To the Point
Multiple Crises in the Middle East as US Influence Declines
With new violence compounding more than decade of instability, the Obama Administration is struggling to keep up with the volatile Middle East. When past US involvement helped to create the current chaos, are there any new politics available to contain it?
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenWith new violence compounding more than decade of instability, the Obama Administration is struggling to keep up with the volatile Middle East. When past US involvement helped to create the current chaos, are there any new politics available to contain it?
Also, backlash over the religious freedom bill in Indiana, and Barney Frank and "the anguish of life in the closet."
Photo: Hashid Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation) forces allied with Iraqi forces chant slogans against the Islamic State in Tikrit March 30, 2015. (Alaa Al-Marjani/Reuters)
In this episode
3 storiesBacklash over the Religious Freedom Act in Indiana
Republican leaders in Indiana said today they'll work to cope with issues raised by their new Religious Freedom Restoration Act . It was passed Thursday and immediately signed into law by Governor Mike Pence . Pence himself failed to clarify the thrust of the measure under questioning yesterday by George Stephanopoulos on ABC's This Week .
Read the story7 minMultiple Crises in the Middle East as US Influence Declines
With increased violence in Iraq and Yemen, and continuing chaos in Libya and Syria, the Obama Administration is accused of lacking a "coherent policy." In one fight, it shares an enemy with Iran; in another fight, it's the other way around — with a deadline for nuclear talks looming tomorrow.
Read the story32 minBarney Frank on Coming Out in Congress
Barney Frank has retired from Congress, but he's still a powerful voice for the rights of LGBT people. We talk with him about why he was in the closet — and how he came out . ( Part II of this two-part conversation airs tomorrow.) Photo: Gari Askew
Read the story12 min
