Looking Ahead in the Israel-Hamas War (with Richard Haass)
Oct 26, 2023
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Richard Haass, veteran diplomat, and president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Preet to discuss the Israel-Hamas War and the potential for resolution. They explore the implications of Donald Trump violating a gag order, the dire conditions in Gaza, challenges of managing brinksmanship, establishing peace in Israel, and the power of music to bridge divides.
The Israeli government is considering the scope and duration of its response in the Israel-Hamas conflict, weighing the potential risks and benefits of different strategies.
The United States supports Israel's right to self-defense but also emphasizes the importance of minimizing civilian casualties and finding a sustainable long-term solution.
Finding a resolution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict requires addressing the grievances and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians through political efforts and negotiating a two-state solution.
Deep dives
Israeli society debates the definition of winning in the Israel-Hamas War
There is an ongoing debate within Israel, its government, and society about the definition of winning and the war aims in the Israel-Hamas conflict. While some argue for degrading Hamas, others question the feasibility of eliminating the group and the consequences of such an action. The Israeli government is considering the scope and duration of its response, weighing the potential risks and benefits of different strategies. The international community, including the United States, supports Israel's right to defend itself, but also emphasizes the importance of minimizing civilian casualties and finding a sustainable long-term solution.
The role of the United States in the Israel-Hamas conflict
The United States, as Israel's closest ally, has been supportive of Israel's right to self-defense. President Biden has offered empathy and emotional support to Israel, while also advocating for the protection of Palestinian lives. The U.S. has encouraged Israel to consider the humanitarian and political consequences of its actions, urging restraint and emphasizing the need for a political solution. The United States' influence is particularly significant due to its strong relations with Israel and its ability to shape the international response through diplomacy.
The complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for political solutions
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is complex, with multiple actors and a history of violence. Finding a resolution requires addressing the grievances and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. While military action can degrade Hamas, it cannot provide a lasting solution. Political efforts, such as negotiating a two-state solution, are crucial for achieving a sustainable peace. The international community, including the United States, should support political tracks that offer a path to security, dignity, and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Lessons from the Northern Ireland peace process
The Northern Ireland peace process offers insights into conflict resolution. The combination of a strong security presence with a political opening proved successful in ending three decades of violence. Similarly, in the Israeli-Palestinian context, a comprehensive approach that includes a firm security response to terrorism coupled with a credible political path is necessary. It requires efforts to empower a Palestinian partner and create a political track that addresses the aspirations of both sides. The focus should be on managing the conflict and creating an environment conducive to negotiations and eventual peace.
Cultural exchange and collaboration as a means of fostering understanding
Amid the tensions and conflicts in the Middle East, initiatives promoting cultural exchange and collaboration can play a valuable role in fostering understanding and empathy. The West Eastern Divan Orchestra, co-founded by Daniel Barenboim and Edward Said, exemplifies the power of music to bring together Israeli, Palestinian, and other Arab musicians. This shared endeavor offers a platform for dialogue and cultivates a sense of common humanity. Such initiatives, when combined with political efforts, can contribute to building bridges and creating the conditions for lasting peace in the region.
Richard Haass is a veteran diplomat and president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, following a 20-year tenure leading the non-partisan think tank. He is also the author of many books, including his most recent The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens, and a weekly Substack titled "Home & Away." Haass joins Preet to discuss the Israel-Hamas War and how the situation could evolve.
Plus, a judge fined Donald Trump for violating a gag order in the New York State Attorney General’s civil fraud case and another gag order was put on pause in DOJ’s election interference criminal case against Trump.
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