Today in Focus
News & Politics
About
Today in Focus brings you closer to the Guardian's journalism. Our award-winning morning edition hosted by Helen Pidd, Nosheen Iqbal and Annie Kelly combines on-the-ground reporting, insightful analysis and personal testimony from the people at the heart of the stories that matter, to give you a deeper understanding of the world we live in. And to make sense of a rapidly-changing news cycle, our new evening edition 'The Latest' hosted by Lucy Hough, brings you up to speed on the big news story of the day in just 10 minutes. Available on YouTube and all podcast platforms.
Episodes
- Wes walks, Starmer stays, but has Burnham got the momentum? – The Latest
Wes Streeting has resigned as health secretary and urged Keir Starmer to resign as prime minister. This episode of Today in Focus, featuring Jessica Elgot, examines the implications for Starmer's government and the potential return of Andy…
- Trump, Hegseth, Musk: Maga lands in Beijing
Senior China correspondent Amy Hawkins discusses the high-stakes meeting in Beijing between presidents Trump and Xi. Support for independent journalism is mentioned via theguardian.com/infocus.
- Streeting to fire starting gun in Starmer leadership battle – The Latest
Wes Streeting is expected to announce a leadership challenge against Keir Starmer on Thursday. This news emerged during the King's speech, overshadowing the Prime Minister's agenda reset. The Guardian's Archie Bland provides insights into…
- Is Big Brother watching you shop?
This episode explores the increasing use of live facial recognition technology in shops and by police forces. Jessica Murray discusses the potential for this AI system to become widespread in retail environments.
- Stubborn Starmer defies Labour plotters - The Latest
In Westminster, Keir Starmer is facing significant pressure, including ministerial resignations and demands from over 80 MPs for him to step down. Starmer has stated his intention to remain in his position.
- What next for Labour as Reform wins big in local elections? – The Latest
This episode discusses the aftermath of local elections where Labour suffered losses, Reform UK gained, and the Green party secured a mayoral victory. The episode explores the implications for two-party politics and the prime minister's fu…
- The AI jailbreakers
In this episode, journalist Jamie Bartlett discusses people who intentionally challenge AI systems to highlight and address their potential weaknesses. This practice aims to ensure AI safety and prevent misuse.
- Outrage as oil giants profit billions from Iran war – The Latest
Shell has reported $6.9bn in profits since the Iran war started. This episode discusses calls for increased taxes on fossil fuel companies due to these profits and rising energy prices.
- An Infowars insider on the warped world of Alex Jones
This episode of Today in Focus features a former Infowars staff member discussing the history and decline of the conspiracy website founded by Alex Jones. The discussion includes the Onion's potential takeover of Infowars.
- Hantavirus hell: deadly virus takes hold of cruise ship – The Latest
Three people have died and several have been evacuated due to a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship. The ship is en route to the Canary Islands. This episode discusses concerns about the virus's spread.
- Is Europe ready for a future without the US?
European leaders are concerned about a potential US withdrawal from the continent, following Trump's threat to pull 5,000 troops from Germany. Deborah Cole reports on the situation.
- Has Trump reignited war with Iran? – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus discusses Donald Trump's "Project Freedom" and its potential impact on the conflict with Iran. It explores whether the operation could lead to a re-escalation of the war and the end of the ceasefire, with ins…
- Fake fans, fake buzz? How your favourite band got big
Shaad D’Souza explains how some bands have faced backlash due to marketing techniques. Eamonn Forde discusses success in the contemporary music industry.
- Why the Bezos-backed Met Gala is so controversial – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus discusses the controversy surrounding the 2024 Met Gala, specifically addressing the backlash against honorary chairs Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos. The discussion covers the criticism and boycotts that…
- The women who took their own lives after domestic abuse
In this episode of Today in Focus, Geraldine McKelvie and Hannah Al-Othman investigate women's deaths following sustained domestic abuse. The podcast shares their stories.
- Why has the world lost sight of the suffering of Palestinians? – The Latest
This episode discusses the ongoing suffering of Palestinians, with over 800 civilian deaths since the Gaza ceasefire and increased violence in the West Bank. It questions if there is an end in sight to the conflict.
- On the ground in London as the Greens surge
Helen Pidd visits Hackney in east London to cover the Green party's aims to oust Labour. She and Peter Walker also discuss the Greens' preparedness for power.
- ‘An epidemic’: is antisemitism out of control in the UK? – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus discusses the rise of antisemitism in the UK, prompted by the stabbing of two Jewish men in London. It explores whether this rise constitutes a national emergency and the effectiveness of increased security f…
- Iran’s wartime executions
This episode of Today in Focus discusses the recent executions of political prisoners by the Iranian regime. Guardian journalist Daniel Boffey provides a report on the events.
- Has King Charles salvaged special relationship with Trump? – The Latest
King Charles addressed a joint session of Congress, appealing to Donald Trump on Nato and Ukraine. This episode of Today in Focus discusses the US president's reaction to the British monarch's address with Jonathan Freedland.
- Siri, where does Apple go next?
Blake Montgomery, Guardian US tech editor, discusses the future of Apple following CEO Tim Cook's resignation. The episode explores where the company might be headed next.
- Starmer staves off mutiny over Mandelson mess… but for how long? - The Latest
Keir Starmer faces ongoing criticism regarding Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. The episode details a former chief of staff's admission of pressuring the Foreign Office to expedite the posting, prompting discussion on the pr…
- The secretive billionaire bankrolling Nigel Farage
This episode of Today in Focus investigates Christopher Harborne, the crypto tycoon who has donated millions to Nigel Farage's political parties. The episode explores Harborne's identity and his potential motivations behind these contribut…
- ‘Sense of disbelief’: how White House press dinner attack unfolded – The Latest
This episode covers the recent shooting at the White House correspondents' dinner, where a suspect was apprehended near high-profile officials. It also references past assassination attempts on Donald Trump.
- Sanae Takaichi: the most powerful woman in the world?
This episode of Today in Focus features Justin McCurry discussing Sanae Takaichi, Japan's prime minister. The conversation covers her plans to amend the country's pacifist constitution.
- Is Starmer on borrowed time? - The Latest
Keir Starmer's political future is in question amid the Mandelson vetting scandal and anticipated local election losses. Lucy Hough and Archie Bland discuss the implications for the prime minister.
- Will the backlash against AI turn violent?
This episode of Today in Focus discusses concerns about a potential violent backlash against AI, prompted by an attack on OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's home and company headquarters. Guardian journalist Nick Robins-Early and researcher Sean Flem…
- Is the tide turning for Ukraine in war with Russia? – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus discusses recent developments in the Ukraine war, including a €90bn EU loan and Russian territorial gains. The conversation also touches on a surprise visit from Prince Harry.
- The new Michael Jackson biopic. Why now?
This episode of Today in Focus examines the new Michael Jackson biopic, its potential box office success, and its implications for Jackson's legacy. Owen Myers and Lanre Bakare provide an analysis.
- Trump extends Iran ceasefire: can a deal be made? – The Latest
Donald Trump has indefinitely extended the US ceasefire with Iran. The US blockade remains, as does the closure of the strait of Hormuz by Iran, which seized two ships. This episode examines the ongoing situation between the US and Iran.
- The security report the UK government doesn’t want you to see
In this episode of Today in Focus, Fiona Harvey and Nosheen Iqbal discuss a security report. They explore why the climate crisis is considered a national security threat.
- Mandelson vetting row: sacked civil servant speaks out - The Latest
Olly Robbins, sacked over the Peter Mandelson security vetting scandal, has spoken to MPs, describing "constant pressure" to expedite Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador and claiming a "dismissive" attitude from Downing Street regardi…
- Starmer addresses the Mandelson vetting saga
This episode of Today in Focus features Jonathan Freedland discussing Keir Starmer's statements to the House of Commons concerning the Mandelson vetting failure.
- Iran war energy crisis: how bad could it get? – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus discusses the energy crisis resulting from the Iran war, as oil and gas prices jump and shipping through the strait of Hormuz comes to a standstill. The closure of the waterway follows a US blockade and seizu…
- Stonewall’s new chair on trans rights, JK Rowling and the future of the LGBTQ+ movement
This episode features an interview with Kezia Dugdale, the new chair of Stonewall. She discusses trans rights, JK Rowling, and the future of the LGBTQ+ movement, along with the charity's past mistakes. The episode includes reporting by Lib…
- Is Mandelson vetting scandal the final straw for Starmer? – The Latest
Keir Starmer comments on the "staggering" and "unforgivable" situation regarding Peter Mandelson's failed security vetting for the US ambassador position. A Guardian investigation uncovered details of Mandelson's initial denial of clearanc…
- Will Trump regret taking on the Pope?
This episode of Today in Focus features Sarah Posner explaining why evangelical voters continue to support Trump, even after controversial actions. Annie Kelly hosts the discussion.
- Israel-Lebanon ceasefire announced by Trump – The Latest
Donald Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, claiming he had spoken to leaders of both countries. Israel reportedly has no plans to withdraw its military from southern Lebanon during the ceasefire.
- When the ‘Dubai dream’ goes wrong
This episode of Today in Focus features journalist Will Coldwell, who shares the story of a British businessman imprisoned in Dubai. The episode details his family's efforts to secure his return home.
- Big oil making $30m an hour from Iran war - The Latest
Exclusive analysis for The Guardian shows the world's top 100 oil and gas companies earned over $30m every hour in unearned profit in the initial month of the US-Israeli war in Iran. This was attributed to the conflict driving oil prices t…
- Is the EU back in vogue?
Lisa O’Carroll reports on the relationship between the UK and the EU. This episode discusses the "resetting" of this relationship.
- Trump’s blockade battle with Iran – The Latest
The US has implemented a blockade on ships using Iranian ports, a measure intended to exert economic pressure on Iran, particularly concerning its oil and gas exports. This action follows unsuccessful peace talks between Washington and Teh…
- After four decades, Lebanon and Israel finally talk
This episode discusses the historic talks between Lebanon and Israel and their potential to influence peace in the Middle East amidst the US and Iran deadlock. William Christou reports on the developments.
- Why Viktor Orbán lost in Hungary – The Latest
This episode of "The Latest" from "Today in Focus" discusses the end of Viktor Orbán's 16-year rule in Hungary following the Tisza party's election win. It explores the implications for Hungary's relationship with the EU and Nato, with ins…
- Meta‘s AI glasses and the dawn of wearable tech
Elle Hunt shares her experience after a month of wearing Meta's smart glasses. This episode delves into the privacy concerns surrounding wearable technology.
- Trump’s war and Melania’s Epstein statement, with US editor Betsy Reed – The Latest
Melania Trump denied any relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, shifting focus from the US-Iran conflict. This occurred as concerns about Donald Trump's mental stability were raised, and the US-Iran ceasefire was at risk.
- Why the UK banned Kanye West
This episode of "Today in Focus" discusses the UK government's decision to revoke Kanye West's visa. Lanre Bakare explains the reasons behind this decision after Wireless festival booked him as a headliner.
- Will deadly Israeli attacks in Lebanon shatter US-Iran ceasefire? – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus examines Israel's intensified bombing campaign in Lebanon and the potential impact on the US-Iran ceasefire. It covers the claims from both sides, including whether the agreement included Lebanon.
- Is this the end of Viktor Orbán’s regime?
This episode of Today in Focus features Flora Garamvolgyi discussing JD Vance's visit to Hungary. The conversation takes place in the run-up to Hungary's elections.
- US-Iran ceasefire: has Tehran played Trump? – The Latest
This episode of Today in Focus discusses the conditional two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, facilitated by Pakistan. Key aspects include the temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the unclear stance of Israel amidst ongoi…