US sends Marines to Strait of Hormuz & why Iran can still fire missiles

US sends Marines to Strait of Hormuz & why Iran can still fire missiles

Author: The Telegraph March 20, 2026 Duration: 47:01

Thousands of US Marines and sailors are heading towards Iran - does this mean boots on the ground? 


Venetia Rainey is joined by Reuters global defence commentator Peter Apps to discuss the war three weeks in, how to open the Strait of Hormuz and whether as part of it, Trump will order troops to take Kharg Island. 


They also discuss whether this counts as a world war and why this conflict is likely deterring China from taking Taiwan by force for at least another few years. 


Plus, how is Iran still able to inflict so much damage on its neighbours? University of Oslo missiles expert Fabian Hoffman explains why Iran’s launchers may run out before its missiles do and how much longer interceptor stocks in the Gulf and Israel could last. 


CONTRIBUTORS:


Venetia Rainey, co-host @venetiarainey

Peter Apps, Reuters defence columnist @pete_apps

Fabian Hoffman, University of Oslo @FRHoffmann1


Producer: Peter Shevlin

Executive Producer: Louisa Wells


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For those trying to understand the complex and rapidly shifting landscape of the Middle East, Iran: The Latest offers essential context. This Telegraph podcast moves beyond the headlines to examine the military, diplomatic, and strategic forces shaping the ongoing tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel. Hosted by veteran foreign correspondents Roland Oliphant and Venetia Rainey, each episode synthesizes frontline reporting from the paper's award-winning journalists with insightful conversations. You'll hear from specialists in areas like regional security architecture, covert operations, and geopolitical theory, providing a clearer picture of the stakes involved. The analysis considers historical grievances, economic pressures, and potential flashpoints, from proxy conflicts to direct confrontations. It’s a resource for anyone who wants to grasp not just what is happening, but why it matters and what might come next. By drawing on deep sourcing and expert commentary, this podcast delivers a nuanced perspective that is both timely and thoroughly researched, making sense of a critical and often misunderstood arena of global affairs.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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