Shows
Brendan O'ConnorAlistair Bunkall "You are dealing with death and war every single day"As he prepares to leave the region, Alistair Bunkall speaks to Brendan about his four years as Sky News Middle East Correspondent. He describes the challenges for journalists in conveying the scale of devastation in Gaza without independent access.2025-06-2814 min
Early Edition with Ryan BridgeAlistair Bunkall: Middle East Correspondent on Iran's attack on the US base in QatarFlares have lit up the sky above Doha following threats Iran would retaliate against US strikes on its nuclear sites. Iran's also reportedly launched an attack on another US base in Iraq. Qatar has confirmed no deaths following Iranian missile attacks on an US Air Force Base Al Udeid. Qatar closed its airspace earlier amid threats from Iran, and a flight from Auckland to Doha has since been diverted to Oman's Muscat Airport. Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall told Ryan Bridge that Iran had to respond in some way to the atta...2025-06-2403 min
Early Edition with Ryan BridgeFull Show Podcast: 24 June 2025On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Tuesday 24th of June 2025, the golden Visa scheme has taken off former Labour cabinet minister Stuart Nash shares his thoughts. Newstalk ZB Sports reporter Nick Bewley provides analysis on the new All Blacks squad. AA Principal Policy Advisor Terry Collins shares his thoughts on fears petrol prices could increase by 30c a litre as Iran's leadership considers whether to block vessels from sailing through the strait of Hormuz. Plus Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall has the latest on Iran launching missiles at US air...2025-06-2334 min
The Hard ShoulderIran attacks US military bases in Qatar and IraqIran is responding to US strikes with attacks on American military bases in Qatar and Iraq.Alistair Bunkall, Middle East Correspondent with Sky News joins guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss as the situation develops.2025-06-2304 min
The Anton Savage ShowIsrael-Iran war: US strikes Iranian nuclear sitesU.S. forces have struck three Iranian nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The bombing triggered Iranian missile retaliation toward Israel and has sparked a major geopolitical crisis, drawing global concern and setting the stage for further conflict or diplomatic efforts. Sky News Middle East correspondent, Alistair Bunkall, joins Anton to discuss.2025-06-2211 min
Newstalk BreakfastIran says intelligence chief killed in Israeli strikeExplosions have been seen over Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as the country faces yet another barrage of missiles from Iran. For more on this we were joined by Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent. 2025-06-1609 min
Newstalk BreakfastIsrael has carried out dozens of air strikes on IranIsrael has carried out dozens of air strikes on Iran and declared an emergency as it braces for retaliation. We get the latest on the situation on this Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East Correspondent. 2025-06-1306 min
Newstalk BreakfastUS ceasefire agreement on the table for Israel and HamasThe White House has said that Israel had accepted US President Donald Trump's proposal for a Gaza ceasefire, while discussions are continuing with Hamas. Joining us for more on this is Alistair Bunkall Sky News Middle East Correspondent. 2025-05-3006 min
Heather du Plessis-Allan DriveFull Show Podcast: 21 May 2025On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 21 May 2025, is international pressure on Israel having an effect? Sky News Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall tells Heather so far no aid has got through to starving people in Gaza. The Revenue Minister explains why the Government will no longer try to make big tech companies like Google and Meta pay more tax. Sad news as iconic Auckland retailer Smith & Caughey announced it will close forever after trying to save its business for over a year. Plus, the Huddle debates whether Tonkin & Tay...2025-05-211h 40
Heather du Plessis-Allan DriveAlistair Bunkall: Sky News Middle East correspondent explains why international opinion of Israel has shiftedThere's a shifting international view of Israel as its war on Gaza shows little sign of relenting. After global pressure, including from the US, Israel has relented on a months-long blockade and let in limited aid - but none's been distributed so far. It's also continued firing on Gaza, where more than 53,000 people have died to date. Sky News' Alistair Bunkall says there's a strong sense - even among Isarelis - that the country has taken this too far. "There is a political dynamic to it for Netanyahu's own political reasons - an...2025-05-2103 min
Newstalk BreakfastThe UN says no aid distributed in Gaza on TuesdayThe EU will review its cooperation deal with Israel after most member states backed a Dutch proposal, while the UN says Israel continues to block aid to Gaza despite pledging to ease the siege. We get the latest on the situation there with Sky News Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall.2025-05-2105 min
Newstalk BreakfastThe latest as aid enters GazaThe first trucks carrying humanitarian aid have been allowed into Gaza following a nearly three-month blockade of food, medicine and other supplies. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent.2025-05-2005 min
In The NewsGaza's dire situation: Israel intensifies attacks and allows 'basic food' in as famine fears grow On Monday morning, Israel’s Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu posted a video on his Telegram account pledging to take control of all of Gaza.“We are going to take control of all areas of the Strip, that’s what we’re going to do,” said Mr Netanyahu in the video.He also addressed Israel’s humanitarian aid blockade into the besieged area, saying “minimal” food aid would be allowed into the strip, “just enough to prevent hunger”. Preventing famine among Palestinians is necessary both from “a practical and a diplomatic standpoint”, said the...2025-05-2020 minNewstalk BreakfastIsrael launches major Gaza ground operationIsrael's military says it has begun "extensive ground operations" throughout Gaza, and issued an evacuation order on Sunday evening for several areas it warned would face imminent attacks. Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent gave up an update on the situation there to Shane.2025-05-1904 min
Newstalk BreakfastThe Israeli military is going to enter Gaza “with full force” in the coming daysThe Israeli Military is going to enter Gaza “with full force” in the coming days, according to its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. Under the plan, which has been internationally condemned by world leaders, Netanyahu said it could involve his government displacing Palestinians from Gaza and working with other nations to accept refugees. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. We also heard from Dr Jilan Abdalmajid, Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland.2025-05-1409 min
Newstalk BreakfastPresident Trump is set to land in Saudi Arabia todayHamas yesterday released Edan Alexander, an Israeli soldier who holds American citizenship, as part of ongoing efforts to achieve a permanent ceasefire with Israel. It comes as President Trump is set to land in Saudi Arabia today, followed by visits to Qatar and then the United Arab Emirates. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. 2025-05-1304 min
Newstalk BreakfastIsrael seeks to expand military operation in GazaThe Israeli cabinet have approved plans to seize the Gaza Strip and hold the territory indefinitely, which could push hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to the southward. Alistair Bunkall Sky News Middle East Correspondent brought us the latest. We also heard from Avi Mayer Editor of the Jerusalem Journal and Former Editor-In-Chief of The Jerusalem Post. 2025-05-0607 min
Newstalk BreakfastIsrael announces a major military expansion into the Gaza StripIsrael is beginning a major expansion of its military operation in Gaza and will seize large areas of the territory, according to the country’s Defence Minister. We get the latest on this with Sky News Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall. 2025-04-0305 min
Newstalk BreakfastIsrael says it has launched new ground operation in GazaThe Israeli military said its forces have resumed ground operations in central and southern Gaza, as a second day of airstrikes killed at least 38 Palestinians, according to local health workers. We the latest on the situation there with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent UN Humanitarian Affairs Spokesperson in Gaza, Olga Cherevko.2025-03-2007 minNewstalk BreakfastAt least 330 killed in Israeli strikesPalestinian health authorities have said that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed at least 330 people, ending a weeks-long standoff over extending the ceasefire that halted fighting in January. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. 2025-03-1805 min
Newstalk BreakfastIsrael is set to cut off electricity in GazaIsrael is set to cut off electricity in Gaza as negotiations with Hamas over the fragile ceasefire become more chaotic. We get the latest on the situation with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. 2025-03-1004 min
Newstalk BreakfastFour more Israeli hostages released by Hamas overnightHamas has handed the bodies of the last four Israeli hostages that were included in the first phase of the ceasefire deal to the Red Cross. The remains of the four men were exchanged for the release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. 2025-02-2704 minNewstalk BreakfastWhat now for the Gaza ceasefire?The Israeli Government has accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire deal and lying about the identity of one of the bodies returned yesterday. But what does that mean for the ceasefire? For more on this Ciara was joined on the show by Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent.2025-02-2106 minNewstalk BreakfastCeasefire between Hamas and Israel is set to holdHamas has recommitted to freeing three Israeli hostages on a Saturday in a bid to save the fragile ceasefire deal with Israel. Athough US President Donald Trump has demanded that all hostages be released as soon as possible. Speaking to Ciara this morning was Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East Correspondent.2025-02-1405 minNewstalk BreakfastGaza ceasefire under threatIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the Gaza ceasefire will end if Hamas does not release Israeli hostages on Saturday. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky's Middle East Correspondent. 2025-02-1205 min
The Hard ShoulderWill Trump’s violent rhetoric work for Gaza?US President Donald Trump warned that "all hell" would break loose if every Israeli hostage is not released from Gaza within days.It’s after Hamas threatened to postpone further exchanges under a ceasefire deal it said Israel was violating.Will this sort of rhetoric work?Joining guest host Anton Savage to discuss is Alistair Bunkall Sky News Middle East Correspondent and Sean Bell retired Fighter Pilot, current Defence Consultant and co-host of the ‘Red Matrix’ Podcast.Image: Reuters2025-02-1113 min
Sky News DailyWhat does the Middle East make of Trump's Gaza 'Riviera' plan?Donald Trump has proposed the US should take over Gaza and that the two million Palestinians living there should be resettled elsewhere. The US president argued that Gaza was a "demolition site" and that it could be turned into a "Middle East Riviera" under US control. His comments break decades of US foreign policy which has emphasised a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. They have been described as "dangerous" by multiple countries. On the Sky News Daily, Niall is joined by international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to discuss the fall-out in countries in the...2025-02-0521 min
Sky News DailyWhat does the Middle East make of Trump's Gaza 'Riviera' plan?Donald Trump has proposed the US should take over Gaza and that the two million Palestinians living there should be resettled elsewhere. The US president argued that Gaza was a "demolition site" and that it could be turned into a "Middle East Riviera" under US control. His comments break decades of US foreign policy which has emphasised a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. They have been described as "dangerous" by multiple countries. On the Sky News Daily, Niall is joined by international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to discuss the fall-out in countries in the...2025-02-0521 min
The Hard ShoulderWhat does Gaza look like under Trump?President Donald Trump has said that the United States would take over the Gaza Strip after Palestinians are resettled elsewhere…Can this happen? And what does the future look like if this becomes a reality?To discuss, Kieran is joined by Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland, Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent from Jerusalem, and Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor with the Economist.Image: Reuters2025-02-0517 min
The Anton Savage ShowIsraeli-Gaza ceasefire deal: What's the latest?An agreement has been reached that will bring to an end 15-months of war between Israel and Gaza. Joining Anton to get the latest is Riham Jafari, Advocacy & Communications co-ordinator with ActionAid Palestine based in the West Bank & Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent.2025-01-1815 min
Sky News DailyCan there be a peaceful solution in the Middle East?It's one year on since Hamas's 7 October attack on Israel, which was followed by Israel's mission to eradicate the terror group in Gaza. In short, what followed was a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Iranian attacks on Israel, and Israel fighting Hezbollah in Lebanon. With the region yet to find a sustainable path away from conflict, on the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson takes a step back and asks if a peaceful solution can ever be found. Niall is joined by Alistair Bunkall, our Middle East correspondent, and our military analyst Professor Michael Clarke, to discuss if Israel c...2024-10-0720 min
Sky News DailyCan there be a peaceful solution in the Middle East?It's one year on since Hamas's 7 October attack on Israel, which was followed by Israel's mission to eradicate the terror group in Gaza. In short, what followed was a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Iranian attacks on Israel, and Israel fighting Hezbollah in Lebanon. With the region yet to find a sustainable path away from conflict, on the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson takes a step back and asks if a peaceful solution can ever be found. Niall is joined by Alistair Bunkall, our Middle East correspondent, and our military analyst Professor Michael Clarke, to discuss if Israel c...2024-10-0720 min
The Anton Savage ShowHassan Nasrallah AssassinationThe game-changing assassination of Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has left the Middle East in an even wider state of disarray.The assassination and subsequent Israeli bombardment has come under widespread condemnation, and may have the potential to spillover into a wider, regional conflict.Alistair Bunkall, Sky News' Middle East Correspondent joins Seán Defoe to discuss, live from Northern Israel.Hit 'Play' for more.2024-09-2907 minIn The NewsWhat is Hizbullah and why is it on the brink of war with Israel?This week has been the deadliest for Lebanon in decades after sustained air strikes by Israel. Fears are growing for an all-out war between the two sides as the Israeli Defence Forces prepare for a possible ground incursion. It says its targeting Iran-backed Hizbullah and its arsenal of weapons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists the militant group has hidden missiles and rocket launchers in ordinary homes and has warned Lebanese civilians to leave if they want to save their lives. But who or what exactly is Hizbullah, why is Israel attacking its northern neighbour and where does this fit...2024-09-2622 min
Sky News DailyWhat's Iran up to?Middle Eastern nations are scrambling to protect a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas and prevent a regional conflict. There are reports of imminent Iranian and Hezbollah retaliation on Israel, as the United States moves military assets to the region. Joining Niall Paterson on the Sky News Daily is our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall, and military expert Michael Clarke, to hear about the mood in Jerusalem, the risks of war, and what Iran what might be about to do. Producer: Soila Apparicio Editor: Philly Beaumont 2024-08-1217 min
Sky News DailyWhat's Iran up to?Middle Eastern nations are scrambling to protect a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas and prevent a regional conflict. There are reports of imminent Iranian and Hezbollah retaliation on Israel, as the United States moves military assets to the region. Joining Niall Paterson on the Sky News Daily is our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall, and military expert Michael Clarke, to hear about the mood in Jerusalem, the risks of war, and what Iran what might be about to do. Producer: Soila Apparicio Editor: Philly Beaumont 2024-08-1217 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastWidespread condemnation of footage from the Israeli armyThere has been widespread condemnation of footage which shows The Israeli army strapping a wounded Palestinian man to the hood of a military jeep during an arrest raid in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin on Saturday. Shane spoke to Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent Alistair Bunkall.2024-06-2404 minIn The NewsHow Israel saved four hostages at a terrible costIsraeli forces rescued four hostages captured by Hamas and held since October in a raid in Gaza on Saturday that Palestinian officials said resulted in the death of more than 200 people, one of the single bloodiest Israeli assaults of the eight-month-old war.The Israeli military claimed that less than 100 people died during the operation - still a significant death toll.Meanwhile, on Sunday, Israeli minister Benny Gantz announced his resignation from prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s emergency government, withdrawing the only centrist power in the embattled leader’s far-right coalition, amid the months-long war...2024-06-1121 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastIsrael's war cabinet minister resigns from governmentIsrael's war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has resigned from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's emergency government. Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent gives Shane the lates.2024-06-1005 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastIsrael says Gaza war will last another 7 monthsFierce street fighting and Israeli bombardment continue in Rafah a day after tanks rolled into the centre of the southern Gaza city sheltering hundreds of thousands of civilians. We speak to Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent.2024-05-3004 minHighlights from Newstalk BreakfastAt least 21 people killed by Israeli strikes in Western RafahIsraeli forces have reportedly reached the centre of the southern Gazan city of Rafah, and seized a strategically important area overlooking the nearby border with Egypt. We get the latest from Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent.2024-05-2908 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastThe UN urge Israel to stop escalation as tanks enter RafahUN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres has called on Israel to stop escalation of tanks into Rafah saying a full invasion would be a ‘humanitarian nightmare’ Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent gave us an update.2024-05-0806 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastIsraeli officials say No ceasefire deal reached in GazaAn Israeli official has said no ceasefire had been agreed in Gaza after Hamas announced that it had accepted a ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar. Newstalk Breakfast spoke to Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent and Dr Jilan Abdalmajid, Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland.2024-05-0711 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastHamas urged to accept Israeli ceasefire dealUS Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken has urged Hamas to accept an ‘extraordinarily generous’ Israeli ceasefire deal. For more on this, Shane was joined on the show by Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent.2024-04-3006 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastIsrael strikes on IranIsrael has launched a strike against Iran with reports of explosions near the city of Isfahan. We get the latest on the situation there with Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent .2024-04-1905 min
Highlights from Newstalk BreakfastIsrael confirms that they will be retaliating against IranIsrael has vowed to respond to Iran’s attack despite calls for restraint. We get the latest on the situation with Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent.2024-04-1606 min
The Anton Savage ShowAnton’s Sunday Newspaper Panel April 14thJoining Anton to review the main stories in the Sunday papers is Hugh O’Connell, Political Editor with The Sunday Times Ireland; Maria Walsh, MEP for the Midlands-North-West constituency and a member of Fine Gael; and trade unionist, activist, and social commentator, Brendan Ogle.Anton also speaks to Alistair Bunkall, Middle East correspondent with Sky News about Iran's overnight missile and drone attack on Israel.2024-04-1445 min
The Anton Savage ShowIsrael-Gaza: Six months after October 7thIt has been six months since the Hamas attacks of October 7th. As the death toll in the region continues to rise, and increasingly vocal international calls for a ceasefire, what hope is there that an end to hostilities might be negotiated? Joining Anton to discuss is Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent & Ahmed Bayram, Middle East Media Adviser for the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).2024-04-0717 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas war: Will volunteers leave Gaza after aid deaths?Aid group World Central Kitchen says seven members of its team have been killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza. The charity said the volunteers had just unloaded more than 100 tonnes of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea. The foreign nationals killed were from the UK, Australia, Poland, and a dual US-Canadian citizen. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari offered "deepest condolences" to the founder of the charity World Central Kitchen over the "tragic" deaths of its aid workers. Aid convoys attempting to reach northern Gaza have either been forced to turn back o...2024-04-0219 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas war: Will volunteers leave Gaza after aid deaths?Aid group World Central Kitchen says seven members of its team have been killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza. The charity said the volunteers had just unloaded more than 100 tonnes of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea. The foreign nationals killed were from the UK, Australia, Poland, and a dual US-Canadian citizen. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari offered "deepest condolences" to the founder of the charity World Central Kitchen over the "tragic" deaths of its aid workers. Aid convoys attempting to reach northern Gaza have either been forced to turn back o...2024-04-0219 min
Sky News DailyUS Gaza ceasefire vote - why did it fail?The US has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the first time as secretary of state Antony Blinken lands in Tel Aviv for talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. An American-sponsored resolution demanding a truce was rejected by the UN Security Council. The US policy change comes amid fears the Palestinian territory could be on the brink of famine. On the Daily, Niall Paterson talks to our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall about how much US support for Israel is wavering. Plus, Sky’s special correspondent Alex Crawford discusses the importance of being able to report...2024-03-2321 min
Sky News DailyUS Gaza ceasefire vote - why did it fail?The US has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the first time as secretary of state Antony Blinken lands in Tel Aviv for talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. An American-sponsored resolution demanding a truce was rejected by the UN Security Council. The US policy change comes amid fears the Palestinian territory could be on the brink of famine. On the Daily, Niall Paterson talks to our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall about how much US support for Israel is wavering. Plus, Sky’s special correspondent Alex Crawford discusses the importance of being able to report...2024-03-2321 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas war: How much pressure is Benjamin Netanyahu under?Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel’s longest serving prime minister but also one of the most divisive figures in Israeli politics. He was facing huge protests from Israelis against his government long before the October 7 terrorist attacks, and now he is under growing pressure from both inside Israel and from his international allies over his Gaza strategy. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson takes a closer look at the man himself, how he has managed to survive so long at the forefront of Israeli politics and whether Gaza could change that. Niall’s joined by o...2024-01-2621 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas war: How much pressure is Benjamin Netanyahu under?Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel’s longest serving prime minister but also one of the most divisive figures in Israeli politics. He was facing huge protests from Israelis against his government long before the October 7 terrorist attacks, and now he is under growing pressure from both inside Israel and from his international allies over his Gaza strategy. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson takes a closer look at the man himself, how he has managed to survive so long at the forefront of Israeli politics and whether Gaza could change that. Niall’s joined by o...2024-01-2621 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas war: What happens now the ceasefire is over?It took just minutes for Israeli airstrikes to resume on Gaza after a week-long truce between Israel and Hamas ended. Israel's military resumed combat operations after accusing Hamas of violating the temporary ceasefire. Despite an overnight effort from Egypt and Qatar to mediate a third extension of the truce, the deal fell apart with both warring sides blaming each other. Hamas accused Israel of rejecting the group's offers to release more hostages, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Hamas did not agree to free them. As the fighting resumes host Sally...2023-12-0113 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas war: What happens now the ceasefire is over?It took just minutes for Israeli airstrikes to resume on Gaza after a week-long truce between Israel and Hamas ended. Israel's military resumed combat operations after accusing Hamas of violating the temporary ceasefire. Despite an overnight effort from Egypt and Qatar to mediate a third extension of the truce, the deal fell apart with both warring sides blaming each other. Hamas accused Israel of rejecting the group's offers to release more hostages, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Hamas did not agree to free them. As the fighting resumes host Sally...2023-12-0113 min
Sky News Daily‘Curious not furious’: How to negotiate with hostage takersQatar has announced key details of the planned pause in fighting and release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. In the first phase of the agreement, Hamas is due to release 50 hostages from Gaza and Israel will free 150 Palestinian prisoners. On today’s episode of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson sits down with James Alvarez, a hostage negotiator who’s worked in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Gaza itself, to talk about what it takes to negotiate with hostage takers. Plus, we hear from our Middle East correspondent, Alistair Bunkall, about the events that led up to this...2023-11-2319 min
Sky News Daily‘Curious not furious’: How to negotiate with hostage takersQatar has announced key details of the planned pause in fighting and release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. In the first phase of the agreement, Hamas is due to release 50 hostages from Gaza and Israel will free 150 Palestinian prisoners. On today’s episode of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson sits down with James Alvarez, a hostage negotiator who’s worked in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Gaza itself, to talk about what it takes to negotiate with hostage takers. Plus, we hear from our Middle East correspondent, Alistair Bunkall, about the events that led up to this...2023-11-2319 min
Sky News DailyGaza deadline: What happens next? | Antisemitism concerns in UKIsrael gave more than a million people living in northern Gaza 24 hours to leave their homes ahead of an expected Israeli ground offensive in response to Hamas attacks. On the Sky News Daily, Sally Lockwood speaks to our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall about the deadline given to Gazans and Shaina Low, from the Norwegian Refugee Council, who talks about their team in Gaza. Plus, Sally is joined by our communities correspondent Becky Johnson to discuss concerns about antisemitism in the UK as some Jewish schools here decided to close on Friday due to safety concerns...2023-10-1323 min
Sky News DailyGaza deadline: What happens next? | Antisemitism concerns in UKIsrael gave more than a million people living in northern Gaza 24 hours to leave their homes ahead of an expected Israeli ground offensive in response to Hamas attacks. On the Sky News Daily, Sally Lockwood speaks to our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall about the deadline given to Gazans and Shaina Low, from the Norwegian Refugee Council, who talks about their team in Gaza. Plus, Sally is joined by our communities correspondent Becky Johnson to discuss concerns about antisemitism in the UK as some Jewish schools here decided to close on Friday due to safety concerns...2023-10-1323 min
Sky News DailyWhat is Hamas, and what’s happening in Gaza?Israel’s response to the brutal attacks by Hamas has been swift and devastating. The two million people who live in Gaza are now under a siege - they are quickly running out of food and water. The one power station has shut down meaning an end to electricity supplies. Hamas has been ruling Gaza as a one-party state since 2007 and Israel has made it clear that it intends to wipe the group out. Today on the podcast, Sky News data and forensic correspondent Tom Cheshire discusses the scale of the humanitarian disaster in Gaza, and Mi...2023-10-1119 min
Sky News DailyWhat is Hamas, and what’s happening in Gaza?Israel’s response to the brutal attacks by Hamas has been swift and devastating. The two million people who live in Gaza are now under a siege - they are quickly running out of food and water. The one power station has shut down meaning an end to electricity supplies. Hamas has been ruling Gaza as a one-party state since 2007 and Israel has made it clear that it intends to wipe the group out. Today on the podcast, Sky News data and forensic correspondent Tom Cheshire discusses the scale of the humanitarian disaster in Gaza, and Mi...2023-10-1119 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas War: Explaining what’s happened and what might happen nextOn the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by our Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall to take a closer look at the Israel-Hamas war – including the Israeli reaction to the weekend’s attack and what it may do next.Alistair reports on the hundreds who’ve lost their lives so far and the questions being asked about Israeli intelligence.Plus, our deputy political editor Sam Coates on how the conflict is being discussed at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Alex Edden Promotion producer: David...2023-10-0925 min
Sky News DailyIsrael-Hamas War: Explaining what’s happened and what might happen nextOn the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by our Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall to take a closer look at the Israel-Hamas war – including the Israeli reaction to the weekend’s attack and what it may do next.Alistair reports on the hundreds who’ve lost their lives so far and the questions being asked about Israeli intelligence.Plus, our deputy political editor Sam Coates on how the conflict is being discussed at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Alex Edden Promotion producer: David...2023-10-0925 min
Sky News DailyIsrael protests: Is its democracy on the brink of a crisis?Protests have broken out in Israel by many of the country’s secular Jews against the government’s plans to “radically” reform the legal system which would remove checks and balances in its democracy. On the Sky News Daily, host Sally Lockwood is joined by our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall to explore how the movement started and why these protests could become a defining moment for the country. Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Editor: Philly Beaumont2023-03-2917 min
Sky News DailyIsrael protests: Is its democracy on the brink of a crisis?Protests have broken out in Israel by many of the country’s secular Jews against the government’s plans to “radically” reform the legal system which would remove checks and balances in its democracy. On the Sky News Daily, host Sally Lockwood is joined by our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall to explore how the movement started and why these protests could become a defining moment for the country. Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Editor: Philly Beaumont2023-03-2917 min
Sky News DailyQatar World Cup: Has football become a side show?32 teams are competing in the FIFA World Cup being held in Qatar. It’s the first winter championship and first tournament to be held in the Middle East. But the choice of host has come under scrutiny; homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, and poor conditions for migrant workers building the facilities has faced backlash. On the Sky News Daily with Niall Paterson, our sports correspondent Rob Harris and Alistair Bunkall, our Middle East correspondent, discuss the human rights issues surrounding Qatar’s hosting of the world cup. Producers: Emily Hulme and Soila Apparicio Promotions Producer: Davi...2022-11-1418 min
Sky News DailyQatar World Cup: Has football become a side show?32 teams are competing in the FIFA World Cup being held in Qatar. It’s the first winter championship and first tournament to be held in the Middle East. But the choice of host has come under scrutiny; homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, and poor conditions for migrant workers building the facilities has faced backlash. On the Sky News Daily with Niall Paterson, our sports correspondent Rob Harris and Alistair Bunkall, our Middle East correspondent, discuss the human rights issues surrounding Qatar’s hosting of the world cup. Producers: Emily Hulme and Soila Apparicio Promotions Producer: Davi...2022-11-1418 min
Sky News DailyIran protests: The people versus the regimeSince the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran 40 days ago, a wave of angry protests has spread across the country. The 22-year-old died in police custody in September after she was arrested for apparently wearing her hijab too loosely. There have been protests in Iran before, but none as powerful as this. The regime has attempted to censor material coming out of the country, but protesters are refusing to back down. Could this be a pivotal moment for the country? On the Sky News Daily podcast, Sally Lockwood speaks to Elika Ashoori, the daughter of Anoosheh...2022-10-2722 min
Sky News DailyIran protests: The people versus the regimeSince the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran 40 days ago, a wave of angry protests has spread across the country. The 22-year-old died in police custody in September after she was arrested for apparently wearing her hijab too loosely. There have been protests in Iran before, but none as powerful as this. The regime has attempted to censor material coming out of the country, but protesters are refusing to back down. Could this be a pivotal moment for the country? On the Sky News Daily podcast, Sally Lockwood speaks to Elika Ashoori, the daughter of Anoosheh...2022-10-2722 min
Sky News DailyIs the death of Mahsa Amini igniting the debate about women’s rights in Iran?Mahsa Amini, 22, died last week following her arrest by Iran's morality police for "unsuitable attire" after she allegedly wore her hijab too loosely. Her death has unleashed a nationwide flood of protests over human rights, security and an economy reeling from international sanctions. On the Sky News Daily Niall Paterson speaks to Alistair Bunkall, Sky's Middle East correspondent who has been speaking exclusively to Mahsa Amini's cousin. Plus we hear from Dr Sanam Vakil, Middle East expert at the Chatham House think tank and Shadi Sadr, Iranian lawyer and human rights advocate about the protests and the impact...2022-09-2719 min
Sky News DailyIs the death of Mahsa Amini igniting the debate about women’s rights in Iran?Mahsa Amini, 22, died last week following her arrest by Iran's morality police for "unsuitable attire" after she allegedly wore her hijab too loosely. Her death has unleashed a nationwide flood of protests over human rights, security and an economy reeling from international sanctions. On the Sky News Daily Niall Paterson speaks to Alistair Bunkall, Sky's Middle East correspondent who has been speaking exclusively to Mahsa Amini's cousin. Plus we hear from Dr Sanam Vakil, Middle East expert at the Chatham House think tank and Shadi Sadr, Iranian lawyer and human rights advocate about the protests and the impact...2022-09-2719 min
Sky News DailyUkraine war: The fight for SeverodonetskRussia now controls most of the Ukrainian city of Severodonetsk, according to local leaders. Capturing the city will be seen as one of the biggest victories of the conflict, so far, for President Putin.On the Sky News Daily podcast, Saima Mohsin speaks to our correspondent in Ukraine, Alistair Bunkall, and defence and security analyst Michael Clarke about what's unfolding in the crucial region.Podcast producer: Emma Rae WoodhouseInterviews producer: Alys Bowen Editor: Paul Stanworth2022-06-0118 min
Sky News DailyUkraine war: The fight for SeverodonetskRussia now controls most of the Ukrainian city of Severodonetsk, according to local leaders. Capturing the city will be seen as one of the biggest victories of the conflict, so far, for President Putin.On the Sky News Daily podcast, Saima Mohsin speaks to our correspondent in Ukraine, Alistair Bunkall, and defence and security analyst Michael Clarke about what's unfolding in the crucial region.Podcast producer: Emma Rae WoodhouseInterviews producer: Alys Bowen Editor: Paul Stanworth2022-06-0118 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallJonathan PowellJonathan Powell was Tony Blair’s Chief of Staff from the moment he entered Downing St to the moment he left. He was at the Prime Minister's side for a decade in number 10. During that time they navigated the country through the terror attacks of 9/11 and 7/7, the death of Princess Diana, fuel strikes, foot and mouth disease and wars in Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Afghanistan and of course, Iraq. He was also Blair’s chief negotiator for the Northern Ireland peace process. Today Jonathan put those skills to use, establishing secret back chan...2020-12-1440 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallMarcus WareingMarcus Wareing is one of the best known chefs in the world. The son of a fruit and veg merchant, his first job at just 18 years old was at The Savoy Hotel no less. From there he went to Le Gavroche where he worked under the legendary Roux brothers. It was there he also met and formed a friendship with Gordon Ramsay. They later had a very public falling out. Wareing followed Ramsay to Aubergine and then the pair set up Pétrus - they were formidable, young and at the top of t...2020-10-1243 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallSir Mark SedwillIn recent years, Sir Mark Sedwill has been one of the most powerful people in Britain. He served as the Cabinet Secretary, the Head of the Civil Service and the UK’s National Security Advisor - Three roles that put him right at the centre of government. Unusually for a Cabinet Secretary, Sir Mark spent much of his career abroad, working as a diplomat in Egypt, Iraq and Pakistan, and then as Britain’s Ambassador to Afghanistan. Only twelve people, all of them men, have ever held the job of Cabinet Secretary. Al...2020-09-0848 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallDame Karen Pierce In this episode Alistair chats with Dame Karen Pierce, Britain’s Ambassador to the United States. She is one of the great diplomats of her generation. Karen has held posts for the Foreign Office in Tokyo and the Balkans before serving as the UK’s Permanent Representative at the United Nations in Geneva. In 2015 she was appointed 'Our Woman' in Afghanistan and the more recently served as the British Ambassador at the UN in New York. Because of the Coronavirus lockdown, this episode was recorded over Skype.2020-05-1540 min
Rule BritanniaWar in space; fiction or a near reality? Trump's vision for the future of warfare.This week:
- In a historic moment, president Trump swears in America's first Chief of Space Operations, what will be the worldwide response to policing space?
- With Prime Minister Boris Johnson in support of Trump's Iran deal, will a lasting peace be possible from the current tensions in the Middle East?
- And with space becoming a fearcly disputed territory, will Britain need a Space-Force?
Join LBC's Tom Swarbrick for this episode of Rule Britannia, an in depth exploration of week's events and the news that didn't make the headlines.
Tom interviews Sky News Defence and Security Correspondent Alistair...2020-01-1700 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallCheryl Giovannoni In this episode Alistair chats to Cheryl Giovannoni, the Chief Executive of the Girls Day School Trust. In that role she is responsible for 20,000 students and almost 4,000 members of staff across 25 girls schools around the country. But she is no teacher – Cheryl was originally an advertising exec, rising through the ranks of that competitive world to head up three companies in the global WPP group ending up as the CEO of the giant Ogilvy & Mather. She has competed in a man’s world and won – she now prepares the next generation of women to smash glass...2019-12-1030 min
BFBS Radio SitrepDuke of York quits, defence in the election and M talks.The Duke of York steps down from public duties, but what does it mean for his military roles? BFBS reporter Claire Sadler and royal historian Christopher Lee look back on his military career and achievements. Chris Curtis, the Political Research Manager at YouGov, tells us how defence and security rate as an issue for voters ahead of the General Election. And we find out what Labour, the Lib Dems and the Green Party are they saying about defence as they launch their manifestos. In a rare interview, the head of MI6 speaks about his...2019-11-2129 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallMI6 - Sir Alex YoungerSir Alex Younger is the Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service, better known as MI6. As an intelligence officer, he served in Europe, the Middle East and was Station Chief in Afghanistan before taking up the top role. This is the first time ever that a serving Chief of MI6 has given a recorded interview. In conversation with Alistair Bunkall he speaks about life as a junior spy, the challenges facing his service and the world today and how his staff cope working in secret.2019-11-1231 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallCommander Will KingIn this episode Alistair chats with Commander Will King, the Captain of a Royal Navy warship. The conversation was recorded onboard HMS Montrose in the Gulf during the crisis with Iran. Moments earlier we had exited the high risk zone, having escorted three commercial tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. For Cdr King and his crew, it was the end of a long, hot and extremely tense deployment. We spoke about the events of one evening in July when his warship came close to firing on Iranian nav...2019-09-0928 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallCardinal Nichols, Archbishop of WestminsterIn this episode Alistair chats with Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster. As the de facto Head of the Catholic church in England and Wales, he is both a leader and a spiritual guide for millions and is close to Pope Francis. During the conversation he opens up about his leadership of the church through the child sex abuse scandal, reveals a surprising inspiration, and has some wise advice for the new Prime Minister...2019-08-0828 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallJens Stoltenberg In this episode Alistair chats with Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO and former Prime Minister of Norway. Jens reveals what happened in the minutes after 2011 terror attacks in Norway and how he led the nation in response. And he talks about his experiences of Donald Trump, and how he handles the unpredictable US President.2019-07-2825 min
Off the Record with Alistair BunkallThe IntroductionOff the Record is an interview-based podcast about Leadership, in which the journalist Alistair Bunkall speaks to some of the world's great leaders from politics, sport, military, business and religion. In this short introduction, Alistair previews the series ahead.2019-07-1603 min
All Out PoliticsShould MPs be paid more?Adam Boulton and guests discuss the Tory party's patience - or lack of it - with Theresa May; the future of the 'special relationship' between the US and UK as the American Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warns about Huawei and Iran - after the birth of an Anglo-American royal baby; and the panel assess the impact of the MPs expenses scandal 10 years on. Joining Adam this week are Sky's political editor Beth Rigby, freelance political journalist Marie Le Conte, Sky's defence correspondent Alistair Bunkall and the Head of Sky Data Harry Carr.2019-05-0941 min
BFBS Radio SitrepSitrep October 4th 2018In this episode with Kate Gerbeau and Christopher Lee… Britain accuses Russia of cyber-attacks. We hear from Sky’s defence correspondent Alistair Bunkall in The Hague plus analysis from Professor Paul Rogers from the university of Bradford. British troops make history by joining in Japanese war games for the first time. We hear from Paul Madden, the British Ambassador to Tokyo. The Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson tells us why he’s sending the Royal Marines back out into the snow. And the human faces behind RAF Drone warfare with the author of Reap...2018-10-0429 min
All Out PoliticsCabinet Reshuffle, NHS and Army RecruitmentIn the first All Out Politics podcast of 2018, Adam Boulton and guests examine the comings, goings and 'almost-went-but-just-about-held ons' in Theresa May's Cabinet reshuffle and the debate over whether the Army's latest recruitment campaign - which focuses on mental health and diversity - will help broaden its appeal. Joining Adam this week are Sky's senior political correspondent Beth Rigby, The Times' senior political correspondent Lucy Fisher and Sky's Defence correspondent Alistair Bunkall. #reshuffle #nhs #army #skynews2018-01-1126 min
Sophy Ridge On SundayDavid Davis, Peter Dowd & Sir Stuart PeachIn our latest podcast Niall talks to Brexit Secretary David Davis about the progress of exit talks. He also speaks to the Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Peter Dowd and Sky's Defence Correspondent Alistair Bunkall sits down with Sir Stuart Peach, the Chief of Defence Staff. #Paterson2017-11-1234 minAll Out PoliticsConservative Conference, Las Vegas and CataloniaAdam Boulton and guests reflect on the Conservative Party conference in Manchester where Theresa May's message was hampered by a cough and a comedian, and Boris Johnson couldn't quite make it through to the end without making headlines of his own. The news agenda has been dominated by the horrific shootings in Las Vegas, reopening the debate about gun laws in the USA. And the fallout from the disputed Catalan independence referendum continues as protests meets politics in Barcelona. This week's panel is Sky's political correspondent Tamara Cohen, defence correspondent Alistair Bunkall, Europe correspondent Michelle Clifford and our resident statto...2017-10-0545 minBFBS Radio SitrepSitrep June 9th 2016The biggest movement of Western Allied troops since fall of the Soviet Union is taking place right on Russia's borders, Sitrep finds out who’s there, what’s there and why we’re there. Is Russia about to launch a wipe out mission of IS in Syria? Hilary Clinton’s done it, & now the real battle begins in the race for the White House. Why the Royal Navy's old and bold are saying the UK hasn't enough warships and there's no money for more. And the grandest of all the living Admirals...2016-06-0929 min