Has Donald Trump been talking to Iran to end the war? Or are his announcements intended to calm the markets? 

Julia Hartley-Brewer discusses the confusion over Washington’s shifting messages, the threat to the Strait of Hormuz, and what a longer Iran conflict could mean for Britain’s safety, energy prices and economic stability.

With Keir Starmer refusing to give a clear timetable for lifting defence spending to 3%, Julia asks whether Britain is already dangerously exposed in a world growing more unstable by the day.

From the risk posed by Iran’s missile capability to questions over Diego Garcia and the UK-US alliance, this is a hard look at whether Britain is prepared for the threats it now faces.

Also in this episode: why soaring energy bills are the result of political choices, and not just global crises. Julia tears into the Net Zero consensus, green levies and Britain’s dependence on costly energy as Rachel Reeves prepares yet more “help” for households already squeezed to the limit.

Plus, why white working-class boys are still among the most failed groups in Britain, and why identity politics continues to block an honest conversation about class, culture and opportunity. 

And the growing anger over sky-high vet bills, as the Competition and Markets Authority takes aim at a sector dominated by a handful of giant firms.

Julia also speaks to Republican strategist Matt Terrill, former chief of staff to Marco Rubio, on Trump’s Iran strategy, the nuclear threat, and whether Starmer has weakened the special relationship.

Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.

Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker.

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