The podcast discusses the response of Arab and Muslim leaders to the war in Gaza, including mass demonstrations and a summit meeting in Riyadh. It explores the divergent perspectives on Gaza conflict among these leaders. Additionally, it highlights Iran's pragmatism in maintaining diplomatic ties with Gulf states and the concerns for the future of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The podcast also analyzes the aftermath of the war in Israel and its implications for Netanyahu's political future.
Arab and Islamic leaders have divergent views on the Gaza conflict, with some calling for broader boycotts of Israel and others seeking to provide aid and play a role in a political settlement.
Arab states are strategically approaching the Gaza conflict by prioritizing short-term multilateral efforts for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, while also potentially playing a long-term role in supporting a political resolution.
Deep dives
Lack of Unity among Arab and Islamic States on Gaza Issue
Despite the appearance of unity, the recent summit of Arab and Islamic leaders revealed divergent views on the Gaza conflict. While there was consensus on the need for humanitarian aid and a ceasefire, some Arab states, like Algeria, called for broader boycotts of Israel, while others, like Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, considered themselves more moderate and sought to provide aid and play a role in a political settlement. The unity displayed at the summit may not reflect the underlying divergences among Arab states.
Arab States' Role in Gaza Conflict
Many Arab states are strategically approaching the Gaza conflict with caution. While they face pressure from their own populations to prioritize the Palestinian issue, they are also aware of the complex dynamics at play. These states are playing a short-term multilateral game, urging for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, while also potentially playing a long-term role in incentivizing and supporting a political settlement. With the West seemingly deprioritizing the conflict due to other global issues, Arab states may have an opportunity and responsibility to contribute to a peaceful resolution.
Gulf States' Response and Turkey's Position on Gaza Conflict
The Gulf states, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are managing public anger regarding the Gaza conflict by channeling it constructively through social media and providing aid. These states are not breaking ties with Israel and are emphasizing the continuation of normalization. Turkey, on the other hand, has shown its longstanding frustration and anger at Israel, organizing large demonstrations and condemning the Israeli actions. The Turkish position aligns with popular sentiment and exposes perceived double standards and hypocrisy in the West's response. Overall, different regional actors are navigating their own interests and seeking to influence the situation in Gaza.
The war in Gaza has provoked mass demonstrations across the Arab and Muslim world and exposed the policy failings of regional leaders. Gideon discusses regional leaders’ response to the crisis with Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East Programme at Chatham House in London. Is there now sufficient unity to bring about a new plan for Middle East peace? Clips: NBC News, Al-Jazeera