The Explanation

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the impact the US-Israel war with Iran is having on ties with some of Washington’s closest global allies. Nato countries say it’s not their war – and some Gulf states are dealing with the realities of being dragged into a conflict they did not start. With no sign of fighting easing, where does this leave President Trump in the world?

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

Senior producer: Ellyn Duncan
Editor: Silvia Costeloe
Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the economic effects of the war in the Middle East, explores how the conflict is actually helping Russia, and looks at how the escalating tensions between Hungary and Ukraine might affect the upcoming elections in Hungary.
Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

A small number of international journalists have been allowed into Iran following the start of conflict involving the US and Israel. CNN’s Frederik Pleitgen describes his experience.
The 98th Academy Awards took place as viewing figures continue to fall and the film industry faces wider change. Tom Brook, Correspondent, BBC News, and Katey Rich, Awards Editor, The Ankler, outline changes in awards coverage and the relationship between Hollywood and the media.
Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
Assistant Producer: Laura Cain
Researcher: Ruth Waites
Sound: Jack Wilfan
Technical Coordinator: Margot Campanaro

Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the latest on the US-Israel war with Iran. They take stock of the Trump administration’s changing messaging on timelines, and unpack the broader consequences we’re seeing - with the Gulf region brought into the conflict, and the knock-on effects on energy with the disruption to a key shipping route: the Strait of Hormuz.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

Senior producer: Ellyn Duncan
Editor: Anna Holford
Executive producer: Anna Holford

Caroline Hawley, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores what life in Iran is like as the war intensifies, analyses what the US objectives are for the war and whether they are obtainable, and examines the possibility of a new war in Ethiopia and its implications for the region.
Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski