This special three-part episode of Then & Now features three experts in Middle East history and politics who examine multiple dimensions of the recent outbreak of violence in Israel and Palestine. Their incisive analysis provides listeners with a thorough overview of the historical context, political consequences, and potential impact on future peace in Israel-Palestine.

The first segment features Hussein Ibish, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, who examines the roots and consequences of the renewed hostilities between Israel and Hamas. The second segment features UCLA historian and Middle East expert James Gelvin, and focuses on a distinguishing feature of this round: violence between Israeli Jews and Arabs within the Green Line. The third segment features Lara Friedman, President of the Foundation for Middle East Peace, who analyzes the political ramifications of this violence both in the region and in the United States.