Ryan Grim and Said Arikat: How Trump forced Israel to accept a ceasefire deal
Jan 16, 2025
auto_awesome
Ryan Grim, a journalist with The Intercept, and Said Arikat, a Palestinian journalist, dive deep into the recent ceasefire between Israel and Gaza. They discuss how Donald Trump's mediation played a pivotal role in this agreement. The conversation sheds light on the fragile nature of ceasefires in the region and the complex U.S. foreign policy impacts under different administrations. Moreover, they explore the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the implications of Israeli laws on Palestinian refugees, revealing the intricate dynamics of historical and contemporary conflicts.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is significantly worse than reported, with increasing civilian suffering and displacement highlighting the urgent need for global awareness.
Trump's unexpected role in the ceasefire negotiations demonstrates how political pressure can influence Israeli-Palestinian dynamics, raising concerns about the Biden administration's foreign policy.
Deep dives
Severe Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is far more severe than what is being reported globally, with estimates indicating that the actual number of deaths may be double those acknowledged. Many individuals who survived initial assaults are expected to succumb to disease or lingering wounds, compounding the already dire situation. Civilians have faced ongoing violence, leading to immense suffering and displacement, making it critical for the world to understand the gravity of the circumstances. The implication is that current discussions around ceasefires and peace agreements do not fully capture the extent of the devastation affecting the population.
Trump's Role in Ceasefire Negotiations
Donald Trump has emerged as a surprising and decisive figure in the recent ceasefire negotiations, asserting pressure for a deal just as he prepares to assume the presidency again. Notably, Hamas has agreed to release hostages in exchange for the freeing of numerous Palestinian prisoners by Israel, signaling a shift in dynamics compared to previous negotiations. While the Biden administration faced criticism for perceived indecisiveness, Trump's intervention illustrates that strong political pressure can effectuate change in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This raises questions about the effectiveness of Biden’s foreign policy approach, especially in relation to promises made to secure peace.
Future Prospects for Peace
Despite the ceasefire agreement, concerns remain about the long-term stability of the region and the potential for renewed conflict. Observers anticipate that, following the deal, Israeli aggression in the West Bank could escalate, with territory annexation and increased settlement activities expected. Discussions around humanitarian support often overlook the realities on the ground, implying that aid may be manipulated as a form of leverage rather than a genuine effort to alleviate suffering. The skepticism surrounding the durability of the ceasefire underscores the complexities of achieving lasting peace amid longstanding tensions.
Become a supporter of the show - just $1 for the first month: https://unherd.com/undercurrents/
Ryan Grim and Said Arikat join Emily to weigh in on breaking news of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Gaza. Grim and Said share inside information from their sources on the ground to shed light on why the two sides were finally able to reach a deal.