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Economist Podcasts

Year of destruction: how October 7th shattered the Middle East

Oct 7, 2024
Josie DeLapp, Middle East editor for The Economist, and Greg Karlstrom, the publication's correspondent reporting from Gaza and Lebanon, dive into the aftermath of the harrowing October 7th attacks by Hamas. They provide gripping insights from those caught in the conflict, detailing the immediate political responses and deepening humanitarian crises. The discussion also unveils the fraught dynamics between Israel and Hezbollah, and the bleak shift in the Middle East landscape, which seems further from peace than ever.
27:29

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Quick takeaways

  • The October 7th Hamas attacks resulted in catastrophic losses and a protracted conflict, sparking a humanitarian crisis affecting millions in Gaza.
  • Israeli political divisions intensified following the attacks, significantly complicating the quest for a coherent strategy and future peace efforts.

Deep dives

The Impact of the October 7th Attacks

The October 7th attacks by Hamas marked a significant turning point, resulting in over 1,100 casualties and numerous hostages taken. In the subsequent conflict, nearly 2 million people in Gaza were displaced, leading to widespread devastation and a humanitarian crisis. The episode explores the immediate reactions in Israel, highlighting a mix of fear and uncertainty among citizens, especially those living in Tel Aviv who faced alarm sirens and dire warnings. The analysis emphasizes that this conflict has led to a prolonged military engagement that has transformed into a multifaceted war, involving exchanges with militant groups from neighboring countries.

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