Beirut force: Israel kills Hizbullah leader
Digest
The podcast begins with a discussion of the recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah. The situation in Beirut is tense, with access to the southern suburbs restricted and journalists facing suspicion. Hezbollah's capacity to respond is unclear, but they have gone quiet and lost many senior commanders. Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, seems determined to reshape Lebanon and the Middle East. The podcast then shifts to the challenges faced by Belarusian journalists working in exile. A journalism conference in Warsaw brought together these journalists, who have been working in exile for nearly four years. The conference highlighted the ongoing repression in Belarus, where independent media is labeled as extremist and journalists face arrest and imprisonment. The journalists in exile are working to keep the news flowing into Belarus, despite the risks they face. Finally, the podcast explores the popularity of the Chinese card game Guangdang. The hosts play the game, which translates to "throwing eggs" or "throwing bombs," and discuss its complex rules and strategic gameplay. The game is said to be popular among some communist party leaders and has become a national phenomenon in recent years. Its popularity is attributed to its regional origins and the growing presence of state-owned enterprises in China.
Outlines
The Middle East in Turmoil: Israel's Offensive in Lebanon
Israel's recent airstrikes in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah, have resulted in significant casualties and displacement. The situation in Beirut is tense, with access to the southern suburbs restricted and journalists facing suspicion. Hezbollah's capacity to respond is unclear, but they have gone quiet and lost many senior commanders. Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, seems determined to reshape Lebanon and the Middle East.
Belarusian Journalists in Exile: Fighting for Freedom of Speech
A journalism conference in Warsaw brought together Belarusian journalists who have been working in exile for nearly four years. The conference highlighted the ongoing repression in Belarus, where independent media is labeled as extremist and journalists face arrest and imprisonment. The journalists in exile are working to keep the news flowing into Belarus, despite the risks they face.
Guangdang: A Popular Card Game in China
The podcast hosts play a popular Chinese card game called Guangdang, which translates to "throwing eggs" or "throwing bombs." The game is said to be popular among some communist party leaders and has become a national phenomenon in recent years. The game's popularity is attributed to its regional origins and the growing presence of state-owned enterprises in China.
Keywords
Guangdang
A popular Chinese card game, roughly translated to "throwing eggs" or "throwing bombs," known for its complex rules and strategic gameplay. It has gained national popularity in recent years, particularly among civil servants and state-owned enterprises.
Hezbollah
A Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and militant group, backed by Iran. It has been involved in numerous conflicts with Israel and is considered a major player in the Middle East.
Belarusian Paranoia
A term used by Belarusian journalists in exile to describe the fear and suspicion they experience due to the government's crackdown on independent media. This paranoia stems from the government's labeling of independent media as extremist and the potential consequences for their families still living in Belarus.
Press Club Belarus
An organization that supports Belarusian journalists working in exile. It provides a platform for these journalists to share their experiences, network, and continue their work despite the challenges they face.
Israel-Lebanon Conflict
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon, marked by periods of violence and tension, with Hezbollah playing a significant role.
Media Freedom
The right of journalists to report freely and without censorship, a fundamental principle that is under threat in many countries, including Belarus.
Chinese Culture
The diverse and rich culture of China, encompassing various aspects of life, including traditional games like Guangdang, which reflect the country's history and social dynamics.
Q&A
What is the current situation in Beirut following Israel's airstrikes?
The mood in Beirut is tense, with most of the attacks focused on the southern suburbs where Hezbollah traditionally draws support. Access to these areas is difficult and fraught with risk, and journalists are facing suspicion and hostility.
What are the challenges faced by Belarusian journalists working in exile?
Belarusian journalists in exile face constant fear and suspicion due to the government's crackdown on independent media. They are forced to work in the shadows, taking precautions to protect their identities and the safety of their families still living in Belarus.
Why has Guangdang become so popular in China?
Guangdang's popularity is attributed to its regional origins, the growing presence of state-owned enterprises in China, and the fact that it is said to be enjoyed by some communist party leaders. It has become a staple in business meetings and formal occasions, reflecting a shift away from Westernized games.
Show Notes
Israel’s attacks on Lebanon and Yemen this weekend will have implications far beyond the militant groups that were the apparent targets. Our correspondents analyse what may happen next. Our correspondent reports from a conference for journalists exiled from Belarus—home to “Europe’s last dictator”—to find out how they get news in (11:30 ). And a new card game is shaking Communist Party offices in China (19:21 ).
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