Part 6/10:
Downer warns that the current international strategy might be counterproductive. When the global community applies excessive pressure on Israel—criticizing its military actions or questioning its humanitarian practices—it inadvertently empowers Hamas by validating its narrative that Israel is an aggressor and that the Palestinians are victims. Such portrayals serve Hamas's propaganda, strengthening its grip on Gaza and stalling prospects for peace.
Instead, Downer advocates for a shift: international diplomacy should pressure Hamas to allow aid, cease hostilities, and start meaningful negotiations for a sustainable peace. This entails creating conditions conducive to democratic governance in Gaza, with Arab nations working alongside Western allies to facilitate this transition.