The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim 10 days of war: How the Iran conflict is becoming a global crisis
Mar 11, 2026
They tackle Iran’s new supreme leader and what his rise might mean for the conflict. They debate Trump’s claims, misinformation and the role of deepfakes. A Qatar interview explores Gulf states’ anger and vulnerability after regional strikes. They map possible military options, the risk of wider great-power involvement, and who could gain or lose from the war.
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Conflicting US Messaging About The War
- President Trump claims the war is nearly complete while other US officials warn of more intense days ahead, showing contradictory messaging within US leadership.
- Richard Engel contrasts Trump's rhetoric with remarks from Pete Hegseth and Trump aides, highlighting confusion about strategy and escalation risks.
Qatar Felt Betrayed After Early Strikes
- Yalda Hakim reports from Doha that Qatar felt betrayed after immediate missile and drone strikes hit Gulf civilian infrastructure soon after the war began.
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told Yalda Qatar had been mediating between Iran and the US and sees the attacks as a ruin of those diplomatic efforts.
New Supreme Leader Raises Questions About Hardline Shift
- Mojtaba Khamenei's elevation breaks norms: he lacks the religious rank of his father and his selection appears hereditary, fueling domestic scepticism.
- Richard Engel links Mojtaba's close ties to the Revolutionary Guard with a harder-line posture, seen in missile strikes after his selection.