Economist Podcasts The third Gulf war: one week on
151 snips
Mar 6, 2026 
Ann Wroe, obituaries editor who reflects on leaders; Shashank Joshi, defence editor who explains air-defence strain; Josie Delap, Middle East editor with on-the-ground insight into Iran; Edward Carr, deputy editor on US strategy. They discuss Iran’s week of escalation. Conversation covers missile salvos and interceptor shortages. They also review Khamenei’s life and the war’s uncertain objectives.
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High Efficiency Meets Unclear Strategic Purpose
- The US and Israel demonstrate extraordinary operational efficiency but lack a single clear war aim.
- Edward Carr lists five concurrent aims including nuclear, missile, repression, regime change and historical reckoning, which muddle strategy.
Iran's Regime Has Institutional Depth
- The Iranian regime is structurally deep and resilient despite leadership losses, with institutions like the IRGC holding power.
- Josie Delap notes succession plans existed and there were not widespread defections or mass refusals to work after leadership hits.
Prioritise Degrading Missile Capabilities
- If military action is pursued, focus on a limited, achievable objective like degrading Iran's missile capability.
- Edward Carr argues destroying missile batteries reduces future escalation risk and buys time for diplomacy.