The Middle East, and much of the globe have been caught up over the period from November 14 to November 21 in the violent exchanges between Gaza and Israel. The lion's share of the civilian casualties have been within Gaza. With at least 1,500 military strikes by Israel and more than 1000 rockets fired by Gaza into Israel, this is the greatest carnage generated in this generations long conflict since Israel's Operation Cast Lead in 2008.
Israel and its partners on the international stage are saying the attacks were instigated by Gaza 'terrorists.' Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza is calling it retaliation against Israeli aggression.
A ceasefire agreement, brokered by the Egyptian president went into effect on the evening of November 21. Twenty four hours later, it seems to be holding. Is this a permanent situation?
In this special edition of the Global Research News Hour, we probe the recent outbreak of violence, why it's happening now, what the realities are behind the media spin, and where the current situation sits as part of a broader regional and global power play.
We'll speak with Ramallah-based Allison Deger of Mondoweiss, and we'll hear from writer/broadcaster Stephen Lendman.
Interviews: Michael Welch Translation of statement by Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh and text of Ceasefire agreement supplied by Julie Webb-Pulman
(1:30-7:15)News Headlines (7:25-9:51)Statement of Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh (9:52-11:40)Text of Ceasefire agreement (11:40-29:35)Interview: Allison Deger (29:45-59:20)Interview: Stephen Lendman