Raya Jalabi

Raya Jalabi, Middle East correspondent covering Syria’s energy revival, and Leo Lewis, Tokyo bureau chief reporting on Japan’s snap election. They discuss Syria courting oil majors and the risks to rebuilding its battered energy sector. They also cover Sanae Takaichi’s landslide win, her broad promises, and the political and economic tensions shaping Japan’s next term.

Robert Armstrong, FT markets commentator behind Unhedged, digs into gold’s strange behavior as a haven asset. Raya Jalabi, FT Middle East correspondent in Beirut, explores Lebanon’s fear of a deeper Israeli push. Also in focus: Arm’s new AI chip with Meta and OpenAI on board, and Volkswagen’s surprising move from cars to missile defence.

Gideon Rachman talks with Raya Jalabi, the FT's Middle East correspondent, who provides keen insights from Damascus following the fall of Assad. They discuss the mixed feelings of celebration and fear among residents, balancing euphoria with concerns over instability. Jalabi sheds light on the unexpected professionalism of the rebel group HTS and their efforts to be more accepted by locals. The conversation also touches on the challenges of rebuilding Syria's governance, the clash of ideologies, and the ongoing pursuit of justice for Assad’s victims.