Long Reads: Ceasefire in Gaza? w/ Akbar Shahid Ahmed
Jan 25, 2025
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In this discussion, Akbar Shahid Ahmed, senior diplomatic correspondent for the Huffington Post and author of an upcoming book on U.S. foreign policy, dives deep into the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. He analyzes how the evolving U.S. diplomatic strategies influence the humanitarian crises in Gaza. Ahmed critiques Biden's administration's contradictory stances on international law versus military actions. The conversation also explores how the Gaza conflict shifts global perceptions of U.S. policies, raising pressing questions for the future of American diplomacy.
The catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza, worsened by violence and blockades, highlights the urgent need for medical supplies and facilities.
The recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas may lack sustainability due to unresolved underlying issues, raising skepticism about its political motivations.
Deep dives
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, exacerbated by ongoing violence and an extensive blockade. Hospitals face severe shortages of medical supplies, leading to alarming conditions where surgeries are often performed without anesthesia or necessary equipment. Aid workers emphasize that, despite the recent ceasefire, the infrastructure has been decimated, hindering effective distribution of aid. The urgent call for not just supplies but also the establishment of well-equipped medical facilities highlights the desperate needs of the population, particularly vulnerable children.
Ceasefire Agreement Examination
The recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is characterized by terms that closely mirror those previously rejected by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Analysts suggest that a significant change in the political landscape, particularly with the transition to a new U.S. administration under Trump, created a new willingness from Netanyahu to engage. Despite years of conflict and pressure from various mediators, the underlying issues that led to the previous rejections of similar deals remain unresolved. This scenario raises questions about the sustainability of the current ceasefire, as it appears more a matter of political convenience than a genuine path to peace.
Shift in U.S. Policy Dynamics
The Biden administration's approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict evolved amid heightened tensions and shifting narratives regarding humanitarian crises. Figures within the administration suggested that their attempts to pressure Israel were adequate to mitigate violence, even as reports of human rights violations escalated. Criticism arose regarding the administration's handling of Israel's military strategies, with calls for greater accountability for actions deemed disproportionate under international law. This ongoing struggle highlights the complexities of American politics as the White House balances support for Israel against growing calls for humanitarian considerations.
Impact of Gaza on U.S. Global Standing
The events in Gaza have significantly altered perceptions of U.S. leadership and its role in international affairs, provoking skepticism and anger across various global populations. Analysts argue that the U.S.'s perceived complicity in the violence in Gaza will have enduring repercussions, impacting America's diplomatic positioning for generations. A new pro-Palestinian movement is gaining traction, driven by a desire for justice that transcends traditional political alliances and engages communities globally. This progressive shift in activism and thought may challenge established narratives and compel the U.S. to rethink its foreign policy towards a more humane global order.
Akbar Shahid Ahmed returns to Long Reads to discuss the recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas — and what’s likely to happen next. Akbar is the senior diplomatic correspondent for the Huffington Post and the author of a forthcoming book about the Biden administration and the Israeli attack on Gaza. He has been a guest on the show several times last year. This conversation was recorded January 23rd.
Read more about the role of Gaza in the 2024 election:
Subscribe to Jacobin Radio to hear a special Long Reads series starting next month. Red Star Over Palestine will look at histories of the Palestinian left, from the Communist movement to groups like the PFLP.
Long Reads is a Jacobin podcast looking in-depth at political topics and thinkers, both contemporary and historical, with the magazine’s longform writers. Hosted by features editor Daniel Finn. Produced by Conor Gillies, music by Knxwledge.
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