Avi Shlaim, a renowned historian specializing in the Middle East, shares his insights on Israeli politics and conflicts in the region. Born in Baghdad to a Jewish family, Shlaim now resides in the UK, where he is a professor at Oxford University. Known for challenging traditional Israeli history, Shlaim reflects on the current right-wing government led by Benjamin Netanyahu.
Despite Israel’s shift to the right, Shlaim highlights the country’s strategic goals, including its intentions to weaken Iran and its proxies in the Middle East. He also touches on the influence of the US on Israeli politics, emphasizing the unconditional support Israel receives.
Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Shlaim discusses the failure of the two-state solution and advocates for a single democratic state for all citizens. He criticizes Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, pointing out the ongoing land confiscation and ethnic cleansing.
Lastly, Shlaim addresses the response of Arab neighbors to Israeli aggression, noting the silence of some Arab states and the implications of recent peace treaties with Israel.
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