The Economist Middle East correspondent Gregg Carlstrom discusses Arab leaders' perspectives on the Israel/Hamas conflict. They explore why some leaders dislike Hamas, fear Iran, and sympathize with Israel's actions. The podcast delves into the internal debate within Israel's political landscape, the regional complexities of Arab states' support for Palestinians, Iran's sponsorship of Hamas and Hezbollah, the political vacuum in Gaza, and the challenges of international governance in the region.
Arab leaders have complex views on the Israel/Hamas conflict, showing sympathy for Israel's security concerns and fear of Iran's influence.
In Gaza, Hamas's popularity has waned due to their role in an unwinnable conflict, with local resentment for subjecting civilians to danger.
Deep dives
Challenges in Israeli Strategy and Political Planning in Gaza
The Israeli military and members of the Knesset have expressed concerns over the lack of a political strategy for the war in Gaza. The Israeli government's failure to address post-war governance and security arrangements has led to internal debates within the war cabinet about their continued involvement. Questions arise about the timing and extent of opposition members leaving the government, reflecting a broader uncertainty about the political future of Gaza.
Public Perception and Disillusionment in Gaza towards Hamas
In Gaza, Hamas's popularity has waned due to their perceived role in dragging the region into an unwinnable conflict. While Palestinians in the West Bank show support for Hamas as a resistance movement against Israel, the situation in Gaza is different. Local resentment towards Hamas has grown for subjecting civilians to danger while leadership remains elusive and underground.
Media Coverage and Public Apathy towards Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
There is a lack of significant coverage on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza in Israeli media, reflecting a broader disinterest among the public. Despite occasional attention drawn to specific incidents, the ongoing suffering in Gaza struggles to gain sustained visibility or concern among the Israeli populace. The decline of the peace camp in Israel further underscores the diminishing focus on humanitarian issues in the region.
Geopolitical Dynamics and Regional Concerns in the Middle East
Arab leaders privately express complex views on the Israeli-Hamas conflict, revealing divergent stances on Hamas and sympathy for Israel's security concerns. Fear of Iran's influence heightens regional tensions, prompting discussions on potential peace agreements and military cooperation. There is a delicate balance between regional power dynamics, diplomatic maneuvering, and concerns over escalating conflicts involving Iran and Israel.
The Economist Middle East correspondent Gregg Carlstrom explains why some Arab leaders hate Hamas, fear Iran and have some sympathy for Israel — although not for how Israel is waging the war.
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