Old Newscast: The Oslo Accords, 1993 (Part 2)

The episode of Old Newscast reflects on the Oslo peace process and the various elements that ultimately undermined it. Starting with the historical context, the episode recounts the hopeful milestone of the handshake between Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat in September 1993, which was seen as a symbol of peace. However, as discussions progress, the hosts delve into the challenges that arose, including Israeli settlements, acts of violence such as suicide bombings, and shifts in political leadership.

Jane Corbyn and Lise Doucette share their journalistic experiences covering the events surrounding Arafat's return to Gaza after years of exile, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment for Palestinians as Arafat proclaimed he came with the "peace of the brave." The discussions take a sobering turn as the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin is addressed, revealing the rampant anger and opposition within Israel that culminated in the tragic loss of the Israeli leader, a key figure in the peace process. The aftermath of Rabin's death marked a decline in chances for peace and a rise in extremist sentiments on both sides, notably with the rise of groups like Hamas.

The conversation further addresses how the expansion of Israeli settlements under subsequent leadership, especially under Benjamin Netanyahu, frustrated the peace process, leading to a cycle of violence and missed opportunities for a two-state solution. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder of the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, illustrating just how fragile the pursuit of peace has been since the Oslo Accords.