Back of the Stand with Mark Saggers

Lord Richard Dannett tells Jeremy Kyle 'political leaders are playing politics with national defence'.Tim Collins speaks with Julia Hartley-Brewer, criticizing the MoD's bloated civil service and the presence of 92 internal diversity groups, suggesting that cutting these programs entirely would save money. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

General Sir Simon Mayall chats with Jeremy Kyle and strongly criticizes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's newly released defence strategy review.Julia Hartley-Brewer talks with Lord Dannett who also criticizes the Prime Minister's delay in publishing the review, stating that the inaction since last autumn contributed to high-profile political frustrations and resignations, including those of former Defence Secretary John Healey and Minister Al Carns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A retired British couple sailing to France have become centre of an international storm, after they received warning shots from ‘drifting’ frigate Admiral Grigorovich, which is believed to have feared a collision in fog. The incident has renewed questions about the UK's readiness to defend itself, and the threat Russia poses for the country. To discuss, Jeremy Kyle is joined by Sir Malcolm Rifkind, former Foreign & Defence Secretary, and Kevin O'Sullivan discusses the latest with Sir Gerald Howarth, Former Defence Minister. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a developing story tonight, the Ministry of Defence is investigating reports that sailors on a Russian warship fired warning shots today at a yacht that came near it in the English Channel. It comes after Royal Marines seized a Russian shadow vessel as it was passing through the Channel on Sunday. To react to the news, Kevin O'Sullivan is joined Rear Admiral Chris Parry, former NATO & Royal Navy Commander, to discuss the latest on the story and the threat Russia poses the UK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The threat Russia poses to the United Kingdom has been thrown back into the spotlight this week, after Royal Marine commandos seized a Russian shadow vessel as it passed through the English Channel on Sunday morning - a first for the UK since the invasion of Ukraine began.On Monday, a Ukrainian and a Romanian were found guilty of plotting arson attacks that targeted a car formerly owned by Keir Starmer, and his former family home, with investigations released after the verdict showing involvement from the Russian state.So how concerned should we be about Russia?On this episode of Talk War, Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by Lord Dannatt, former Head of the British Army. They discuss the resignation of John Healey, the appointment of Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary, why we will all feel the cost if Putin succeeds, our past issues with failing to deter invasion, and why we need to take action now - plus, what he makes of Trump's deal with Iran. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peace is coming for the Middle East. After 15 weeks of conflict that has thrown global shipping and oil prices into chaos, Pakistan announced today that the USA and Iran have agreed to a deal to end the war. The agreement will be signed on Friday, and US President Donald Trump has teased that the deal will see Iran give up nuclear weapons, and will allow for the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices have dropped as a result, and stock markets in Europe and on Wall Street have skyrocketed. So what happens next?On this episode of Talk War, Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by author Jake Wallis Simons, to discuss how this deal risks being a major defeat for Trump, and how Iran is trying to drive a wedge between Israel and USA.And Ian Collins is joined by Middle East expert Patrick Cockburn, to discuss how difficult things are for Israel after this deal, and how many in the Middle East don't want Iran as an enemy anymore after this conflict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a major blow for Keir Starmer's defence funding plans, Secretary of State for Defence John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns resigned yesterday in protest over Treasury's refusal to sign off the requested budget to fully fund the country's defence. It has put renewed pressure on the Prime Minister, who insisted today that the country's defence remains his top priority. To discuss, Ian Collins is joined by Bob Seely, former Conservative MP and military expert, who discusses how Labour’s priorities are not those of much of Britain, and how Starmer hasn’t got the power to overrule Rachel Reeves.And Kevin O'Sullivan is joined by former Head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, to discuss how the Government has chosen welfare over safety of the nation, what sort of defence budget we should be aiming, the growing threat to our security, and the desperate state of our defences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government could be about to drop the long awaited defence spending plan, showing how Labour plans to improve a crisis that is leaving Britain at risk. However, rumours are abound that the plan could drop on Friday when Parliament isn't sitting, meaning the Government would not face questions on the plan. Speaker Lindsay Hoyle has weighed in, cautioning the Government against a Friday drop. And how will we pay for such a plan? Well, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has opened the door to more tax rises in order to fund the spending, saying that the money "has to come from somewhere". To discuss the news, Ian Collins is joined on this episode of Talk War by Mark Francois, Shadow Defence Minister, who says that this is causing a Parliamentary row, and dropping the plan on Friday prevents Opposition from holding the Government to account. And he calls for the money to come from a cut to welfare spending. And Anne Strickland, researcher at The Taxpayers' Alliance, echoes those calls, telling Ian that the country's defence capabilities are not up to scratch, but the answer isn't higher taxes - and our welfare bill at the end of this decade is going to be more than £400bn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The world is still reeling from the sudden return of strikes between Israel and Iran over the weekend - and is waiting to see if alleged peace talks will pan out, or if they will fail once again. But the strikes have shown President Donald Trump taking a firmer stance with Israel, with the President reportedly pushing for Israel to pause hostilities. So what happens now that both sides have scaled back the fighting? To discuss, Ian Collins was joined by Emily Schrader, journalist and Middle East Expert, who discusses Iran's threat to continue fighting if Israel continues to fire on Lebanon, who the victims are in this scenario, and what weight Trump's comments have had.And Kevin O'Sullivan is joined by Jim Jatras, former U.S. Diplomat, Foreign Policy Adviser for the Republican Leadership In The U.S. Senate, on the 'pickle' that Trump has found himself in. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Gulf Crisis took another turn this weekend. As Israel continued to fire rockets towards southern Lebanon, aiming at Hezbollah targets despite an ongoing ceasefire, prompting Iran to strike at Israel for the first time since Israel. The two countries exchanged rockets across the weekend, prompting US President Donald Trump to tell the two countries to "stop shooting". The countries are reportedly negotiating a ceasefire, according to Trump, and Iran has said it is ending operations in Israel - but will escalate if the fighting continues in Lebanon. To discuss the latest developments, Jeremy Kyle is joined by Sean Bell, former fight pilot turned military analyst, to take stock of the wider conflict and is peace can actually be achieved. And Erol Morkoc, spokesman for Republicans Overseas UK, talks to Julia Hartley-Brewer about how Trump truly feels about the conflict.Former Israeli Government Spokesman Eylon Levy tells Julia that it’s crucial Israel can’t treat Lebanon as its backyard, and that while Israel and the US have convergent interests, they are two sovereign countries with their own concerns.And after news of the ceasefire Andrew Fox, Senior Associate Fellow at the Henry Jackson Society & Former Major in the Parachute Regiment, tells Julia how Iran's wants are dragging out the negotiations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The head of the military, Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton has warned that the threats to the UK are at their greatest since the Cold War, telling the BBC that "This is the most dangerous period that I have known", and Russia is "raising the stakes and risks crossing a line".On this episode of Talk War, Ian Collins is joined by Col. Simon Diggings, retired British Army Colonel and defence analyst, to discuss the growing frequency and danger of cyber attacks, the chaos they can cause, and why we need to build our resilience as a country.Plus, Keir Starmer, Rachel Reeves and John Healey are reportedly in a standoff over an extra £28 BILLION needed for the Government to meet their defence spending pledges.Ex-Minister Tobias Ellwood joins Duncan Barkes to discuss how this standoff is a dangerous distraction from the issues facing the UK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

U.S. President Donald Trump has signalled that a deal with Iran is 'largely negotiated' and could be announced soon - a deal that would see the Strait of Hormuz reopened and Tehran surrenders its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Iran and negotiators Pakistan have not confirmed the news though. On this episode of Talk War, Ian Collins is joined by Sean Bell, former fighter pilot and military analyst, and Michael Yaki, U.S. political analyst, to discuss what the end of the war would mean for global trade. And Petrie Hosken is joined by Colonel Simon Diggins, military and defence analyst, who analyses how the U.S. underestimated Iran and their resilience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Iraqi immigrant has been granted the right to stay in Britain because he could be killed by Shia militia in home country, as his his father was a captain in Saddam Hussein's army. And UK's defence weakness has been exposed once again, as a new report alleges that Britain only has enough drones to last ONE WEEK of a war against Russia! To discuss the story, Kevin O'Sullivan is joined by Colonel Simon Diggins, former Defence attache in Kabul.They discuss why we need a change of law to address our asylum system, why the area of Iraq where the immigrant comes from is not as dangerous as he makes it out to be, and why the drone story highlights the ongoing resourcing issues in our defence system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s faltering Iran strategy, the escalating Strait of Hormuz blockade and the growing threat to the global economy take centre stage in this high-stakes episode of Talk War. Former Defence Select Committee chair Tobias Ellwood delivers a brutal assessment of Washington’s handling of the conflict, branding it a textbook case of how not to wage war — with no clear objectives, shaky strategy, contradictory messaging and Iran’s regime still standing stronger than many expected. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s escalating Iran conflict, the Strait of Hormuz blockade and the growing threat to global shipping dominate this explosive Talk War special as Isabel Oakeshott reports from Dubai after fresh missile alerts in the UAE, Sean Bell breaks down why America still cannot fully reopen one of the world’s most vital waterways, and former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe exposes how Iran’s decades-long military planning is outmanoeuvring Western strategy. From Project Freedom and Gulf state tensions to trapped cargo ships, oil prices, Royal Navy weakness and fears of a prolonged Middle East crisis, this gripping security deep dive unpacks how Trump, Tehran and the Hormuz choke point could reshape the global economy, regional alliances and Britain’s own defence vulnerabilities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new report out today has revealed that the UK military is SKINT! The defence forces can't afford to buy any new weapons until 2030.Meanwhile, Iran has sent a new 14-point peace plan to the US asking them to withdraw forces from the region, as the war drags on into another week.On this episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle General Ben Hodges, former Commander U.S. Army Europe, joins to discuss the defence funding crisis in the UK, and if the US is likely to accept the new peace plan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tensions in the Middle East surge after the US intercepts and seizes an Iranian cargo vessel, triggering fresh retaliation threats from Tehran and plunging the Strait of Hormuz back into chaos. With the vital shipping route flipping between open and closed, global markets and security hang in the balance as Washington and Tehran edge closer to direct confrontation.Featuring military analyst Sean Bell, journalist David Patrikarakos and US commentator Adam Coleman, the episode breaks down the escalating tit-for-tat, the fragility of multiple ceasefires, and why Iran may still hold the upper hand despite America’s military dominance. From nuclear negotiations to economic choke points, the discussion exposes the real leverage behind this conflict.As brinkmanship intensifies ahead of looming peace talks, the question is whether diplomacy can hold — or if this spirals into something far more dangerous. Talk War delivers the clearest picture yet of a conflict driven as much by strategy and messaging as it is by firepower. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure over UK defence spending after former NATO chief Lord Robertson warned Britain is “not safe”, with retired General Sir Simon Mayall telling Talk War the country’s military capability has been dangerously eroded. As tensions escalate globally, the episode breaks down the high-stakes battle over the Strait of Hormuz, China’s influence over Iran, and Donald Trump’s unpredictable role in shaping the conflict’s outcome. With fresh scrutiny on Israel’s war with Hezbollah and the media narratives driving public perception, Talk War delivers a hard-hitting analysis of a world growing more unstable—and asks whether the UK is prepared for what comes next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lord George Robertson - who co-authored a spending review for the Government - has joined the chorus of voices criticising Keir Starmer and Labour for not investing enough in defence and how that is putting the UK at risk. He said that there should be cuts to welfare spending to better invest in defence. Keir Starmer said he does not agree with Lord's views, saying that defence spending is rising and that Labour is not complacent on the issue. On this episode of Talk War, Mark Dolan is joined by former Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood, who says that the Lord's comments are very bold but are based in reality. He also argues for a ringfenced increase in taxation to help with increasing the defence budget. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talk War examines Britain’s growing security and economic crisis as Ian Collins is joined by Nigel Evans, former MI6 deputy director Nigel Inkster, Dan Hodges and Kevin Hollinrake to debate Lord Robertson’s warning that the UK is “not safe”, the pressure to cut welfare to fund defence, Donald Trump’s threat to rethink the US-UK trade deal, the IMF’s downgrade to Britain’s growth forecast, and the row over migrants being moved from hotels into HMOs and barracks, making this a punchy, search-friendly episode on UK defence spending, border security, Trump, Iran, Russia and whether Keir Starmer is prepared for a far more dangerous world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former NATO secretary general and former Labour defence secretary Lord Robertson has delivered a speech, criticising 'vandals' at the Treasury for not investing properly in defence spending, and putting the UK's national security 'in peril'. As Keir Starmer faces pressure to invest more in defence, particularly after the Iran War and HMS Dragon exposed the UK's weaknesses, how serious do we need to get?Today on Talk War, Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by Retired British Army colonel Tim Collins OBE to discuss Lord Robertson's comments. He argues that the Government have little understanding of defence and its role in the global order, and that is shown by the Strait of Hormuz blockade and their lack of understanding on why things have gone wrong. And Julia is also joined by David Patrikarakos. special correspondent at the Daily Mail, who argues that the UK is behind the curve on funding, and they are still stuck in the paradigm of thinking that war looks like it did in WW2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talk War zeroes in on the escalating Strait of Hormuz crisis, as Julia Hartley-Brewer leads a hard-hitting discussion on Donald Trump’s move to blockade Iranian oil exports, the failure of ceasefire talks, and the growing threat to global energy, food and supply chains. With contributions from Lord Robertson, Andrew Fox, Liam Halligan and Rear Admiral Chris Parry, the episode examines how the Iran blockade could send oil, gas, fertiliser and fuel prices soaring, leave Europe facing jet fuel shortages, deepen the cost of living crisis and expose Britain’s military and political weakness, with Keir Starmer accused of looking absent, ineffective and unprepared as the US takes the lead in the Middle East. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer is currently visiting the Middle East to talk with Gulf leaders about the ceasefire deal and ongoing peace in the Middle East. But given the UK's dismal response to the conflict, what does he hope to achieve?On this episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle is joined by Mail on Sunday columnist Dan Hodges to discuss the "humiliation" of the British Royal Navy during this conflict, the chronic underinvestment in British defence, and what Starmer hopes to achieve on his visit. And Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, Former Commander US Army Europe, to discuss the ceasefire deal, the ongoing disagreement between the U.S. and Iran about what the deal says, and what will actually happen with the Strait of Hormuz. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Barely 24 hours after the ceasefire deal was agreed, it already appears to be on rocky footing, after Iran claimed Israel had breached the deal by striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The US and Israel have both rejected the claims, saying that Lebanon was not part of the deal, but the future of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain. On the latest episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle is joined by a range of guests to dig into the latest from the Middle East, the state of the ceasefire, and including Keir Starmer's visit to the region and if it will achieve anything.Featuring:James Price, former Government special adviserIsabel Oakeshott, Talk International Editor Priti Patel, Shadow Foreign SecretarySir Richard Dalton, Former British Ambassador to the Islamic Republic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer jetted out of the UK today for the Middle East, hours after a ceasefire deal was reached between the USA and Iran, in order to meet with different leaders in the region to discuss peace.But is him showing up after a deal has been reached a little like Commodus turning up after missing the war in "Gladiator"? That's what Col. James Sunderland, former MP and military expert, thinks about the PM's latest overseas visit, as he joined Kevin O'Sullivan to dissect the visit.And Iranian activist Laila Jazayeri joined Kevin to discuss ongoing support from some in the UK for the existing Iranian regime, and what is needed to secure real regime change in the country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The two-week ceasefire deal between America and Iran is less than a day old, and questions remain around what exactly peace will look like, if the Strait of Hormuz will reopen fully, and Ian Collins is joined from Dubai from Isabel Oakeshott, who discusses Keir Starmer's visit to the region and if he will contribute anything to the ceasefire discourse. He is also joined by journalist and broadcaster, Peter Oborne, and former Chief of Staff for Joe Biden, Susan Platt, to discuss why Trump wanted this ceasefire and the lasting consequences of the war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the eleventh hour last night, the U.S. and Iran reached a deal for a two week ceasefire while the two countries negotiate on a longer-term end to the conflict that has dominated global headlines for over a month. With the war now on pause, what does it mean for oil prices as the Strait of Hormuz reopens, and what will both sides get out of the deal?And now Prime Minister Keir Starmer has headed to the Middle East for talks with allies - but what does he hope to achieve? Live from Dubai, Isabel Oakeshott joins Jeremy Kyle to discuss the local reaction to the end of the war and what the region hopes to get from it. And Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by author Jake Wallis Simons for a discussion about how America may have won tactically, but Iran hopes the trump card when it comes to the Strait of Hormuz - and Lord Dannatt, former head of the British Army, joins to explain the the thin line between winning and losing in conflicts like this, and the importance of Pakistan in securing this deal.And Former Ukrainian Government Adviser Cormac Smith joins Julia to discuss how the US is getting involved in Hungary's upcoming election and what that means for Ukraine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Kyle leads a high-stakes Talk War discussion on Donald Trump’s Iran ceasefire, Keir Starmer’s handling of the crisis and Britain’s role in the Middle East, joined by former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove, Professor Gwythian Prins, Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin and former Deputy Speaker Nigel Evans. This episode targets the biggest search terms in the story: Iran ceasefire, Trump, Starmer, Strait of Hormuz, RAF operations and IRGC.The panel asks whether Trump’s threats forced Iran to back down, whether the ceasefire will actually hold and what the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz means for oil prices, global markets and Western security. Jeremy’s guests also clash over claims that UK personnel intercepted more than 110 drone attacks, the RAF flew 1,600 hours of defensive operations and Britain is more deeply involved in the conflict than ministers admit.Listeners will also hear fierce criticism of Keir Starmer’s Gulf trip, warnings about Britain’s weakened military capability, fresh calls to ban the IRGC and a blunt debate over whether Iran now poses a greater terrorist threat to the UK. For anyone searching for analysis on Trump and Iran, Starmer’s Middle East response, UK defence policy and the latest Strait of Hormuz fallout, this is a hard-hitting episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With under twelve hours to go before Donald Trump's deadline for Iran to reach a ceasefire deal ends, the U.S. President took to Truth Social to issue his biggest threat yet.He wrote: "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will" -- while noting that Iran's regime can still prevent it from happening.Are these latest threats enough to secure a deal, or do they show that Trump has lost the plot?To discuss, Ian Collins was joined by author and former US Navy intelligence officer, Malcolm Nance, and Chairman of Republicans Overseas UK, Greg Swenson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump's latest deadline for Iran to make peace expires overnight - and the President has threatened to destroy the country if they don't. Iran yesterday rejected a ceasefire proposal - so is there any chance of peace actually coming to the Middle East? To discuss, Jeremy Kyle is joined by former fighter pilot and military analyst Sean Bell, where they also discuss Trump's press conference where he detailed the mission to rescue several downed airmen. Speaking from Dubai, Jeremy is also joined by Isabel Oakeshott to discuss the reception to Trump's threats, his latest criticism of Keir Starmer, and news that the new Ayatollah in Iran is unconscious after being injured in a strike. And Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by former Defence & Foreign Minister Tobias Ellwood, who discusses how Trump has boxed himself in with his threats, the flaws in his mission to strike Iran in the first place, and if the President is still committed to his mission.She is also joined by former Head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, to discuss Iran's history of destructive policies, and the potential for Iran to strike London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the weekend, Donald Trump took to Truth Social with an expletive-laden post about the conflict in Iran, threatening to strike the country's bridge and energy infrastructure if a deal wasn't reached soon. Iran dismissed the latest threat as "helpless, nervous and stupid". So is he taking the right approach to trying to end the conflict? Rick Gates - former deputy campaign manager for Donald Trump - joins Alex Phillips to discuss the post and why the US President still has his support over the conflict and what Trump has got right with his strategy. And over the weekend, US forces rescued an airman who went missing after his jet was shot down over Iran. Defence analyst Simon Diggins speaks with Mark Dolan to discuss the significance of this rescue mission and how it will help with US morale. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talk War brings together Republican strategist Amy Tarkanian, Democrat adviser Michael Yaki, and former British Army chief Richard Dannatt to dissect Donald Trump’s latest Iran war address — as he claims victory is near while ramping up military threats. With the Strait of Hormuz crisis driving global oil fears and UK fuel prices under pressure, this episode asks: is Trump ending the war, or losing control of it?The panel clashes over Trump’s shifting messaging, from promises of withdrawal to warnings of escalation, exposing deep divisions inside US politics. Tarkanian defends the need for strong leadership but admits the lack of a clear exit strategy, while Yaki argues Trump has ignored decades of war-gaming around the Strait of Hormuz — the key global oil choke point now impacting economies worldwide. The debate also explores whether Iran has outmanoeuvred the US, using النفط leverage to hold global markets hostage.Lord Dannatt delivers a hard-headed military assessment, warning that NATO was sidelined from the start and cannot be treated as an offensive tool at America’s command. He lays bare the uncomfortable truth about UK defence capability, the reliance on US military power, and the growing pressure on European nations to increase spending. From Trump’s foreign policy gamble to NATO tensions, oil price shocks and the risk of a wider Middle East war, this is a high-stakes, no-holds-barred analysis of the Iran conflict and what Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Hartley-Brewer speaks to Iranian political strategist Marty Youssefiani as the Iran war intensifies, with global markets on edge over the Strait of Hormuz crisis and the threat of fuel shortages hitting the UK. With Donald Trump sending conflicting signals on US strategy, NATO involvement and whether the war is ending or escalating, this episode tackles the biggest question right now: where is the Iran conflict heading next?They break down the competing war aims driving the crisis — from US concerns over Iran’s nuclear threat, to Israel’s fight against Iranian-backed groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis, and the growing pressure from inside Iran for regime change. Youssefiani warns that military action alone will not topple the Iranian regime, highlighting the lack of a clear political alternative, the role of the IRGC, and why protests have failed to reach a tipping point despite widespread anger and thousands killed.Drawing on his experience advising Reza Pahlavi, Youssefiani explains why Iran is fundamentally different to Iraq and Afghanistan — pointing to a highly educated, digitally connected population that could shape a post-regime future if properly supported. From the risk of a rushed US exit to the long-term challenge of nation-building, this is a must-listen deep dive into the Iran war, Strait of Hormuz disruption, Trump’s foreign policy, and the fight for Iran’s future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s latest address to the American people raises more questions than answers, with confusion over NATO, Iran and the future of global security dominating this explosive episode of Talk War. Donald Trump looms large as both allies and enemies struggle to interpret what he didn’t say as much as what he did.Special Correspondent David Patrikarakos warns Trump’s on-off threats to pull out of NATO are a deliberate pressure tactic designed to force Europe to “step up”, while exposing major weaknesses in Britain’s defence capability. The discussion drills into the reality of the Iran conflict, including the risks around the Strait of Hormuz, whether Western powers could realistically secure it, and why the true success of the war will only be clear once the fighting stops.Republican strategist Matt Terrill, former adviser to Marco Rubio, insists the US is winning and argues Trump’s rhetoric is about strength, not recklessness. He reveals why Washington expects NATO allies to do more, how the Iran war could reshape global alliances, and why decisions made in the coming weeks could redefine America’s role on the world stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talk War tackles the deepening Iran conflict, the anti-Semitism row surrounding a major London march and the wider threat to Britain’s security. Fleur Hassan-Nahum argues Israel is making progress against Iran’s military infrastructure and says the regime remains a global danger, while Tobias Ellwood warns the war still lacks a clear endgame despite the damage already inflicted on Tehran. The episode also hears from Talk reporter Samara Gill after she went inside a huge central London protest that she says exposed open hostility to Israel and a refusal among many attendees to condemn Hamas.The discussion ranges from Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran war and whether regime change is realistic, to Britain’s response to Iranian terror threats and the risk of further escalation across the Middle East. Fleur Hassan-Nahum says the Iranian regime is a civilisational threat and insists there is a plan for what comes after the fighting, while Tobias Ellwood questions the absence of a coherent Western strategy and warns of economic fallout hitting the UK through fuel disruption. Samara Gill then details what she witnessed at the London march, including pro-Ayatollah imagery, confusion over Hamas, claims of anti-Semitism and an atmosphere she describes as threatening and deeply divisive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove joins Philip Ingram on Talk War for a hard-hitting conversation on the global security crises reshaping the world.From the escalating confrontation with Iran and Donald Trump’s response, to growing pressure on NATO, the threat from Russia and China, and serious questions over whether Britain is prepared for modern conflict, this episode tackles the biggest defence and intelligence issues facing the UK and the West.Philip Ingram, former senior British military intelligence officer, and Sir Richard Dearlove dig into:the latest tensions involving Iran, the US and the Strait of Hormuzwhether further American military action is likelythe reality of the UK’s military readinessdefence spending, missile defence and Britain’s vulnerabilitiesthe intelligence relationship between the UK and the USthe threat posed by the IRGCpolitical leadership, national resilience and the future of British securityIf you want sharp analysis on war, geopolitics, intelligence, defence policy and national security, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Listen now to Talk War with Philip Ingram.Former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove joins Philip Ingram on Talk War for a hard-hitting conversation on the global security crises reshaping the world.From the escalating confrontation with Iran and Donald Trump’s response, to growing pressure on NATO, the threat from Russia and China, and serious questions over whether Britain is prepared for modern conflict, this episode tackles the biggest defence and intelligence issues facing the UK and the West.Philip Ingram, former senior British military intelligence officer, and Sir Richard Dearlove dig into:the latest tensions involving Iran, the US and the Strait of Hormuzwhether further American military action is likelythe reality of the UK’s military readinessdefence spending, missile defence and Britain’s vulnerabilitiesthe intelligence relationship between the UK and the USthe threat posed by the IRGCpolitical leadership, national resilience and the future of British securityIf you want sharp analysis on war, geopolitics, intelligence, defence policy and national security, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Listen now to Talk War with Philip Ingram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump issued his 15-point peace plan to Iran in order to end the conflict. Iran promptly said they weren't interested. On this episode, Ian Collins is joined by Hamish De Bretton Gordon OBE, former British Army Colonel, to dig into the latest around the conflict and who is holding all the cards in reaching a conclusion. And Hamish discusses his latest piece for The Telegraph and why he believes the mullahs of Iran have British blood on their hands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Talk, Colonel James Sunderland, Greg Swenson, and Matthew Syed joined Kevin O'Sullivan to discuss the latest developments for the UK, U.S. and Iran as the Gulf Crisis continues. Three weeks after the RAF Akrotiri was hit by an Iranian missile, the HMS Dragon finally arrived in Cyprus. Col. James discusses the systemic failures that have contributed to the decline of a naval force, Keir Starmer's wobbly commitment to an increase in defence budget, and his reluctance to comment on the risk of a British strike from Iran. And after Donald Trump threatened Iran with a 48-hour deadline - and then delayed it - it looks increasingly like the U.S. President doesn't have control of the situation. Kevin debates Trump's handling of the crisis with Republicans Overseas UK chair Greg Swenson, and Times columnist Matthew Syed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Kyle and guests react to the alleged anti-Semitic firebombing of Jewish ambulances in Golders Green and the deepening Iran conflict. The episode centres on anti-Semitism in Britain, Keir Starmer’s response to national security threats, and the growing fear that the war with Iran could spiral into a much wider global crisis.Brendan O’Neill calls the ambulance attack an act of “fascist savagery”, while Zia Yusuf says Britain has become dangerously soft on extremism and failed the Jewish community. Amy Tarkanian gives the US view on Donald Trump, military pressure on Iran and America’s frustration with Starmer’s indecision. Former RAF pilot Sean Bell breaks down the reported missile strike near Diego Garcia, the threat posed by the Strait of Hormuz, and why any military endgame looks far messier than politicians suggest. Yosef Haddad, speaking from the Israeli-Lebanese border, delivers a stark warning about Iran, Hezbollah and the danger posed by the IRGC.This is a hard-hitting Talk War episode on anti-Semitism, Islamist extremism, Iran, Israel and the weakness of Western leadership. From domestic security failures in London to fears of a wider Middle East war, it is a furious, fast-moving listen packed with anger, analysis and major questions about whether Britain is prepared for the threats now in front of it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The world is burning – and Britain is not ready. In this explosive episode of Talk War, host Philip Ingram MBE (former senior military intelligence officer) sits down with Andrew Fox, ex-Para major and Henry Jackson Society senior fellow, to dissect the escalating 2026 Iran war.Three weeks in: US-Israel strikes decimate Iranian navy, missiles, and energy sites like South Pars, while Iran retaliates with barrages on Israel and Gulf states, spiking global oil prices and hitting UK petrol pumps hard. They reveal why interceptor stocks are draining, Russian components in Iranian drones threaten Cyprus bases, and Trump's shifting stance raises questions about US reliability.Philip and Andrew expose Britain's dire state: underfunded, undermanned armed forces, delayed defence plans, Treasury cuts since 2010, failed projects like AJAX, and politicians dipping into defence budgets for vote-winning priorities. Is NATO finished? Will Russian subversion and drone threats hit home next? And why might a major crisis be needed to force real change?This is your no-nonsense national security briefing – holding leaders to account when politicians won't. From Ukraine to Gaza to Iran, conflict anywhere affects us here.Subscribe to TalkTV for more Talk War episodes, expert analysis, and daily updates. Available on the Talk app or wherever you get podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isabel Oakeshott and Hamish de Bretton-Gordon unpack a dramatic shift in the Middle East conflict as Donald Trump publicly distances himself from Israel following strikes that have triggered retaliation across the Gulf.With missile alerts in Dubai, attacks on key energy infrastructure in Qatar and a 23% spike in gas prices, the global economic impact is already being felt. The episode explores whether Trump has lost control of the narrative, and what it means for the so called special relationship with Keir Starmer and Europe’s refusal to fully back US action.From tensions within NATO to fears over the Strait of Hormuz, the conversation dives into the risks of a fractured alliance, the reality of asymmetric warfare and whether this conflict is already beyond any quick resolution. Featuring analysis from both guests, this is a sharp, fast moving breakdown of a war that is rapidly reshaping global security and hitting wallets back home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Talk War, former White House official Matthew Bryza and ex-US Army Europe commander Ben Hodges join the show as tensions escalate between Washington and London over the Iran conflict. With Donald Trump publicly attacking the BBC, comparing Keir Starmer unfavourably to Winston Churchill and accusing Britain of weakening the “special relationship”, the debate turns to whether the transatlantic alliance is entering dangerous territory.Matthew Bryza warns that Trump’s strategy in Iran appears increasingly chaotic, arguing the president expected a quick regime collapse but underestimated the complexity of Iran’s internal power structure and the likelihood of retaliation. He says the conflict is also fracturing Trump’s own political base in the United States, with many prominent MAGA figures opposing another foreign war.Retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges offers a stark military assessment, saying Britain’s armed forces still have world-class quality but no longer have the scale to match it after decades of underinvestment. He also explains why NATO remains critical to US security despite Trump’s criticisms, and why European allies are reluctant to follow Washington into a war whose objectives remain unclear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Talk War, former US National Security Adviser John Bolton and ex-NATO commander Chris Parry assess the latest from the Iran conflict, as Donald Trump turns up the pressure on Britain over its refusal to play a bigger role. With the Strait of Hormuz under threat and global oil supplies at risk, the question is no longer whether the war matters to the UK, but how much longer Britain can afford to stay on the sidelines.John Bolton argues the case for regime change in Iran is stronger than ever, warning that the Tehran regime remains the biggest source of instability, terrorism and nuclear threat in the Middle East. He says Trump was right to back military action, but wrong not to prepare allies and the American public properly in advance, leaving Washington scrambling for support after the fighting began and after the Strait of Hormuz crisis escalated.Chris Parry gives the military view, saying the West needs a clear plan before asking Britain to commit more force, but insisting the free flow of oil through the Gulf is a direct British interest. He explains why the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is a separate international security issue from the wider war itself, and why the long-term danger is that if Iran emerges unbroken, the consequences will not stay in the Middle East for long. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Britain looking weak on the world stage? On this episode of Talk War, Jeremy Kyle reacts as Donald Trump publicly criticises Sir Keir Starmer over Britain’s response to the Iran conflict, with Labour MP Karl Turner accusing the Prime Minister of damaging trust through “flip-flopping” over bases, ships and military support.Jeremy also speaks to Fleur Hassan Nahoum, Special Envoy for the Israeli Foreign Minister, who says Britain must face up to the Iranian threat after years of terror funding, regional destabilisation and attacks on Israel. She warns that Keir Starmer’s mixed messaging is angering allies on all sides, while Jeremy also tackles the growing row over anti-Israel protests in Britain and what they say about the country’s political and cultural direction.Plus, former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe and Rear Admiral Mike Hewitt examine the military reality behind the Strait of Hormuz crisis, the shrinking strength of Britain’s armed forces, the HMS Dragon delay, and whether the UK is now too underpowered to play a serious role in a fast-moving global security emergency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the Iran conflict threatens to spiral into a wider crisis — with the crucial Strait of Hormuz, through which around 20% of the world’s oil passes, at the centre of the global standoff. On Talk War, Republican strategist Amy Tarkanian discusses the growing concern in the United States that the conflict could drag on for years, with reports suggesting thousands of US Marines could soon be deployed.The episode also examines the political fallout between Washington and London, after Donald Trump criticised the UK for failing to step up militarily. With polls suggesting most Britons oppose joining the war, the debate intensifies over whether Britain should support its closest ally — or stay out of another long and costly conflict.Plus, political voices from Westminster weigh in on the UK’s military readiness, defence spending and Keir Starmer's leadership during an escalating global crisis. As war risks widening across the region, Talk War asks the key question: how far could this conflict spread — and what role should Britain play? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the Strait of Hormuz crisis deepens, Talk War examines the mounting pressure on Donald Trump, Keir Starmer and Britain’s allies as Iran’s blockade threatens global oil supplies and risks a wider economic shock. Former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe Sir Richard Shirreff warns Trump has “got himself in a hole”, while questioning whether the US ever had a clear endgame for the Iran conflict.Rear Admiral Chris Parry gives a hard-headed assessment of Britain’s response, arguing that the UK has looked hesitant, underprepared and strategically confused as HMS Dragon belatedly heads towards the region. The episode explores whether Britain should help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, what support NATO allies can realistically provide, and whether Starmer is right to resist being drawn further into a US-led war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talk War examines the fallout from the Al-Quds rally in London, where anti-Israel chants, pro-Iran placards and serious questions over policing sparked fury. Lord Marland, Trevor Kavanagh and Chris Phillips react to the scenes on Britain’s streets, the growing fears over extremism, free speech and anti-Semitism, and whether the UK is failing to confront threats at home.The podcast also looks at the deepening Iran crisis and Britain’s faltering response abroad. Mark Francois warns Keir Starmer is being driven by political survival rather than the national interest, while Tobias-style questions over defence readiness return as HMS Dragon sails late and Britain’s military posture comes under fresh scrutiny. With oil routes under threat and fears growing over the Strait of Hormuz, the panel asks whether the UK is prepared for the security and economic shock ahead.Across this episode, the debate turns to immigration, policing, defence cuts and the wider question of whether Britain has lost confidence in its own values. From the Middle East to Westminster to the streets of London, Talk War breaks down the national security risks, the political failures and the pressure now facing Britain at home and overseas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Talk War, the focus turns from Tehran to London, as Samara Gill reports from the Al Quds rally where chants, placards and intimidation raise urgent questions about anti-Semitism, extremism and policing in Britain. Her account of being mobbed while reporting adds a chilling edge to a debate about whether hatred linked to the Iran regime is now being openly displayed on UK streets.Eylon Levy warns that Britain is facing a “Khomeinist fifth column”, as the discussion widens to the spread of anti-Israel activism, rising hostility towards Jewish people, and fears that universities, protests and public spaces are becoming more toxic. The episode also explores what these scenes say about Keir Starmer, the Met Police, free speech and Britain’s grip on national cohesion.Isabel Oakeshott and Peter Bleksley then weigh in on the wider fallout from the Iran crisis, including Britain’s response to the Strait of Hormuz threat, the debate over immigration, integration and security, and whether the UK is showing enough strength at home while conflict abroad fuels division on the streets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the explosive launch episode of TALK WAR, host Philip Ingram — former senior British military intelligence officer and NATO planner, and a familiar voice on Times Radio, Sky News and the BBC — tackles the question everyone’s asking: what the hell is going on right now?Philip is joined by Tom Sharpe OBE, former Royal Navy Commander and Defence columnist at The Telegraph, plus Eliot Wilson — former Clerk of the House of Commons (2005–2016), former official to the House of Commons Defence Committee, Secretary to the UK Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and writer on politics, international affairs and security for City AM, The Spectator and The Hill (and Contributing Editor, Defence on the Brink).Together they connect the dots between Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, Gaza, Ukraine, the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb, and why China is watching Taiwan. They dig into the real drivers — oil, energy security, global shipping, maritime choke points and sea power — and ask whether the West is stumbling towards World War Three.Plus: Trump’s strategy — “4D chess” or chaos? What the UK government really means by “defensive” support, the reality of the special relationship, the politics around Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford, and what the HMS Dragon saga says about British defence readiness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Defence Select Committee chair Tobias Ellwood delivers a stark warning about Britain’s military readiness as the Iran conflict escalates. Speaking on Talk War, the former soldier says “our defence posture is woefully inadequate for where the world is going”, arguing the crisis has exposed serious weaknesses in the UK’s armed forces.Ellwood explains the strategic messaging battle behind the White House’s war videos, saying they are designed to “keep your nation supporting your actions” while leaders manage domestic opinion during wartime. But he also warns the conflict risks becoming a missed opportunity to deal with Iran’s long-standing influence across the Middle East.The discussion also turns to Britain’s delayed response as HMS Dragon finally departs for Cyprus, raising questions about the state of the Royal Navy and the UK’s wider defence capability. Ellwood argues the crisis should be a wake-up call, urging politicians to put national security above party politics and increase defence spending as global tensions continue to rise. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.