The LRB Podcast Lessons from the Peace Process
13 snips
Oct 10, 2025 
Robert Malley, a seasoned Middle East diplomat and analyst, shares his insights on the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire and the complex history of the peace process. He discusses the failures of past diplomatic efforts and critiques the framing of the two-state solution as inadequate for Palestinian aspirations. Malley also explores the long-term implications of the conflict, the shifting dynamics of Palestinian leadership, and how recent developments might shape future negotiations. His personal journey adds depth to the discussion, providing a unique perspective on this enduring issue.
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Power Of Political Will
- Political will, not plan details, made the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire possible.
- The U.S. can compel outcomes when it chooses to apply leverage and pressure.
October 7 As Historical Culmination
- October 7 was the culmination of long-standing dynamics, not an isolated aberration.
- The scale and Israeli vulnerability made it unique, but its roots lie in decades of reciprocal violence and grievance.
Words Versus Historical Meaning
- U.S. diplomacy focused on words and formulas while missing deeper historical meanings.
- Americans often treated Palestinian demands as negotiable technicalities rather than issues of dignity and recognition.
