In this podcast, Nick Watt and Lyse Doucet discuss UK politics and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. They explore the impact of the conflict on UK politicians, the communication blackout in Gaza, the international response, and the significance of interviews and public demonstrations. They also delve into the trauma experienced by civilians and the need for humanitarian aid.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has caused divisions within UK politics, with both Labour and Conservative Parties taking different positions on Israel's actions.
The conflict in Gaza has led to a worsening humanitarian crisis, with a need for urgent aid and humanitarian assistance.
Deep dives
UK politics affected by Gaza conflict
The ongoing conflict in Gaza is having a significant impact on UK politics. With divisions emerging in both the Labour Party and the Conservative Party, the issue has become a major topic of debate. Labour leader Keir Starmer has faced criticism for his position on Israel's actions, which took him nine days to clarify. Meanwhile, Conservative Party members have called for a ceasefire, but there are no divisions within the government's front bench. The conflict has sparked protests across the UK, with demonstrators expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Humanitarian crisis in Gaza
The conflict in Gaza has led to a worsening humanitarian crisis. The ground operation by Israeli forces has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life. Many Palestinians in Gaza are unable to move due to frailty, lack of resources, or simply choosing not to flee. The situation is particularly dire for families and loved ones of the missing and hostages. Both Israel and Hamas are trading accusations of damage and casualties, and rockets continue to be fired from Gaza into Israel. The urgent need for aid and humanitarian assistance is growing.
International efforts and divisions
International efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful. Calls for a humanitarian pause or ceasefire have come from various countries, including the UK and the US. However, there is a semantic tangle surrounding the terminology, with differences in interpretation and expectations. Despite divisions and ongoing violence, there is still hope for a resolution, as demonstrated in other historical conflicts. The voices of those affected by the conflict, including ordinary citizens, are calling for peace and an end to violence.
Israeli forces continue moving troops into Gaza as bombing continues.
And different positions have emerged in UK politics on what should be done to help civilians in the region.
Political editor of Newsnight, Nick Watt helps us make sense of them, and Lyse Doucet, BBC chief international reporter, tells us how the politics of the conflict is playing out across the world.
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere.
Today's Newscast was presented by Paddy O’Connell and Victoria Derbyshire. It was made by Chris Flynn with Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The senior news editors are Jonathan Aspinwall and Sam Bonham.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode