The Monocle Daily The Gaza ceasefire faces further tests. Plus: how important is a leader’s sense of style?
9 snips
Oct 29, 2025 Lynn O'Donnell, a foreign policy analyst specializing in South Asia and the Middle East, joins Michael Binion, an expert on Middle East geopolitics. They delve into the fragile Gaza ceasefire, exploring the reasons behind ongoing breaches and political motives of both Hamas and Netanyahu. The conversation shifts to the significance of a leader's style, highlighting Albanese's Joy Division T-shirt as a case study. They discuss celebrity influence in politics and how cultural figures can enhance or complicate diplomatic efforts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Pilgrimage To Sylvia Plath's Grave
- Lynn O'Donnell visited Sylvia Plath's grave and noticed post-it notes and trinkets left by readers.
- She observed the site was well tended with many plants and flowers.
Conflict Serves Political Interests
- Both Hamas and Netanyahu benefit politically from continued conflict, reducing incentives for a durable peace.
- That dynamic helps explain predictable escalations despite ceasefires and external pressure.
Escalation As Predictable Strategy
- Israel's response pattern since October 7 suggests 'going big' is a predictable strategy for Netanyahu.
- Hamas also calculates actions to demonstrate strength even when retaliation is likely.
