The Comedy Cellar: Live from the Table John Spencer on Gaza: Wrestling With the Unbearable Questions of War
Sep 26, 2025
John Spencer, executive director of the Urban Warfare Institute and a seasoned expert on war studies, dives deep into the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict. He discusses the ethical implications of civilian casualties in war and how recognition of a Palestinian state could inadvertently empower Hamas. Spencer also explores the challenges of governance post-Hamas and the dilemma of balancing moral views with the laws of war. With insightful reflections on the long-term strategies and political realities, this conversation sheds light on the nuanced and difficult questions surrounding modern warfare.
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Manual Cited By Leaders And Translated Widely
- Spencer's Mini Manual for the Urban Defender is translated into 16 languages.
- Benjamin Netanyahu quoted Spencer in a speech addressing Congress.
Performative State Recognition Harms Peace
- Recognizing a Palestinian state without clear borders or governance is largely performative politics.
- John Spencer argues it rewards terrorism and undermines decades of negotiated state-building efforts.
Veteran And Academic Perspective On War
- Spencer served 25 years in the U.S. military and taught strategy at West Point.
- He blends personal experience with academic study when discussing war.