For Once, Netanyahu is Not the Party that Needs to be Pressured

WEEKEND ROUNDUP FOR PAID SUBSCRIBERS, including: Putting ICE on Ice, the E3 seize Russian assets, weirdness at the Fed, and an amazing project for children in Gaza

With Trump headed to the region, I was asked again and again by TV interviewers: What does he have to do to pressure Netanyahu to ensure that this deal is carried out — unlike in March, when Israel violated the previous deal? This question seems fair enough, because Netanyahu is a cheat. But for once, with the hostages expected to be freed, this is not where the pressure needs to be directed.

As I explained on Al Jazeera (above), it is the Arabs and especially Qatar, which has emerged as a critical player, who must be watched very closely to make sure the put the maximal squeeze on Hamas to actually disarm — as called for in the 20-point plan that they backed and that is what Israel has agreed to. If this doesn’t occur, the war could resume, possibly more brutal than before, with Trump’s backing. Especially as there’s no longer a Nobel Prize affecting things.

To support the defense of democracy, decency and reason, consider unlocking full access to Ask Questions Later by upgrading to a Paid Subscription (unless you have one!)