A new year and a new season of The New Arab Voice podcast.
This week, we continue with the story that has dominated the Middle since October: the war in Gaza.
While we were away the violence did not cease nor slow down. The death toll has now passed 23,000, the vast majority women and children. Additionally, over 60,000 have been injured.
There have been developments related to the war in Gaza that have occurred beyond Gaza’s borders. The first is the killing of Hamas deputy Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut on 2 January, and the second is South Africa’s genocide filing at the International Court of Justice.
This week we look at the killing of Arouri and examine what it means for the prospect of the war in Gaza escalating into a wider regional conflict. Will Hezbollah join the fight and open a second front in northern Israel? Will Iran launch a direct strike against Israel? And how will Iran use its network of militias in the region?
Secondly, we look at the recent filing by South Africa at the International Court of Justice, where Israel was accused of committing genocide. Will the filing be able to stop the violence in Gaza? Will it create a path for accountability? Will the filing work as a part of a pressure campaign?
To guide us through the prospects of an escalating conflict we’re joined by Dr. Hamidreza Azizi, a visiting fellow at the German Institute for International Security Affairs.
And to help us understand what has unfolded at the International Court of Justice, we speak with Mai El-Sadany, the Executive Director of the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy.
The killing of Hamas deputy Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut on 2 January has raised concerns about the war in Gaza escalating into a wider regional conflict. There is speculation about whether Hezbollah will join the fight and open a second front in northern Israel, if Iran will launch a direct strike against Israel, and how Iran will leverage its network of militias in the region. Dr. Hamidreza Azizi, a visiting fellow at the German Institute for International Security Affairs, provides insights into the prospects of an escalating conflict.
South Africa’s recent genocide filing against Israel at the International Court of Justice has also gained attention. The filing accuses Israel of committing genocide and raises questions about its potential to stop the violence in Gaza, create a path for accountability, and serve as part of a pressure campaign. Mai El-Sadany, Executive Director of the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy, offers her expertise on the unfolding events at the International Court of Justice.
As the war in Gaza continues to claim lives and inflict injuries, the international community closely watches these developments beyond Gaza’s borders. The death toll has surpassed 23,000, with the majority being women and children. The urgency to find a resolution grows as the violence persists.
The killing of Saleh al-Arouri highlights the potential for the war to escalate further. It raises concerns about Hezbollah’s involvement and the possibility of a second front opening in northern Israel. The actions of Iran and its network of militias also become critical factors in the conflict.
South Africa’s genocide filing adds a new dimension to the situation. Accusing Israel of committing genocide, this legal maneuver aims to halt the violence in Gaza and hold accountable those responsible for the suffering. It also seeks to apply pressure on Israel through international channels.
Dr. Hamidreza Azizi warns of the potential for an escalating conflict, highlighting the strategic implications of Hezbollah’s involvement and Iran’s network of militias. He emphasizes the need for international diplomacy and resolution to prevent a further humanitarian crisis.
Mai El-Sadany sheds light on the genocide filing at the International Court of Justice and its potential impact. While it may not immediately result in an end to the violence, it contributes to the global discussions surrounding accountability and justice. She emphasizes the importance of a sustained pressure campaign to bring about change.
As the war in Gaza continues, the international community grapples with how to address the ongoing violence. The insights provided by Dr. Hamidreza Azizi and Mai El-Sadany offer valuable perspectives on the potential for escalation and the avenues for seeking accountability.
Efforts to secure peace and ensure the safety of innocent lives are of utmost importance. The hope is that these developments spark meaningful dialogue and action towards a lasting solution. Despite the challenges, the international community must continue to strive for justice and stability in the region.
The New Arab Voice podcast aims to shed light on these critical issues, fostering a better understanding of the complexities at play. It serves as a platform for informed discussions and analysis, bringing together expert voices to explore potential pathways towards peace and resolution.
In a world where conflict and violence persist, The New Arab Voice podcast provides a vital space for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas. By engaging with these issues, our hope is that listeners gain a more nuanced perspective on the challenges facing the Middle East and the global community’s role in shaping a brighter future.
As the war in Gaza continues to unfold, we remain committed to providing comprehensive coverage and meaningful insights. Together, let us navigate these complex issues and strive for a world where peace and justice prevail.
