Eric Schmitt, a national security correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the escalating tensions in the Middle East. He discusses how recent attacks may draw the U.S. and Iran deeper into conflict. The conversation highlights the complex involvement of proxy groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis, and the risks posed by miscalculations in warfare. Schmitt also examines the Biden administration's efforts to manage this precarious situation while balancing international expectations and domestic support for military actions.
There are concerns that the conflict between Hamas and Israel is spreading, potentially putting more pressure on countries like Iran and the United States to become involved.
Recent events in the Middle East are tied to Iran in some way, with concerns that Iran may activate its proxies in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.
Deep dives
Risks of the War Between Hamas and Israel Escalating into a Wider Regional Conflict
There are concerns that the conflict between Hamas and Israel is spreading, potentially putting more pressure on countries like Iran and the United States to become involved. The Biden administration is particularly focused on preventing the war from widening beyond Gaza. The United States has doubled the number of American strike aircraft and deployed two aircraft carriers in the region to deter other countries from getting involved. Recent events in the Middle East, including strikes and counter-strikes, have raised concerns about a wider regional war.
Recent Events Indicate Involvement of Iran and Its Proxies
Recent events in the Middle East are tied to Iran in some way, with concerns that Iran may activate its proxies in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. Strikes, such as the killing of a senior Hamas leader in Beirut and the US military targeting an Iranian-linked militant group leader in Baghdad, indicate the involvement of Iran and its proxies. Israel's actions in reaching into Lebanon and targeting Hezbollah, Iran's largest proxy, adds to the concerns of potential escalation. The situation is particularly worrisome due to the possibility of miscalculations among the various actors.
Additional Concerns in the Red Sea and Efforts to Prevent Escalation
Activity in the Red Sea, including Houthi rebel attacks on commercial ships, has disrupted shipping lanes and drawn international attention. The United States and its allies, including over 20 coalition countries, have warned the Houthis to cease their attacks or potentially face military action. Efforts to create a maritime security force have been relatively successful in countering the attacks, but tensions remain high. The situation is uncertain, with concerns about potential retaliation, the safety of American service members, and the possibility of unintended consequences.
A recent string of attacks across the Middle East has raised concerns that the war between Hamas and Israel is spreading, and might put pressure on other countries like Iran and the United States to get more involved.
Eric Schmitt, who covers national security for The Times, discusses the risk that the conflict is becoming an even wider war, and explains the efforts underway to prevent that.
Guest: Eric Schmitt, a national security correspondent for The New York Times.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode