The Fifth Column #434 - Crazed Conspiracies, Moral Mulligans, and Indecent Ivies (w/ Shadi Hamid)
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Dec 7, 2023 Shadi Hamid, a Middle East politics expert, discusses the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including the ceasefire, pro-Israel stance, and challenges to establishing a Palestinian state. The speakers also touch on the forever culture war, free speech on universities, and the schism within conservatism.
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Unexpected Middle East Focus
- Shadi Hamid jokingly told a journalist friend that no one cares about the Middle East anymore.
- The next night, Hamas attacked Israel, thrusting the Middle East back into the spotlight.
Hamas Culpability
- Hamas's actions hold significant culpability for the escalating conflict and immense loss of life.
- Their strategy, unlike Fatah or the PLO, seems to maximize civilian casualties.
Responsibility for Deaths
- While Hamas is responsible for provoking the conflict, Israel bears responsibility for the deaths caused by its response.
- Holding Israel to a higher standard is necessary due to its democratic nature and military capabilities.