DiscoverWhat Next | Daily News and AnalysisWho—and Why—Israelis Are Protesting
Who—and Why—Israelis Are Protesting

Who—and Why—Israelis Are Protesting

Update: 2024-09-05
Share

Digest

The podcast delves into the complexities of the current conflict between Israel and Hamas, exploring the reasons behind the lack of a cease-fire deal and the growing unrest within Israeli society. The podcast highlights the protests in Israel, driven by a desire to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the deep divisions within Israeli society over the government's handling of the conflict. The podcast also examines the potential for escalation in the West Bank, highlighting the actions of Israeli settlers and Hamas-linked groups. The podcast concludes by discussing the US's involvement in ceasefire negotiations and the potential for a final ultimatum to Israel and Hamas.

Outlines

00:00:00
The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: A Deep Dive

This podcast explores the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, focusing on the lack of a cease-fire deal, the protests in Israel, and the potential for escalation in the West Bank. The podcast examines the reasons behind the lack of a cease-fire deal, including Netanyahu's political motives and security concerns. It also highlights the protests in Israel, driven by a desire to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the deep divisions within Israeli society over the government's handling of the conflict. The podcast further discusses the potential for escalation in the West Bank, highlighting the actions of Israeli settlers and Hamas-linked groups. Finally, the podcast examines the US's involvement in ceasefire negotiations and the potential for a final ultimatum to Israel and Hamas.

Keywords

Hostage Deal


An agreement between two parties, often involving the release of hostages in exchange for concessions or the fulfillment of certain demands. This term is particularly relevant in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas is a key issue.

Cease-fire


A temporary suspension of hostilities between warring parties, often agreed upon to allow for negotiations or humanitarian aid. In the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a cease-fire is crucial for ending the violence and creating space for a lasting peace agreement.

Hamas


A Palestinian Islamist political organization and militant group that controls the Gaza Strip. Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by Israel and many Western countries, and its actions have been a major source of conflict in the region.

Netanyahu


The current Prime Minister of Israel, known for his right-wing policies and his controversial approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Netanyahu's actions and rhetoric have been a major factor in the ongoing tensions and violence in the region.

Wartime Dissent


Opposition to a government's actions during a war or conflict, often expressed through protests, demonstrations, or other forms of civil disobedience. In the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, wartime dissent reflects the deep divisions within Israeli society over the government's handling of the conflict.

Prisoner Swap


An exchange of prisoners between two parties, often involving the release of captured soldiers or civilians in exchange for the release of prisoners held by the other side. Prisoner swaps have been a common feature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but they have also been controversial, with some arguing that they reward terrorism.

Regional War


A conflict that involves multiple countries or regions, often with the potential to escalate into a wider international conflict. In the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, there are concerns that the current conflict could escalate into a regional war involving Iran, Hezbollah, and other actors.

De-escalation


The process of reducing tensions and violence between warring parties, often through diplomatic efforts or the implementation of cease-fires. In the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, de-escalation is crucial for preventing the conflict from spiraling out of control and for creating space for a peaceful resolution.

Q&A

  • What are the main reasons for the lack of a cease-fire deal in the current conflict?

    The lack of a cease-fire deal is attributed to both political and security concerns. Netanyahu's desire to avoid elections and the Israeli society's skepticism about a deal that could leave Hamas in control of Gaza are key factors.

  • What are the main points of contention between the protesters in Israel and Netanyahu's government?

    The protesters prioritize a hostage-for-ceasefire deal, believing that the primary goal should be to bring back the hostages. Netanyahu's government, however, emphasizes security concerns and defeating Hamas, arguing that certain compromises cannot be made.

  • How has the US been involved in the conflict and what is its current stance?

    The US has been involved in ceasefire negotiations and has pressured Israel to de-escalate on other fronts, such as preventing a wider regional war. However, the US has not taken a strong stance on the specific issue of a cease-fire deal in Gaza.

  • What are the potential implications of the ongoing protests in Israel?

    The protests reflect the deep divisions within Israeli society and could potentially lead to a change in government or a shift in policy. However, it remains to be seen whether the protests will have a significant impact on the course of the conflict.

Show Notes

Will the deaths of six hostages mark a turning point in how Israelis view the war in Gaza—and how Netanyahu’s government is conducting it?


Guest: Yair Rosenberg, staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of its newsletter Deep Shtetl


Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.


Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Comments 
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

Who—and Why—Israelis Are Protesting

Who—and Why—Israelis Are Protesting

Slate Podcasts