PRI's The World

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

The US Supreme Court has struck down much of the Trump administration's tariffs on foreign goods, which have been a cornerstone of its trade and foreign policies. Also, Iran prepares for a possible US military strike. And, the International Energy Agency has removed climate change from its list of priorities for the next two years, following threats from the US to withdraw from the advisory body. Plus, highlights from this year's Olympic hockey tournaments making history in Milan. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A court in Seoul sentenced former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to life in prison today for his brief martial law decree in 2024. Also, a look at fishing boat diplomacy in the East China Sea and gunboat diplomacy in the Persian Gulf. And, flag football is set to make its debut at the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. Plus, a look at how glitter makes Carnival sparkle in Rio de Janeiro, but also pollutes the environment. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is among the leading pro-democracy figures attending the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy this week and discusses the goals of the Belarusian opposition in exile. Also, a new bridge between the US and Canada is on the verge of a long-awaited opening, despite President Donald Trump's recent threats to keep it closed. And, the EU has made it illegal to destroy clothing that's been manufactured, but not purchased, in a wider effort to promote sustainability. Plus, a deep underwater camera reveals that sharks are swimming in the Antarctic Ocean for the first time. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The American civil rights icon, Rev. Jesse Jackson, died today at the age of 84. His advisor James Zogby, who traveled with him throughout the Middle East, discusses his legacy. Also, at this week's India AI Impact Summit, Delhi brings together leaders of nations and tech for what it's calling the first major summit on AI hosted in the Global South. And, remittances to Mexico fall for the first time in over a decade. Plus, the story of actor and director Robert Duvall who loved to tango. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio got a standing ovation when he spoke at the Munich Security Conference after his address fell short of the hardline populism that Vice President JD Vance brought to the event a year ago. Also, the Danish government updates its military conscription policy. And, the last prison island of the Americas becomes a tourist bioreserve. Plus, an update from the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics with the host of "Good Game with Sarah Spain.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

World leaders and diplomats from roughly 120 countries gather in Germany for the Munich Security Conference, where strained transatlantic ties have taken center stage. Also, Tarique Rahman, the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has emerged as the big winner in this week's pivotal election. And, students in Gaza are slowly getting back to their education after more than two years of war. Also, Kenyan plans to reopen two checkpoints along its border with Somalia, after nearly 15 years of closure. Plus, a Japanese tap dancer brings rhythm to the streets of New York City. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A look at where the youth stand as Bangladeshis head to the polls in one of the most consequential elections in the country's history. Also, a new South African video heist game lets players recover real ancient African artifacts that are currently displayed in Western museums. And, Russia announces restrictions on the Telegram and WhatsApp messaging platforms. Plus, a look at why Milan-Cortina Olympic medals keep falling and breaking. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Indonesia's army chief of staff said this week that his country is preparing to send up to 8,000 troops to Gaza as part of the international stabilization force there spearheaded by the US. Also, the US is planning to deploy 200 soldiers to Nigeria after warning that Christianity is facing what it's called an "existential threat.” And, the Dutch brewing giant Heineken announces it will cut up to 6,000 jobs in the coming years as the wider industry confronts weakening consumer demand. Plus, a look at how communities are balancing the impact of light pollution on ecosystems and a concern for public safety. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

​Mexico is sending two navy ships packed with humanitarian aid to Cuba as the island nation struggles with severe fuel shortages. Also, on Sunday, the Israeli security cabinet agreed on new policies for the occupied West Bank that would make it easier for Jewish settlers to acquire Palestinian land. And, in Colombia's La Guajira region, new programs are helping the Wayuu people reinvigorate their traditional foods. Plus, in Spain, children under 16 might soon see apps like TikTok and Instagram go dark on their screens.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Hong Kong authorities today sentenced pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai to 20 years behind bars. And the Milan Cortina Olympics are the first to feature a ban on ski wax containing PFAS, the forever chemicals linked to a range of health problems and diseases. Also, Japan's Sanae Takaichi took a huge risk calling for a snap election just 110 days into her first term as prime minister. Today, she won big. Plus, in a large archive building in Tirana, Albania's capital, a team recently began reviewing 45 years of films produced at the behest of former dictator Enver Hoxha.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Officials from the US and Iran met today in the Persian Gulf country of Oman for talks. Also, newly released Epstein files are fueling political crises, criminal investigations and renewed questions about some of Europe's most powerful figures. And, a farmer who discovered some old criollo cacao trees growing in the Philippines has become the toast of chocolate lovers the world over. Plus, "Time Hoppers: The Silk Road" will be the first animated feature film made by, for, and about Muslims to have a US theatrical release this weekend. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The last remaining US-Russia nuclear arms control treaty, New START, expires today, leaving the world's two largest nuclear arsenals without legal limits on nukes for the first time in over half a century. Also, famine conditions spread across Sudan's Darfur region. And, understanding Australia's gun ownership and hate law reforms after the Bondi Beach shooting. Plus, we visit the small Scottish island where all of the Olympic curling stones come from. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

A month after US forces captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, some signs of change have emerged. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has proposed a sweeping amnesty law that could free hundreds of political prisoners, but families and human rights groups remain wary. Also, the son of former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, Seif al-Islam Gadhafi, has been killed. And, leaders of a fringe ultra-conservative Catholic group, called the Society of St. Pius X, based in Switzerland, say they're going to consecrate new bishops without consent from the Vatican starting this summer. Plus, a reexamination of the Mexican-American war amid a new White House statement. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Russia's massive overnight attack on Ukraine included hundreds of drones and a record 32 ballistic missiles. Meanwhile, troops on the front line say conscripts are having a tough time filling the shoes of more experienced soldiers. Also, Spanish weather forecasters are facing an alarming increase in online attacks for linking extreme weather events to climate change. And, families in Iran search for their missing loved ones after a brutal government crackdown on protesters earlier this month. Plus, an Australian teenager saves his family from being washed out to sea. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt is now open, after being closed for nearly two years. But only small numbers of people are being allowed through, despite thousands of Palestinians in Gaza needing medical care. Also, the story of one woman fighting for her village's future as rising sea levels force residents along Mexico's Gulf Coast to flee their homes. And, Spain's Carlos Alcaraz becomes the youngest player ever to complete a Grand Slam at the Australian Open over the weekend. Plus, "Caetano and Bethania: Live" wins the Grammy for Best Global Music Album. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Keir Starmer is in China this week, marking the first time a British prime minister has visited the country in eight years. UK–China ties have been under strain since Beijing's crackdown on Hong Kong and amid allegations of Chinese spying in Britain. Also, understanding the partial return of internet access in Iran. And, a look at US and Israeli pressure on the ICC. Plus, the northern Finnish port city of Oulu becomes one of two European Capitals of Culture in 2026. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Cuba could deplete its oil supply in as little as 15 to 20 days, according to the data company Kpler, and residents are worried about what might come next. Also, a look at the experiences, hopes and fears of the Somali community in Minnesota amid ICE raids in their neighborhoods. And, a conversation with armed colectivos in Venezuela. Plus, the value of gold skyrockets against the US dollar. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It began as part of the US-brokered ceasefire agreement to stop the war in Gaza. But the "Board of Peace," a brainchild of US President Trump, has morphed into something with more grand ambitions, at least rhetorically. Also, police in Nigeria's largest city fired tear gas on people protesting the ongoing demolition of Makoko, an enormous informal settlement that stretches out into the Lagos Lagoon. And, fighting continues in Syria between Kurdish forces and the central government. Plus, the Most Reverend Sarah Mullally was formally confirmed as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury at a ceremony held at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

India and the European Union have signed a massive trade deal that will account for a quarter of the world's GDP. This follows another deal struck by the EU with Latin American countries this month. Also, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez wants to fast-track residency for hundreds of thousands of immigrants. And, US threats to take control of Greenland have rattled Europe's far-right leaders, some of President Trump's staunchest allies. Plus, when space debris enters Earth's atmosphere, some of it ends up at Point Nemo, a remote area of the Pacific with depths of around 13,000 feet. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Analysts are calling it China's biggest military purge in roughly half a century: President Xi Jinping has placed his second-in-command, China's top general, under investigation. Also, the Israeli government announced today it had found and recovered the remains of the final Israeli hostage. And, seven Japanese American soldiers are being promoted to officer ranks, eight decades after they died fighting for the US. Plus, Japan is without pandas for the first time since 1972! Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

About half a million Syrians living in Turkey have returned to Syria — just one in five. Although aid groups estimate many more will follow, it's a difficult decision, and many are wary of Syria's new leader and struggling economy. Also, a stretched polar vortex is bringing severe winter storm conditions to half the continental US, and is causing temperatures to plummet across even more of the northern hemisphere. And, Guinea-Bissau's minister of health announced Thursday that the country was halting a controversial Danish-led, US-funded trial of a hepatitis B vaccine. Plus, a groundbreaking Australian play has come to New York for a few weeks. It's called "The Visitors," and it tells an important piece of Australian history from an Aboriginal perspective.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In Iran, some families are still searching morgues for their loved ones. Among those who have found them, some say they have been intimidated and threatened by security forces for holding funerals. Also, Bobi Wine, the leading opposition figure in Uganda's presidential elections, speaks to The World's Marco Werman from hiding, one week after Uganda's longtime president, Yoweri Museveni, was declared the winner of a disputed election. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Davos, Switzerland, on Thursday to appeal for support. Plus, National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek shares some sticky situations he's encountered on the Eden Walk. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The US immigration system sees one of the most radical policy shifts during US President Donald Trump's second term. Also, testimonies from Iranians fleeing into Turkey amid a crackdown on protests. And, Guatemala declares a state of emergency following coordinated attacks by gangs. Plus, a listen to Taiwan's Indigenous Bunun music inspired by natural sounds. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Venezuela is facing soaring prices, shrinking wages and a middle class that has largely vanished. Also, London Mayor Sadiq Khan says the British capital is one of the safest major cities in the Western world, citing new police figures showing homicide rates have fallen to their lowest level in a decade, but campaigners argue the latest numbers don't tell the full story. And, a look at how US President Donald Trump's first year of his second term has reshaped the global economy. Plus, auroras can be seen at both the northern and southern poles right now as the Earth experiences a "solar storm." Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

President Donald Trump keeps insisting that the US "needs" to take over Greenland, which is controlled by Denmark. Protests in both Denmark and Greenland have denounced US threats to seize the territory. Also, Julio Iglesias, the 82-year-old crooner who's sold more than 300 million records over his long career, could soon take center stage in a Spanish courtroom over sexual abuse allegations. And, a look at the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and his global message against oppression. Plus, the story of a revolutionary woman who led Africa's independence movements. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

With votes tallied from about 50% of polling places, incumbent President Yoweri Museveni is projected to win reelection in Uganda. Also, Indian authorities continue searching for an elephant that's already killed 22 people in the first two weeks of 2026. And, Sara Mardini, who was arrested for helping rescue migrants from the sea in 2018, is acquitted of her charges in Greece. Plus, searching for the best mıhlama for breakfast in Turkey. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

As bitter cold descends on Ukraine, so has a fresh barrage of Russian drone and missile strikes. Recent attacks on transformer substations and power plants have plunged Kyiv into its worst wartime heating and power outage. Also, as opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado meets US President Donald Trump in Washington, Venezuelans are watching with a mix of hope and unease. And, The World speaks with some Iranians about the ongoing protests in the country. Plus, a team of engineers tries to flip Kenya's automotive economy on its head with the first-ever Kenyan-made electric vehicle. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices