CLEAN : France never pays for hostage releases: Ex

The transcript discusses the issue of terrorist financing through ransom payments, highlighting the vicious cycle it creates. It mentions the efforts of President Hollande to break this cycle by adhering to a strict doctrine. The role of intermediaries and the global practices of ransom payments, including the involvement of American companies, are also explored.

What is described as a 'cercle vicieux' in the context of terrorism?

What role do intermediaries play in the context of the information chain mentioned by the speaker?