Christiane Amanpour Presents: The Ex Files
Episode: Q&A: Would the US Ever Stop Arming Israel
Release Date: May 21, 2025
Introduction to the Q&A Session
In this bonus episode of Christiane Amanpour Presents: The Ex Files, renowned journalist Christiane Amanpour and her ex-husband, former US State Department official Jamie Rubin, engage directly with their audience by answering a series of pressing questions. This interactive format allows listeners to gain deeper insights into current global crises and the dynamics shaping international relations.
US-Arming Israel: An Unbreakable Alliance?
Timestamp: [01:27]
Question: Carl on X asks, "Why will the US never stop arming Israel, however serious the accusations against them?"
Discussion: Jamie Rubin emphasizes the longstanding alliance between the United States and Israel, highlighting the commitment to ensuring Israel's defense capabilities. Despite recent aggressive actions by Israel, Rubin underscores the political dimensions of this support, noting the strong backing from the Republican Party.
Notable Quote:
"The entire Republican Party is fully supportive of the most extreme version of the [US-Israel] alliance."
— Jamie Rubin [02:18]
Rubin also reminisces about the Clinton era, where diplomatic efforts like the Camp David Accords showcased America's ability to influence Israeli policies. However, he contrasts this with current dynamics, suggesting that the US now has limited leverage over Israel's decisions.
The Future of a Palestinian State
Timestamp: [05:59]
Question: Bailey on Instagram asks, "Do you think the Palestinians will ever have their own recognized state?"
Discussion: Christiane Amanpour expresses optimism, stating that a recognized Palestinian state is essential for lasting peace. She links this possibility to broader diplomatic efforts, such as the Abraham Accords, and underscores the conditional support from nations like Saudi Arabia.
Notable Quote:
"If Israel is ever to have peace and Palestinians are ever to have peace and dignity and sovereignty, then there will be a Palestinian state."
— Christiane Amanpour [06:00]
Jamie Rubin agrees, emphasizing that the only viable solutions are a two-state or one-state arrangement, though he notes Israel's reluctance toward the latter.
Should Trump Receive a Nobel Peace Prize?
Timestamp: [08:55]
Question: Holden on X asks, "Should Trump get the Nobel Peace Prize if he helps bring peace to the Middle East or Ukraine?"
Discussion: Jamie Rubin humorously addresses Trump's frequent mentions of the Nobel Peace Prize, suggesting that Trump's potential contributions toward negotiating peace with Iran could make him a candidate. However, he remains skeptical about Trump's ability to facilitate such a deal, referencing Trump's earlier withdrawal from the Obama-era Iran deal.
Notable Quote:
"If he makes that deal and eliminates the risk of a nuclear Iran or an attack on Iran by Israel or the United States, let him win the Nobel Peace Prize."
— Jamie Rubin [09:47]
Christiane Amanpour tentatively agrees but remains doubtful about its feasibility.
Maintaining Composure Amidst Conflict
Timestamp: [10:57]
Question: Jet on TikTok asks Christiane, "How do you maintain your composure after witnessing so many wars firsthand?"
Discussion: Christiane Amanpour shares the emotional toll of reporting from conflict zones, especially with personal experiences such as her son Darius witnessing these events. She emphasizes the necessity of telling these stories to highlight the suffering and advocate for change.
Notable Quote:
"The only way I maintain my composure is I know I need to tell the stories, I know I need to get the interviews."
— Christiane Amanpour [12:51]
Jamie Rubin echoes the sentiment, acknowledging the profound impact these experiences have on their personal lives.
Understanding US Cabinet Appointments
Timestamp: [12:44]
Question: Danny on YouTube asks Jamie, "Can the president just appoint whoever they like?"
Discussion: Jamie Rubin explains the US system of cabinet appointments, highlighting the role of the Senate's "advice and consent." He criticizes the Trump administration's approach, noting that recent appointments often bypass rigorous scrutiny, allowing less qualified individuals to secure positions through sheer Senate majority support.
Notable Quote:
"As long as 51 members of the Senate support the president, yeah, he can pick pretty much whoever he wants."
— Jamie Rubin [13:47]
Christiane adds that political pressures prevent meaningful opposition within the Republican Party, citing fears of backlash from the MAGA base.
Balancing High-Pressure Careers and Personal Relationships
Timestamp: [17:25]
Question: Rachel on Instagram asks, "Was it difficult to balance your high-pressure careers and relationship?"
Discussion: Both Christiane and Jamie acknowledge the challenges of maintaining a relationship amidst demanding careers and global crises. They attribute their ability to navigate these challenges to prioritizing their son and supporting each other despite their eventual divorce.
Notable Quote:
"We made our son our priority. There's no doubt about it."
— Christiane Amanpour [18:21]
Advice for Parents on Navigating Uncertainty
Timestamp: [19:06]
Question: Suzanne on X asks, "As parents, what advice would you give other parents when navigating the increasing uncertainty regarding a safe and peaceful future?"
Discussion: Jamie Rubin expresses concern about the rapidly changing global landscape, emphasizing threats from authoritarian regimes like Russia and China. He advocates for a strong, unified Europe as a counterbalance to these powers. Christiane Amanpour underscores the importance of political engagement and maintaining optimism amidst challenges.
Notable Quote:
"The rule breakers are the rule makers."
— Christiane Amanpour [21:08]
Jamie adds that Europe's unity is crucial in addressing collective threats and supporting allies like Ukraine.
The Situation in Bosnia Herzegovina
Timestamp: [22:23]
Question: Maya on Instagram asks, "What do you make of the current situation in Bosnia Herzegovina?"
Discussion: Christiane Amanpour and Jamie Rubin draw parallels between the historical conflicts in Bosnia and recent aggressive actions in Ukraine. They highlight the resurgence of nationalist movements influenced by external powers like Russia and Serbia. Despite current tensions, Jamie remains cautiously optimistic due to significant grassroots opposition against corruption and nationalism within Serbia.
Notable Quote:
"They are demonstrating against corruption in Serbia, and it's a very important moment."
— Christiane Amanpour [23:47]
The Call for a Stronger, More Unified Europe
Timestamp: [24:33]
Question: Leah on Instagram asks, "Is this the time for a stronger and more unified Europe?"
Discussion: Jamie Rubin strongly advocates for a more unified Europe, especially in light of threats from Russia and China. He praises Europe's current stance in supporting Ukraine and strengthening NATO, viewing it as a necessary response to prevent further geopolitical destabilization.
Notable Quote:
"A strong and united Europe is a first step towards recognizing [the threats]."
— Jamie Rubin [24:48]
Christiane Amanpour agrees, emphasizing Europe's collective strength and the importance of political and cultural unity.
Conclusion
In this engaging Q&A session, Christiane Amanpour and Jamie Rubin provide nuanced perspectives on some of the most pressing international issues of our time. From the complexities of US-Israel relations to the future of the Middle East peace process, their insights offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical landscape. Personal reflections on maintaining composure in conflict zones and balancing high-pressure careers add depth to their professional analyses, making this episode a valuable resource for those seeking to comprehend the intricacies of global affairs.
For more insights and to engage with Christiane and Jamie, listeners are encouraged to follow them on social media under the handle @AmanpourPod and submit their questions via email at amanpourpodlobal.com.