Let's Chat about Peace Prospects in the Middle East with Caren Miosga: Peace Talks Around the Corner?
Islamic Negotiator Steinberg: Peace Discussions to Start Within Two to Three Weeks
Recent skirmishes between Israel and Iran have heated up the region, but there may be a flicker of hope on the horizon. Guido Steinberg, a Middle East expert, suggests that peace talks could be just weeks away.
On a recent episode of Caren Miosga's show on ARD, guest appearances covered the tense situation between Israel and Iran. ARD's Israel correspondent Sophie von der Tann reported on a ballistic missile that struck south of Tel Aviv, causing considerable damage. Israel's air defense performs well in many instances, but it's not foolproof, leaving some citizens concerned for their safety. Despite apprehensions, there remains support for the government's actions against Iran.
Iran's rockets reportedly avoid populated areas, according to Steinberg, but their accuracy pales in comparison to Israel's. The Iranians' military prowess is compromised, he notes, explaining that their air force's successful assaults to date have been modest. This shows the limited means the Iranians possess when attempting direct attacks on Israel and how Israel has succeeded in reducing their rocket program last year, as well as destroying rockets and launchers during the initial offensive.
Iran is further weakened due to the retreat of affiliated organizations in recent years, says CNN journalist Fred Pleitgen. Additionally, Syria, Iran's ally, has distanced itself from Tehran after the fall of former leader Bashar Al-Assad. In lieu of combat aircraft, Iran has relied on its rocket program due to US sanctions. "But let's be clear: these missiles can still cause significant destruction," Pleitgen notes. Iran has hundreds, possibly thousands, of ballistic missiles at its disposal, along with cruise missiles and drones.
Israel has been highly effective in attacking Iran's nuclear program, according to Steinberg, although keeping the facilities deep underground makes them difficult targets. Israeli attacks have slowed Iran's nuclear progress, but they haven't halted it entirely. Negotiations have been unsuccessful, but one shouldn't rule out their resumption, as the Trump administration expresses a desire for discussions.
Trump plays a crucial role in this evolving situation, says Pleitgen, as he aims to avoid entangling the U.S. in war. Trump seeks a deal rather than a conflict, and talks may start within two to three weeks, predicts Steinberg. Israel and the U.S. may have differing opinions on the best way forward, but there's a shared interest in avoiding a prolonged conflict that could destabilize the region.
- Geopolitics
- Israel
- Iran
- Nuclear Programs
- Caren Miosga
- Peace Talks
The Commission, in light of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, might also be consulted on the draft resolution concerning the European Union's relations with the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, as the peace talks between Israel and Iran seem to be approaching, with Guido Steinberg predicting they could commence within two to three weeks. Meanwhile, Caren Miosga's show on ARD has recently discussed the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, leaving some citizens concerned about their safety despite their support for the government's actions.
