The Intelligence from The Economist Offensive: UN calls it genocide, Israel persists
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Sep 17, 2025 
Anshal Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist, and Matthew Holhouse, British politics correspondent, dive deep into the UN’s alarming report calling Israel's actions in Gaza genocide. They discuss Prime Minister Netanyahu's continuing offensive despite international outrage. The conversation shifts to the political dynamics linking UK leaders to Trump, exploring how these relations impact global issues like Ukraine. They also delve into creative life-hacks emerging from China, showcasing youth navigating economic challenges with humor and ingenuity.
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UN Finds Genocide; Israel Rejects Claim
- A UN commission concluded Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide and urged accountability now.
- Israel's UN envoy called the report a libelous rant and rejected its findings outright.
Slow Encirclement Of Gaza City
- Two Israeli divisions are slowly encircling Gaza City, operating mainly in suburbs and outlying townships.
- Israel aims to push people south along coastal exits while claiming many remain in Gaza City with limited places to go.
Diminished Hamas But Objectives Remain
- Israel's stated objective is to destroy Hamas as a fighting and governing force, but senior leadership and much of the military capability are already degraded.
- Experts and the Israeli army warn the current operation is unlikely to finish Hamas and may jeopardize hostages and political support.