Provoked with Darryl Cooper and Scott Horton

EP:16 - LIVE - SPECIAL GUEST: Max Blumenthal - Gaza, Propaganda, and Power

15 snips
Oct 8, 2025
Max Blumenthal, an investigative journalist and editor-in-chief of The Grayzone, sheds light on the complex events surrounding October 7. He explores the long-term sociopolitical context leading to the attack, discussing key figures like Yahya Sinwar and the role of hostage-taking. Blumenthal critiques sensational media narratives, debunking claims of atrocities that fueled public outrage. He examines the Israeli military's response and the implications of its tactics, while considering how historical contexts shape current attitudes and negotiations.
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INSIGHT

Long-Building Causes Of October 7

  • Max Blumenthal argues October 7 stemmed from years of siege, rejected truces, and escalating Israeli pressure on Gaza.
  • He links Hamas tactics to leverage-seeking after long-term political and economic strangulation of Gaza.
INSIGHT

Sinwar's Prison-Shaped Strategy

  • Yahya Sinwar's prison experience and Hebrew skills shaped his strategy and understanding of Israeli society.
  • Blumenthal says Sinwar prioritized resistance and planned an operation to seize leverage through captives.
INSIGHT

Operation As Political Leverage

  • Blumenthal frames October 7 as designed to disrupt the Abraham Accords and regain Palestinian leverage.
  • The plan aimed to capture many Israelis to force prisoner exchanges and revive Palestinian diplomatic relevance.
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