WASHINGTON (August 21, 2025)-Despite global disagreement, Israel approved new settlements in the occupied West Bank and plans to move into Gaza City.
The New York Times reports that “an additional 60,000 reservists would be told to report for duty in September” as the Israeli military is advancing. Experts warn this move will raise questions about reaching a ceasefire and the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Experts at the George Washington University are available to provide commentary, explanation and historical analysis. If you wish to speak with an expert, please contact Media Relations Specialist Shannon Mitchell at shannon [dot] mitchell
gwu [dot] edu (shannon[dot]mitchell[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Ned Lazarus, Teaching Associate Professor of International Affairs at the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University. In addition, Lazarus is an Israel Institute Teaching Fellow. Lazarus is an expert in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, Conflict Analysis and Resolution, Dialogue, Evaluation, and Peace Education. Prior to entering academia, Lazarus served as the Middle East Program Director for Seeds of Peace.
Ambassador (ret) Gordon Gray, Kuwait Professor of Gulf and Arabian Peninsula Affairs at the George Washington University. Prior to joining the Elliott School of International Affairs, Gray served in the U.S. government for 35 years. From 2005-2008, Gray was Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs where he was responsible for promoting U.S. interests in the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa.
Sina Azodi, Professorial Lecturer at the George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs. Azodi is an expert in international relations of the Middle East, Iranian Foreign Policy, U.S.-Iranian Relations, Nuclear non-proliferation, Iran’s nuclear program and Iranian politics. Azodi can discuss the threats of rising tensions between Iran and Israel.
-GW-