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Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:After Friday's Texas House quorum scare - in which one more Democrat, Rep. Mary Gonzales, showed up - the House will try again this afternoon at 1: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/texas-legislature-swing-redistricting-vote-democrats-extend-walkout-124533839...Texas Monthly comes up with a solid nickname for the Dems who have lined up for the Republicans, in the "housebodies": https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/the-texas-democrats-who-stayed-behind/...Why are Governor Abbott and Texas Republicans so upset about this quorum break, compared to those of the past? The answer is simply the accommodating of Donald Trump: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2025/08/08/heres-why-greg-abbott-gop-using-hardball-tactics-to-bring-back-quorum-busting-democrats/...Attorney General Ken Paxton got a Fort Worth judge to agree to block funding for the quorum breakers from Beto O'Rourke's Powered By People, while Beto has countersued to get Paxton out of his business: https://www.texastribune.org/2025/08/08/beto-orourke-texas-democrats-ken-paxton-fundraising-quorum-break/...Faultlines in Republican unity are showing up in the ongoing conflict between Senator John Cornyn and Ken Paxton: https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5443855-texas-senate-redistricting-fight/...As well as Texas Republican Party plans to censure, and possibly block from reelection, any GOP elected whom they find insufficiently radical: https://www.texastribune.org/2025/08/11/texas-gop-republican-party-censures-primary-ballot-dustin-burrows/?_bhlid=f03c1c69eee8b8e0c46b450567f17bf828bf7095Tickets are on sale now for our live podcast taping with legendary Austin FC goalkeeper Brad Stuver on September 15 at Hopsquad Brewing in Austin! Tickets are limited and are available here: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/allstaractivism_2025...The Brad Stuver interview will be co-hosted by Landon Cotham of the Austin FC podcast Moontower Soccer: https://www.moontowersoccer.com/Progress Texas' financial reserves have dropped to about 3 months worth of funding. Help us avoid going on a permanent vacation this summer by becoming a sustaining member: https://progresstexas.org/join-pt-summer-vacation-membership-driveThanks for listening! Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at https://progresstexas.org.
From August 6, 2024: A new film from Al Jazeera's Fault Lines series called “The Night Won't End” profiles three Palestinian families as they try to survive the war in Gaza.On today's episode, Lawfare Managing Editor Tyler McBrien speaks to the documentary's director, Kavitha Chekuru, along with a few of the journalists and researchers who came together to work on the project, including Emily Tripp, Director at Airwars; Samaneh Moafi, Assistant Director of Research at Forensic Architecture; and Lawrence Abu Hamdan, Founder and Director of investigations at Earshot.They discuss the three families at the center of this story, other investigations into the killings of civilians by the Israeli military in Gaza, and the role of the United States in the war since Oct. 7.Please note that this episode contains content that some people may find disturbing, including depictions of war and violence against children. Listener discretion is advised.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Jess, Matt, and Bishop break down the Senate stalemate on key nominations across the Trump Administration. With important ambassadorships unconfirmed, including the UN, EU, and across Latin America, and critical leadership roles like CISA Director stuck in limbo, the national security implications are stacking up.Is this just another round of partisan gridlock or a sign of deeper institutional breakdown? As Democratic senators block cloture votes and recess appointments remain off the table, what message are we sending to the world when our key posts go unfilled?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://apnews.com/article/senate-confirmations-nominations-trump-schumer-thune-905a63d0046319eeb7c266d5e24e70b6 https://www.npr.org/2025/08/03/nx-s1-5491414/senate-confirmations-trump-schumer Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones@BishopGarrison@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/eV_apnbbInk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Les, and Bishop unpack the latest U.S.-EU trade deal, which imposes a 15% tariff on European goods—lower than the previously threatened 30%, but still a significant shift. The agreement includes EU commitments to increase energy purchases and investment in the U.S., while eliminating tariffs on select American exports. Yet key sectors like steel remain unresolved, and core regulatory and policy differences persist.Will this deal offer short-term stability at the expense of long-term strategy? As Congress eyes the economic impact on American consumers and industries, questions remain about enforcement, sustainability, and whether tariff diplomacy can truly deliver lasting results.Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://apnews.com/article/europe-trump-security-tariffs-ukraine-russia-cb323423c4317c89410c0dee3d389753 https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c14g8gk8vdlo https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/07/28/trump-eu-trade-tariffs-concessions/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgp5q4x4nzo Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/DtCwSRefHz4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Les, and Matt discuss the most dangerous escalation in Southeast Asia in over a decade. A deadly border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia—long simmering over disputed territory and sacred temples—has erupted into full-scale fighting. Over just five days, artillery, rockets, and airstrikes left 36 dead and hundreds injured, with civilians fleeing on both sides. President Trump issued an unprecedented economic threat: a 36% tariff on all Thai and Cambodian exports if the conflict doesn't cease by August 1. The move jolted both economies and raised questions about how American trade power might be used to prevent regional wars.What does this border conflict say about the limits of diplomacy and economic pressure? Will Trump's tariff ultimatum succeed where international mediation has failed? And how should the U.S. balance its strategic interests in Southeast Asia as great power rivalries heat up?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/28/world/asia/thailand-cambodia-ceasefire-talks.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare https://www.wsj.com/world/asia/thailand-and-cambodia-consider-cease-fire-after-calls-with-trump-on-border-clashes-5c22f92e Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL46I6ct71LWNXufqKnmsbiwAhqo8d5jPL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Martha, and Morgan discuss the intensifying controversy over food aid delivery in Gaza. With hunger surging and global criticism mounting, attention has turned to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation—a special-purpose entity backed by Israel and the U.S. to deliver aid without empowering Hamas. While Israel has announced daily 10-hour ceasefires to allow more deliveries, many international observers, including the UN and several allied governments, argue the system is failing. Accusations that aid isn't reaching Palestinian civilians are fueling tension between Israel and its closest partners.Is the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation a workable solution—or a flawed model for crisis response? Will mounting criticism from allies like the UK shift U.S. policy on aid delivery? And with hostage talks stalled and the humanitarian situation worsening, what role can—or should—the U.S. play now?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/MCGcw6YiPU8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kate Adie introduces stories from Syria, Lebanon, Chile, Pakistan and France.Sectarian violence has erupted again in Syria, this time between Druze and Bedouin communities, leaving hundreds of people dead. The country's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, blamed the violence on ‘outlawed factions' and has vowed to protect the Druze. Though as Jon Donnison heard in the Druze-majority town of Suweida, locals are also blaming government forces for the violence.Meanwhile in Lebanon, thousands of Alawite Syrians - the same Shia Muslim sect of the former President Bashar al-Assad - have fled across the border in recent months to escape a previous bout of sectarian violence which broke out back in March. Emily Wither travelled to Tripoli where she met young Alawites looking to define themselves beyond the Assad regime.In Chile we visit a ghost town in the Atacama Desert as it's brought back to life for one day a year. Former residents of Chuquicamata return to where they once lived for an annual party - though the former mining town is now too polluted for humans to live in. Robin Markwell paid a visit.In the Pakistan province of Punjab, authorities have launched a crackdown against people keeping big cats like lions and tigers as household pets. The BBC's Pakistan correspondent Azadeh Moshiri joined wildlife rangers on a raid on an illegal big cat farm.And we're in Marseille where a group of eminent restaurateurs have come together to protect the heritage of a much-treasured French dish - Bouillabaisse. Rob Crossan went to sample a bowl, to see if it lives up to the hype.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Today, Morgan, Martha, Les, and Matt break down Trump's AI Action Plan, unveiled Wednesday with significant fanfare and the backing of top tech leaders. The plan includes three executive orders and outlines 90 federal actions across three pillars: accelerating innovation, building AI infrastructure, and asserting global leadership in diplomacy and security.Why does AI matter so much now—and why does Trump want his name on it? As Secretary of State Rubio put it, “winning the AI race is non-negotiable.” With economic, military, and geopolitical stakes this high, Trump's market-driven, industry-friendly strategy marks a clear departure from the Biden administration's safety-first regulatory approach. Is this the edge the U.S. needs to stay ahead of China—or a gamble with long-term consequences?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.ai.gov/action-plan Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@lestermunson@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/5MfyevBpL0M Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Matt discuss the Trump administration's announcement that the U.S. will withdraw from UNESCO by the end of 2026. This marks the third such exit in recent history—first under President Reagan in 1984, again under Trump's first administration, and now once more over concerns of anti-Israel bias and support for “divisive" causes. The decision raises broader questions: Are global institutions like UNESCO advancing U.S. interests—or have they become vehicles for adversarial influence? Is complete withdrawal the best strategy, or is there a more effective way to protect American values while staying at the table?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@morganlroach@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/PijAGX8-dmY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Morgan, Bishop, Amy, and Marc break down the latest high-stakes prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Venezuela. Ten Americans held by the Maduro regime were released in exchange for more than 200 Venezuelans via the CECOT Terrorism Confinement Center in El Salvador.Is this a foreign policy win for the Trump administration—or a dangerous precedent that raises the price on the heads of Americans abroad? Could this deal mark the beginning of a U.S.-Venezuela thaw, or will Maduro use it for political gain? And what are the human rights and national security implications of using large-scale deportations as diplomatic leverage?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@morganlroach@amykmitchell@BishopGarrison@WashingtonFlackLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/EQZxmtnupLI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Im Jahr 2022 brach der Autor, Reiseschriftsteller und Abenteurer Adam Weymouth zu einer Reise auf.Einer langen.Wieder einmal.Nachdem er den Yukon-Fluss hinaufgepaddelt und von London nach Istanbul gewandert war, wandelte er nun in den Fuß- oder vielmehr Pfotenspuren eines Wolfs und folgte dessen Weg quer durch Europa.Grenzen überschreitend zieht er durch die Wildnis, das Ackerland und kulturhistorische Dörfer, die im Begriff sind, zu verschwinden.Das so entstandene Buch » Lone Wolf « ist nicht weniger als ein poetisches Inventar und eine hoffnungsvolle Inspiration über und für die Zukunft dieses Kontinents.Ein Gespräch über den zurückkehrenden Wolf, den Mythos des „Alphatiers”, das Hinterland Europas, warum Domestikation gut in eine Gesellschaft passt, über den Mord an Ursula von der Leyens Pony und wie wir als menschliche Wesen von Geschichten bewegt, aber von der Wissenschaft geleitet werden sollten.[ENGLISH VERSION]In 2022 author, travel writer and adventurer Adam Weymouth went out on trip.A long one.Once again.After paddling up the Yukon river and hiking from London to Istanbul, he was walking in the foot- or rather paw-steps of a wolf, following its path for across Europe.Trespassing boarders, passing through rural wilderness, farmlands and culturally rich villages on the brink of abandonment.The consequential book » Lone Wolf « is nothing less than a poetic inventory of and a hopeful inspiration for the continents future.A conversation on the returning wolf, the myth of the “alpha”, the hinterlands of Europe, how domestic behaviour is suitable for a society, the killing of Ursula von der Leyens pony and how we, as humans are moved by stories but should be guided by science.Zur FolgeHomepage von Adam WeymouthBuch: » Lone Wolf - Walking the Faultlines of Europe «Natürliche AusredeHomepageInstagramUnterstützungbei Steadybei PayPal
Today, Morgan, Jess, and Andy unpack a turn in U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Earlier this month, President Trump paused military and intelligence aid, only to reverse course days later after internal review. Now, he's unveiled a new approach: U.S.-made weapons, including Patriot missiles, will be purchased by European allies and sent to Ukraine—bypassing direct U.S. taxpayer funding, replenishing NATO stockpiles and boosting U.S. defense firms. In a sharp policy shift, the administration is now considering sending offensive weapons and has issued a 50-day ultimatum to Moscow: accept a ceasefire or face full tariffs and sweeping secondary sanctions.Is this a smart reset that shares the burden while keeping pressure on Putin? Does the shift toward offensive weapons contradict Trump's “no more wars” stance? And how will Moscow—and Trump's own MAGA base—respond as the rhetoric hardens and the weapons shipments grow?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroach@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ZJYQ9CqOVRc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Jess, Morgan, and Matt turn their attention to Sudan, where a civil war that began in 2023 has killed more than 150,000 people and displaced 14 million, driving the country to widespread collapse. With foreign powers backing both sides of the conflict—from Iran and Egypt to the UAE and remnants of Russia's Wagner Group—the war has become a flashpoint for global power competition and humanitarian catastrophe.What national security interests does the U.S. have in Sudan—and what are the consequences when Washington steps back? What changes do we see to America's broader approach to Africa? And could President Trump's ties in the Gulf position him as a broker for peace?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/07/15/sudan-civil-war-catastrophe-washington/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/15/sudan-paramilitary-forces-kill-almost-300-in-village-raids-say-lawyers https://www.foxnews.com/world/peacemaker-trump-can-end-africas-biggest-war-says-former-white-house-advisor Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroach@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Bkbhwh2Nrt0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha and Les bring you a very special episode of Fault Lines, recorded live at Max's Steakhouse in Prague with an international group of fans, listeners, and a cameo from NSI Founder and Executive Director, Jamil Jaffer. From Czech locals to Americans abroad, the team fielded sharp questions about the future of NATO-style alliances in Asia, the direction of U.S. sanctions policy, and Russia's financing of war through African gold. The live audience also raised timely questions about press freedom, the future of global conflict, and what comes next for U.S. policy in the Middle East, Russia, and beyond.Will the Quad or AUKUS ever evolve into a true multilateral security framework? Can U.S. pressure on Russia—through both sanctions and global alliances—actually shift the tide in Ukraine? And does the growing web of cyberattacks and shadow alliances already mean we're in a new kind of global conflict?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this very special episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/3qqUHHK6zk0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 475: Ceasefire Shattered – The Houthis Strike AgainToday, Morgan, Bishop, Jessica, and Algene discuss the return of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, just weeks after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The Iran-backed group has ramped up strikes on commercial ships, most recently hitting a Liberian-flagged cargo vessel with a rocket-propelled grenade and kidnapping several crew members. It's the second ship sunk in a week – part of a broader campaign targeting nearly 70 merchant vessels since late 2023.Is the ceasefire dead, and can the U.S. restore deterrence at sea? Are the Houthis expanding Iran's influence under the cover of the Gaza conflict? And what does this mean for global trade and regional stability?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3071vp2d8yo?utm_source=semafor Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@BishopGarrison@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/1QH1Y5NyeMo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join host Jo Reed and AudioFile's Kendra Winchester as they dive into narratives of two unique teens—Viv, who is fighting against fracking in her town, and Dex, who struggles with poverty and hopes his mother's new job with the pipeline will provide security. André Santana's calm delivery of Dex's dialogue presents a counterpoint to Viv's emotionality, narrated by Mia Hutchinson-Shaw. Both narrators build the interior and exterior tensions as the teens grow to care for each other. Read our review of the audiobook at our website. Published by Hachette Audio. Discover thousands of audiobook reviews and more at AudioFile's website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, Jess, Bishop, and Amy break down the latest twist in U.S.-Ukraine policy after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth paused a critical weapons shipment — reportedly without the White House's knowledge. The abrupt delay blindsided Ukraine, Congress, the State Department, and European allies. Days later, President Trump reversed the decision following a tense call with Putin and an escalation of Russian drone attacks on Kyiv.What does this erratic decision-making mean for Ukraine's defense as Russia's summer offensive approaches? Does President Trump's growing frustration with Putin reflect a real shift in his stance? And how are allies interpreting the gap between Trump's rhetoric and his actions?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/military/hegseth-halted-weapons-ukraine-military-analysis-aid-wouldnt-jeopardiz-rcna216790?oref=d_brief_nl&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The%20D%20Brief:%20July%2007%2C%202025&utm_term=newsletter_d1_dbrief https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/trump-told-zelensky-he-wasnt-responsible-for-weapons-holdup-f684444b?st=zMtutV https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/08/politics/hegseth-did-not-inform-white-house-ukraine-weapons-pause https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/07/07/trump-ukraine-weapons-shipments/ https://www.axios.com/2025/07/08/trump-putin-bullshit-sanctions-ukraine Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@amykmitchell@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/n8NAy3poGZ4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Morgan, Les and Jess unpack the fast-moving developments around the Trump administration's global tariff negotiations, as the 90-day pause comes to a close this Wednesday. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that tariff letters will be sent to about 100 countries this week, with either deals or formal notifications expected by July 9. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick added that Trump is personally leading many of the negotiations, applying what the administration calls “maximum pressure.” So far, only the United Kingdom, China and Vietnam have locked in deals—leaving the rest of the world guessing.Is August 1 the final deadline, or another chapter in a shifting timeline of economic brinkmanship? What are the broader implications of these tariffs for U.S. alliances and supply chains? And with Trump directly in the driver's seat, is this smart negotiating—or strategic overreach?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/06/bessent-trump-tariffs-deadline-august-00440522https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/06/business/bessent-tariff-deadline-trump Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@lestermunson @NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/8mLhmrxZaKM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 700 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Karen Elliott House is a senior fellow at Harvard Kennedy School's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. Elliott House retired in 2006 as publisher of The Wall Street Journal, senior vice president of Dow Jones & Company, and a member of the company's executive committee. She is a broadly experienced business executive with particular expertise and experience in international affairs stemming from a distinguished career as a Pulitzer Prize winning reporter and editor. She is author of On Saudi Arabia: Its People, Past, Religion, Fault Lines—and Future, published in September 2012 by Knopf. During a 32-year career with Dow Jones and The Wall Street Journal, Elliott House also served as foreign editor, diplomatic correspondent, and energy correspondent based in Washington D.C. Her journalism awards include a Pulitzer Prize for international reporting for coverage of the Middle East (1984), two Overseas Press Club awards for coverage of the Middle East and of Islam and the Edwin M. Hood award for Excellence in Diplomatic Reporting for a series on Saudi Arabia (1982). In both her news and business roles, she traveled widely over many years and interviewed world leaders including Saddam Hussein, Lee Kwan Yew, Zhu Rongji, Vladimir Putin, Shimon Peres, Benjamin Natanyahu, Saudi King Abdullah, Hosni Mubarak, Margaret Thatcher, Richard Nixon, Helmut Kohl, George H.W. Bush, the late King Hussein and Yasser Arafat. She has appeared frequently on television over the past three decades as an executive of the Wall Street Journal and as an expert on international relations. Elliott House has served and continues to serve on multiple non-profit boards including the Rand Corp., where she is chairman of the board, the Trilateral Commission, the Council on Foreign Relations, the Asia Society, the German-American Council, and Boston University. She also is a member of the advisory board of the College of Communication at the University of Texas. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin where in 1996 she was the recipient of the University's “Distinguished Alumnus” award. She studied and taught at Harvard University's Institute of Politics and she holds honorary degrees from Pepperdine University (2013), Boston University (2003) and Lafayette College (1992). She also is a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Today, Martha, Jess, Les, and Amy discuss a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy as the White House lifts most economic sanctions on Syria. For over a decade, those sanctions defined Syria's economy and global isolation, aimed squarely at weakening the Assad regime during the country's brutal civil war. But with Assad's fall late last year and a new interim government under Ahmed al-Shara now in power, the U.S. is signaling support for stabilization and reconstruction, while maintaining targeted restrictions on individuals linked to past atrocities and terrorism.Is this a genuine turning point for Syria—or a risky bet on fragile leadership? What message does this send to allies and adversaries about the durability of U.S. sanctions? And as reconstruction begins, who gains from Syria's reintegration—and who's left behind?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/30/trump-scraps-syria-sanctions-regime-00433633 https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-interested-in-expanding-normalization-treaties-to-syria-lebanon-d583d184 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/30/world/middleeast/gulf-states-invest-syria-iran.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/03/14/syria-sanctions-caeser-act-sharaa/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson @NotTVJessJones@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/EX_q4NoqQeQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Martha, and Jeffrey unpack the swirl of rumors that emerged from Beijing after Chinese President Xi Jinping disappeared from public view for several weeks in May. With whispers of internal dissent, missed Politburo meetings, and PLA shakeups, questions are mounting about the stability of Xi's leadership—and whether the Chinese Communist Party is entering a new phase of uncertainty.As China grapples with deepening economic troubles, demographic decline, and foreign policy stumbles, speculation over leadership succession and elite discontent is running high. Is this a genuine power shift in the making—or a loyalty test typical of CCP politics? Either way, the turbulence may mark a weaker and more unpredictable chapter for Beijing.Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://nypost.com/2025/06/28/opinion/is-chinese-pres-xi-jinping-on-his-way-out/?utm_campaign=iphone_nyp&utm_source=pasteboard_app https://www.wsj.com/opinion/where-was-xi-jinping-in-irans-hour-of-need-china-strikes-israel-us-5b04fdb3 Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson @marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/oGng_UKfGB8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Jess, Les, and Amy unpack the implications of the U.S. shutting down Voice of America and scaling back support for Radio Free Europe—two longtime tools of American public diplomacy. As funding dries up and staff are furloughed, adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran are moving to fill the vacuum in the global information space.Is the U.S. be ceding ground in the global competition for soft power? How should the U.S. modernize its messaging tools to meet today's information challenges? What are the risks if rivals like China and Russia shape the narrative where the U.S. voice goes silent?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/24/business/media/us-china-russia-global-communications.html?searchResultPosition=12https://www.npr.org/2025/05/21/g-s1-68363/trump-tried-to-shutter-radio-free-europe-the-eu-threw-it-a-lifeline Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson @amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ZSn_Je9V8Uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Les, and Morgan discuss NATO's unprecedented decision to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP—a seismic shift in transatlantic security policy. Driven by escalating threats from Russia, war in Ukraine, and mounting pressure from President Trump, the alliance's new posture marks a clear break from decades of post–Cold War complacency. With Trump demanding more from European allies while withholding a full guarantee of U.S. protection, the future of collective defense—and Europe's role–is being fundamentally rewritten.Is this a turning point for NATO or the beginning of its fragmentation? What does this spending surge really buy in terms of deterrence, and is it enough to match rising global threats? And can Europe truly step up—or is burden-sharing still more theory than reality?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/opinions_236418.htm https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gd98qry6jo https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/24/politics/nato-summit-trump-solitary-approach https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-heads-nato-summit-europe-agrees-heed-his-defense-spending-demands Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/DGDfMrDkUtY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Borders contain nations, act as fault lines, but are also meeting points, where different cultures, people, and ideologies come into contact. Nowhere has this been more visible, more painful, and more politically charged than the island of Ireland. In this episode, Will Hutton is joined by Professor Katy Hayward. She's one of the UK's leading voices on Brexit, the Irish border, and cross border tension and transformation. A political sociologist at Queen's University Belfast and Co-Director of the Centre for International Borders Research, her work bridges politics and the everyday experience of life on the border. Join acclaimed journalist and Academy president Will Hutton, as he invites guests from the world of social science to explore the stories behind the news and hear their solutions to society's most pressing problems. Don't want to miss an episode? Follow the show on your favourite podcast platform and you can email us on wesociety@acss.org.uk and tell us who we should be speaking to. The We Society podcast is brought to you by the Academy of Social Sciences in association with the Nuffield Foundation and the Leverhulme Trust.
In back-to-back episodes, Tara covers the full fallout from Operation Midnight Hammer, the largest B-2 bomber mission in U.S. history targeting Iran's nuclear facilities. With unmatched coordination and zero U.S. casualties, the mission showcases American military dominance—but also exposes deep fractures at home. Tara explores how Democrat leaders, sheriffs, and media allies appear to side with Iran, even mourning the destruction of nuclear sites. She highlights growing fears of Iranian sleeper cells, border failures under Biden, and the bizarre way a pizza delivery app may have leaked signs of war before any official news broke. A powerful exposé on military strength, political betrayal, and what it takes to keep America safe.
Today, Morgan, Les, and Jeffrey break down Operation Midnight Hammer—the largest B-2 strike in U.S. history. Over the weekend, U.S. forces launched a major bombing campaign targeting Iran's nuclear facilities, deploying 125 aircraft, 14 bunker-busting MOPs, and over two dozen Tomahawk missiles in a high-stakes mission aimed at crippling Iran's nuclear capabilities. While President Trump has declared victory, the fallout—military, diplomatic, and political—is only beginning.What options does Iran have now? Will it retaliate through traditional military means, ramp up proxy warfare, or strike at global infrastructure? With tensions high and the potential for escalation real, what does continued engagement look like—and are we prepared for what comes next?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@lestermunson Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/lvrwmY4fET0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Martha, and Jeffery discuss the latest twist in the escalating standoff between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. As speculation swirls over whether the U.S. will join Israeli strikes on Iran's underground nuclear facility at Fordow, the White House has announced President Trump will decide within two weeks whether to intervene. That decision could involve the use of powerful U.S. bunker-busting munitions—potentially the 30,000-pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator—against a fortified target only the U.S. is capable of hitting. While others jump to forecast outcomes, the Fault Lines crew focuses instead on what this moment actually means.What does the administration's messaging signal about its strategic calculus—and red lines? How much pressure is being applied through public signaling, and how much of it is aimed at Tehran, Tel Aviv, or the American public? And with escalation already underway, how can we look to conflicts of the past to inform how we move forward? Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson @marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here (and have a chance to see Bean the dog!): https://youtu.be/E4KyNG8l-cg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Les, and Morgan discuss the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, now entering its sixth day with historic implications. The immediate trigger was a rare IAEA censure of Iran for non-compliance with nuclear safeguards—the first since 2005—but Iran and its proxy groups like Hezbollah, Iraqi militias, and the Houthis have been attacking Israel for years leading up to this point. President Trump has ordered a large-scale U.S. military buildup in the region and demanded Iran's unconditional surrender, even as Tehran warns of severe retaliation.Is this the beginning of a full-scale regional war—and will U.S. forces inevitably be drawn in? How will Tehran respond to the unprecedented damage to its nuclear program and military infrastructure? Will this mark a turning point in re-establishing American deterrence?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/2k7BlOYABh4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Scratch at a problem for San Francisco, and you'll find an issue that underlies almost all of them: the city's intractable housing crisis. A new documentary “Fault Lines,” on Apple TV follows three storylines connected to the lack of housing. There is a homeless family's attempts to get into a permanent home, a Sunset neighborhood's fight over an affordable housing project and the ugly competing campaigns for a ballot measure. We talk with the film's director and an expert in the city's housing troubles about how San Francisco got into the crisis, what we might be able do about it, and what the rest of the country can learn from our troubles. Guests: Nate Houghteling, executive producer, "Fault Lines" documentary, available on Apple TV. Co-founder of Portal A production company Annie Fryman, director of special projects, SPUR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, Jess, Martha, Les and Jeffrey unpack comments and messaging shared by Tulsi Gabard, Director of National Intelligence. In a recent video, Gabbard warned that “warmongers and political elites” are pushing the U.S. toward nuclear war, while her congressional testimony downplayed Iran's nuclear threat. At the same time, Gabbard has introduced a more centralized review process for intelligence reports, drawing some concern within the intelligence community.Does Gabbard's nuclear rhetoric echo broader narratives—like Russian disinformation—designed to stoke fear of nuclear war? Is Gabbard's direct message to the public common for the ODNI? How might the new intelligence reporting oversight affect the objectivity and credibility of the assessments?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.axios.com/2025/06/11/tulsi-gabbard-intelligence-leaks-deep-statehttps://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/gabbard-considering-ways-revamp-trumps-intelligence-briefing-rcna209805https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/5215194-iran-nuclear-weapons/ https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/maddowblog/tulsi-gabbard-video-nuclear-war-bomb-shelters-rcna212317 Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@marthamillerdc@lestermunson Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/0MHSi_A5J-s Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today's broadcasts expose seismic shifts across the globe and at home. Israel's Mossad secretly launches drones from inside Iran, signaling a collapse of Iranian power. Meanwhile, Trump faces a trade-off between rare earth mineral access and national security after China flexes its grip—forcing the U.S. to accept 500,000 Chinese students, even after a bioweapon smuggling attempt. Back in the U.S., cultural and political tensions explode. Gallup polling shows Democrats retreating from trans ideology in women's sports. Ron DeSantis reaffirms Florida's right to self-defense against violent mobs. Speaker Mike Johnson calls out Senator Padilla's reckless behavior as the left pushes staged confrontations to paint Trump as a dictator. Add to that: calls to ban Big Pharma TV ads, and a historical look back at CIA missteps that unleashed decades of Iranian terror. From foreign intel ops and trade warfare to domestic upheaval and policy reversals—this is a snapshot of a world realigning in real time.
Today, Morgan, Martha, Les, and Jess discuss Israel's launch of Operation Rising Lion—a sweeping strike against Iran's nuclear infrastructure, long-range missile sites, air defenses, and senior IRGC leadership. As the U.S. pulled personnel from the region, raising questions about prior coordination, President Trump claimed he had warned Iran of the consequences of refusing a deal. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the U.S. was not involved, calling the Israeli strikes a unilateral action.With the situation still unfolding, is the region now on the brink of a broader war? What does this strike mean for U.S. influence in the Middle East—and for the safety of American personnel on the ground? And has diplomacy with Iran reached a final breaking point, or is there still time to pull back from escalation?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-embassy-iraq-preparing-ordered-evacuation-due-heightened-security-risks-2025-06-11/ https://time.com/7293392/us-embassy-iraq-iran/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/06/11/us-israel-iran-attack-fears/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c629yk5z07vo Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach @marthamillerdc@lestermunson @NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ablr_IEmgz8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Matt, Jeffrey, and Joshua examine the growing instability in West Africa as jihadist group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) expands its control across Burkina Faso and the Sahel. With the U.S. and France reducing their regional footprint, local governments are struggling to respond to the spread of terrorism, and Russia—through the Africa Corps—has stepped into the vacuum left behind.How are terrorist groups like JNIM funding their operations, and what role does illicit finance play in undermining global sanctions? Can the U.S. afford to keep pulling back, especially with key diplomatic and aid positions still unfilled? And with natural resources fueling violence and extremism, are we ignoring an urgent front in global security that could soon come knocking on our own door?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/06/08/jnim-militants-west-africa-sahel-terrorism/ https://apnews.com/article/russia-africa-weaponry-ships-mali-ukraine-f3383b5bbc8120b445d3df9062bf7f14 Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson @WMattHayden@joshuachuminskiLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HPxgyL2v2aE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Jess, Martha, and Les discuss the news of a sabotage campaign in Sweden, where 32 telecommunications towers along the E-22 highway were deliberately targeted—cables cut, technical equipment destroyed. The attacks fit into a broader pattern of hybrid threats sweeping the Nordic region, widely attributed to Russian intelligence operations, with rising concerns about Chinese involvement as well.Are we witnessing a new phase of grey-zone warfare or is it part of an existing pattern? As NATO launches its Baltic Sentry initiative to protect critical infrastructure, how prepared are our allies for these persistent, murky threats? And with the U.S. dismantling key national security structures, are we losing the ability to go on offense?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.nato.int/docu/review/articles/2024/04/26/russias-hybrid-war-against-the-west/index.html https://www.chathamhouse.org/publications/the-world-today/2025-03/what-britain-can-learn-nordics-about-fighting-hybrid-threats https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/uk/sweden-probes-massive-sabotage-after-30-telecom-masts-attacked-in-what-officials-call-a-coordinated-strike/articleshow/121695420.cms Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson @NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Morgan, Matt, and Jess unpack the high-stakes phone calls between President Trump and two of the world's most powerful leaders: Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping. Trump's first official call with Xi since taking office covered Taiwan, semiconductors, and student visas—but skipped over Russia, NATO, and North Korea. Meanwhile, a call earlier in the week with Putin followed Trump's praise of Ukraine's recent drone strike campaign, prompting warnings from Moscow and raising questions about U.S. positioning in the ongoing conflict.Is the U.S. reclaiming its role at the center of international diplomacy—or just talking in circles? With no concrete deliverables yet, the question remains: what will actually come after the calls?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/05/politics/trump-xi-trade-call https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-xi-tariffs-negotiations-trade-f2e4b48205001d7169ee34250089d8c1 https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/04/politics/trump-putin-phone-call-ukraine-response https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qg23gqllwo Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson @morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/FuBAbFK6o2E Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Jess, Les, and Jeffrey unpack Operation Spiderweb, Ukraine's long-planned and massive drone strike that targeted strategic bombers across multiple Russian airfields. With over 100 drones launched and no advance notice to the U.S., the attack caught Washington off guard and it showcased Ukraine's growing operational autonomy.What does Ukraine's drone strike reveal about the future of asymmetric warfare? Does the Operation mark the beginning of a new phase in the conflict—one where Russia's rear areas are no longer safe? How should the U.S. respond to being left out of the loop?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/jHhHTnbbl10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Morgan, Martha, and Jess unpack key takeaways from the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where Secretary Hegseth reaffirmed the Indo-Pacific as a U.S. priority—but also told regional allies that they need to take more responsibility as America turns inward. Meanwhile, China continues its campaign of aggression, and Europe is slowly waking up to Beijing's threat—with President Macron calling for alliances against “spheres of coercion.”Can the U.S. credibly claim leadership in the Indo-Pacific without a coherent economic strategy? As allies grow wary of Trump's tariff-first approach and the perception of the U.S. as a destabilizing force grows, will they begin shaping a regional architecture that leaves America behind?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.politico.com/news/2025/05/30/hegseth-warns-asia-allies-that-china-threat-is-imminent-00378700 https://www.axios.com/2025/05/31/rubio-trump-china-students-tariffs-rare-mineralsFollow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/28BJTk4tG4E Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Jess, Amy, and Matt unpack the latest in the Russia-Ukraine conflict as President Trump issues a two-week ultimatum to Vladimir Putin—raising the question: does he really mean it? With no clear movement as talks have stalled, it seems increasingly clear that Russia is stress-testing the limits of U.S. and European patience.Trump's disillusioned tone marks a shift, but the administration still appears stuck between rhetoric and real leverage. Meanwhile, NATO's northern allies are growing uneasy. Is this diplomacy, delay, or something worse? And what's the cost of letting Putin hold the cards while Europe hesitates to get serious?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyn3vqex47ohttps://www.wsj.com/world/north-korea-sent-missiles-and-other-arms-to-russia-in-violation-of-sanctions-u-s-and-allies-say-2ff4f55e?mod=world_lead_pos1https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/29/world/europe/russia-ukraine-war-offensive.htmlhttps://www.wsj.com/world/europe/the-u-s-reinforces-europes-northern-front-fearing-war-with-russia-b499ef50?mod=world_feat5_europe_pos4https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/germany-to-step-up-ukraine-aid-as-europe-scrambles-to-replace-u-s-d0d4718b?mod=world_feat5_europe_pos2 Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@WMattHayden@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/hJLvAVr4690 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Jess, Morgan, and Jeffrey unpack the Trump Administration's pause on student visa interviews and its decision to revoke Harvard's ability to enroll international students—actions that have sparked lawsuits, global reactions, and a debate over the future of U.S. innovation and soft power. As the U.S. steps back, others step in: the EU is investing $500 million to attract top talent, and universities in places like Hong Kong are rolling out red carpets for displaced students.What are the national security threats at play here? Can we enhance safeguards without undermining our most successful innovation engine—higher education? And what does it mean for America's global influence when tomorrow's world leaders are trained in Beijing or Brussels instead of Boston?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://fortune.com/article/trump-universities-international-students/https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/18/us/international-students-universities-funding-trumphttps://www.csis.org/analysis/innovation-lightbulb-not-just-attracting-retaining-international-stem-studentshttps://www.nbcnews.com/world/asia/harvard-international-student-ban-trump-china-europe-rcna209044 Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/-KCF4dFHsxg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When Dr. Mimi Syed returned from her first volunteer trip to Gaza in the summer of 2024, she started flipping through her notes and came to a shocking conclusion: In one month, the ER physician had treated at least 18 children with gunshots to the head or chest. And that's only the patients she had time to make a note of. “They were children under the age of 12,” she says. “That's something I saw every single day, multiple times a day, for the whole four weeks that I was there.”Syed's not the only one. Other physicians who've worked in Gaza report seeing similar cases on a regular basis, suggesting a disturbing pattern. The doctors allege that members of the Israeli military may be deliberately targeting children. This week on Reveal, in partnership with Al Jazeera's Fault Lines, we follow Syed from Gaza to the halls of Congress and the United Nations, as she joins a movement of doctors appealing to US and international policymakers to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Support Reveal's journalism at Revealnews.org/donatenow Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get the scoop on new episodes at Revealnews.org/weekly Connect with us onBluesky, Facebook and Instagram Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
Today, Morgan, Martha, Les, and Jess examine the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Israel has launched a renewed offensive in Gaza amid mounting international pressure to end hostilities and allow humanitarian aid into the territory. Meanwhile, the murder of two young Israeli embassy employees has shocked the world and further underscored the volatility on multiple fronts.As Hamas remains active and Hezbollah and Houthi forces continue attacks—each backed by Iran—the Trump administration navigates complex terrain. With U.S.-Iran nuclear talks ongoing, and intelligence of a potential Israeli strike on Iranian facilities, questions loom: Will the administration's posture embolden or restrain Israeli action? Can Trump's hardline stance on Iran deliver results—or ignite broader conflict? And as Gaza remains in crisis and the region teeters, is Washington's strategy up to the challenge?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/xDku2j9pwhQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Martha, Les, Amy, and Jess examine the latest flurry of diplomatic activity between Russia and Ukraine—amid headlines, handshakes, and very little real progress. Ukrainian and Russian officials met face-to-face in Istanbul for the first time in years, while Putin refused to join. Trump's recent refusal to endorse new sanctions on Russia– as the EU and UK ramp up pressure– is raising alarms among European allies and creating a problematic U.S.-European divide in NATO. With the new Pope offering the Vatican as neutral ground and a bipartisan group of Senators pushing for tougher sanctions, the question remains: is Trump's mixed approach—part engagement, part retreat—undermining the West's leverage? As Russia digs in and Ukraine holds the line, can diplomacy survive in a landscape shaped by war fatigue, nuclear risk, and fractured alliances?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/21/ukraine-war-briefing-pope-opens-vatican-door-to-peace-talks-says-melonihttps://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-peace-talks-trump-83979d718b73cb9bd655dd9aaa915573https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgddel17kvoFollow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/48WGmDLETXM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Jess, Morgan, and Andy unpack weekend elections in Romania, Poland, and Portugal—where voters are navigating domestic frustrations, regional security fears, and the specter of Russian influence. In Romania, centrist Nicușor Dan defeated far-right nationalist George Simion with a pro-EU, anti-corruption message. Poland will head into a June presidential election runoff between centrist Rafal Trzaskowski and far-right challenger Karol Nawrocki, while in Portugal, a far-right party surged to 20%, shaking up the political landscape.Are these results driven by domestic political pressures—or do they reflect a broader European response to the war in Ukraine? Is European support for Ukraine holding strong, or is it increasingly tied to who's in power in Washington? And how do concerns about ballot access and disinformation shape the future of European democracy?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c74q57kydgethttps://www.npr.org/2025/05/17/nx-s1-5400392/elections-in-poland-and-romania-could-shape-the-future-of-europe-and-ukrainehttps://www.reuters.com/world/europe/romanians-vote-presidential-run-off-that-could-widen-eu-rifts-2025-05-17/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroach@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/dhrK5Za2OtU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Les, Martha, Jeffrey, and Matt break down major developments in Syria as President Trump meets with new Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa—former leader of the extremist group HTS—and announces the suspension of U.S. sanctions. The Trump administration's evolving, more direct approach to foreign policy, on display throughout his Middle East trip, raises new questions about oversight, regional alliances, and long-term strategy.Can the U.S. trust this new Syrian leadership? Could loosening sanctions and engaging Gulf partners offer a rare opportunity to stabilize Syria, disrupt Iran's regional ambitions, and counter the influence of Russia and extremist actors? With U.S. troops staying in place and a shifting diplomatic playbook, is this a strategic pivot that could finally reshape the balance of power in the region?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@WMattHayden@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/mGi6DTq2P88 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Morgan and Andy break down President Trump's high-profile visit to the Middle East—his first foreign trip of the new administration. From lifting sanctions on Syria and announcing a $600 billion investment from Saudi Arabia to ongoing hostage negotiations and talks on Hamas, Iran, and regional security, the trip highlights Trump's economic-first approach to diplomacy.What are the real implications of lifting sanctions on Syria—and can the new Syrian leadership be trusted? Is the U.S. abandoning maximum pressure on Iran, or doubling down? And as China courts Middle Eastern nations, what role should America be playing in the region it keeps returning to?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HLyhAdYOdyo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When Ben interviewed President Trump in the Oval Office in February he asked if there was ever going to be a way to get the Washington Commanders back in D.C.? This week, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser announced an agreement with the team, bringing the franchise back to the nation's capital. The move to the site of the old RFK stadium is not without controversy - receiving pushback from progressives. Ben discusses the political and cultural significance of this deal and explains how the project can revitalize the neglected area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices