Hugh Lovatt

Ellie Geranmayeh, a senior policy fellow at ECFR, and Hugh Lovatt, chairman of the European Middle East Project, dive into pressing Middle Eastern issues. They uncover insights from the Doha Forum, discussing Gaza's precarious future and the complex dynamics of Iran's nuclear diplomacy. The guests explore America's waning role as a security guarantor in the region and debate the implications of impending Israeli elections on foreign policy. With Gaza's governance hanging in the balance, they emphasize the need for international cooperation and Palestinian agency to sustain peace.

In this discussion, Hugh Lovatt, an expert on Middle East politics, joins Bilal Y Saab, Christopher Phillips, and Burcu Ozcelik to delve into the ongoing violence in the region and the complexities of peace negotiations. They explore the historical dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the shifting role of international players, and the diminished influence of the U.S. as new actors like Saudi Arabia emerge. The conversation raises critical questions about who can successfully broker peace and what frameworks might be viable amidst escalating tensions.

Hugh Lovatt, an ECFR policy fellow specializing in Middle Eastern politics, and Tahani Mustafa, a visiting fellow focused on governance and security in the West Bank, dive deep into the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. They discuss Israel's military actions, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the chaotic aid distribution. Tensions are rising, particularly with the role of Israeli settlers in the West Bank. They also evaluate the Palestinian Authority’s challenges and the crucial role that Europe plays in mediating peace efforts and preventing further loss of life.