BACK STORY WITH DANA LEWIS

Send us Fan Mail A ceasefire in Iran gets announced, but the harder question lands: what if the side that took the most bombing still holds the real leverage? We dig into the Iran ceasefire through the one geographic fact no press conference can rewrite: the Strait of Hormuz. When a chokepoint can function like a toll booth for global shipping, “mission accomplished” starts to sound like marketing, not strategy. I’m joined by retired British Army officer and former NATO deputy supreme allied commander General Richard Shirreff to unpack why military damage does not automatically translate into diplomatic advantage. Then we bring it down to the ground in Dubai with luxury property CEO Imran Sheikh of BlackOak Global. He explains what he’s actually seeing in the Dubai real estate market, why pricing has not collapsed, how “rebalancing” shows up in the secondary market, and what developer incentives and payment-plan changes signal about confidence. If you care about Gulf stability, global trade routes, oil transit risk, or Dubai property investment, this conversation connects the dots. Subscribe to Backstory, share this with someone following the region, and leave a review. After you listen, do you think this ceasefire has long legs or is it only a pause? Support the show

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Send us Fan Mail How close are we to the use of a nuclear weapon in current conflicts? Join me, Dana Lewis, as I discuss the nuclear arms race with Rose Gottemoeller, a distinguished former arms control negotiator. We dissect the deployment of long-range ATACMS missiles by Ukraine into Russian territory, exploring the nuanced strategic implications and potential nuclear fallout. And marking the milestone of 1,000 days since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we reflect on the relentless assault on Ukrainian infrastructure and the role of Western military aid. I am joined by Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksiy Goncharenko who says any deal with Russia has to bring peace, not just a ceasefire. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail What if Donald Trump's re-election could redefine global politics? Join us for a conversation that explores this provocative question with Sir Mark Lyle Grant, a distinguished former British diplomat and National Security Advisor, as we dissect the political shockwaves reverberating through Europe and beyond. The Back Story examines the potential implications for Ukraine, the dance between President-elect Trump and US intelligence agencies, and the broader rise of extremism with insights from Colin Clark of the Soufan Group. And Former Lt General Ben Hodges on concerns Trump could use the U.S. military domestically. It's a huge concern for the officer core, which swears an oath to the constitution not to a commander in chief. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail What does Israel hope to achieve with its limited ground operation in Lebanon, and how is Iran’s involvement shaping the conflict? Join us as we tackle these pressing questions with former Israeli Army Colonel Miri Eisen, who provides exclusive insights into Israel's defense strategies and the broader geopolitical landscape. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is heartbreaking and deserves global attention. This episode highlights the severe displacement of over a million people, compounded by Lebanon's economic collapse and political instability. Dana Lewis talks to UNHRC's Rula Amin. And, Hassan Nasrallah, assassinated by Israel, led the Hezbollah for 32 years. He was a key actor for Iran's meddling in Syria, Lebanon, and a role model for other extremist groups including ISIS and Al Qaeda. I discuss his violent legacy with writer Kareem Shaheen. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail What will be the outcome of the Ukrainian conflict? Join us as Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, former commander of US Army Europe, shares his perspective on the ongoing war in Ukraine and the critical missteps in US foreign policy. We contrast media portrayals with on-the-ground realities, focusing on Ukrainian counteroffensives towards Kursk and the sluggish Russian advances. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On Back Story with Dana Lewis this week, Israel's leader P.M. Netanyahu is seeking to drive a wedge into America's political landscape. Will it back fire? Former Israeli diplomat and advisor to multiple foreign ministers Alon Pinkas, believes Netanyahu is courting disaster. And Pinkas says Trump's remarks in the election debate on Israel, amount to a "concentrated pile of nonsense". Kamala Harris he says is right to pursue a two state solution. Israel and Gaza is one war to solve, but there are increasing calls for the Ukraine Russia war to enter ceasefire talks. Is there a path to peace, or at least a map to getting the shooting stopped? Colgate Political Science Prof. Masha Hedberg says the options for resolution are many, but neither side appears willing to put the brakes on now, but maybe later this year? Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Can Ukraine's audacious tactics in the Kursk region really turn the tide in this complex conflict with Russia? Join us for an in-depth discussion featuring Malcolm Davis from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, as we explore the critical implications of these strategic maneuvers on both sides. Hear our analysis on why this conflict might drag on through 2025, hinging largely on Western military aid and potential shifts in the U.S. administration. Discover why Ukraine's victory is not just a regional matter but a global imperative for maintaining the balance between authoritarian regimes and liberal democracies. Can the European Union sustain the conflict if U.S. support dwindles under a future conservative administration? In our conversation with Anthony Constantini, we scrutinize the limitations Ukraine faces against Russia's vast reserves and explore how a shift in U.S. foreign policy could impact the European Union’s strategic position. We delve into the moral and strategic challenges of Ukraine's right to self-defense amidst continuous missile and drone attacks, with former Navy Commander and Norway Military Attache Hans Petter Midttun. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail The strategic alliance between Russia and North Korea has the world on edge, and in this episode of Backstory, you'll understand why. Join us as we unpack the recent high-stakes meeting between President Putin and Kim Jong Un. General Ben Hodges provides expert insights into North Korea's agreement to supply Russia with millions of artillery shells and missiles for its war against Ukraine. Together, we investigate the technological exchanges that could significantly bolster North Korea's nuclear and satellite capabilities, posing grave risks to South Korea, Japan, and global security. Oleg Ignatov talks to why Putin has embraced North Korea, a journey of desperation in his war against the west and quest to revive a Russian empire at all costs. Lastly, hear from Natalia Drozd, chairwoman of the Dobrochyn Center NGO, as she shares the devastating impact of the prolonged Russian invasion on Ukraine's infrastructure. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week on Back Story with Dana Lewis - Is the International Criminal Court a protector of global justice or an overreaching institution threatening national sovereignty? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Ambassador John Bolton as he critically examines the ICC's legitimacy and its impact on countries like the U.S. and Israel. Bolton argues that the court's actions undermine the democratic processes of sovereign nations. And Israeli diplomat Alon Pinkas predicts Netanyahu could be finished as Prime Minister in a matter of months. We analyze Netanyahu's maneuvers to shift the narrative in his favour amidst growing political turmoil and potential resignations from key figures like Benny Gantz. Tune in for a thorough analysis of these critical issues and their broader geopolitical implications. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On Back Story Russia's 300 billion in frozen funds may be about to thaw and fund Ukraine's defence, whether Russia likes it or not. The EU's bold maneuver to repurpose frozen Russian assets for Ukraine with guest Bill Browder. Then, we pivot to a nation seemingly in mourning and turmoil—Iran—where the sudden demise of President Raisi in a helicopter crash has opened a Pandora's box of political outcomes. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On Back Story Journalists Reena Ninan and Dana Lewis, scrutinize the fabric of free speech and human rights, in the wake of police raids on University Campus' in America. Controversial debates on global arms supply take center stage when Omar Shakir of Human Rights Watch joins us, and his calls for justice against war crimes carried out by Israel and Hamas. And a new aid package for Ukraine to fight off Russia - will it make a difference? (Ret) U.S. Brigadier General Mark Kimmitt weighing in on the Biden administration's latest arms approval. "Not a game changer" but a vital chapter in Ukraine's defence says Kimmitt. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Discover the twists in the narrative as we unveil the chilling ISIS-K attack in Moscow and the subsequent political maneuvering of the Putin regime. Dana Lewis on the Kremlin's finger-pointing at Western nations and the manipulation of public perception. We expose the Kremlin's tactics, including the use of torture by Russian security services, and reveal the true culprits behind the mayhem. The discussion also spotlights the initial ISIS-K responsibility claims, which were quickly overshadowed by the Russian state media's distorted stories. Venture into the ideological motivations driving Russia's aggressive stance in Ukraine with Matthew Schmidt, associate professor of national security and political science. And, Joseph Shelze from The Soufan Center. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On Back Story this week, the realities of urban and tunnel warfare through the eyes of Israeli soldiers battling Hamas in Gaza. Backstory takes you to the frontline with me, Dana Lewis, as we navigate the harrowing complexities of a conflict that blurs the lines between military strategy and civilian safety. Our guests, including IDF reservists Kerin Sokolov and Matan Yaffe, alongside David Sherez from TIKUN 2024, share the moral quandaries faced by those in uniform and the resilience that holds Israeli society together even as it grapples with international scrutiny and a profound civilian toll. And what's next for Israel and it's Palestinian neighbours? Israeli's can't agree on a path forward,. and that includes proposals for a 2 state solution. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Could the untimely demise of Alexei Navalny herald a darker turn in the Ukraine conflict? On Back Story this week, Dana Lewis, examines the disturbing allegations of President Putin's involvement in the death of the Russian opposition figure. Mikhail Kasyanov, former Prime Minister, joins me to offer an insider's perspective on the Kremlin's opaque refusal to release Navalny's body We dissect the chilling repercussions that Navalny's passing may have, not just within Russia's borders but also in galvanizing Western resolve to support Ukraine's sovereignty struggle. More on Ukraine with Crisis Group Director Olga Oliker who says talking has been going on a long time, but decisions are quickly needed to save Ukraine. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week on Backstory with Dana Lewis former Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov now in exile, discusses if a new Kremlin challenger has a chance in upcoming elections. Tal Heinrich, spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, takes discusses the complexities of the Gaza crisis from the eyes of those entrenched in the struggle. Heinrich reveals the intricate challenges facing the IDF, from hostage rescue operations to the pursuit of lasting security. And former Jerusalem Post Editor In Chief Avi Mayer and I discuss the contentious role of UNRWA, as allegations of terrorism send shockwaves through the United Nations, prompting urgent calls for reform or dissolution. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Imagine the heartache of a family whose beloved Romy is held captive by terrorists, a stark reminder of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict's cruel reach into personal lives. Our latest episode navigates the complexities and emotional turmoil of this ongoing war, including the formidable political strategies of Israel to secure the release of its citizens. We are joined by Fania Oz Salzberger, a revered Israeli political activist and history professor, who articulates a vision of "humanist Zionism." She advocates for a state founded on the ideals of sanctuary for Jews, yet insists on the imperative of coexistence with Arab neighbours. Fania tells us Israel was always meant to be a State for Jews, but not a jewish State. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Back Story with Dana Lewis takes a hard look at Putin's tactics and the potential consequences that might arise from the withheld US funding for Ukraine. We're delighted to have Bill Browder, a leading voice on the matter, to break down the situation and forecast scenarios that could befall both nations. We also examine the possible repercussions for Ukraine and NATO should Trump make a comeback to the Oval Office. Can Ukraine hold firm against Russia's onslaught? Thomas Kent, author of "How Russia Loses: Hubris and Miscalculation in Putin's Kremlin," joins us to illuminate Russia's missteps and miscalculations in their bid to control Ukraine. He reasons that if Russia emerges victorious, it would be through brute force rather than strategic diplomacy. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On This Back Story with Dana Lewis, Invaluable insights from IDF spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner. We examine the intricate strategies of the Israeli military, the weight of international pressure, and the efforts towards mitigating civilian casualties amidst the war with Hamas. A closer look at a battlefield that's as dense with people as it is with political complexity. And Soufan's Senior research fellow, Colin Clark discusses Israel's duty to protect civilians, the crucial distinctions between Israeli and Hamas actions, and the urgent need for a political resolution, as well increased terror threats globally. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Join us Host Dana Lewis on journey into the heart of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. This episode arms you with insights from US Army (Ret) Lieutenant General Ben Hodges and security analyst Zoran Kusovac, unpacking the tenuous nature of the Gaza ceasefire and hostage exchange agreements. Our conversation with Lieutenant General Ben Hodges brings into sharp focus the stark realities of the Ukraine-Russia war and the brutalities of urban warfare. Delve into the unvarnished truth of the US's support for Ukraine, the painstakingly slow delivery of essential munitions, and the far-reaching implications of these actions. Support the show