In this episode of Central Hall, Kapil Sibal is in conversation with three eminent former diplomats – Shivshankar Menon, Talmiz Ahmad, and Vivek Katju – to dissect the intensifying Israel-Iran conflict, updated with developments as of June 2025.

Amid Iran’s internal challenges – including soaring inflation, public unrest and fraying regional ties – and Israel’s escalated military operations, the panel delves into the geopolitical fallout of the conflict. They explore the US’s pivotal role, especially after its recent deployment of additional naval forces to the region, the risks to global trade via the Strait of Hormuz following Iran’s threats to disrupt oil shipments, and the economic ripple effects on India, including rising oil prices impacting its import-dependent economy.

The discussion also covers the latest missile and drone exchanges, the shifting power dynamics in West Asia and the potential for broader regional instability involving Hezbollah and other proxies. Watch the full video.

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