Weekly Recap and Audience AMA - Free Edition | Marshall & Saagar on Gaza, Hamas, and Israel
Oct 15, 2023
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Marshall and Saagar discuss Israel, Gaza, Hamas, and the ongoing war. They explore challenges of verifying information, controversial claims about beheaded babies in Gaza, comparing Hamas to extremist groups, the role of religion in the conflict, turning off utilities in a conflict zone, ethical obligations of nations, and dynamics and divisions in Europe.
The shift towards right-wing parties in Israel is attributed to factors such as the election of Hamas in Gaza and the undermining of support for the two-state solution.
Universities may witness changes in the tolerance for clubs promoting decolonization and liberation, leading to potential consequences for individuals advocating extreme views.
Biden's response to the conflict has shown support for Israel's right to defend itself, but his long-term evaluation depends on effectively addressing humanitarian concerns and navigating evolving dynamics.
The evaluation of Biden's response will depend on his ability to establish a humanitarian corridor, address humanitarian concerns, and ensure the safety of civilians on both sides.
The response from Trump, if still in office, may have had more aggressive rhetoric, but the overall approach might not differ significantly from Biden's, depending on the evolving situation.
Public tolerance for antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment on college campuses may decrease, promoting more nuanced and constructive discussions for understanding and dialogue.
Deep dives
Political landscape in Israel: Shift towards the right-wing
The political landscape in Israel has shifted towards right-wing parties in recent years. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including the election of Hamas in Gaza, which undermined support for the two-state solution. The Gaza pullout in 2005 led to the election of Hamas and heightened security concerns among Israelis. The rise of right-wing parties, coupled with security politics, has dominated the political discourse, making a two-state solution less viable.
Institutional changes at universities
Universities may see some institutional changes in regards to clubs and organizations that preach decolonization and liberation, such as Students for Justice in Palestine and the Democratic Socialists of America. The firing of individuals like Rina Wakhman, who publicly support extreme views, demonstrates that there are consequences for such statements. While universities may allow these groups to exist, societal tolerance for violent rhetoric and extreme views may decrease in the future.
Biden's Response and Trump's Hypothetical Response
Biden's response to the conflict has been strong, direct, and supportive of Israel's right to defend itself. He has shown commitment to maintaining the US-Israel alliance and has urged both sides to de-escalate. However, the long-term evaluation of Biden's response will depend on his ability to navigate the evolving situation and effectively address humanitarian concerns. As for Trump, it is likely that he would have responded in a similar manner, but with more aggressive rhetoric. The key difference would be in his approach to the broader political realities and international relations, which may have been more unpredictable.
Grading Biden's Response
As the situation continues to unfold, it is premature to give a final grade to Biden's response. However, if he fails to address humanitarian concerns and establish a humanitarian corridor, his response may be considered inadequate. The ultimate evaluation will depend on how effectively he navigates the changing dynamics and works towards de-escalation while ensuring the safety of civilians on both sides.
Trump's Hypothetical Response
If Trump were still in office, it is likely that his response would have included strong and aggressive rhetoric, but it is uncertain whether his approach would differ significantly from Biden's. Trump's focus on national security and his willingness to consider military options might have led to similar actions, but the specific response would depend on the evolving situation.
Potential Shift in American Society
The public displays of antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment on college campuses are likely to face reduced tolerance in American society. While clubs and organizations promoting decolonization and liberation may still exist, the broader public may be less accepting of violent rhetoric and extremist views. The trend towards more nuanced and measured discussions may prevail, promoting constructive dialogue and understanding.
The Decline of the Two-State Solution
The decline of the two-state solution in Israel and Palestine can be attributed to various factors, including the election of Hamas in Gaza, the failure of the Gaza pullout, and the dominance of security politics. The rise of right-wing parties and the external dynamics involving Iran, Hezbollah, and Egypt have further complicated the prospects for a two-state solution. The ongoing conflict and shifting political landscape present significant challenges to achieving a peaceful resolution.
Assessing Biden's Response
It is too early to give a final grade to Biden's response to the conflict. While his initial stance has been supportive of Israel's right to defend itself, the long-term evaluation will depend on his ability to effectively address humanitarian concerns, navigate changing dynamics, and promote de-escalation. The ultimate success of his response will be measured by the establishment of a humanitarian corridor and his ability to ensure the safety of civilians on both sides.
Trump's Hypothetical Response
If Trump were in office, his response to the conflict might have involved more aggressive rhetoric, but it is uncertain whether his approach would significantly differ from Biden's. Trump's focus on national security and his willingness to consider military options might have resulted in similar actions, but the specifics would depend on the evolving situation.
Societal Response to Campus Displays
Public displays of antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment on college campuses are likely to face reduced tolerance in American society. While clubs advocating decolonization and liberation may continue to exist, the broader public may be less accepting of violent rhetoric and extremist views. There may be a shift towards more nuanced and constructive discussions to promote understanding and dialogue.
Factors Leading to Decline of Two-State Solution
The decline of the two-state solution can be attributed to various factors, including the election of Hamas in Gaza, the failed Gaza pullout, and the dominance of security politics. The rise of right-wing parties and external dynamics involving Iran, Hezbollah, and Egypt have further complicated the prospects for a peaceful resolution. These challenges pose significant obstacles to achieving a two-state solution and require careful navigation and diplomatic efforts.
Grading Biden's Response
Given the ongoing nature of the conflict, it is premature to assign a final grade to Biden's response. However, his initial stance has been supportive of Israel's right to defend itself. The future evaluation will depend on his ability to address humanitarian concerns, navigate changing dynamics, and work towards de-escalation. The establishment of a humanitarian corridor and ensuring the safety of civilians will be important factors in assessing the overall effectiveness of his response.
The Objective of Israel: Eliminating Hamas from Power
Israel's objective in the conflict with Hamas is to permanently end Hamas as the governing entity in Gaza and as a broader threat to Israel. While the level of Palestinian casualties is a concern, it should not be confused with a genocidal intent. The focus should be on removing Hamas rather than punishing civilians. Israel's actions should be seen as a consequence of Hamas using civilians as human shields, not as deliberate targeting.
The Role of International Law and Institutions
International law and institutions, such as the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, struggle to effectively address conflicts when there are competing regional interests. These organizations can provide a platform for dialogue and diplomacy, but the enforcement of international law ultimately depends on regional alliances and the actions of powerful nations. Moreover, the divided nature of Europe makes it challenging for any single leader to represent the entire region's interests.
In the premiere episode The Realignment's new week recap and audience Q&A/AMA show, Marshall and Saagar's discuss Israel, Gaza, Hamas, and the broader state of the war.
