Behind the News: Gaza in Global Context w/ Trita Parsi
Dec 11, 2023
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Trita Parsi, expert on Middle Eastern politics discusses the global context of the Gaza war, including US support for Israel and speculation on Iranian involvement. The podcast also delves into the issue of Israeli spying on US universities, targeting and harassing supporters of Palestinian rights, and late Fascism.
The US's unwavering support of Israel in the Gaza war negatively affects its global standing.
Israel is involved in spying on US universities through a joint venture with private interests like APAC, raising concerns about privacy and influence.
Deep dives
US Support of Israel's War on Gaza
The speaker discusses the US's unwavering support of Israel despite the lack of compelling national security interests involved. The US's global standing has been negatively affected by this support, which is difficult to understand from a political standpoint as well. Even President himself may not benefit politically from unquestioning support of Israel, as it could lead to a divide within his own coalition. The US sends pleas for restraint to Israel but continues to provide weapons and financial support, indicating a contradiction in its actions.
Israel's Spying in US Universities
The podcast highlights how Israel is involved in spying on US universities through a joint venture with private interests like APAC. This illegal activity goes unnoticed and unaddressed by US authorities. The Israel on Campus Coalition, a Washington-based organization, acts as a conduit for information gathered by campus spies, sending it to Israeli intelligence. The organization is financially supported by various confidential groups, some linked to anti-Palestinian agendas. Connections with organizations like Canary Mission and former APAC employees further reinforce the Israeli influence and infiltration in US universities.
Late Fascism and its Characteristics
The concept of 'late fascism' is explored, referring to the emergence of fascist-like politics and discourses in contemporary societies without the same historical context as interwar fascism. Late fascism is characterized by a violent defense of private capital rather than the establishment of a big state. Trump's political style of free-associating rhetoric and the use of pejorative nicknames shows similarities to classic fascist leaders. The podcast also explores the psychological aspect of fascist leaders and their ability to attract followers through narcissistic identification. Additionally, the podcast touches upon the nostalgia and regressive conservative ideals associated with present-day far-right movements.
Challenges in Fighting Fascism
The podcast acknowledges the difficulty of effectively combating fascism. Progressive neoliberalism, as advocated by some, is not seen as a viable solution. It is suggested that fighting fascism involves more than electoral victories or lesser evil logics. Durable anti-fascist politics require education, propaganda, and addressing the root causes of fascist phenomena. While anti-fascist efforts can align with socially egalitarian politics, it is crucial to confront the immediate features of fascism, such as racism and transphobia, rather than solely focusing on economic issues. The potential for anti-fascist politics at local levels is acknowledged, where the consequences of progressive policies can be more tangible.
Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global. Find the archive online.
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