Economist Podcasts Not-so-safe house: America kills al-Qaeda leader
Aug 2, 2022
Shashank Joshi, the Defense editor for the Economist, and Stevie Hertz, the U.S. audio correspondent, dive into critical issues. They discuss the killing of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, analyzing its impact on terrorism and potential successors. The duo also tackles the fiercely contested abortion referendum in Kansas, revealing deep electoral divides. Additionally, they celebrate Diana Kennedy, a key advocate for authentic Mexican cuisine, contrasting traditional dishes with their commercial counterparts.
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Al-Zawahiri's Death
- Ayman al-Zawahiri, al-Qaeda's chief ideologue, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Kabul.
- This signifies al-Qaeda's continued presence in Afghanistan despite the U.S. withdrawal.
Al-Qaeda's Resurgence
- Al-Zawahiri's death highlights the resurgence of al-Qaeda and America's continued involvement in the Middle East.
- The Haqqani Network, linked to both the Taliban and Pakistan's ISI, provided Zawahiri's safe house.
Al-Zawahiri's Background
- Al-Zawahiri, a doctor and former Egyptian army surgeon, joined the Muslim Brotherhood and later al-Qaeda.
- He became bin Laden's successor after the latter's death in 2011.
