Former State Dept. Director, Josh Paul, discusses unscrutinized arms transfers to Israel, civilian suffering, and US support. The motivations and interests behind the conflict are explored, along with the need for a peaceful solution. The podcast also touches on the healthcare crisis in Puerto Rico and challenges faced by blind individuals during World War II.
Criticism of unscrutinized US arms transfers to Israel and their implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The healthcare crisis in Puerto Rico highlights potential challenges in healthcare systems in other parts of the US.
Deep dives
US appeals for protection of civilian lives in Gaza
The US is making public appeals to Israel to protect civilian lives as Israel expands its ground operation to all over Gaza. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasizes Israel's moral responsibility to protect civilians, as driving them into the arms of the enemy would replace a tactical victory with a strategic defeat. Vice President Kamala Harris also expresses concern over the scale of civilian suffering in Gaza.
Former State Department official Josh Paul resigns over unscrutinized arms transfers
Josh Paul, who resigned from the State Department, criticizes unscrutinized US arms transfers to Israel and their impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He believes that continued support for Israeli military actions will result in more suffering for both Israelis and Palestinians in the long term. Paul highlights the disconnect between the perspectives of political leadership and the realities on the ground.
Healthcare crisis in Puerto Rico leads to increased mortality
Puerto Rico is experiencing a healthcare crisis leading to excess mortality due to a collapsing healthcare system and a rapidly aging population. Factors contributing to the crisis include a lack of healthcare professionals, high rates of chronic illness, and issues with Medicaid reimbursement. The situation in Puerto Rico serves as a warning for potential challenges in healthcare systems in other parts of the US.
Marie-Laure, a blind teenager, becomes a crucial voice in World War II resistance
The miniseries adaptation of Anthony Doerr's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, 'All the Light We Cannot See,' tells the story of Marie-Laure, a blind teenager who joins the resistance and broadcasts strategic radio messages in occupied France during World War II. The series explores the power of hope, resilience, and the fight against oppression, with newcomer Aria Mia Loberto, who is also blind, delivering a breakthrough performance in her first acting role.
Soon after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th, Josh Paul resigned from the US State Department in protest of what he said were unscrutinized arms transfers to Israel. In his resignation letter, Paul said the Israeli response and American support, "will only lead to more and deeper suffering for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.” He joins Christiane to discuss
Also on today's show: Israeli human rights lawyer May Pundak & Palestian human rights activist Rana Salman; reporter Arelis Hernández; actor Aria Mia Loberti