirring debate over how it should be remembered. Also, many immigrants in Spain have been celebrating an amnesty program that will legalize their status and allow them to work in the country, but some say that to land a job, Spanish employers are demanding  they lose their native accents, which people are referring to as “linguistic racism.” And, Denmark releases apps to help Danes boycott US products. Plus, a new law in Kenya gives women the right to request two days off per month for menstrual pain. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As Iran continues to block ships from moving through the Strait of Hormuz, farmers around the world are seeing their fertilizer supplies coming up short, and some countries are having to shut down down their LNG plants. Also, we wrap up our weeklong housing affordability coverage with a wider discussion about tackling the rising cost of housing at its root. And, a look at the history of US-Cuba relations. Also, the K-pop megastars of BTS are back together after a long break to complete their military service. Plus, a look at a family tradition for Nowruz. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

EU leaders are meeting in Brussels for a two-day summit that's been dominated by the war in the Middle East as tensions between the US and Europe continue to escalate. Also, a look at how US and Israeli ambitions overlap and diverge in the war with Iran. And, the housing market in Venezuela is rebounding following the country's dramatic political shift. Plus, a look at Iran's Kharg Island, which, in addition to oil installations, is home to a small population, several cultural sites and wildlife. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Israeli forces are intensifying airstrikes and ground operations in southern Lebanon, as well as hitting targets in Beirut neighborhoods. Also, a meningitis outbreak has public health officials scrambling in the UK. And, Denmark is using heat generated by crematoriums to warm nearby homes. Plus, a look at how Vienna has bucked the trend in dealing with Europe's rent crisis. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The Israeli military said on Tuesday that it has killed top Iranian official, Ali Larijani, who was de-facto running the country after the death of the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Also, how the war in Iran is disrupting global travel. And, Cuba's electricity and energy crisis deepens. Plus, a cookbook catering to Ramadan. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The war in Iran suggests many of the doctrines, rules and assumptions that have shaped US military strategy for decades may no longer apply. Also, the South Korean government is stepping in over concerns about the nation's declining birthrate amid an expensive apartment rental market. And, Serbia is facing an energy crisis with its national oil company under US sanctions because of its majority Russian-ownership. Plus, researchers in Massachusetts discover a haunting whale song on decades-old audio equipment. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The most intense bombing of Iran by the US and Israel has been taking place in the capital, Tehran, a city of roughly 10 million people living in dense areas. In wars, the most vulnerable among the population end up bearing the brunt of the conflicts — children, the elderly, those with disabilities. Also, a documentary about the little-known US occupation of Haiti. And, Asians are among thousands of immigrants swept up in the Trump administration's deportation campaign, but many have not come forward with stories of being targeted by federal agents. Plus, a look at the international productions that make up nearly half of all the films nominated for Oscars this year. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Israeli strikes on fuel depots in Iran have left residents struggling to breathe after the ensuing fires engulfing parts of Tehran have released toxic fumes into the air. Also, a new law in China will promote "ethnic unity," making it compulsory to use Mandarin in schools, government and other public-facing activities. And, a look at the involvement of Gulf countries in the conflict in Sudan. Plus, a cafe in Vienna where older people bake cakes fresh daily from their own family recipes to spark intergenerational conversations with youth. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

After being pummeled for 12 days by airstrikes, Iran has stepped up its asymmetric naval warfare by reportedly  planting an initial tranche of naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Also, a look at how Turkey is reacting to the war in neighboring Iran. And, how the Hmong community in Minnesota's Twin Cities has felt betrayed by the US government amid ICE raids. Plus, as AI rapidly changes math, mathematicians are trying to define how they'll fit into future equations. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Since the Iran war began, Tehran has been sending drones and missiles into its Gulf state neighbors' territories. The Gulf countries insist this is not their war, but Iran doesn't seen to see it that way. Also, a former Austrian intelligence officer is on trial in Vienna accused of spying for Russia. And, a new report from Human Rights Watch finds that drone strikes targeting Haitian gangs have killed dozens of civilians and children. Plus, a new interpretation of soundtrack music from the late Icelandic composer Johann Johannsson. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The powerful clerical body known as the Assembly of Experts has selected Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new Supreme Leader. Also, schools have reopened after a week of mourning following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Iran. And, immigrant-owned businesses are a staple around the US but they're feeling the effects of the Trump administration's harsh policies. Plus, how to eat surströmming — considered the world's smelliest food — the Swedish way. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

We take a look at the effects of airstrikes on the ground in Iran and Israel a week into the war. Also, homes built from earth are making a comeback in Colombia. And, a family in Prague holds formal classical music concerts in their living room. Plus, a Berlin-based sculptor has to ask visitors to not touch — or lick — his artwork. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

What began as a US-Israeli campaign against Iran within the Middle East is spreading far beyond the region. It now includes Iranian drones striking an airport in Azerbaijan, NATO forces shooting down a missile headed toward Turkish airspace and a US submarine sinking an Iranian frigate in the Indian Ocean. Also, a look at a new initiative that aims to cut food waste in South Korea. And, National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek helps us understand how melting permafrost is contributing to dangerous landslides. Plus, some soothing sounds from renowned Welsh harpist Catrín Finch. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Trump has threatened to cut economic ties with Spain after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez forbade the US from using its two American bases in Spain to support the Iran attacks. Also, how private businesses in Cuba are taking advantage of the Trump administration's easing of trade restrictions on the country. And, eyes turn to Lebanon, which has ordered people in border villages to evacuate following strikes from Israel. Additionally, floods from a coastal El Niño in Peru have killed at least 68 people so far. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was a jolt for Iran, but its political system is built to sustain abrupt change. Also, a look back at the Russian government's troubled history with high-profile poisonings. And, how Israelis are celebrating Purim underground this year. Plus, how the European Union is responding to the US and Israel's war with Iran. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As the US and Israel continue their attacks on Iran, the capital Tehran has turned into a war zone, and residents say they are fearful for their lives. Also, the impact of the war is rippling outward, drawing in multiple Middle Eastern governments through direct attacks, defensive operations and diplomatic fallout, with shockwaves felt in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan and Lebanon. And, the conflict has also disrupted global travel as tens of thousands of people remain stranded around the world. Plus, we bring you the story of “medical totems” installed at a public health clinic in a remote area of the Brazilian Amazon to make up for low doctor-patient ratios. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

On Thursday night, Pakistan's military fended off attacks by the Taliban along its border with Afghanistan in the latest outburst of tensions between the two neighbors. Also, Cuban border patrol fired on a Florida-registered speedboat that entered Cuban territorial waters this week, killing four people and wounding others, at a time when tensions between the island and the US have increased. And, some organizations in Nigeria have released AI-powered chatbots that can provide mental health services amid a shortage of psychiatrists in the country. Plus, Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced new snap elections for the end of March. It comes as her party sees resurgent support — thanks, especially, to her US counterpart President Donald Trump. Also, a health aid agreement between the US and Zimbabwe has collapsed after Harare rejected it over concerns about data sharing and sovereignty issues. And, dozens of humanitarian aid groups face expulsion from Gaza and the West Bank as soon as this weekend, unless they hand over detailed personal information about their staff to Israeli authorities. Plus, a Brazilian Indigenous group finds international acclaim for its art. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The US has significantly ratcheted up its military presence in the Middle East in recent weeks. The US and Iran are set to meet for nuclear talks tomorrow, but as the escalations continue, we look at what Tehran could do to retaliate. Also, Australia is debating whether or not to allow 34 Australian women and children suspected of links to ISIS fighters to return home. And, artificial intelligence company Anthropic says the US government wants all of its restrictions on AI-controlled weapons and surveillance use lifted, giving the company until Friday to give full access to its AI model or risk losing its defense contract. Plus, a look at Uruguay's energy transition success story. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Today marks four years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and one Ukrainian MP says the daily bombings have become “normal.” Also, the Ukraine war has sparked the largest forced migration that Europe has seen since  World War II. Most EU countries welcomed Ukrainian refugees at first but, in the past year, that support has started to fade. And, a look at how volunteers have filled the gap in caring for pigeons after Berlin's animal welfare budget was cut by 96% in 2024. Plus, celebrating the rhythms and storytelling of maloya music from Reunion Island. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Criminal gangs have torched buses and cars and set up roadblocks in several Mexican states after security forces shot the leader of the cartel Jalisco New Generation, who was nicknamed “El Mencho,” yesterday. France is set to pass an emergency decree slashing renewable energy targets, turning instead to its nuclear energy sector. And, a look at the life of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, who was a vocal campaigner for Pan-Africanism and a United States of Africa that would work together as a political and economic bloc. Plus, giant tortoises have been reintroduced on Floreana Island in the Galapagos. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices