War continues to escalate in Iran and Lebanon – is there any end in sight?

The Globalist episode from April 6, 2026, opens with a tense geopolitical landscape, focusing on escalating hostilities between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, particularly over control of the Strait of Hormuz. Emma Nelson interviews journalist Tara Kangalu, who details President Trump’s fiery threats against Iran, including targeting civilian infrastructure like power plants and bridges—actions experts warn could constitute war crimes. Kangalu emphasizes Iran’s strategy of disruption and endurance, leveraging its regional influence and covert deals with China and Russia, while also highlighting the humanitarian toll on both Iran and Lebanon, where Israeli military presence has displaced over a million people. The discussion shifts to the scientific triumph of NASA’s Artemis II mission, which has reached the far side of the moon, offering unprecedented human views of its rugged terrain and inspiring awe for humanity’s peaceful exploration. The episode then covers broader global developments: Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, Hungary and Serbia’s alleged foiled sabotage of a gas pipeline ahead of a pivotal election, and France’s political fragmentation ahead of its 2027 presidential race. Finally, it examines Myanmar’s ongoing civil war and the military’s consolidation of power under General Min Aung Hlaing, despite five years of resistance and international apathy. The segment closes with reflections on art, sustainability, and the surprising resurgence of Buddhism among South Korea’s youth, symbolizing a cultural pivot toward mindfulness and environmental values.