Economist Podcasts Strikes’ price: Israel’s shocking Doha attack
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Sep 10, 2025 
Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and Annie Crable, the news editor, dive into Israel's unexpected airstrikes on Hamas in Doha, unraveling the ramifications for Qatar’s reputation as a peace mediator. They discuss the skepticism surrounding Gaza peace talks and the potential withdrawal of Qatar. The conversation also touches on climate-related challenges affecting cocoa production, prompting chocolate companies to innovate. Lastly, they analyze a decline in U.S. international tourism, notably from Canada, and its broader economic impacts.
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Qatar's Long-Tolerated Role Now Questioned
- Qatar had long hosted Hamas leaders and served as a U.S.-backed conduit for talks, making it previously off-limits.
- The attack signals a recalculation by Israel about targeting Hamas even within U.S. partners' territory.
U.S. Credibility In The Gulf Takes A Hit
- U.S. officials said they were only informed after the strike began, but regional actors find that implausible.
- The episode may erode Gulf confidence in American security guarantees and restraint.
Ceasefire Talks Likely On Ice
- The strike likely pauses near-term Gaza ceasefire negotiations and may push talks away from Doha to Cairo.
- Israel's action reduces immediate prospects for the proposal that had been on the table.