Violence in Gaza: "An Ugly Witch's Brew"

[Blue_Tires]

Violence in Gaza: “An Ugly Witch’s Brew”
MAY 17, 2018 | CIPHER BRIEF STAFF


Since the United States declared the opening of its new embassy in Jerusalem, violence has broken out along the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip, where thousands of protesters have gathered for months for what they have dubbed “The Great March of Return” [to Israel].

Earlier this week, Israeli troops fired into the crowd from across the border fence, killing at least 58 Palestinians and wounding more than 2,700. Israel has faced international backlash for its heavy-handed approach to the protests, including Turkey expelling its ambassador and a number of countries calling for an investigation of the bloodshed. However, what’s just as interesting is which voices are missing in the conversation.

For more on that, The Cipher Brief’s Brian Garrett-Glaser spoke with Rob Richer, former Associate Deputy Director of Operations at the CIA with deep ties across the Middle East.

What is the long-term impact of the decision by the U.S. to relocate its Israeli embassy to Jerusalem?

The concern I have really is the short-term, and the short-term effect is what we saw in Gaza on the border two days ago, and through Ramadan we’re going to continue to see a lot of loss of life. We’re probably going to see terrorist groups associated with the Palestinians return to more dire actions against Israel and those who support the move to Jerusalem.

https://www.thecipherbrief.com/article/middle-east/violence-gaza-ugly-witchs-brew