A new proposal for peace from a former Israeli PM and former Palestinian foreign minister
Sep 9, 2024
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Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former Palestinian Foreign Minister Nasser al-Kidwa present a new peace proposal aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict. They discuss the urgent need for fresh leadership and innovative paths to dialogue. The conversation highlights the complexities posed by Hamas and the vital role it plays in Palestinian society. Their insights emphasize the potential for transformative change, underscoring the importance of mutual understanding and cooperation in achieving lasting peace.
Ehud Olmert and Nasser al-Kidwa highlight the urgent need for a revised peace proposal between Israelis and Palestinians amid rising violence.
The podcast discusses the significant influence of economic conditions on electoral outcomes in the U.S. amidst rising right-wing populism.
Deep dives
The Political Landscape in Israel and Palestine
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a pressing call for a peace proposal from former political leaders on both sides. Ehud Olmert and Nasser Al-Kidwa emphasize the urgent need to end the violence and seek a solution through a mutual agreement. They argue that the current entrenchment of positions within both Israeli and Palestinian politics has created a stalemate that continues to cost lives. Al-Kidwa suggests that the war has changed public sentiment, leading many on both sides to seek alternatives to ongoing hostilities.
Challenges to the Two-State Solution
Despite the historical precedence of the two-state solution as a viable path to peace, current political dynamics present significant challenges. Olmert and Al-Kidwa acknowledge that support for the two-state proposal has eroded within Israel, with many insisting that the political landscape no longer favors such an agreement. They stress the importance of reigniting discussions around the two-state solution, highlighting that the unpopularity of the idea should not deter efforts for reconciliation. By advocating for mutual recognition and territorial compromise, they propose a pathway to political unity and stability.
Hamas's Role and Future in Palestinian Politics
Hamas remains a significant force within Palestinian politics, with deep-rooted popularity among segments of the population. Al-Kidwa underscores the necessity of presenting Palestinians with viable alternatives to Hamas's governance, proposing a transitional body to ensure stability and development in Gaza. He warns that the outcomes of the current conflict are likely to reshape both Israeli and Palestinian leaderships, indicating potential shifts in governance that could arise from renewed political agreements. Acknowledging the complexities of the situation, both leaders advocate for creating mechanisms that foster trust and collaboration among various factions.
The Broader Impacts of Economic Conditions on Politics
The discussion also touches on the multifaceted relationship between economic performance and electoral outcomes, particularly in the U.S. economy. Recent trends have shown low inflation and low unemployment, but the incumbent party has struggled to translate these successes into electoral advantages. Analysts point to deep-rooted political sentiments, particularly around immigration and a growing right-wing populism that challenges traditional political narratives. The contrasting approaches to these issues highlight the complexity of contemporary electoral dynamics and the evolving landscape of public opinion.
Today on the show, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Nasser al-Kidwa tell Fareed about their new peace proposal for the Middle East. They discuss the plan, and the need for new leadership on both sides of the conflict.
Next, CNN Chief Political Correspondent Dana Bash joins the show to discuss her new book, “America’s Deadliest Election” and what a particularly violent period in US history can tell us about the risks American democracy faces today.
Finally, Yuval Noah Harari speaks with Fareed about his new book “Nexus,” and the need for regulating the AI revolution.