Jan Egeland and Ayelet Gundar-Goshen discuss the Israeli Defense Forces' local raids in Gaza to search for hostages. They also delve into the trauma experienced by Israelis, the challenges of processing ongoing trauma, the impact of social media, and the need to defeat extremism for lasting peace in the Middle East.
Hamas' violent tactics and opposition to concessions have delegitimized it as a partner for peace.
Efforts should be made to present the fight as against Hamas and not against Palestinians.
Planning for the aftermath of Hamas is crucial, including reconstruction plans and international support.
Deep dives
The Significance of Oslo Accords
The Oslo Accords in 1993 aimed to transform the existential conflict between Israel and Palestine into a political one, with the recognition of each other's existence and a commitment to a political process. It raised hopes for peace by turning an unresolvable conflict into a solvable one.
The Delegitimization of Hamas
Hamas, with its ideology of not surrendering any inch of Palestine and its violent tactics, has delegitimized itself as a partner for peace. Its deliberate targeting of civilians and opposition to any concessions makes it a threat that needs to be severely weakened or dismantled.
The Dilemma of Balancing Force and Protection
Israel faces the dilemma of eliminating the Hamas threat while minimizing civilian casualties and safeguarding innocent Palestinians who are not responsible for Hamas' actions. Striking this balance is difficult, but efforts should be made to present the fight as against Hamas and not against Palestinians.
The Day After Hamas
Planning for the aftermath of Hamas is crucial, including the establishment of an alternative administration in Gaza under international trusteeship, reconstruction plans, and eventual elections. Rebuilding Gaza presents an opportunity for a dramatic change and a Marshall plan-like initiative can make a positive impact.
The Importance of US Leadership
The US should show leadership in supporting the reconstruction and stabilization process after the conflict. The Middle East cannot be ignored, and positive steps in the region can have global implications. The political will in the US should be harnessed to support a potential breakthrough and invest in a hopeful future for the region.
Israel Defense Forces troops have carried out local raids in Gaza in search for hostages. The news comes after the Israeli military warned people in northern Gaza to move south immediately, and the United Nations saying that only 24 hours’ notice was given to evacuate. For the latest on the unfolding story, Becky Anderson joins the show live from Jerusalem.
Also on today's show: Jan Egeland, Secretary General, Norwegian Refugee Council; Ayelet Gundar-Goshen, Clinical Psychologist / Author, “The Wolf Hunt”; Hillary Clinton, former US Secretary of State; Ambassador Dennis Ross, former US Special Envoy for Middle East Talks / Distinguished Fellow, Washington Institute for Near East Policy
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