Podcast Summary: The Opinions – "Tom Friedman: Will Israel’s War Ever End?"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Opinions
• Host/Author: The New York Times Opinion
• Description: You've heard the news, here's what to make of it.
• Episode: Tom Friedman: Will Israel’s War Ever End?
• Release Date: May 29, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Opinions, Patrick Healy, Deputy Editor for The New York Times Opinion, engages in a deep and insightful conversation with columnist Tom Friedman. The discussion centers on the protracted war in Gaza, its devastating human cost, and the profound implications for Israeli society and leadership. Drawing from Friedman's recent reporting trip to Israel, the episode offers a nuanced exploration of the conflict's current state and its potential trajectory.

Israel’s Prolonged Conflict: A Grim Reality

Tom Friedman opens the conversation by contextualizing the ongoing war in Gaza, which has now endured for over 19 months. He highlights the severe human toll, noting that "more than 50,000 Palestinians have been killed" and approximately "20 hostages are still being held" (00:49). Friedman underscores the relentless nature of the conflict, emphasizing that it shows no signs of abating.

Evolving Public Sentiment: From Support to Frustration

A significant portion of the discussion delves into the shifting sentiments within Israeli society. Friedman observes a growing frustration and anxiety among Israelis due to the lack of progress and the escalating civilian casualties. He recounts a pivotal moment from his trip where Yair Golan, head of the Democratic Party, faced intense backlash after criticizing the war, illustrating the rising dissent:

“He gave an interview... where he decried basically this war with no end, with no plan, where so many Palestinian civilians were being killed... it ignited a firestorm from the right” (01:57).

Friedman notes that this backlash has catalyzed a broader conversation within Israel, transcending traditional political divisions.

Emergence of a Cross-Political Anti-War Movement

Friedman identifies the emergence of a nascent anti-war movement that cuts across the political spectrum. He states:

“For the first time from the left, from the center and from the right, you had Israelis saying this war has got to come to an end” (03:00).

This unprecedented unity against the ongoing conflict indicates a potential tipping point in Israeli politics, signaling deep-seated weariness and moral questioning among the populace.

Moral and Existential Questions Facing Israelis

Patrick Healy probes whether the criticism of the war is primarily tactical or rooted in deeper existential concerns. Friedman responds by highlighting the multifaceted nature of the opposition:

“For some people, it's just, I'm tired of this, I want it over. For others, there is the moral question... something very technical but very important” (05:09).

He emphasizes the moral dilemma surrounding the high civilian casualties in Gaza and the psychological toll on Israeli soldiers, who are haunted by the horrors they witness daily.

Netanyahu’s Leadership Under Scrutiny

The discussion turns to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the growing dissatisfaction with his leadership. Friedman articulates the precariousness of Netanyahu’s position:

“Netanyahu is continuing the war to keep himself in power... a growing chorus outside that the number of Palestinians being killed there, civilians now was just out of control” (03:00).

Healy questions the sustainability of Netanyahu’s leadership as public support wanes, and Friedman agrees, suggesting that Netanyahu's actions are driven by a desperate need to maintain his grip on power amidst corruption investigations.

Potential Constitutional Crisis and Political Instability

Friedman warns of a looming constitutional crisis within Israel, exacerbated by Netanyahu's recent actions:

“Netanyahu has fired the director of the Shin Bet... the Supreme Court in Israel ruled you cannot do that. So we are maybe days from a real constitutional crisis” (14:03).

This scenario underscores the fragility of Israeli democratic institutions under the strain of prolonged conflict and political maneuvering.

Impact of Far-Right Alliances on Israeli Politics

Friedman provides an in-depth analysis of Netanyahu's alliances with far-right factions, which have significantly influenced Israeli policy and stability:

“He brought in people... like Smotrich and Ben Gvir... their goal is annexation of the west bank and Gaza” (14:34).

These alliances have not only polarized Israeli society but have also constrained Netanyahu’s ability to pursue potential peace initiatives, thereby prolonging the conflict.

The Role of the United States and Netanyahu-Trump Relations

The conversation shifts to the intricate dynamics between Israel and the United States, particularly focusing on Netanyahu's relationship with former President Donald Trump. Friedman critiques Netanyahu's expectations of unwavering American support:

“Trump disagrees with Netanyahu on a fundamental thing. Trump has decided he wants to make peace with Iran... Netanyahu can't pull the old levers” (17:55).

This divergence has left Netanyahu isolated, unable to leverage traditional Republican support channels to bolster his position.

Recommendations for American Policy towards Israel

In addressing what the American government should ideally do, Friedman advocates for a more assertive stance:

“The ideal approach is for Trump to be as tough with Netanyahu as he is with Zelenskyy and say to him that this war ends, it ends now” (20:04).

He proposes a comprehensive plan involving the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of hostages, and the establishment of an international peacekeeping force in Gaza, aiming for a sustainable and peaceful resolution.

Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads

The episode concludes with a sobering reflection on Israel's current trajectory. Friedman emphasizes the critical junction at which Israel stands, caught between entrenched political interests and a populace yearning for peace:

“Israel is driving drunk” (21:57).

He calls for decisive action from both Israeli leadership and the international community to avert further deterioration of the situation, highlighting the urgent need for a negotiated end to the war.

Notable Quotes:

• Tom Friedman (01:57): "His phone I could see, was blowing up and I didn't know what it was about. And they explained to me that he'd given an interview... he decried basically this war with no end, with no plan..."

• Tom Friedman (03:00): "For the first time from the left, from the center and from the right, you had Israelis saying this war has got to come to an end."

• Tom Friedman (14:03): "So we are maybe days from a real constitutional crisis in Israel."

• Tom Friedman (17:55): "Trump disagrees with Netanyahu on a fundamental thing. Trump has decided he wants to make peace with Iran."

• Tom Friedman (20:04): "The ideal approach is for Trump to be as tough with Netanyahu as he is with Zelenskyy and say to him that this war ends, it ends now."

• Tom Friedman (21:57): "Israel is driving drunk."

Closing Thoughts

This episode of The Opinions offers a thorough and engaging examination of the enduring conflict between Israel and Gaza, shedding light on the internal and external pressures shaping Israel's future. Tom Friedman's firsthand accounts and incisive analysis provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities at play, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to grasp the current state and potential resolutions of this deeply entrenched conflict.