Economist Podcasts Escalation: Middle East war widens
200 snips
Mar 3, 2026 
Moeka Iida, Japan correspondent who explains Pokémon’s 30th anniversary and cultural roots. Henry Tricks, US technology editor who unpacks the Pentagon’s clash with Anthropic over AI use. Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent reporting from Jerusalem on widening regional conflict and Netanyahu’s Lebanon offensive. They discuss strikes across the Middle East, AI in military targeting, and Pokémon’s global staying power.
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US Israel Goals Could Diverge Over War Duration
- US and Israeli interests may diverge over duration and economic fallout of a wider regional war.
- Anshel Pfeffer warns Gulf states and Trump may push to end conflict quickly to protect global energy and economies.
Hezbollah's Involvement Was Inevitable But Risky For Lebanon
- Hezbollah's entry was likely inevitable due to its ties to Iran but is unpopular in Lebanon and invites Israeli retaliation.
- Anshel Pfeffer explains Hezbollah was founded and funded by Iran and now risks running afoul of Lebanese public opinion.
Israel Prepared For Multi Front War But Gulf Reaction Will Matter
- Israel has been operating multi-front since Oct 7 and is relatively prepared for regional war, but Gulf reactions matter.
- Pfeffer suggests Gulf states may either pressure for de-escalation or join efforts to deter Iran further.