Michael Oren on Gaza Hostage Deal, Middle East Diplomacy, and Two-State Solution

Emotional Release and Hope

• 💡 The release of hostages is an extraordinary moment of hope for Israel, bringing immense joy to families after immense suffering.
• 💔 Awareness is crucial for the 24 families of deceased hostages whose loved ones were murdered by Hamas and have not been returned.
• 🌍 This moment is rare in Middle East diplomacy, with President Trump noting that "everything is possible," including peace with Syria, Lebanon, and even Iran.

Disarming Hamas and New Diplomacy

• 🎯 The next crucial stage involves disarming Hamas, a challenge that requires international pressure.
• 🤝 The Trump administration's approach of pressuring Hamas, rather than Israel, has been effective, with even past supporters like Qatar now distancing themselves from the group due to its destructive impact.
• 🚫 Tools like cutting off arms, money, and intercepting stolen humanitarian aid can be used to pressure Hamas into surrender.
• 💼 The success of figures like Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner highlights a new approach to diplomacy, throwing out the old playbook that prioritized Palestinian statehood before Arab-Israeli peace.

Rethinking the Two-State Solution

• 🚫 The two-state solution has been attempted for decades without success, largely due to Palestinian rejections dating back to the 1930s.
• 💡 Alternative, creative pathways for Palestinian futures are needed, focusing on freedom from violence and the ability to realize potential, without necessarily requiring a state framework that could fall to Hamas.
• ⚠️ The release of Palestinian prisoners, including those convicted of horrific crimes, is a painful price for this historic moment and could poison future rebuilding efforts.
• 🇮🇱 Israel's resilience, demonstrated by its creation after the Holocaust and its ability to thrive despite adversity, provides confidence in overcoming current challenges.