The World PRX

What is the US' role at this moment in the Middle East, and does the Biden administration hold sway over what comes next? We speak with Retired Admiral John Kirby, who is the spokesman for the National Security Council. Also, Ukraine's leadership has been calling on the US and other partners to replenish its air defense and artillery stocks. Right now, Ukraine is rationing artillery on the front lines, while being outgunned by Russia at a rate of 5 to 1. And, venting when you're angry is often said to be the best way to "get it out." But researchers say that increasing arousal is probably not a good thing. Despite what popular wisdom may suggest, even going for a run is not an effective strategy because it increases arousal levels and ends up being counterproductive. We'll tell what the best way really is.Music heard on air:
Sekerleme
Olutobazzi
Malungu
Repetitions
Chorinho De Gafieira
Bir Adim Ote
E40

Iran used hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in an unprecedented attack on Israel over the weekend. It's a turning point in the hostility between the two countries, and in the regional conflict in the Middle East. We have the latest on Israel, Iran and the US role in a deepening crisis as well as reaction inside Iran to weekend attacks on Israel. Plus, a kora player from The Gambia defies deep family traditions around the musical instrument by becoming the first woman to play it. And, Indigenous and First Nations fashion designers are getting more opportunities to showcase their work in special fashion week events.

Ten years ago on Friday, the militant group Boko Haram kidnapped over 200 young women from a secondary school in Nigeria. A decade later, we hear how things have turned out for those women and their families. Also, The World's team in Israel has spoken with the parents of an American-Israeli hostage about efforts to keep pressure on their government — and international community — to bring their son and the rest of the hostages home. And, a city in Thailand has too many monkeys. The situation has gotten so chaotic that the people residing in the city are demanding government intervention.Music heard on air
Garland Rose
Malungu
Sal Al Malecon

The World continues its weeklong series from Israel. According to a new survey, more than 70% of Israelis think Netanyahu should resign now, or as soon as the war in Gaza comes to an end. But there are stark divisions over what should happen next. Also, this year, the US will accept 125,000 refugees, the highest number in decades. That means local aid groups in American cities will be mobilizing to facilitate a smooth landing for new residents as they settle into their new homes. Plus, the movie "Blue Sunshine" tells the story of a transgender schoolteacher living in a small town in India, including her struggles, and perhaps more importantly, her joys. As the film makes its US debut, we'll find out what inspired the director to tell this semi-autobiographical story, and how moviegoers have been responding so far. Music heard on air
B’nei Heichala 
Olutobazzi 
Control Per Capita 

With polls opening this month in India, farmers are angry with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2021, Modi made a rare concession by repealing farm laws after they were met with massive monthslong protests in Delhi. Now, farmers are returning  to the streets. Also, the Israeli war against Hamas in Gaza is also being felt by Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied territories. One area the impact is being felt is around the critical resource of water. Also, Russia often targets Ukrainian apartment buildings and gathering places. Firefighters are typically the first people to arrive after an attack. We talk to a young Ukrainian firefighter who risks his life to save others. Plus, the founder of the first major Black children’s magazine in the UK is opening a journalism school to increase representation for people of color in the industry. Music heard on air:
Trembler
Con carido y con cuidado
Sarı Çizmeli Mehmet 
Bad Dog
Makhafi

We continue our focus on Israel and the Palestinian territories, with a trip to the West Bank. When the war in Gaza finally ends, the Biden White House is looking for “revitalized” leadership from the Palestinian Authority, which has sworn in a new technocratic government. But it’s not generating a lot of excitement from Palestinians, who are feeling deeply pessimistic about what’s happening in the Gaza Strip. Also, Sharren Haskel is a member of Israel's Knesset, or parliament, from the New Hope party. She's a rising star in Israeli politics and sat down with us to talk about the current status of the war with Hamas and the future of Israel. And, with polls opening this month in India, farmers pose a challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2021, Modi made a rare concession by repealing farm laws after they were met with massive, months-long protests in Delhi. Now, farmers are threatening to return to the streets unless they get guaranteed prices for crops.