Yossi Cohen, former Mossad head, discusses intelligence failures, potential political aspirations, and the case for a Palestinian state. The podcast delves into ceasefire talks, Hamas denialism, and conflict-related sexual violence issues in Gaza. Insights on leadership accountability, intelligence challenges, and navigating political perspectives in Israel are also explored.
Former Mossad head Yossi Cohen contemplates entry into Israeli politics, emphasizing duty and responsibility above personal gain.
UN reports evidence of conflict-related sexual violence in Gaza, sparking calls for accountability and questioning leadership responsibility.
Podcast delves into complexities of Israeli-Palestinian conflict, discussing viability of two-state solution and international influences.
Deep dives
The Tense Situation Before Ramadan
The countdown to Ramadan nears, with hopes for a ceasefire and release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. Hamas leader focused on spreading violence to East Jerusalem and the West Bank, aiming for all-out war against Israel. Despite regional tensions, including rockets from Hezbollah and Houthis, the all-encompassing conflict did not fully escalate.
Challenges in Ceasefire Negotiations
Israel and Hamas on the verge of a breakthrough deal, with disputes over the release of hostages and distribution of aid. Diplomatic pressure intensifies, with the U.S. pressing for more aid flow and open crossings, while Israel faces criticism regarding aid distribution and potential ceasefire terms.
Reports on Gaza Conflict and Government Accountability
UN reports evidence of conflict-related sexual violence in Gaza, highlighting the use of rape as a weapon of war by Hamas. Criticism emerges on the handling of the Gaza conflict, with calls for accountability at all levels of leadership, raising questions on responsibility and potential government changes.
Israel Leadership and Responsibility
The podcast delves into the personal decision-making process of a former Mossad leader contemplating a potential entry into Israeli politics. Despite his years of service to the country in different arenas, he underscores the weighty responsibility shouldered by leaders, emphasizing a strong sense of duty and service without expecting reciprocation. The discussion navigates his ideological positioning, balancing a liberal approach on social issues with a resolute stance that leans towards the right when it comes to safeguarding the nation's security.
Debating the Two-State Solution and International Dynamics
Exploring the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the episode highlights shifting perspectives on the viability of a two-state solution. It discusses historical negotiations and current challenges, including Palestinian internal dynamics, corruption issues, and the role of armed resistance versus terrorism. The conversation touches upon international influences, notably American perspectives and potential regional normalization efforts, signaling cautious optimism amidst intricate geopolitical realities.
Yossi Cohen is the former head of the Mossad, a former national security adviser to Benjamin Netanyahu - and often talked about as a future prime minister of Israel. In a rare interview in English, he tells Yonit and Jonathan how he sees the intelligence failures that led to 7 October, his thoughts on the nature of responsibility and on the case for a Palestinian state - and how he is contemplating an entry into politics. Plus: the denialism that surrounds Hamas and sexual violence - and ceasefire talks as the clock ticks down to Ramadan.
Some listeners may find some descriptions of the violence of 7 October distressing.
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