Condoleezza Rice on Gaza
TL;DR
Condoleezza Rice supports a durable Gaza ceasefire and urges Palestinians to reform education for a lasting peace.
Key Points
In January 2009, she stated the U.S. goal was a durable ceasefire that would not allow a return to the status quo ante where Hamas could launch rockets from Gaza.
She stressed that for a lasting peace, the Palestinian side requires a political authority that can "take responsibility for Palestinian affairs."
She has advised that Palestinians must change the lessons they teach their children regarding the State of Israel and the concept of resistance as a path to peace.
Summary
Condoleezza Rice has expressed views on the Israel-Hamas conflict, particularly in the context of recent ceasefire agreements. She indicated that a recent agreement created a chance for lasting peace, the first in a long time, but stressed that both Israelis and Palestinians must take concrete steps. On the Palestinian side, the former Secretary of State emphasized the necessity of establishing a political authority capable of taking responsibility for Palestinian affairs, suggesting a need for new, younger leadership.
Furthermore, Rice has explicitly called for a significant shift in Palestinian education, advising against teaching that frames "resistance as the way to peace and security." She also noted that for the Israelis, there must be an acknowledgment of the potential for a Palestinian state, specifically mentioning that the Israeli Prime Minister needed to state the words "Palestinian state." During her tenure as Secretary of State in 2009, she emphasized working toward a ceasefire that prevented the reestablishment of the previous status quo where rockets could be launched from Gaza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Condoleezza Rice expressed cautious optimism following a recent ceasefire agreement, seeing a chance for lasting peace. Her position requires both sides to take significant steps forward. She specifically called for Palestinian leadership reform and an acknowledgment of Palestinian statehood by Israeli leaders.
The former Secretary of State has publicly advised that Palestinians should change the lessons they teach their children. She explicitly cautioned against educating the next generation to believe that "resistance is the way to peace and security." This reform, in her view, is necessary for true self-governance in Gaza.
Yes, Condoleezza Rice has stated that for peace to be achieved, the Israeli side needs to acknowledge the potential for Palestinian statehood. She specifically mentioned that the Israeli Prime Minister needed to publicly articulate support for the concept. She emphasized the need for a reformed Palestinian political body to manage future affairs.
Sources7
Situation in Gaza – Statement by US Secretary of State Rice – USDOS statement/Non-UN document
Advice to Rice: Better Try and Fail Than Not Try | Brookings
At Brown, Condoleezza Rice discusses foreign policy, research universities and an accomplished career
Condoleezza Rice encourages civil discourse, reflects on Israel-Hamas, Russia-Ukraine wars at lecture event
'Change what you teach your kids,' Condoleezza Rice advises Palestinians looking for a state
Hillary Clinton and Condoleezza Rice commend Trump on Israel-Hamas peace deal, discuss path forward - CBS News
Condoleezza Rice Breaks Down “Robust” Israel Ceasefire Deal, Future of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict | Guy Benson
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.