Hamas Leader Killed, 'Double-Hater' Voters, President Biden Visits Berlin
Oct 18, 2024
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Hadil al-Shalchi, an NPR correspondent in Tel Aviv, discusses the assassination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and its implications for regional tensions and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Mara Liasson dives into the views of 'double haters,' voters disillusioned with both Trump and Biden, exploring the impact of Vice President Harris's nomination. Rob Schmitz shares insights from Biden's final diplomatic visit to Berlin, emphasizing European concerns about a potential second Trump presidency and its ramifications for international relations.
The killing of Yahya Sinwar, Hamas leader, may alter the dynamics of the Gaza conflict and potential ceasefire negotiations.
Voter attitudes are shifting towards Vice President Harris as she enters the race, largely due to prevailing anti-Trump sentiment.
Deep dives
Yahya Sinwar's Death and Implications for Gaza
The recent death of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and believed architect of the October 7th attack on Israel, has raised questions about its impact on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Sinwar was killed during a military operation targeting Hamas militants, and his loss is seen as significant in the context of Israeli defense efforts. While Israel celebrated his death, viewing it as a major achievement, reactions in Gaza were mixed, with some mourning his loss as that of a martyr. The call for a potential ceasefire is increasing, with world leaders suggesting that negotiations might become more feasible in the absence of Sinwar's leadership.
Voter Sentiment Shift with Harris as Candidate
As Vice President Harris steps in as the Democratic candidate for the upcoming election, voter sentiment among those who previously disapproved of both major candidates has shown notable shifts. Focus groups indicate that while some voters still feel ambivalent, many are leaning towards Harris, viewing her more favorably than President Biden. The change appears tied to a heightened anti-Trump sentiment rather than an enthusiastic support for Harris, suggesting that her challenge lies in solidifying her own base. The discussions reveal a sense of cautious hope among voters, with concerns persisting regarding Trump's potential return.
Biden's Farewell Visit to Europe and Its Significance
President Biden's trip to Berlin marks his final meeting with European leaders while in office, emphasizing the strengthened transatlantic relations cultivated during his presidency, particularly following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. European leaders believe a second Trump presidency could jeopardize these alliances, given Trump’s past criticisms and uncertainty regarding U.S. commitments to NATO and Ukraine. Biden's efforts have been credited with renewing Europe's confidence in American support, essential for collective security. As European leaders prepare for potential political shifts, they express cautious optimism about the continuity of policies under a prospective Harris administration.
Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas who is believed to be the architect of the Oct 7th attack on Israel has been killed. What a group of voters who disliked both former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden are thinking now that Vice President Harris is in the race. And President Biden is in Berlin today to meet with European leaders for the last time as President.
Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Kelsey Snell, Nick Spicer, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. Our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Andie Huether.