Crisis insights: A chat with Thomas Nides, former US Ambassador to Israel

Thomas Nides is a former US Ambassador to Israel. He served in this role from 2021 to 2023. Before his work as ambassador, Tom worked for Morgan Stanley as a Managing Director, Vice Chairman, and a member of the firm’s management and operating committees from 2013 to 2021. He also served as Deputy Secretary of State for management and resources under the Obama Administration from 2011 to 2013. In addition to these prestigious roles, Tom has served in many other financial and governmental roles throughout his career. I recently sat down to chat about current affairs in the Middle East.

How significant is the Gaza conflict?

Tom believes the Israel-Hamas war is the most significant event in the country’s history. He describes what Israel is going through now as the equivalent of all 350 million Americans losing a loved one in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Every Israeli likely knows someone affected by this devastating conflict in Gaza. Tom feels that the country will never be the same again.

How should the US move forward with its sanctions against Iran?

Before the Trump administration placed sanctions on Iran, Iran was selling nearly 2 million barrels of oil daily. After the sanctions, they sold close to 100,000 barrels per day. However, the Biden administration has rescinded some of these sanctions and bolstered others to further tighten the US grip on Iran.

While the moves made by each administration are controversial, Tom believes that it is key to stay true to the mission of doing whatever it takes short of an all-out boots-on-the-ground war to keep Iran from producing nuclear weapons. Tom is a proponent of solving issues like these through diplomacy, as doing so results in the least amount lost on either side.

Is corruption a big factor in the crisis?

During our conversation, I mentioned Jared Kushner comparing the behavior of Netanyahu with Abbas, indicating that there was a large amount of corruption in the Middle East–especially with Abbas. However, Tom believes that Kushner was dramatizing things a bit. As with almost every facet of life, there is a degree of corruption at play. However, there probably isn't as much corruption involved as one might think. President Abbas has done quite a bit to work with the Israelis. Tom believes many would consider him a great asset to Israel, especially given the uncertainty that will follow once he leaves office.