‘Sit back and relax’: Trump insists Iran deal close despite strikes – The Latest

In this episode, host Lucy Hough and diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour dive into the week of heightened conflict in the Middle East. The conversation highlights a series of strikes between the US and Iran, alongside Israel's military actions in Lebanon, particularly southern Beirut. The necessity for a ceasefire from all fronts is emphasized, as Iran insists on protecting Hezbollah amid escalating tensions.

Wintour explains Israel's justification for its retaliation against Hezbollah, citing ongoing drone attacks and missile threats. The discussion moves to the implications of US strikes on southern Iran and the subsequent Iranian counterattacks on Kuwait, raising concerns over the already fragile ceasefire. Both parties seem reluctant to return to full-scale war but continue to position themselves aggressively with military moves.

The anxiety around the ceasefire’s viability is accentuated by domestic and international pressures on President Trump, who appears caught between conflicting demands. Wintour underscores the dire economic conditions in Iran, which have led to significant shifts in internal politics among citizens. The podcast rounds out with the likelihood of an ambiguous deal emerging from the ongoing negotiations due to the ticking clock of escalating tensions and looming economic crises from oil giants warning of rising prices.