Podcasts about special representative

On today's episode, Lawfare Managing Editor Tyler McBrien sits down with Ambassador Nina Hachigian, President and CEO of the Alliance for Local Leaders International and the first U.S. Special Representative for City and State Diplomacy from 2022 to 2025.They discuss Hachigian's recent piece in Foreign Affairs, entitled "The Autocrat's Worst Enemy: Why Despots Hate Cities and the Mayors Who Run Them,” how cities are both “laboratories of democracy” and backstops against democratic backsliding, and what U.S. mayors can learn about resisting autocracy from their counterparts abroad.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.

Interview recorded - 9th of September, 2026On this episode of the WTFinance podcast I had the pleasure of welcoming back Professor Vali Nasr. Vali Nasr is a Professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and one of the most authoritative voices on Iran, having advised American policymakers and diplomats on the country for decades. He is also the author of Iran's Grand Strategy: A political history.During our conversation we spoke about the current situation in the Middle East, the reshaping of the continent, why the US is the real loser in this conflict, whether it'll be a forever war and more. I hope you enjoy!0:00 - Introduction2:37 - Current phase of Iran war5:58 - Challenges of agreement8:51 - Sanction pressure12:34 - Lack of trust14:58 - Forever war?17:31 - Iranian shift post war23:21 - Opposition parties?28:40 - Reshaping the Middle East34:33 - Winner of the conflict?38:53 - One message to takeaway?Vali Nasr is the Majid Khadduri Professor of International Affairs and Middle East Studies at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and Non-Resident Senior Advisor in the Middle East Program at CSIS. He served as the eighth Dean of Johns Hopkins SAIS between 2012 and 2019 and served as Senior Advisor to U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Ambassador Richard Holbrooke between 2009 and 2011.Professor Nasr is the author of Iran's Grand Strategy: A Political History, The Dispensable Nation: American Foreign Policy in Retreat; Forces of Fortune: The Rise of a New Middle Class and How it Will Change Our World; The Shia Revival: How Conflicts within Islam will Shape the Future; Democracy in Iran: History and the Quest for Liberty; Islamic Leviathan, Islam and the Making of State Power; Mawdudi and the Making of Islamic Revivalism; Vanguard of Islamic Revolution: Jama'at-i Islami of Pakistan, and co-author of How Sanctions Work: Iran and the Impact of Economic Warfare; as well as numerous articles in scholarly journals and commentary in Financial Times, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal. He has advised senior American policymakers, world leaders, and businesses, including the President, Secretary of State, senior members of the Congress, and presidential campaigns. He has written for New York Times, Foreign Affairs, Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, among others.Vali Nasr - X - https://x.com/vali_nasrBook - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Irans-Grand-Strategy-Political-History/dp/0691268924/WTFinance -Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/67rpmjG92PNBW0doLyPvfniTunes -https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wtfinance/id1554934665?uo=4LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-fatseas-761066103/Twitter - https://twitter.com/AnthonyFatseas

On this episode of #TheGlobalExchange, Colin Robertson sits down with Joseph Ingram and Augusto Lopez-Carlos to discuss their latest work titled "Seven Policy Priorities for Cooperative Global Leadership.” // Guest bios: - Joseph Ingram served as the World Bank's Special Representative to the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. - Augusto Lopez-Claros is an Executive Director of the Global Governance Forum. // Host bio: Colin Robertson is a former diplomat and Senior Advisor to the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. // Music Credit: Drew Phillips | Producer: Judy Alomari // Recording Date: August 24, 2026 Release date: August 31, 2026

Is economic pressure enough to break Iran's nuclear ambitions—or can the regime simply wait out the U.S.? As U.S. strikes against Iranian targets continue and tensions escalate across critical global shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb, the conflict entered a pivotal phase this past week. Recently on the FOX News Rundown, host Dave Anthony sat down with Brian Hook, former U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Senior Policy Advisor during the first Trump administration, to break down the complex geopolitical conflict. They examine the economic bottleneck of the crisis and explain why Iran is leveraging asymmetric terrorism to target energy facilities and drive up global oil and gas prices. Hook provided inside context on "Pickaxe Mountain"—detailing what lies more than 350 feet beneath the ground at Iran's heavily fortified underground nuclear facility and whether U.S. bunker-busters can neutralize it. He also shared what he says is the truth behind Iran's negotiating tactics, their history of violating MOUs, and why Tehran believes its non-democratic regime can outlast American presidential election cycles. We often have to cut interviews short during the week, but we thought you might like to hear the full interview. Today on Fox News Rundown Extra, we will share our entire interview with former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook. Listen daily for full analysis, expert interviews, and breaking geopolitical coverage on The FOX News Rundown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is economic pressure enough to break Iran's nuclear ambitions—or can the regime simply wait out the U.S.? As U.S. strikes against Iranian targets continue and tensions escalate across critical global shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb, the conflict entered a pivotal phase this past week. Recently on the FOX News Rundown, host Dave Anthony sat down with Brian Hook, former U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Senior Policy Advisor during the first Trump administration, to break down the complex geopolitical conflict. They examine the economic bottleneck of the crisis and explain why Iran is leveraging asymmetric terrorism to target energy facilities and drive up global oil and gas prices. Hook provided inside context on "Pickaxe Mountain"—detailing what lies more than 350 feet beneath the ground at Iran's heavily fortified underground nuclear facility and whether U.S. bunker-busters can neutralize it. He also shared what he says is the truth behind Iran's negotiating tactics, their history of violating MOUs, and why Tehran believes its non-democratic regime can outlast American presidential election cycles. We often have to cut interviews short during the week, but we thought you might like to hear the full interview. Today on Fox News Rundown Extra, we will share our entire interview with former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook. Listen daily for full analysis, expert interviews, and breaking geopolitical coverage on The FOX News Rundown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is economic pressure enough to break Iran's nuclear ambitions—or can the regime simply wait out the U.S.? As U.S. strikes against Iranian targets continue and tensions escalate across critical global shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb, the conflict entered a pivotal phase this past week. Recently on the FOX News Rundown, host Dave Anthony sat down with Brian Hook, former U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Senior Policy Advisor during the first Trump administration, to break down the complex geopolitical conflict. They examine the economic bottleneck of the crisis and explain why Iran is leveraging asymmetric terrorism to target energy facilities and drive up global oil and gas prices. Hook provided inside context on "Pickaxe Mountain"—detailing what lies more than 350 feet beneath the ground at Iran's heavily fortified underground nuclear facility and whether U.S. bunker-busters can neutralize it. He also shared what he says is the truth behind Iran's negotiating tactics, their history of violating MOUs, and why Tehran believes its non-democratic regime can outlast American presidential election cycles. We often have to cut interviews short during the week, but we thought you might like to hear the full interview. Today on Fox News Rundown Extra, we will share our entire interview with former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook. Listen daily for full analysis, expert interviews, and breaking geopolitical coverage on The FOX News Rundown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2026 midterm elections just three months away, recent polling shows that an overwhelming majority of working-class and middle-class Americans feel the nation's political and economic systems are stacked against them.  CRC Advisors Senior Vice President and host of the "10 Minute Drill" Podcast Matt Whitlock joins Aishah Hasnie to analyze the newest Fox News Power Rankings, the impact of rising costs and affordability concerns, key races in Congress, and the internal party dynamics driving both Democratic and Republican primaries heading into the fall. With global shipping routes under siege and Iran pushing its nuclear program underground, the conflict between Washington and Tehran is reaching a dangerous new flashpoint. Former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook joins to discuss the challenges of eliminating Tehran's nuclear program, negotiating with its extremist regime, and how the country is coping with the crippling economic pressure being placed on it by the U.S. PLUS, commentary by author of "Make America Talk Again," Brilyn Hollyland.  PHOTO CREDIT: AP PHOTO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2026 midterm elections just three months away, recent polling shows that an overwhelming majority of working-class and middle-class Americans feel the nation's political and economic systems are stacked against them.  CRC Advisors Senior Vice President and host of the "10 Minute Drill" Podcast Matt Whitlock joins Aishah Hasnie to analyze the newest Fox News Power Rankings, the impact of rising costs and affordability concerns, key races in Congress, and the internal party dynamics driving both Democratic and Republican primaries heading into the fall. With global shipping routes under siege and Iran pushing its nuclear program underground, the conflict between Washington and Tehran is reaching a dangerous new flashpoint. Former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook joins to discuss the challenges of eliminating Tehran's nuclear program, negotiating with its extremist regime, and how the country is coping with the crippling economic pressure being placed on it by the U.S. PLUS, commentary by author of "Make America Talk Again," Brilyn Hollyland.  PHOTO CREDIT: AP PHOTO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2026 midterm elections just three months away, recent polling shows that an overwhelming majority of working-class and middle-class Americans feel the nation's political and economic systems are stacked against them.  CRC Advisors Senior Vice President and host of the "10 Minute Drill" Podcast Matt Whitlock joins Aishah Hasnie to analyze the newest Fox News Power Rankings, the impact of rising costs and affordability concerns, key races in Congress, and the internal party dynamics driving both Democratic and Republican primaries heading into the fall. With global shipping routes under siege and Iran pushing its nuclear program underground, the conflict between Washington and Tehran is reaching a dangerous new flashpoint. Former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook joins to discuss the challenges of eliminating Tehran's nuclear program, negotiating with its extremist regime, and how the country is coping with the crippling economic pressure being placed on it by the U.S. PLUS, commentary by author of "Make America Talk Again," Brilyn Hollyland.  PHOTO CREDIT: AP PHOTO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recent developments have highlighted critical efforts in both international human rights advocacy and domestic infrastructure investment. On June 24, 2026, the United Nations Security Council received a significant update regarding children in armed conflict zones, while simultaneously, Canadian federal leaders announced substantial financial support to bolster the nation's northern mining and energy sectors. These two events reflect broader efforts to address global instability and strengthen economic resilience through targeted international advocacy and strategic regional investment. Vanessa Frazier, serving as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, delivered her first major briefing to the Security Council, characterizing the latest report as an "indictment of inaction". The findings presented a concerning rise in grave child violations worldwide, noting that both state and non-state armed groups continue to disregard established humanitarian protections. Frazier strongly advocated for increased accountability from member states and emphasized the necessity of maintaining safe spaces for youth voices, an issue she highlighted after a youth civil society representative was barred from attending the briefing due to last-minute procedural objections. Concurrently, in Yellowknife, the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Canada's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, concluded the 2026 Energy and Mines Ministers' Conference with an announcement of $73 million in federal funding. This investment is directed toward 12 projects nationwide, with a primary focus on critical mineral development, transport infrastructure, and clean energy grids in Canada's North. Notable initiatives include a $50 million investment for the NICO Project Access Road, a joint venture involving the Tłı̨chǫ Government and Fortune Minerals Limited, alongside additional funding for logistics hubs and traditional knowledge studies, all aimed at advancing Arctic sovereignty and strengthening Indigenous partnerships. Both the UN briefing and the Canadian infrastructure announcement illustrate how governance at different scales is actively addressing urgent and distinct priorities. Whether through advocating for the protection of children in conflict-affected regions or investing in the sustainable mineral supply chains necessary for future energy needs, these actions demonstrate a continued commitment to long-term stability and development. As these initiatives move forward, the focus remains on enforcing international accountability while simultaneously building the essential infrastructure required to secure economic opportunities for Indigenous communities and the nation at largeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.globaldispatches.orgAbout ten days ago, a highly unusual scene unfolded at the United Nations: Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon and Vanessa Frazier, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, got into a public shouting match, with Danon telling Frazier, “You will be quiet now!”What began as a tense exchange over a UN report has s…

London Climate Action Week doesn't usually have to compete with extreme weather. But this year, the case for climate action was abundantly clear: a red heat warning, schools shut, trains cancelled, and temperatures breaking the UK's all-time June record. A prime minister's resignation on the opening day only added to the sense that events we'd once considered rare now seem to be happening all the time.This week, Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac and Paul Dickinson report from LCAW 2026, where 75,000 people gathered to work on exactly the crisis unfolding outside. They dig into the politics swirling around the event and the UN Secretary-General's speech that opened it. And with the future uncertain at the UN as well as in Downing Street, Christiana walks through all six candidates to succeed António Guterres, and what each of them actually believes about climate. They also speak with Kate Gallego, Mayor of Phoenix, who alongside last week's guest Nick Reece of Melbourne launched the C40 Global Urban Data Centre Pact at LCAW: a commitment signed by 41 cities to push back on unchecked AI infrastructure expansion in communities that haven't always had a say. And Tom sits down one-on-one with Rachel Kyte, the UK's Special Representative for Climate. She argues that we forgot ‘the second half of Paris', explains how climate diplomacy is shifting gears, and tells us why, against the odds, she still finds reasons for optimism. Learn More:

CLIMATE ACTION SHOWJUNE 22nd 2026Produced by Vivien Langford S A N T A   M A R T A M O M E N T U M  &   S E T B A C KGuestsProfessor Elisa Morgera U.N. Special Rapporteur on Climate Change and Human rightsShe is  Professor of International Law and Sustainability at Durham University (UK) and Professor in International and European Union Environmental Law at the University of Eastern Finland. Her Report to UN 2025https://www.durham.ac.uk/research/institutes-and-centres/csdlp/news-and-events/news/2025/elisa-morgera-report-on-energy-transition-at-the-unga/ Stientje van Veldhoven - Netherlands Climate MinisterDescribing the talks as an "accelerator of work", she stated that Santa Marta provided an essential, informal space to collaborate and solve problems without the "de facto vetoes" that often stall formal U.N. (COP) negotiations.  Irene Velez Torres - Colombia Environment MinisterShe criticized governments for listening to "disinformation and lobbying" and argued that the Santa Marta talks were designed to close the growing gap between science and political decision-making. Ana Carolina Gonzalez Espinosa - A prominent  Climate Leader in Latin AmericaShe serves as the Senior Program Director at the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI) and is a well-known associate researcher at the Universidad Externado de Colombia. Juan Carlos Monterrey Gomez  - Panama As Panama's first Special Representative for Climate Change, he became the youngest lead negotiator in UN history at age 28.  President of Colombia Gustavo Petro -  He made decarbonization and anti-extractivism central to his governance, advancing the global phase-out of fossil fuels, campaigning for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, and committing Colombia to a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.He committed to stopping new oil, coal, and gas exploration contracts, attempting to break Colombia's historic dependence on resource extraction Fergus Green - 2015 Interview from 3CR Archive in celebration of its 50th birthday and contribution to public education on climate actionHe is  now Associate Professor, University College LondonConsultant - climate change policy, law and politicsIn 2015 just before the Paris Climate Conference Fergus spoke to me at Melbourne University about phasing out fossil fuels. His example of the  successful 1989 diplomatic initiative, led by Prime Minister Bob Hawke (alongside French Prime Minister Michel Rocard), to stop mining in Antarctica is still a beacon today.By Fergus Greenhttps://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-political-science-review/article/how-to-get-coal-country-to-vote-for-climate-policy-the-effect-of-a-just-transition-agreement-on-spanish-election-results/25FE7B96445E74387D598087649FDCC3 BREAKING NEWSThe news that the Colombian Government is now in the hands of a Trump Ally is a real setback for many of the gains made by Gustavo Petro's Government. "Abelardo de la Espriella, the apparent winner of the presidential election, has vowed to expand oil, gas and mining production". I wonder what will happen to all the talent flowering at the Santa Marta Conference. See the previous programmes on Santa Marta in the Climate Action Podcast list to know which voices are out of power..... for the moment.https://insideclimatenews.org/news/22062026/colombia-de-la-espriella-presidency-fracking-projects/Background to achievement of outgoing Colombian President Gustavo PetroHe spearheaded regional efforts to protect the Amazon rainforest, hosting global summits to prevent the biome from reaching an ecological "point of no return. In today's speech he mentions the rivers in the sky which brings water from forest transpiration to the uplands of the Andes. The severe drought of 2024/25 raised awareness of the results of deforestation in the Amazon.https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/latinamerica/mantenerse-unidos-tiempos-crisis-lecciones-gestion-sequias-bogota  

Prince Andrew's use of public money has long been a flashpoint for criticism, reflecting the uneasy tension between royal privilege and public accountability. During his tenure as the UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, Andrew racked up hundreds of thousands of pounds in taxpayer-funded travel and hospitality expenses each year—lavish costs that raised questions about whether his “official duties” were serving the nation or himself. His entourage's frequent flights, luxury accommodations, and extravagant spending on overseas visits came under fire in Parliament, with critics accusing him of behaving like a jet-setting businessman rather than a public servant. When revelations about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein emerged, those same spending habits were revisited as evidence of a pattern—public resources used to sustain private indulgence.The controversy deepened with his legal settlement with Virginia Giuffre in 2022, reportedly worth millions of pounds. While Buckingham Palace and HM Treasury insisted no public funds were used to pay it, the lack of financial transparency around royal income fueled public skepticism. Critics noted that Andrew's security, property maintenance, and other royal benefits remain covered by taxpayer money—despite his “retirement” from public duties. His finances remain shrouded in secrecy, prompting ongoing calls for an official register of royal interests and expenditures. For many, Andrew has come to symbolize the problem of unchecked privilege: a man shielded by the institution even as he drained the public purse.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Children in Ukraine have spent years living with air raid sirens, disrupted education and the daily uncertainty of war. Many are forced to learn online or in underground classrooms as communities adapt to the realities of a prolonged conflict.During recent visits to Ukraine and the Russian Federation, the UN's Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Vanessa Frazier, met children, families, and officials on both sides of the border. Ahead of the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression, observed on 4 June, she spoke to UN News's Evgeniya Kleshcheva about what she witnessed and why keeping children at the centre of all responses remains essential.

In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with veteran US official Elliott Abrams about the state of US-Iran negotiations. Abrams assesses President Trump's approach to Iran's nuclear programme, the future of the Strait of Hormuz, and the risks of sanctions relief for Tehran. They also discuss the Trump administration's decision-making process, the prospects for further US military action, the potential expansion of the Abraham Accords. Elliott Abrams is Senior Fellow for Middle Eastern Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, DC. He previously served in senior roles in the US government, including as Deputy National Security Advisor for President George W. Bush and as Special Representative for Iran in the first Trump administration.

The Mercantilist Restoration - https://anthonyfatseas.substack.com/p/the-mercantilist-restoration-howInterview recorded - 22nd of May, 2026On this episode of the WTFinance podcast I had the pleasure of welcoming back Professor Vali Nasr. Vali Nasr is a Professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and one of the most authoritative voices on Iran, having advised American policymakers and diplomats on the country for decades. He is also the author of Iran's Grand Strategy: A political history.During our conversation we spoke about the current situation in the Middle East, what has led up to this conflict, Iran's surprising resilience, their grand strategy, potential escalation, reshaping the Middle East and more. I hope you enjoy!0:00 - Introduction3:05 - Lead up to war5:48 - Surprised about escalation8:38 - Iran resilience10:48 - Iran's Grand Strategy13:18 - October 6th impact16:23 - Conflict resolution20:09 - Military escalation24:11 - How have views changed?28:17 - Iranian proxies over?29:47 - US withdrawing from Middle East?34:11 - Guerrilla warfare35:25 - One message to takeaway? Vali Nasr is the Majid Khadduri Professor of International Affairs and Middle East Studies at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and Non-Resident Senior Advisor in the Middle East Program at CSIS. He served as the eighth Dean of Johns Hopkins SAIS between 2012 and 2019 and served as Senior Advisor to U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Ambassador Richard Holbrooke between 2009 and 2011.Professor Nasr is the author of Iran's Grand Strategy: A Political History, The Dispensable Nation: American Foreign Policy in Retreat; Forces of Fortune: The Rise of a New Middle Class and How it Will Change Our World; The Shia Revival: How Conflicts within Islam will Shape the Future; Democracy in Iran: History and the Quest for Liberty; Islamic Leviathan, Islam and the Making of State Power; Mawdudi and the Making of Islamic Revivalism; Vanguard of Islamic Revolution: Jama'at-i Islami of Pakistan, and co-author of How Sanctions Work: Iran and the Impact of Economic Warfare; as well as numerous articles in scholarly journals and commentary in Financial Times, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal. He has advised senior American policymakers, world leaders, and businesses, including the President, Secretary of State, senior members of the Congress, and presidential campaigns. He has written for New York Times, Foreign Affairs, Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, among others.Vali Nasr - X - https://x.com/vali_nasrBook - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Irans-Grand-Strategy-Political-History/dp/0691268924/WTFinance -Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/67rpmjG92PNBW0doLyPvfniTunes -https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wtfinance/id1554934665?uo=4LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-fatseas-761066103/Twitter - https://twitter.com/AnthonyFatseas

The U.S. military conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran after U.S. Central Command said Iranian forces “launched multiple missiles, drones and small boat” attacks against U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers. This happens just a day after President Trump said Iran is most likely to accept a deal to end the conflict within a week. Officials insist the war isn't restarting and the ceasefire remains in place, but where will negotiations lead? FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Ambassador Kurt Volker, Distinguished Fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA). former Special Representative for Ukraine, who says with changing objectives and no guarantee of regime change, negotiations face many obstacles. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The U.S. military conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran after U.S. Central Command said Iranian forces “launched multiple missiles, drones and small boat” attacks against U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers. This happens just a day after President Trump said Iran is most likely to accept a deal to end the conflict within a week. Officials insist the war isn't restarting and the ceasefire remains in place, but where will negotiations lead? FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Ambassador Kurt Volker, Distinguished Fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA). former Special Representative for Ukraine, who says with changing objectives and no guarantee of regime change, negotiations face many obstacles. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The U.S. military conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran after U.S. Central Command said Iranian forces “launched multiple missiles, drones and small boat” attacks against U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers. This happens just a day after President Trump said Iran is most likely to accept a deal to end the conflict within a week. Officials insist the war isn't restarting and the ceasefire remains in place, but where will negotiations lead? FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Ambassador Kurt Volker, Distinguished Fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA). former Special Representative for Ukraine, who says with changing objectives and no guarantee of regime change, negotiations face many obstacles. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, panelists assess the evolving situation in Iran, identify U.S. policy options for ending the conflict, and examine the implications of each potential next step.   Host: Janine Zacharia, Carlos Kelly McClatchy Lecturer, Stanford University; CFR Member Guests: Brian H. Hook, Vice Chairman, Cerberus Global Investments, LP; Former U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Senior Policy Advisor to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (2018– 2020)   Michele Flournoy, Cofounder and Managing Partner, WestExec Advisors; Former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy (2009– 2011); Member, Board of Directors, CFR   Want more comprehensive analysis of global news and events sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to CFR's Daily News Brief newsletter.   To keep tabs on all CFR events, visit cfr.org/event. To watch this event, please visit it on our YouTube channel: U.S. Policy Options in the War with Iran

Our new ROPESCAST episode features a high-stakes dialogue between host Ksenia Svetlova and Elliott Abrams, a veteran U.S. diplomat and foundational figure in American foreign policy who served as Deputy National Security Advisor and Special Representative for Iran and Venezuela. The discussion offers an analysis of the recent conflict with the Iranian regime, interrogating the strategic paradox of an American kinetic campaign that successfully neutralized key military assets while intentionally eschewing a ground invasion, thereby leaving the regime's governance structures and its control over the Strait of Hormuz effectively intact. Moving beyond the tactical, Abrams—now a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations—analyzes the ties between Israel and the US and discusses the military aid to Israel, settler violence and upcoming elections in Israel.The dialogue concludes by evaluating the Abraham Accords' durability after the war with Iran, illustrating how the framework navigated its most severe geopolitical stress test to date.Chapters:00:00 — Meet Elliott Abrams: Inside U.S. Middle East Strategy08:16 — Why Trump Went to War Without Europe13:31 — Gulf States Tried to Stop the War — Then Got Hit Anyway17:34 — “We Cannot Afford Another North Korea”20:36 — Did Netanyahu Convince Trump to Attack Iran?23:22 — The Truth About Iran's “Destroyed” Nuclear Program27:45 — Is America Turning Against Israel?35:30 — Has Israel Lost the Democratic Party?40:35 — Elliott Abrams on Settler Violence & Qatar's Influence45:33 — Will Saudi Arabia Ever Normalize With Israel?48:23 — The Future of the Middle East After the Iran War

During his time as the UK's Special Representative for Trade and Investment, records tied to Prince Andrew's official trips, contacts, and activities were placed under long-term restriction, with key Foreign Office documents not scheduled for release until 2065—effectively sealing them for decades. Prince Andrew held the role from 2001 to 2011, a position that gave him access to sensitive government briefings, high-level business negotiations, and diplomatic communications. The decision to lock away those records has been tied to standard confidentiality rules around state business, but the sheer length of the embargo—spanning more than half a century—has raised serious questions about whether the intent is protection of national interests or insulation of a controversial figure from scrutiny.That decision has triggered significant blowback, especially as new revelations about his conduct as trade envoy have emerged, including allegations that he shared sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein and blurred the lines between public duty and private relationships. Lawmakers and critics have argued that keeping those records sealed while investigations unfold only deepens suspicion and fuels the perception of institutional protection. Calls to release the documents have intensified, with political pressure mounting to end long-standing conventions that shield royals from accountability, as the secrecy surrounding Andrew's envoy years is now seen as a central obstacle to understanding the full scope of his actions and any potential misconduct.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Iran briefly showed it could choke off a waterway carrying nearly a fifth of the world's oil.That's the visible threat.The real risk may be something else entirely.Former Deputy National Security Advisor and U.S. Special Representative to Iran Elliott Abrams breaks down where Iran's strategy backfired, whether those in power in Tehran can hold on, and why the most dangerous consequence could outlast the war itself.He is senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.--------------------------Exciting news!We've been nominated for a Webby Award — one of the top honors for podcasts.  If you enjoy the show, you can vote for 3 Takeaways here: (Just takes a minute - sign in with Apple or Google, no need to provide your email)   https://wbby.co/57427N(Voting ends tomorrow)Thank you!

This Biotech CEO is Working on Making The Impossible Possible & Helping Us Fight Bad Bacteria. Meet Dr. Deborah Birx (Armata Pharmaceuticals -ARMP)GuestCEO Full Name: Dr. Deborah Birx CEO, Armata Pharmaceuticals Company Name: Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Website: http://www.armatapharma.com/Ticker: $ARMP (NYSE American)Dr. Deborah Birx Bio: Deborah L. Birx, M.D., was appointed Chief Executive Officer on July 10, 2023. Prior to joining Armata, Dr. Birx served as a member of Innoviva's Board of Directors from March 2021 until July 2023.Dr. Birx is a world-renowned medical expert and leader who most recently served as the response coordinator of the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Previously, she served as Ambassador-at-Large, when she assumed the role of the Coordinator of the United States Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS and U.S. Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy. Dr. Birx also served as the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator where she oversaw the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) at the CDC and as the Director of the U.S. Military HIV Research Program (USMHRP) at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.From 1980 until 2008, Dr. Birx served in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of colonel. Dr. Birx has published over 230 manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, authored nearly a dozen chapters in scientific publications, as well as developed and patented vaccines. She received her medical degree from the Hershey School of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, and beginning in 1980, she trained in internal medicine and basic and clinical immunology at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Birx is board certified in internal medicine, allergy and immunology, and diagnostic and clinical laboratory immunology.Company Bio: Armata is a late clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of high-purity pathogen-specific bacteriophage therapeutics for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant and difficult-to-treat bacterial infections using its proprietary bacteriophage-based technology. Armata is developing and advancing a broad pipeline of natural and synthetic phage candidates, including clinical candidates for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and other important pathogens. Armata is committed to advancing phage therapy with drug development expertise that spans bench to clinic including in-house phage-specific current Good Manufacturing Practices manufacturing to support full commercialization

Why has Iran refused to break under decades of American and Israeli pressure? What really sustains the Islamic Republic? And what does this war reveal about the fractures in the global order?Nasr argues that reducing Iran to a theocracy misses the point entirely.------------------About the Guest:Vali Nasr served as Dean of the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and as Senior Advisor to the U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan. He is the author of several landmark books, including The Dispensable Nation, The Shia Revival, and his most recent, Iran's Grand Strategy — which frames much of the conversation in this episode.About the host:Gita Wirjawan is an Indonesian entrepreneur and educator. He is the founding partner of Ikhlas Capital and the chairman of Ancora Group. Currently, he is teaching at Stanford as a visiting scholar with Stanford's Precourt Institute for Energy.------------------Get your copy of Gita Wirjawan's book, “What It Takes: Southeast Asia”, NOW:https://books.endgame.id/Also available on Amazon:https://sgpp.me/amazon/Leave your review here:www.goodreads.com/book/show/241922036-what-it-takes------------------You might also like:https://youtu.be/oT4OcBYEZac?si=RL9-S29Ljw9yWjb-https://youtu.be/rsi7cDRUrmE?si=tvu8hd9rRPFm5FIZhttps://youtu.be/eMNiQEmU4kc?si=tk0Q8L1nJv6SHh0q------------------

FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief

Former U.S. Special Representative for Iran, Brian Hook, joins Brian to break down the strategic collapse of the Iranian regime. Hook reveals why the conflict has exposed Iran as a "paper tiger" and explains how President Trump's decisive action has successfully neutralized Tehran's naval power and isolated their primary financier, China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What are the most important changes the Paris Agreement has brought about? How should the COP process evolve? And why does geoengineering need to be approached with caution?   The fourth part of the Future of Climate Diplomacy mini-series features a fascinating conversation between Chatham House's Chris Aylett (standing in for Anna and Bhargabi) and Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and previously France's Climate Change Ambassador and Special Representative for COP21.

As wars drag on across continents and conflicts grow more complex, children continue to bear the heaviest and most heartbreaking cost.Marking 30 years since the United Nations first established its mandate to protect children caught in war, Vanessa Frazier, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, is sounding the alarm, and calling for renewed global commitment to prevention, protection, and accountability.Ms. Frazier warned that grave violations against children are rising sharply, with more than 7,400 cases of child recruitment verified in 2024 alone.Charlotte Frantz began by asking where child recruitment is happening the most – and what is driving it.

Dr. Kari Johnstone joins Dr. Sandie Morgan as they discuss how traffickers adapt fast, moving money, victims, and exploitation through digital systems most of us interact with every day, examining whether our institutions are adapting fast enough to protect victims without them risking everything to testify.Dr. Kari JohnstoneDr. Kari Johnstone is the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, representing the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe at the political level on human trafficking issues and coordinating anti-trafficking efforts across the OSCE region. Before joining the OSCE, Dr. Johnstone spent nearly a decade (2014-2023) as Senior Official, Acting Director, and Principal Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of State's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (J/TIP), where she advised senior leadership on global trafficking policy and programming and oversaw the annual Trafficking in Persons Report. Her extensive U.S. government service also includes senior roles in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. Dr. Johnstone holds a B.A. from the University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley.Key PointsThe OSCE survey revealed a 17-fold increase in forced criminality cases over five years across the 57 member states, making it the fastest growing form of human trafficking globally.Forced scamming, which originated in Southeast Asia, is now being exported to other regions as criminals adopt this lucrative business model that exploits victims with brutal tactics to defraud others.Technology and artificial intelligence present both challenges and opportunities in combating trafficking, allowing law enforcement to process data more quickly to find victims and perpetrators while also being misused by traffickers for recruitment and exploitation.Financial intelligence and following the money can supplement or even replace victim testimony in prosecutions, reducing the burden on survivors and providing effective pathways to convict traffickers.The non-punishment principle remains woefully inadequate in practice worldwide, with victims often arrested, prosecuted, and convicted for crimes directly related to their trafficking experience, creating lifelong consequences that prevent access to housing, employment, and stability.The United States leads globally on criminal record relief for trafficking survivors, with 48-49 states having vacature or expungement laws and new federal legislation (Trafficking Survivor Relief Act) awaiting presidential signature, though much work remains worldwide.Victim assistance must be unlinked from the criminal justice process, allowing survivors to receive care and services first before deciding whether to cooperate with law enforcement, which actually increases the likelihood they will come forward and participate.The demographics of trafficking victims are shifting beyond stereotypes, with forced scamming targeting educated individuals with IT and language skills, while forced criminality increasingly exploits younger children, including those under age 10, for drug-related crimes and violence.ResourcesOrganization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)OSCE Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human BeingsProtocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons (UN Palermo Protocol)UN Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in PersonsU.S. State Department Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in PersonsTrafficking in Persons ReportTrafficking Survivors Relief ActEnding Human Trafficking PodcastTranscriptTranscript will be here when available.

HEADLINE 1: A delegation of Hamas officials arrived on Monday in…wait for it…Turkey.HEADLINE 2: This is not a parody: Hamas wants to be part of Gaza's new government.HEADLINE 3: The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived in Middle Eastern waters yesterday.AND BONUS HEADLINE 4: The IDF is still hammering Hezbollah in Lebanon.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Council on Foreign Relations Senior Fellow Elliott Abrams, who formerly served as U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Venezuela.For all past episodes: https://bit.ly/3LENwPr--Featured FDD Pieces:"Israel's hostage agony finally ends — but its Gaza mission is far from over" - Mark Dubowitz, New York Post"Iranian Influence Operation Floods X With Anti-Protest Messaging" - Max Lesser and Maria Riofrio, FDD Policy Brief"Why Is Saudi Arabia Abandoning Peace?" - Hussain Abdul-Hussain, The National Interest

Elliott Abrams, senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and U.S. Special Representative for Venezuela and Iran from 2019 to 2021, joins the show to discuss Venezuela and what might happen next. ▪️ Times 02:04 Snatch and Grab 05:50 Intelligence Operations 12:04 Oil 16:50 Holding the Country Together  24:16 Risks & Mistakes 30:48 Blockade 33:54 Hard To Leave    39:11 Not Iraq 41:48 Cuba 42:21 The Iranian Regime Follow along on Instagram, X @schoolofwarpod, and YouTube @SchoolofWarPodcast Find more content on our School of War Substack

In the 2000s, Prince Andrew reinvented himself as Britain's “Special Representative for Trade and Investment.” Officially, he was bringing prosperity to the UK. Unofficially, he was building a network of dubious friendships — oligarchs, dictators, financiers — and a reputation for arrogance that alarmed diplomats. As luxury trips and questionable deals piled up, whispers reached Buckingham Palace. The Queen defended him. Charles worried privately. William took notes.Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

Elliott Abrams, senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and U.S. Special Representative for Venezuela and Iran from 2019 to 2021, joins the show to discuss events in the Caribbean. ▪️ Times 01:56 Venezuela Through Multiple Administrations  06:05 Maduro 11:53 Trump to Biden 17:56 U.S. Military Capabilities  24:05 Political Justifications  30:11 The Venezuelan Opposition 35:56 Machado in Hiding 41:27 Worst Case Scenarios Follow along on Instagram, X @schoolofwarpod, and YouTube @SchoolofWarPodcast Find more content on our School of War Substack

After more than 22 years at the heart of Iraq's political transition and post-war recovery, the UN will close its political mission in the country at the end of 2025.Established in 2003, the mission (UNAMI) has played a central role in supporting inclusive political dialogue, national reconciliation, credible elections and the protection of human rights.UN News's Reem Abaza spoke to the mission chief and Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Mohamed Al Hassan, about what's been achieved – and the challenges ahead. 

COP30 negotiations have officially started, and began with a fight about what to put on the agenda. While not completely unexpected for these enormous multilateral gatherings, it’s a rockier start than the Brazilian hosts in Belem would have wanted. This week on Zero, Akshat Rathi is joined by Rachel Kyte, the UK’s Special Representative for Climate, to talk about how to forge climate consensus in an increasingly polarized world, and who is ready to fill the void left behind by the US. Explore further: Norway Pledges $3 Billion for Forest Fund, With Conditions Find all the latest news from COP30 here: https://www.bloomberg.com/latest/cop-climate-summit Zero is a production of Bloomberg Green. Our producer is Oscar Boyd. Special thanks to Anna Mazarakis, Siobhan Wagner, Sommer Saadi and Mohsis Andam. Thoughts or suggestions? Email us at zeropod@bloomberg.net. For more coverage of climate change and solutions, visit https://www.bloomberg.com/green. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A deal to end the government shutdown moves forward in the Senate, despite sparking division inside the Democratic caucus. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) explains why he supports the deal. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.) argues this deal is bad for Americans. Former U.S. Special Representative for Syria Engagement James Jeffrey reacts to President Trump's meeting with the Syrian president at the White House.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After two years of relentless Israeli air and ground assaults on Gaza, much of the territory lies in ruins. Many of Gaza's two million residents have been displaced and are struggling to secure basic necessities. Jaco Cilliers, the current Special Representative for the United Nations Development Programme's Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP), outlines the vast scale of destruction in Gaza and the immense challenges involved in rebuilding even a semblance of normal life.

Over the years, researchers and journalists have repeatedly requested access to official files relating to Prince Andrew's time as the UK's Special Representative for International Trade & Investment (2001-2011). These documents include his travel records, correspondence, meeting logs and other aspects of his public-role activities. However, under UK public-records and freedom-of-information rules, some royal-associated records enjoy extended secrecy. Specifically, files about certain senior royals (including Prince Andrew) are exempt from general access and are to remain sealed for 105 years after the individual's birth — in Andrew's case meaning his records will largely stay private until 2065.The result has sparked considerable controversy. Critics argue the blanket sealing amounts to a lack of transparency and accountability given Andrew's taxpayer-funded public role, while defenders cite national-security, diplomatic-confidentiality and royal-protocol justifications. The secrecy has been described by some as “dubious” in its application of the Freedom of Information Act and other archival laws, especially when open-government norms would favour release after 20 years.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Reem Alsalem, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, joins Heather Brunskell-Evans and Julian Vigo to discuss her mission as United Nations Special Rapporteur and the consequences, changing dimensions, and the greater challenges of her role. Responding to the criticism she has received for her views on gender ideology, on the one hand, and criticisms by feminists who view women in hijab as less deserving of human rights protections, Alsalem relates how occupation and colonialism impacts this demographic quite differently as she notes how both the degredation of women in hijab and women who “identify as men” are similarly rendered invisible through the very ideologies that pretend to speak for them. Alsalem tackles the divisive issue of the alleged rapes claimed by the Israeli government and legacy media on 7 October 2023 and the incoherence of Western feminism that parrots the debunked reports while simultaneously egging on a genocide. Analysing the report by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict (SRSG-SVC), Alsalem underscores how the mandate for this report was not investigative noting that a later investigation, undertaken by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry in June 2024, issued a report that clearly states that it “has not been able to independently verify such allegations, due to a lack of access to victims, witnesses and crime sites and the obstruction of its investigations by the Israeli authorities.” Alsalem details how the lie that Israel spun regarding the alleged rapes of Israeli women on 7 October has been completely debunked by an independent body, while noting that the widespread evidence documenting Israel's pattern of sexual violence towards Palestinian men and women has been completely ignored by Western media and governments. Get full access to Savage Minds at savageminds.substack.com/subscribe

This week on Cleaning Up, we welcome back Rachel Kyte, the UK's Special Representative for Climate Change, for a deep dive into the shifting landscape of global climate diplomacy ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil.Rachel brings decades of experience — from leading Sustainable Energy for All under Ban Ki-Moon to senior roles at the World Bank and IFC — to unpack how countries, investors, and institutions are navigating the new era of implementation.Together, Michael and Rachel explore:How the UK is re-engaging globally on climate and energy policy.The evolution of climate finance and why capital still struggles to flow into emerging markets.Which path the world will follow, the US petrostate model, or China's electrostate model.Why investing in grids, governance, and infrastructure is still missing from the energy transition.What to expect at COP30 — from forest finance to a possible rethink of the annual COP model.And how countries from Africa to Asia are shaping their own pathways to clean growth and energy security.Rachel also reflects on public attitudes, the politicization of climate action, and the need for pragmatic cooperation over rhetoric.Leadership Circle:Cleaning Up is supported by the Leadership Circle, and its founding members: Actis, Alcazar Energy, Davidson Kempner, EcoPragma Capital, EDP of Portugal, Eurelectric, the Gilardini Foundation, KKR, National Grid, Octopus Energy, Quadrature Climate Foundation, SDCL and Wärtsilä. For more information on the Leadership Circle, please visit https://www.cleaningup.live. Links and more:Rachel's first appearance on Cleaning Up: https://youtu.be/Umq5pICThDMInside the World's Biggest Investor - Ep138: Carine Smith IhenachoThe Planet's Leading Diplomat - Ep70: Ban Ki-moonSustainable Energy for All - Ep16: Dr Kandeh K. Yumkella

During his time as the United Kingdom's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment from 2001 to 2011, Prince Andrew developed several controversial connections in Libya that would later haunt his public image. Among them was his reported friendship with Tarek Kaituni, a convicted Libyan gun smuggler with ties to the Gaddafi regime. Kaituni allegedly acted as a middleman who facilitated introductions between Andrew and other Libyan figures, including members of Muammar Gaddafi's inner circle. Multiple outlets have reported that Kaituni boasted of arranging meetings between Andrew and Gaddafi himself, raising questions about the prince's judgment and whether his official role was used to court unsavory foreign contacts. The scrutiny deepened when reports surfaced of a £1 million payment connected to a Libyan-linked network that allegedly benefited Andrew, involving banker Selman Turk and intermediaries once associated with Kaituni.Prince Andrew's name was once again dragged into scandal when reports surfaced linking him to a suspected Chinese intelligence operative, businessman Yang Tengbo — also known by the codename “H6.” British security officials alleged that Yang used his relationship with the Duke of York to gain influence and access within elite circles, including royal events and private meetings at Buckingham Palace. Investigators later determined Yang was involved in covert activities on behalf of the Chinese government and banned him from the United Kingdom on national security grounds. While Andrew's representatives claimed he ended all contact after the allegations surfaced, documents and testimonies suggested their connection ran deeper, including multiple meetings tied to trade and investment discussions during Andrew's tenure as the U.K.'s Special Representative for International Trade.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

During his time as the United Kingdom's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment from 2001 to 2011, Prince Andrew developed several controversial connections in Libya that would later haunt his public image. Among them was his reported friendship with Tarek Kaituni, a convicted Libyan gun smuggler with ties to the Gaddafi regime. Kaituni allegedly acted as a middleman who facilitated introductions between Andrew and other Libyan figures, including members of Muammar Gaddafi's inner circle. Multiple outlets have reported that Kaituni boasted of arranging meetings between Andrew and Gaddafi himself, raising questions about the prince's judgment and whether his official role was used to court unsavory foreign contacts. The scrutiny deepened when reports surfaced of a £1 million payment connected to a Libyan-linked network that allegedly benefited Andrew, involving banker Selman Turk and intermediaries once associated with Kaituni.Prince Andrew's name was once again dragged into scandal when reports surfaced linking him to a suspected Chinese intelligence operative, businessman Yang Tengbo — also known by the codename “H6.” British security officials alleged that Yang used his relationship with the Duke of York to gain influence and access within elite circles, including royal events and private meetings at Buckingham Palace. Investigators later determined Yang was involved in covert activities on behalf of the Chinese government and banned him from the United Kingdom on national security grounds. While Andrew's representatives claimed he ended all contact after the allegations surfaced, documents and testimonies suggested their connection ran deeper, including multiple meetings tied to trade and investment discussions during Andrew's tenure as the U.K.'s Special Representative for International Trade.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Prince Andrew's use of public money has long been a flashpoint for criticism, reflecting the uneasy tension between royal privilege and public accountability. During his tenure as the UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, Andrew racked up hundreds of thousands of pounds in taxpayer-funded travel and hospitality expenses each year—lavish costs that raised questions about whether his “official duties” were serving the nation or himself. His entourage's frequent flights, luxury accommodations, and extravagant spending on overseas visits came under fire in Parliament, with critics accusing him of behaving like a jet-setting businessman rather than a public servant. When revelations about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein emerged, those same spending habits were revisited as evidence of a pattern—public resources used to sustain private indulgence.The controversy deepened with his legal settlement with Virginia Giuffre in 2022, reportedly worth millions of pounds. While Buckingham Palace and HM Treasury insisted no public funds were used to pay it, the lack of financial transparency around royal income fueled public skepticism. Critics noted that Andrew's security, property maintenance, and other royal benefits remain covered by taxpayer money—despite his “retirement” from public duties. His finances remain shrouded in secrecy, prompting ongoing calls for an official register of royal interests and expenditures. For many, Andrew has come to symbolize the problem of unchecked privilege: a man shielded by the institution even as he drained the public purse.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Alex speaks with Tom Korski, Managing Editor at Blacklock's Reporter, about the controversy surrounding Amirah Elghawaby, Canada's Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia. The pair dissect newly revealed records showing her correspondence with government officials, advocacy inside federal workplaces, and her public stance on Palestinian and Muslim issues. They also tackle the broader question of accountability in Ottawa — including Liberal MP Yvan Baker's proposal to make dishonesty by public office holders an offence. A sharp, candid conversation about access, influence, and truth in Canadian politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

IS HAMAS SERIOUS ABOUT ENDING THE WAR?HEADLINE 1: The U.S. government approved a new aid package for Lebanese security forces.HEADLINE 2: Syria held elections for the first time since Bashar al-Assad's fall.HEADLINE 3: Israel intercepted all the boats and there was no violence or bloodshed. But poor Greta Thunberg was grumpy because she wasn't greeted with hugs and a dance party.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Council on Foreign Relations Senior Fellow The Honorable Elliott Abrams, who formerly served as U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Venezuela and Deputy National Security Advisor.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief-- Featured FDD Pieces"Trump will help Ukraine hit Putin where it hurts — to finally end his bloody war" - John Hardie, New York Post"5 Ways to Curb Iran's Oil Exports to China" - Saeed Ghasseminejad, The National Interest"Europe Should Support Moldova Against Russian Meddling" - Ivana Stradner and RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery, Foreign Policy"Hamas Says 'Yes, But...'" - Elliott Abrams, The Free Press

After splashy announcements from our European, Australian, and Canadian allies, later this month, the UN will vote to “recognize a Palestinian State”. While theatrical and without legal import, the vote can only be understood as a reward for terrorism and October 7th. Hamas and too many Palestinians have no interest in state building, institutions, democratic elections, or taking part in the “two state solution” and never have. And yet, while Hamas is still holding hostages and blocking humanitarian aid, the UN is displaying its bias against Israel. Will a “state” ever satisfy Palestinian nationalism? Are European leaders just making a play for domestic favor? Will the Jordanian option ever see the sun? And if we wanted to, how would we return to status quo ante October 7?Elliott Abrams is a senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, the Chairman of the Tikvah Fund, and the Chairman of the Vandenberg Coalition. He previously served as deputy assistant to the president and deputy national security advisor in the administration of President George W. Bush, where he supervised U.S. policy in the Middle East for the White House, and as Special Representative for Iran and Venezuela in Donald Trump's first administration.Read the transcript here.Subscribe to our Substack here.

President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet in Anchorage, Alaska to discuss a path forward for ending the war in Ukraine. Former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia and Ukraine Evelyn Farkas, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder and former Special Representative to Ukraine Amb. Kurt Volker join for analysis.

According to reporting, government files detailing Prince Andrew's decade-long tenure as the UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment will stay locked away until 2065—some 105 years after his birth—under royal family exemptions to Freedom of Information laws. In practice, this means the public banished from scrutinizing any records tied to his taxpayer-funded diplomatic role, just when transparency should be their highest priority following the Epstein debacle. This isn't mere protocol; it's a stonewall, shielding a scandal-riddled prince from public accountability under the guise of "royal privilege."The timing couldn't be more suspect: Prince Andrew's ties to Jeffrey Epstein have already cost him public trust, official titles, and patronages. Yet with the government's cloak of secrecy firmly in place, the ability to question how and why Epstein-linked business trips were arranged—or what exactly Andrew was doing on the public dime—vanishes into the archives. It's not just a blackout—it's institutional cover-up by omissionto contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Prince Andrew files locked away until 2065 as royal biographer slams 'culture of secrecy' | Royal | News | Express.co.uk