Connor Freeman joins Scott to discuss latest Gaza developments, potential invasion of Rafah, Israeli politics, suffering scale, Biden's involvement, and more. They highlight dire humanitarian crisis, historical context, and concerns over US involvement in aid delivery.
Negotiations aim for ceasefire deal in Gaza; Israeli demands include hostage release, potential invasions despite Hamas ceasefire calls.
Israeli government's extreme stances raise concerns; human suffering in Gaza escalates with bombings and impending ethnic cleansing campaign.
Deep dives
Negotiations for Ceasefire and Hostage Deal
The ongoing negotiations involving Secretary of State Blinken aim to secure a ceasefire deal in Gaza. The reduced demands by Israel include the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, this deal does not prevent Israel from potential invasions into areas like Rafa, despite Hamas's demands for a permanent ceasefire and the lifting of sieges.
Right-Wing Influence in Netanyahu's Decision-Making
Netanyahu's coalition, notably right-wing and religious, underlines extreme stances within the government. Figures like Benny Gantz oppose ceasing hostilities unless it involves a hostage deal without ending the conflict. Additionally, leaders like Smotrich from the religious Zionism Party advocate for the annihilation of Rafa, aiming to intensify military actions in the region, raising concerns about the government's direction.
Humanitarian Crisis and Israeli Actions in Gaza
The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza escalates with reports of mass graves and the collapsing health system. Israel's aggressive bombings have destroyed infrastructure, resulting in a famine crisis. The impending ethnic cleansing campaign in Rafa poses further threats. The construction of a peer by the Biden administration, suggested by Netanyahu, raises concerns about the US military involvement and potential escalation of the conflict.
Connor Freeman joined Scott on Antiwar Radio this week to discuss the latest developments from Gaza. They talk about the apparently imminent invasion of Rafah, the concerning state of internal Israeli politics, the scale of suffering, Biden’s makeshift pier and more.
Discussed on the show:
“Israel’s Smotrich Calls for ‘Total Annihilation’ of Rafah, Other Cities in Gaza” (Antiwar.com)
Connor Freeman is the Assistant Editor of the Libertarian Institute, primarily covering foreign policy. He is a co-host on Conflicts of Interest. His writing has been featured in media outlets such as Antiwar.com and Counterpunch, as well as the Ron Paul Institute for Peace and Prosperity. You can follow him on Twitter @FreemansMind96