The Intelligence from The Economist The bog of war: week five begins
38 snips
Mar 30, 2026 
Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor noting a boom in original sci‑fi films and the appeal of Project Hail Mary. Annie Crabill, senior digital editor sharing archival snapshots of America’s migration, segregation and imperial turn. Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent explaining the widening Iran conflict, Houthi strikes and risks to shipping and oil. Multiple short segments weave history, geopolitics and big‑screen sci‑fi.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Why Iran Feels It Can Keep Fighting
- Iran currently believes it has the upper hand because it kept up missile and drone attacks while still exporting oil and controlling the Strait of Hormuz.
- Gregg Carlstrom notes damage inside Iran is mostly military so far, and higher oil revenues and strait control feed Tehran's willingness to continue the fight.
Houthis Could Double Oil Shortfalls
- Houthi missile strikes on Israel raise the risk of broader disruption but their real leverage is attacking commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
- Gregg Carlstrom warns renewed Red Sea attacks could double effective oil shortfalls from ~10m to ~20m barrels a day by blocking Saudi exports.
A Smaller Deal Could End The Fighting
- Iran's negotiable demands could be pared down into a practical deal: reopen the Strait of Hormuz and receive some sanctions relief.
- Carlstrom suggests Tehran could accept a limited agreement while deferring harder demands like charging strait fees.