

Newscast
BBC News
The BBC's daily news podcast, Newscast dives into the day's biggest news stories so you're never out of your depth.Newscast picks the brains of BBC News experts so you're ready if someone picks yours, covering the latest news, developments in politics in Westminster and beyond.Newscast is hosted by trusted politics and news journalists including Adam Fleming, BBC Political Editor Chris Mason, Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.Catch Newscast seven-days a week and watch on BBC One at 23:40 on Thursday night or later on BBC iPlayer. GET IN TOUCH:
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastYou can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastYou can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 17, 2025 • 30min
Israel-Iran: Trump's Threats To Iran
Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, and Caitriona Perry, Chief Presenter for BBC News, provide sharp insights into rising tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. They dissect Trump's provocative statements about regime change and the psychological toll on civilians amid the ongoing conflict. The discussion sheds light on the complexities of military vs. diplomatic strategies in American politics. Their lively rapport enhances the analysis, making for a compelling conversation about current global dynamics.

Jun 16, 2025 • 33min
The Grooming Gangs Report
Judith Moritz, a BBC special correspondent based in Oldham, and Alison Holt, the BBC Social Affairs editor, delve into the troubling findings of Baroness Casey's report on grooming gangs. They discuss the urgent call for a national inquiry and the chilling collective failure to address the ethnicity of these offenders, which is often ignored. Personal stories from victims highlight the need for improved data collection and legal understanding surrounding these crimes, emphasizing accountability and societal change.

20 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 25min
Grooming Gangs National Inquiry Announced
Henry Zeffman, a BBC News expert specializing in political analysis, joins the discussion on a national inquiry into grooming gangs following new findings. They reflect on the implications this inquiry may hold for public sentiment and government accountability. The conversation also covers the delicate balancing act of the UK’s diplomacy amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, touching on military support and economic repercussions. Zeffman offers insights into the complexities surrounding both domestic and foreign issues shaping current affairs.

73 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 26min
Israel-Iran: The World Reacts
Shashank Joshi, Defence editor at The Economist and expert on international conflicts, joins the discussion to unravel the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The conversation dives into Iran's retaliatory threats against Western nations and the impact on regional stability. Joshi explores the potential economic fallout from rising oil prices and how this may reshape UK-Israel relations. The interplay between geopolitical maneuvers and military strategies highlights the urgent need for global awareness amid these crises.

12 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 21min
Israel-Iran: Israel Strikes Iran In Major Escalation
In this episode, Shashank Joshi, Defence editor of The Economist, provides keen insights into Israel's recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. He discusses the strategic motives and the ramifications for U.S.-Iran relations. The conversation also touches on Iran's escalating drone assaults on Israel and the intricate dance of military and psychological warfare in the digital age. Joshi elaborates on the implications of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, including uranium enrichment, and the broader effects on global security.

Jun 12, 2025 • 32min
What We Know About The Air India Plane Crash, So Far
Ben Katz, an Aviation Reporter for The Wall Street Journal, provides insights into the investigation of the tragic Air India plane crash, revealing the critical role of black box recovery. He discusses the implications for the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. Joining him is Sara Girvin, Ireland Correspondent, who reports on the violent unrest in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, illuminating the community tensions tied to migrant housing. Together, they explore critical aviation safety issues and the urgent need for dialogue in a tumultuous political landscape.

12 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 40min
Everything You Need To Know About The Spending Review
Chancellor Rachel Reeves outlines a spending plan that promises a 3% annual increase for the NHS and £39bn for social housing. The controversial end of costly asylum hotels by 2029 stirs debate. Transportation priorities reveal tensions between local and central governments. The uneven distribution of funds raises concerns for departments outside London. Meanwhile, political rhetoric sets the stage for upcoming elections, emphasizing critical fiscal choices. Humor lightens the serious talk about economic implications and audience engagement.

32 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 39min
Trump v Newsom On The LA Riots
Sumi Somaskanda, BBC News chief anchor, shares insights on the escalating clash between Governor Newsom and President Trump amid LA riots. Gabriel Gatehouse dives into how both leaders are using the crisis for political gain, revealing a culture war in American politics. Adam Bell discusses the £14.2 billion investment in the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, emphasizing its role in job creation and energy security. The dynamic between Trump and Musk is also explored, highlighting tensions within the MAGA movement amid these unfolding events.

7 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 38min
Winter Fuel's Back, Back Again (For Most)
Jeremy Bowen, BBC's International Editor, shares his insights on global affairs, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He discusses the recent interception of a yacht with pro-Palestinian activists, including Greta Thunberg, attempting to deliver aid. The conversation also highlights the controversial aid system in Gaza and the desperate conditions faced by its residents. Meanwhile, changes in the UK’s winter fuel payments for pensioners reflect shifting government policies and public accountability, stirring political debates.

14 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 33min
Spending Review: Tussles In The Treasury
Simon Jack, the BBC's Business editor, teams up with Paul Johnson, the Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, to dissect the tensions within the Treasury as the government approaches its Spending Review. They delve into how budget constraints are impacting economic growth and public services, and the urgent need for transparency in government spending. The pair also reflects on the slow recovery from the 2010s recession and its political implications, showcasing the intricate dance between fiscal policy and governance.


