In this episode of All Things Negotiation, host Stan Christensen interviews Steven A. Cook, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations specializing in Middle Eastern and African Studies. They discuss the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the roles of extremists on both sides in undermining peace efforts and covering the history that has led to this current moment. The conversation covers the influence of third parties like China and Russia in the Middle East, American influence on Israeli policies, and the potential consequences of Israel's actions post-October 7th. The discussion also touches on broader U.S. foreign policy issues, the rise of Iranian influence through Hezbollah, and the challenges of maintaining American strategic interests amidst internal political divisions.

Check out Steven's Book: The End of Ambition

00:00 - Introduction: Extremists and Moderates

00:35 - Guest Introduction: Stephen Cook

02:02 - Historical Context: US-Israel Relations

04:24 - The Oslo Accords and Their Aftermath

06:39 - The Second Intifada and Its Consequences

09:16 - Current State of Israeli-Palestinian Relations

16:22 - US Influence and Policy Challenges

28:48 - Iran and Hezbollah: Regional Dynamics

31:57 - US Foreign Policy: Continuity and Change

36:35 - Conclusion: The Future of US Involvement in the Middle East