Destruction instruction: Western armies learn from Gaza

Update: 2024-07-24

Digest

This episode of The Economist Intelligence podcast delves into a variety of topics, starting with the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The podcast highlights the military lessons Western armies are learning from the urban warfare tactics employed by both Israel and Hamas, focusing on the use of drones, electronic warfare, and active protection systems for tanks. The episode then shifts to examine the background of JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, and the mixed reactions from the tech world to his nomination. Some tech billionaires are celebrating Vance's nomination, while others are concerned about his anti-big business rhetoric and potential policies that could harm the tech sector. Finally, the podcast explores the impact of superstition and the belief in ghosts on the Hong Kong property market, where haunted houses can significantly decrease property values. The belief in ghosts is taken seriously by property dealers, who are legally obligated to disclose any untimely deaths that have occurred on a property.

Outlines

00:00:00

The Gaza Conflict and Urban Warfare

This chapter explores the military lessons Western armies are learning from the urban warfare tactics employed by both Israel and Hamas in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

00:00:59

JD Vance and the Tech World's Response

This chapter examines the background of JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, and the mixed reactions from the tech world to his nomination.

00:10:17

Haunted Houses and the Hong Kong Property Market

This chapter explores the impact of superstition and the belief in ghosts on the Hong Kong property market, where haunted houses can significantly decrease property values.

Keywords

Gaza

Gaza is a Palestinian territory on the Mediterranean coast, bordered by Israel and Egypt. It has been the site of ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant groups, most notably Hamas.

Hamas

Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist political organization and militant group that controls the Gaza Strip. It has been involved in numerous conflicts with Israel, including the current one.

Urban Warfare

Urban warfare refers to combat that takes place in densely populated urban areas. It presents unique challenges for military forces due to the complex terrain, civilian presence, and potential for collateral damage.

JD Vance

JD Vance is an American author, venture capitalist, and politician. He is the Republican nominee for Vice President in the 2024 election.

Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is a region in the San Francisco Bay Area known for its high concentration of technology companies and venture capital firms. It is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, located on the Pearl River Delta. It is known for its high-density urban environment, vibrant economy, and unique cultural blend.

Haunted House

A haunted house is a dwelling believed to be inhabited by ghosts or spirits. In many cultures, haunted houses are associated with negative energy and can have a significant impact on property values.

Q&A

What are some of the key tactical lessons Western armies are learning from the conflict in Gaza?
Western armies are studying the use of drones, electronic warfare, and active protection systems for tanks in urban environments. They are also learning about the challenges of fighting in a heavily tunneled area and the impact on troop morale.
How has JD Vance's background as a venture capitalist influenced the tech world's reaction to his nomination?
Some tech billionaires are celebrating Vance's nomination, seeing him as one of their own. However, others are concerned about his anti-big business rhetoric and potential policies that could harm the tech sector.
How does the belief in ghosts affect the Hong Kong property market?
In Hong Kong, properties deemed haunted can lose a significant portion of their value. This belief is taken seriously by property dealers, who are legally obligated to disclose any untimely deaths that have occurred on a property.

Show Notes

From tunnels to tanks to drones, Gaza’s horrors provide object lessons in urban warfare. We ask what Western forces will be learning about their own future conflicts. Silicon Valley types may relish the prospect of J. D. Vance, a former tech investor, becoming America’s vice-president—but it should in fact worry them (10:15 ). And the superstitious forces affecting Hong Kong’s property sector (18:57 ).

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