As Donald Trump lashes out at Nato allies, calling them "cowards" for not helping him open the Strait of Hormuz – in what he called "a simple military maneuver (sic)" – we asked General Sir Richard Shirreff, former Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe at Nato, where this leaves Sir Keir Starmer's next move.
Like it or not, Britain and our European allies have a dog in this fight. While we are right not to be dragged in, it's time for the 'middle powers' to unite, share ideas, and prevent the escalation of our worst fears, he writes in his piece: Trump's Operation Epic Fury was staggeringly arrogant; however, a nuclear strike would be Armageddon.
Meanwhile, as the war in Iran spirals dangerously out of control, some in the US president's inner circle are said to be viewing it as a battle foretold in biblical prophecy. This weekend, Alex Hannaford examines how Trump's religious-right army is preparing for the apocalypse and speaks with Washington insiders to reveal how these extreme Christian nationalist beliefs have become central to US policy-making.
He also talks to author Kevin Ashton, who coined the phrase The Internet of Things. Ashton's new book, The Story of Stories, explores how, with fewer gatekeepers than ever and in an era of social media memes and fake news, the Trump story told to future generations could get it terrifyingly wrong.
Another battle playing out is Louis Theroux's documentary about the Manosphere. As it sparks a national debate, Tanith Carey looks at how these extreme hypermasculine personalities might be formed in the first place. As a parenting expert, she writes: From Trump to HSTikkyTokky, the manosphere has daddy issues – and it's damaging us all.
The other big TV event is next week's drama Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards. Channel 5's new film arrives less than two years after Edwards' conviction. Having watched it – and spoken at length with its director, Michael Samuels – Dan Davies is caught between admiration for its intent and unease about its timing. Davies's own experience re-telling the story of Jimmy Savile suggests it is important not to try to shape a story that is still forming. Read his verdict on Martin Clunes as Huw Edwards here.
And if you have been enjoying the spring sunshine (finally!) and are hankering for more, check out these favourite lesser-known destinations from our travel experts – perfect for an Easter break and well away from the turmoil of the Middle East.
Until next weekend!
Victoria Harper
Executive Editor, The Independent
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