GoodFellows: Conversations from the Hoover Institution It’s The Economy, Israel and Tariffs, Stupid | GoodFellows | Hoover Institution
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Oct 18, 2025 Russell Berman, a prominent Stanford humanities professor and Hoover Institution senior fellow, dives into the prospects for peace in the Middle East. He discusses the Trump administration’s 20-point peace plan and its real estate-driven diplomacy, questioning its future impact. The conversation shifts to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's political fate and explores the economic potential of the Abraham Accords. Furthermore, Berman and the hosts tackle looming fears of a market crash, tariff implications, and global debt threats, rounding out an engaging dialogue on pressing geopolitical and economic issues.
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Gaza Plan Lacks Implementation Detail
- The White House 20-point Gaza plan achieved hostage returns but lacks detailed implementation for disarmament and stabilization forces.
- Russell Berman warns the plan's assumptions about Hamas cooperation and an international stabilization force remain undeveloped.
Deals Over Diplomacy In The Middle East
- Jared Kushner and private-sector dealmakers reframed Middle East peace around economic ties rather than traditional diplomacy.
- Sir Niall Ferguson argues this “real estate” approach revived the Abraham Accords and shifted regional incentives.
Economics First Could Leave Gaza Behind
- Economic integration may sideline Gaza rather than solve it, creating regional prosperity while leaving Gaza impoverished.
- John Cochrane and Russell Berman caution Gaza could be allowed to “rot” if defeating Hamas proves too costly.
