In this episode, Casey Babb sits down with Ahmed Alkhatib, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, to discuss the complex and evolving situation in Gaza, the rise of Hamas, and the broader implications for Palestinians and Israelis. Alkhatib, a former Gaza resident, shares his personal experiences growing up amidst the violence of the Second Intifada, the rise of Hamas, and the challenges of navigating life under constant tension. He discusses the nuances of Gaza’s internal political dynamics, the complexities of Palestinian identity, and the human cost of the ongoing conflict.
The conversation delves into Alkhatib’s current work with Realign for Palestine, an initiative aimed at redefining Palestinian activism and fostering dialogue around a two-nation solution. They explore the recent shifts in public opinion, the misconceptions surrounding support for Hamas, and the way forward for a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. With insights into regional geopolitics, Alkhatib provides a pragmatic yet hopeful vision for Gaza’s future – one rooted in cooperation, self-determination, and resilience.
