"Israel Doesn't Want This War to End" - How the Gaza War Will Only Get Worse - Omar Baddar (Video)

In this 20 September 2024 Impact Theory video, host Tom Bilyeu sits down with Omar Baddar, a political analyst, digital producer and human rights advocate based in Washington, DC. He holds an M.A. in International Relations and Comparative Politics from the University of Memphis, where his research focused on U.S.-Middle East policy, to delve into the intricate and often polarizing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. With historical context, media coverage critiques, and the profound human rights implications at its core, this discussion examines the long-standing tensions, strategic alliances, and heart-wrenching stories that shape the current landscape.

Tom and Omar explore the roots of Israel’s establishment and the Palestinian struggle, dissect the aggressive stances on both sides, and question the role of the U.S. as a significant player in the conflict. Tom attempts to understand the motivations behind Israel’s military actions and how Hamas has evolved in response to the ongoing occupation. The episode also touches on the ethical dilemmas, international law, and the ever-evolving political dynamics in the region.

Moreover, they discuss possible resolutions, including the viability of a two-state solution or a unified state with equal rights for all, emphasizing the need for sustained international pressure and coherent policies to address the injustices faced by Palestinians.

Join us for an in-depth and thought-provoking conversation on a topic that continues to evoke intense debate, shaped by historical grievances, contemporary political climates, and efforts for a peaceful future. Whether you’re well-versed in Middle Eastern geopolitics or seeking to better understand the nuances of this enduring conflict, this episode promises to provide essential insights and a much-needed perspective.

https://youtu.be/J2o3isAP-Sc

00:00 US supports Israel, hindering accountability, causing conflicts.
10:39 Intentional annihilation in Gaza is morally unacceptable.
23:53 Encourage international law for peace and safety.
33:41 Hamas’ popularity grew due to failed peace process.
45:39 Status quo: Israeli occupation and Palestinian displacement ongoing.
01:00:04 Netanyahu: Genocidal rhetoric and Gaza depopulation strategy.
01:05:34 Israel’s war on Gaza is morally unjustifiable.
01:22:37 Pressure on Palestinians, Israel’s desires dominate discourse.
01:24:28 Genocide in Gaza transcends minor political disagreements.
01:34:30 Stop violence before seeking Israeli-Palestinian reconciliation.
01:45:11 America backs friends; skeptical of Iran’s intentions.
02:00:08 Focus on better future can prevent conflicts.
02:13:28 Equality and shared rights for Palestinians and Israelis.
02:16:41 Israel must face consequences for unjust actions.

Omar Baddar is the former Executive Director of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee of Massachusetts, and the former Director of the Palestine Cultural Center for Peace in Boston, MA. He has participated in dozens of panels, lectures, and debates on college and university campuses throughout the US. His media appearances include the BBC, Al-Jazeera, Sky News, Voice of America, Russia Today, and several other outlets, and his writings have appeared in Salon, the Huffington Post, the Daily Beast, Jadaliyya among other platforms. He is also a free lance English/Arabic translator, and He holds an undergraduate degree in multimedia Graphic Design.