The Intelligence from The Economist On goal difference: are America and Israel diverging on Iran?
30 snips
Mar 25, 2026 
Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent who analyzes Israeli politics and strategy, discusses tensions over US talks with Iran and how American and Israeli aims may be diverging. He explores limits of measuring regime weakness, recent strikes on Iranian missile capabilities, and whether Israel can sustain its campaign without US backing.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Missile Campaign Damages Capabilities But Not Eliminates Threat
- Military effects are mixed: Iran's missile assembly lines reportedly flattened but daily missile launches continue toward Israel and Gulf states.
- Pfeffer cites estimates like ~75% of launches destroyed, yet 10–15 missiles still fly daily, showing incomplete suppression.
American Leverage Limits Israeli Options
- Any US-Iran deal would constrain Israel because the campaign is joint and American leverage matters.
- Pfeffer notes Israeli jets refuel from US tankers and that Trump can insist Israel abide by a ceasefire, limiting unilateral Israeli action.
Domestic Politics Shape War Strategy
- Political optics shape leaders' choices: Trump wants to define victory on his terms while Netanyahu cannot appear publicly at odds with him before elections.
- Pfeffer argues Netanyahu values the appearance of cooperation with Trump even if Israeli aims diverge.
