Recorded at the Beyond Borders International Festival in Scotland, this episode of Palestine Matters explores whether diplomacy can still make a difference in an age of realpolitik, wars, and international law in crisis.

Host: Brian Brivati Guests:

• Afif Safieh – Veteran Palestinian diplomat and former ambassador, who played a central role in the transition from armed struggle to dialogue within the Palestinian national movement.

• Frances Guy – Former British ambassador with decades of experience across the Middle East and beyond, now engaged in international policy and humanitarian work.
  

👉 Together, they examine:

• Why Afif describes himself as “ashamed” at diplomacy’s failures, yet still an optimist about dialogue.

• The unavoidable coexistence of Israelis and Palestinians – and why only “possible justice,” not absolute justice, is now being sought.

• The decisive role of the United States and what Afif calls the battle for Washington.

• The two “Americas”: settler-colonial vs. founding ideals – and which one Palestinians must appeal to.

• Why Arab Americans and even some Republicans were drawn to Trump’s early promises of neutrality.

• The concept of compellence – Israel’s coercive regional policies, and why the international community must resist them.

• The urgent need for accountability: sanctions, recognition of Palestine, and reform of multilateral institutions.

• Frances’ reflections on how diplomacy, through relationships and persistence, can prevent escalation – and why isolation is no substitute for pressure plus engagement.

• The hope for an Eisenhower moment when a US leader has the courage to force Israel to comply with international law.
  

✨ Despite genocide and famine, our guests insist diplomacy is not dead. What the world needs now is statesmanship, courage, and persistence.

🎧 Palestine Matters is available on all podcast platforms, YouTube, and our website. Just search Britain Palestine Project.