Iona Craig

Iona Craig, an award-winning investigative journalist and Yemen specialist, dives deep into the origins and rise of the Houthi movement. She recounts her harrowing experiences covering Yemen's conflict and her encounters with the Houthis. The discussion highlights the group's transformation from a Shia religious movement to de facto rulers, the geopolitical significance of their recent attacks on international shipping, and the broader humanitarian crisis following their coup in 2014. Her insights illuminate the complex interplay of local and global politics in this war-torn region.

Freelance journalist Iona Craig, an expert on Yemen since 2010, delves into the turbulent struggle for control in South Yemen, revealing it as a proxy battle between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. She discusses the STC's rapid territorial gains and how these shifts reflect deeper regional conflicts. Iona connects Yemen's unrest to UAE ambitions in Sudan, contrasts Saudi Arabia's focus on border security with the UAE's assertive strategies, and warns of potential escalations reminiscent of past conflicts, highlighting the delicate balance of power in the region.

Tom Stevenson and Iona Craig discuss the challenges facing the next foreign secretary in the UK, from Gaza to a possible Trump presidency. They question Labour's promise of 'Blair without the Iraq War' and how it may impact UK's foreign policy. The podcast explores global power shifts, Britain's role in the Middle East, and the complexities of implementing an ethical foreign policy.