It takes strength to write about this topic. As usual with all things Middle East, I have no answers. Yet, it is a situation that affects us no doubt, so people who think we should leave it alone are mistaken.
There is one thing I'm curious about, and that is Netanyahu. In the press, I sense a view from somewhere that if Hamas did not attack, Netanyahu would be practically headed to prison. He gets likened to Trump in this way, but I do not know that to be true. I've long been like this with the mainstream press - not enough info for me to make a decision.
So, Bibi isn't a saint, and he's not the villain. He's a deeply flawed leader who is trying to hold onto power through an existential shock to Israel. I still don't think he will survive the war, and he will not be able to dodge the inquiry. Israel isn't the United States. Per his criminal trials, I'll have to refresh my memory on its current standing. Yes, there are some substantial charges of corruption, but if memory serves me correctly it's not Trump-level.
Great article. What a mess but you describe the situation with great clarity. I now have a much better understanding of the stakes in this war and where it is headed. Thanks very much.
Incredibly important & insightful piece. Should be read by anybody & everybody who thinks they know what is going on or who has already picked a side based on incomplete information...or priors. Your clear-eyed & experience-based observations & analysis are invaluable.
It takes strength to write about this topic. As usual with all things Middle East, I have no answers. Yet, it is a situation that affects us no doubt, so people who think we should leave it alone are mistaken.
There is one thing I'm curious about, and that is Netanyahu. In the press, I sense a view from somewhere that if Hamas did not attack, Netanyahu would be practically headed to prison. He gets likened to Trump in this way, but I do not know that to be true. I've long been like this with the mainstream press - not enough info for me to make a decision.
So, Bibi isn't a saint, and he's not the villain. He's a deeply flawed leader who is trying to hold onto power through an existential shock to Israel. I still don't think he will survive the war, and he will not be able to dodge the inquiry. Israel isn't the United States. Per his criminal trials, I'll have to refresh my memory on its current standing. Yes, there are some substantial charges of corruption, but if memory serves me correctly it's not Trump-level.
Great article. What a mess but you describe the situation with great clarity. I now have a much better understanding of the stakes in this war and where it is headed. Thanks very much.
Incredibly important & insightful piece. Should be read by anybody & everybody who thinks they know what is going on or who has already picked a side based on incomplete information...or priors. Your clear-eyed & experience-based observations & analysis are invaluable.
Thanks, David. Appreciate it.
So much knowledge. You should be advising someone with authority. Keep writing. I hear the podcast is nearing ready. Take care.