The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. As pressure mounts for the Hamas terror group to lay down its arms, we take a minute to focus on the terrorists' military capabilities and current activities. Hamas has still not returned all the bodies of the hostages. Before the weekend, Israel returned the bodies of 30 more Palestinians to Gaza as part of an ongoing exchange deal after Hamas handed over the bodies of two hostages, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper and 25-year-old Sahar Baruch. The subsequent Hamas transfer, however, did not proceed smoothly. Fabian fills us in. Four members of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force were killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon on Saturday night, a day after Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Israel of responding to its offer to negotiate by intensifying its airstrikes. Fabian weighs in on whether his accusations hold water. The military’s top lawyer, Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, announced her resignation from the Israel Defense Forces on Friday, acknowledging that she had approved the leaking of a surveillance video from the Sde Teiman detention facility, which purported to show soldiers severely abusing a Palestinian detainee last year. We go through the timeline of this complicated scandal that is shaking the IDF to its core. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Partial remains handed over by Hamas are not of hostages, Israeli authorities assess US military publishes drone video of Hamas looting aid truck in Gaza IDF says strike in south Lebanon killed four elite Hezbollah operatives Lebanon accuses Israel of responding to negotiation offer by ‘intensifying’ attacks US envoy: Lebanon a ‘failed state,’ is unlikely to be able to forcibly disarm Hezbollah IDF’s top lawyer quits; says she approved leak of detainee abuse video Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Members of the Qassam Brigades control crowds in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, October 28, 2025. (Ali Hassan/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Jessica Steinberg speaking with former hostage Eli Sharabi. Sharabi, whose bestselling book, "Hostage," was recently translated into English, spoke to What Matters Now a few days before burying his brother, Yossi Sharabi, whose body was recently released home to Israel after he was taken hostage on October 7 from Kibbutz Bee'eri, the community where both brothers lived with their families. Sharabi speaks about reuniting with recently released hostage Alon Ohel, his fellow captive from months in a Gaza tunnel, and the joy of realizing that reunion. He talks about how work, the book, and public speaking have been therapeutic acts for him, after his wife and daughters were killed on October 7. Sharabi speaks about Kibbutz Be’eri, where he lived for 35 years, his chosen community that can no longer be a home for him, but that he hopes will be rehabilitated and rebuilt. And so this week, we ask Eli Sharabi, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: At the October 27, 2025 Kibbutz Be'eri burial for Yossi Sharabi, whose body was brought back from Gaza captivity, with his brother, former hostage Eli Sharabi, center, eulogizing him (Paulina Patimer/Hostages Forum)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan and diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, amid pomp and circumstance at the Vatican, the Catholic Church marked 60 years to the Nostra Aetate, a document that — among other things — attempts to redefine the two-thousand-year-old relationship between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people. Berman delves into the Nostra Aetate's long-standing significance, especially as the relationship between Israel and the Vatican has frayed during the two-year war in Gaza launched by Hamas's murderous onslaught on southern Israel. We learn of the history behind the creation of the landmark document and the push-pull concerns from the Catholic communities in Mideast countries. We hear of the Jewish French historian Jules Isaac, who compiled Catholic anti-Jewish teachings and delivered them to Pope John XXIII, confirming the need to chart out a new path in the Church. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Pope Leo XIV attends a commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Vatican 1965 declaration Nostra Aetate (In Our Time) in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican, October 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and legal reporter Jeremy Sharon join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With hundreds of thousands of ultra-Orthodox men expected to rally at the entrance to Jerusalem Thursday afternoon, a protest originally scheduled to coincide with the revised Haredi conscription bill, Sokol discusses the significance of all ultra-Orthodox sects and factions uniting to protest conscription. The event will follow Wednesday's Supreme Court criticism of the government for its failure to take effective enforcement measures against Haredi draft evaders, says Sharon. Sharon discusses the timing of the legal and political processes in the Haredi conscription bill, noting the number of Supreme Court justices from the religious Zionist world, a community with a significant rate of combat service, which may be reflected in the court's orders to the government. Sokol also talks about the political significance of removing Likud MK Yuli Edelstein, the former Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman, from the committee, and being replaced by controversial lawmaker Tally Gotliv. Following Wednesday's announcement of a criminal investigation into the leaking of surveillance video from the Sde Teiman detention facility that purported to show soldiers severely abusing a Palestinian detainee last year, Sharon discusses the significance of the announcement as some right-wing government ministers see the investigation as a vindication of the accused soldiers. IMAGE: Ultra-Orthodox Jews gather around an Israeli soldier playing the piano at the Yitzhak Navon train station in Jerusalem, on their way to attend the Haredi protest against IDF conscription on October 30, 2025 (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The IDF announced this morning that the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is now once again in effect, following “a series of significant strikes” targeting dozens of Hamas targets and operatives. The strikes came after Palestinian operatives carried out an attack on troops stationed in the Rafah area of the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, killing soldier Master Sgt. (res.) Yona Efraim Feldbaum. This strike on IDF soldiers, along with Hamas’s failure to return the deceased Israeli hostages -- even faking the recovery of one slain hostage -- led to Israel's retaliation, which, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, killed over 100. Horovitz weighs in on the nature of Hamas and the White House's recognition of Israel's right to retaliate. We hear how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed the US of his intention to strike, and today appears bent on continuing with the Trump-brokered ceasefire. The Haredi community in Israel is planning a massive protest at the entrance of Jerusalem tomorrow, while the High Court is hearing petitions that the IDF draft tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox young men, and at the same time, the Knesset is working to draft a bill that will allow most of the Haredi young men to continue to avoid conscription. We learn some details of the leaked bill being discussed by the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee and hear about some of the Likud MKs who are speaking out against it. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF reservist killed in Tuesday attack in Rafah; Israel says ceasefire restored Hamas fakes ‘unearthing’ partial remains of hostage whose body IDF recovered in 2023, Israel says Trump: ‘Nothing’ will jeopardize Gaza ceasefire, Israel ‘should hit back’ if troops killed Revised ultra-Orthodox military draft bill said to reduce penalties for dodgers Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. Illustrative image: Hamas terrorists carry a white bag believed to contain a body, after retrieving it from a tunnel during a search for the remains of hostages in Hamad City, Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, October 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With phase one of the ceasefire deal still in process, given the 13 bodies of hostages still in Gaza, Magid discusses the US desire to move into phase two of the 20-point plan for ending the Gaza war. The US is trying to create facts on the ground, says Magid, but there are concerns from the other partners regarding some of the decisions, including whether the focus should be on Hamas disarmament or postwar management of Gaza. Following last week's vote in the Knesset on a West Bank annexation bill, and the angry reaction from the US administration over the vote, Magid discusses how the Trump government has shifted its tone since February, when it announced it would back Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank and floated the idea of a Gaza Riviera. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US weighs which side’s red line to cross as it seeks to implement Gaza deal’s 2nd phase Trump says ‘Israel not going to do anything with the West Bank’ as US fumes over annexation vote Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: U.S. Marine soldiers walk past a mural of a coffee shop near Kibbutz Kfar Aza, southern Israel, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Israel does not know the location of four of the remaining 13 bodies of hostages held in Gaza, even as Egypt is reportedly bringing 12 additional heavy vehicles into the enclave this morning to clear roads and assist in efforts to locate the deceased. Berman weighs in on the stability of the ceasefire as the US increases its rhetoric, pushing Hamas to release the bodies to begin the transition to phase two of the 20-point Trump peace plan. A transnational terror network run by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force is behind a string of recent attacks on Jewish sites in Western countries, the Mossad intelligence agency said on Sunday. We learn about senior IRGC-Quds Force commander Sardar Ammar, who heads a network of some 11,000 operatives carrying out covert operations and strikes on Jewish sites. Catherine Connolly, a veteran lawmaker on the far left of the Irish political spectrum, was elected president by a landslide margin on Saturday. She has drawn criticism for her views on the Hamas terror group, which she said in September was “part of the fabric of the Palestinian people,” as well as claims that Israel is carrying out a genocide in Gaza. Does Berman see an even rockier relationship with Israel on the horizon? Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel reported to know location of 9 out of 13 deceased hostages still held in Gaza Israel reveals Iran’s Guards leader behind attacks on Jewish sites in Europe, Australia Far-left candidate who called Israel ‘terrorist state’ elected president of Ireland Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Illustrative: Members of the Hamas terrorist group search for bodies of the slain hostages in an area in Hamad City, Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, October 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Last night Egyptian forces and heavy equipment entered the Gaza Strip to help search for the 13 bodies of hostages still not returned to Israel after US President Donald Trump issued fresh threats to Hamas on Saturday, saying the terror group would be to blame if the ceasefire collapsed. We learn about where the IDF is still deployed and how things stand on the ground. The United States has reportedly begun deploying surveillance drones over the Gaza Strip to ensure that Israel and Hamas are complying with the ceasefire, The New York Times reported Saturday. Fabian plays down the significance of these reports and reminds us that, among other nations, Britain has previously flown drones over Gaza during the war. The IDF confirmed carrying out a drone strike last night in the southern Lebanon town of Qlaileh, saying it killed a commander in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force. He is the third commander to be targeted in the past few days, leading Borschel-Dan to ask: Is there a step-up in Hezbollah forces near Israel? The Israeli Air Force plans to establish several new squadrons that would operate light aircraft on Israel’s borders with the Gaza Strip, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt, under the Israel Defense Force’s various regional divisions. We learn how planes used for fighting fire or for crop dusting are meant to be adapted for military operations and may soon take to the skies. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump says Hamas withholding bodies of hostages, warns he’s watching ‘very closely’ Egyptian team enters Gaza with Israel’s approval to help locate hostages’ remains US said flying drones over Gaza as more nations join ceasefire-monitoring HQ Clearing Gaza’s ‘minefield’ surface of ordnance could take 20-30 years — aid group IDF: Hezbollah commander killed in drone strike targeting vehicle in south Lebanon IAI teams up with US contractor for new light aircraft for Israel’s border defense Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: This aerial picture shows destroyed buildings in Gaza City's Al-Rimal neighborhood on October 23, 2025. (AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Jessica Steinberg speaking with Orna and Ronen Neutra, parents of Omer Neutra, a tank platoon commander who was killed on October 7, 2023, his body taken hostage by Hamas terrorists. The Neutras, Israeli-born Americans who have been living in the US for the last 20 years, talk about the last days since the start of the ceasefire, the joyous return home of 20 living hostages, as the bodies of 13 hostages are still held in Gaza. Orna Neutra discusses how they knew they would never hug their son again, but how difficult it is to reconcile his death until they can bury his body. Ronen Neutra offers more details about October 7, 2023, his son's heroic final moments as a commander on the so-called White House IDF post near the Gaza border. The Neutras discuss their alliance with both the Biden and Trump administrations over the last two years, their more than 40 visits to Washington, DC, and how each US administration embraced the hostage families. Yet, says Orna Neutra, there is still the challenge of explaining that a deceased hostage is still a hostage, and can't remain in Gaza. Ronen Neutra talks about the gray zones of the ceasefire agreement concerning the deceased hostages, and how this war is not over until the last hostage is back. And so this week, we ask Orna and Ronen Neutra, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Ronen and Orna Neutra, parents of Omer Neutra, killed on October 7, 2023, his body still held in Gaza, at the October 18, 2025 rally at Tel Aviv's Hostages Square (Tzachi Dovrat/Israeli Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan and diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Since US President Donald Trump's whirlwind visit to the Jewish state on Monday of last week, Israel has welcomed a revolving roster of high-level officials visiting the country. This week saw the arrival of Trump’s senior Middle East advisors Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Vice President JD Vance — and his wife Usha — and also US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. As their visits spur accusations that Israel is becoming a "client" or vassal state of the US, controversial MK Avi Maoz brought a bill that passed in a preliminary reading in the Knesset on Wednesday. The bill would apply Israeli sovereignty to all West Bank settlements despite opposition from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and most, but not all, of his Likud party. US officials quickly rebuked the annexation efforts in the Knesset, calling them "counterproductive" even as the Trump administration attempts to cement the recent ceasefire into a lasting peace deal. If the US succeeds, it wouldn't be the first time that an Israeli war was ended through US efforts. This week, Berman takes a historical look at other examples and examines the question of whether Israel is, indeed, relying on its "partner" the US to wind down its wars. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Lazar Berman (courtesy)/ From left: Steve Witkoff, US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance sit before President Donald Trump holds a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the State Dining Room of the White House, Sept. 29, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political reporter Ariela Karmel and religion and archaeology correspondent Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. At the start of the Knesset's winter session, the Knesset State Control Committee voted down a proposal to establish a state commission of inquiry into the October 7th, 2023, Hamas-led attack, says Karmel, to the dismay, anger, and tears of the bereaved families present, who expected it could happen now that the 20 living hostages have been released home. The government cabinet voted to rename the war against Hamas as the War of Revival, says Karmel, a proposal floated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for over a year, and with much opposition, given the October 7, 2023, failures that led to the war. A new bill advanced by coalition lawmakers calls for several religious practices to be enshrined in Israel's public spaces, discusses Karmel, including requiring mezuzahs hung in public institutions and allowing public prayer according to the practices of the worshipper, both major battleground issues between secular and religious communities. Tercatin discusses how Israelis have changed religiously and spiritually since October 7 and the ensuing war, and whether those changes are more prevalent among those who were already religiously faithful in their previous lives. She also talks about an unusual archaeological find of an Assyrian inscription near Jerusalem's Temple Mount, with wording that appears to echo an episode described in the Bible. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Knesset panel rejects proposal to establish October 7 state commission of inquiry ‘War of Revival’: Cabinet approves Netanyahu’s controversial renaming of Gaza war Coalition advances bill mandating mezuzahs, allowing Orthodox rituals in public spaces What hath God wrought? After Oct. 7, many Israelis respond with turn to spirituality Biblical tax notice: 1st-ever Assyrian inscription found near Jerusalem’s Temple Mount Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: MK Mickey Levy, Head of the State Control Committee leads a committee meeting at the Knesset on October 20, 2025 (Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As US Vice President JD Vance spends his first day in Israel, Magid discusses Vance's comments about the ceasefire, the continued focus on getting all of the remaining hostages' bodies back, and the question of a possible timeline regarding Hamas disarmament. Magid also delves into Vance's statements at a press conference in the new Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat. The CMCC is a new hub inside Israel where participating countries will try and monitor the ceasefire, says Magid, adjudicating violations and handling the movement of goods into Gaza, including aid and security forces, in the future. Vance discussed what role other countries could play, including the question of Turkey and Israel's resistance to that idea, says Magid. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Vance, in Israel, predicts Gaza ‘peace’ will last, says Hamas disarmament non-negotiable US military says ceasefire HQ will be able ‘to assess real-time developments in Gaza’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: U.S. Vice President JD Vance speak to the media as U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner stand next to him, in Kiryat Gat, Israel, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. ToI founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With the body of hostage Tal Haimi returned to Israel, Horovitz discusses the resilience of and emotional toll on the remaining 15 hostages' families awaiting their loved ones, and whether Hamas is playing games in the slowed process of returning the bodies. As US Vice President JD Vance arrives in Israel, Horovitz talks about his presence in Israel alongside US special envoy Steve Witkoff and White House advisor Jared Kushner, all part of the overt American role in seeing the ceasefire carried out to its conclusion. The Knesset's raucous opening session on Monday reveals deep divisions, says Horovitz, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech aimed to frame the conflict as a victory for Israel, alongside the continued battle over the legitimacy of the Supreme Court. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas hands over body of hostage Tal Haimi, slain defending his kibbutz on Oct. 7 Vance lands in Israel as US said to fear Netanyahu could collapse Gaza ceasefire Smiles, hugs abound as Witkoff and Kushner meet with released hostages Ohana snubs Supreme Court president at Knesset’s opening session, sparking turmoil ‘War of Revival’: Cabinet approves Netanyahu’s controversial renaming of Gaza war Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Vice President J.D. Vance, right, and Second Lady Usha Vance arrive at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, Oct. 21, 2025. (Nathan Howard/Pool Photo via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman and diplomatic reporter Nava Freiberg join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff and fellow advisor Jared Kushner arrive in Israel, Berman discusses that Israel has fulfilled its first steps in the ceasefire involving Palestinian prisoners and the 'Yellow Line' to which the IDF has withdrawn in the Gaza Strip, but that Hamas has not kept its part of the bargain, with the remaining 16 hostages' bodies still held in Gaza, and the Hamas attack in Gaza Sunday that killed two soldiers. Witkoff and Kushner will meet with Israel's high-ranking officials and cabinet, says Berman, as two US advisors aim to safeguard the tenuous ceasefire that is one week old. The two US advisors appeared on "60 Minutes" on Sunday night, discusses Frieberg, unveiling details of the process and the steps that led to the announcement of the first stage of the ceasefire deal, and aspects of the more personal conversations with Hamas officials that helped push things forward. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas isn’t acting like a defeated force, which puts the entire Gaza ceasefire at risk Netanyahu denies Trump forced truce on him, says war ends ‘for good’ when Hamas disarmed Hamas says it returned 2 more bodies of hostages; remains taken to forensic lab for ID Israel says resuming Gaza ceasefire after deadly attack on troops led to massive strikes Kushner: Israel must improve Palestinians’ lives if it wants ‘integration’ into region Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A billboard shows images of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, US President Donald Trump, US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, in Tel Aviv on October 12, 2025. (REUTERS/Hannah McKay)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As two more hostages' bodies are released to Israel, leaving 16 captives' bodies in Gaza, Fabian discusses the moment when Hamas will not be able to locate additional bodies and will require the help of other countries, creating a longer process. With terror operatives attacking Israeli troops in Gaza on a nearly daily basis, Fabian talks about reaching the end of war, with IDF troops still operating in more than half of the Gaza Strip's territory, demolishing tunnels, and enforcing the yellow line of withdrawal. After two soldiers were wounded by an explosive device in the West Bank, Fabian discusses whether this denotes a significant increase in activity in the area, given that incidents have been on a downturn since the start of the war. He also looks at an IDF strike that killed a Hezbollah operative in southern Lebanon, another breach of the nearly year-long ceasefire as individual operatives haven't given up, and which is why the IDF is still present in the area. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Ronen Engel, Thailand’s Sonthaya Oakkharasr identified as hostage bodies returned by Hamas Hamas says it returned 2 more bodies of hostages; remains taken to forensic lab for ID 2 troops wounded by bomb thrown in West Bank; reports of settler attacks on Palestinians IDF says strike kills Hezbollah operative acting in breach of truce in southern Lebanon Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Hamas uses bulldozers to search for the bodies of Israeli hostages held in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, on October 18, 2025. (Photo by Saeed Mohammed/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with author and public intellectual Micah Goodman. Looking to the French for historical framing, Goodman proposes that Israel is on the brink of a new epoch -- the third Israeli republic. The author of influential works such as “Catch-67” hypothesizes that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's signing on to US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan signals a tectonic shift in political alignment -- away from extremism. Today, says Goodman, as most Israelis turn their eyes to a horizon of normalization with Arab and Muslim countries, the fundamental division in Israeli politics is not between the left and the right, but rather the right and the far-right, he says. As the war winds down and grassroots activists prepare for the October 2026 elections, Goodman proposes that most Israelis are not far apart in their key values, and unity can prevail to bring to fruition a new political era. And so this week, we ask Micah Goodman, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Micah Goodman (courtesy) / Israeli excavators work in the Gaza Strip as the sun sets, seen from southern Israel, October 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The US doesn't believe Hamas is dragging its feet in finding the remaining hostage bodies, says Magid, and believes it will take time, and perhaps the help of other countries. The Trump administration is determined to reach phase two of the ceasefire, including demilitarizing the Gaza Strip, and moving into the next stages of rebuilding Gaza, but Israel is nervous to begin that process without completing the hostage phase of the deal. The public executions in Gaza have raised alarm and prompted a shift in US rhetoric, according to Magid. At first, US President Donald Trump appeared to greenlight what he considered to be the warfare between Hamas and Gazan gangs or clans, likening them to situations in the US, but then said if the Hamas executions of these clans continue, he will allow Israel to go after them. Magid also examines the efforts to move into phase two of the ceasefire deal by diplomats involved in the process. They are the ones who initially recognized that it made sense to split the ceasefire deal in two and deal with the hostages first. Now, however, Hamas is the only dominant power in Gaza, and the longer the delay in establishing governance, the stronger Hamas's position becomes. Diplomats stress the urgency of providing services to Palestinians to reduce reliance on Hamas, says Magid. He discusses the efforts to put together a list of technocrats to run Gaza, and that each participating stakeholder wants good ties with the governing body. US denies Hamas violating deal, is aiming to set up safe zone for Gazans fleeing group Trump: If Hamas doesn’t stop killing Gazans, ‘we will have no choice but to go in and kill them’ Slowed establishment of postwar Gaza government fuels Hamas revival, diplomats warn Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Hossam al-Astal (center) is seen surrounded by armed members of his group, 'Strike Force Against Terror,' in an undated picture from the Gaza Strip posted on Facebook. (Courtesy: Hossam al-Astal via Facebook)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As Hamas announced it has released all the bodies of hostages that can be found, Berman asks whether Hamas is playing games or whether they can't locate the remaining 19 bodies. The prevailing thought in the government cabinet is that Hamas can access more if it so desired, and therefore, Israel will slowly ramp up the pressure on Hamas, for now, blocking reconstruction materials. Berman also talks about whether the war against Hamas has ended, given that Israel hasn’t declared an end and wants to keep the military threat hanging over Hamas’s head unless it moves forward with its obligations in the peace plan. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was diagnosed with bronchitis on Wednesday, amid his long-delayed corruption trial. Berman comments that the prime minister, who is about to turn 76, doesn't have perfect health and was in close contact with recently released hostages whose immune systems have been compromised. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas returns bodies of hostages Tamir Nimrodi, Uriel Baruch, Eitan Levy; 4th body a Palestinian Senior Israeli official insists Gaza war ‘not over’ until all truce phases complete Trial hearing ends early for ill Netanyahu, who’s accused of exposing freed hostages to disease Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Culture editor Jessica Steinberg joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Steinberg, who has covered hostages' families and their struggle to return their loved ones for the past two years, relates several anecdotes of reunions and other moving moments. We hear about how several favored performing artists have delivered personal performances to their freshly freed fans and about a pair of prankster brothers. At recording time, a total of seven of the eight hostage bodies returned by Hamas over the past two days have been identified. They are named as: Yossi Sharabi, Cpt. Daniel Perez, Bipin Joshi, Guy Illouz, Uriel Baruch, Tamir Nimrodi, and Eitan Levy. A fourth body transferred last night has not been identified and there are early indications that it does not belong to a hostage. We hear about the bereaved families who are again ramping up the protests to close the circle on this painful chapter. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 4 bodies, purportedly of unnamed hostages, return to Israel after threat to limit aid ‘Coming back to life’: Freed hostages’ families give updates, thanks; some snub PM Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Relatives of hostages whose bodies are still in Gaza Strip shout slogans calling for their release at the plaza known as Hostages Square, in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We begin the program by describing the joy and relief experienced by families of released hostages -- and all Israelis -- as they were reunited with their loved ones. However, Hamas handed over the bodies of only four dead hostages, with Israel and the families of the remaining 24 accusing the terror group of breaching its commitments under the ceasefire. The International Committee of the Red Cross said that it will take time before the bodies of all the dead hostages are returned, calling it a “massive challenge” given the difficulties of finding remains amid Gaza’s rubble. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said that it will hold an emergency meeting tonight as anger mounts. Yesterday afternoon, after the 20 living hostages had returned home, US President Donald Trump spoke at the Knesset and declared “the historic dawn of the new Middle East.” Trump said it marked “not only the end of war, but the end of an age of terror and death and the beginning of the age of faith and hope and of God.” Horovitz paints a picture of the atmosphere at the Knesset and delves into noteworthy statements. Following his Knesset speech, Trump met with the leaders of Qatar, Egypt and Turkey and signed a document in Sharm el-Sheikh aimed at enshrining the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas. Today, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he will seek the support of Gulf states, the United States and Europe for the reconstruction of Gaza under the new ceasefire deal, and he believes project financing will be provided swiftly. We discuss the viability of a phase two of Trump's peace plan. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: All 20 remaining living hostages return to Israel, after over 2 years in Hamas captivity Slain hostage’s mother: Government betrayed families whose loved ones remain in Gaza Israel frees nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including hundreds of terror convicts Rapturously received in the Knesset, Trump tells Israel it won the war, now it’s time for peace Full text of Trump’s Knesset speech: You’ve won. You can’t beat the world. It’s time for peace At Sharm summit, Trump and world leaders sign up for peace in Gaza, with Netanyahu absent Hamas said to kill over 30 Gazans as group moves to reassert its grip on Strip Hamas reappears on Gaza’s streets, and two of three militias that fought it go quiet Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A woman, left, wrapped with an Israeli flag with the photo of one of her best friend Itay Chen, who was killed in Hamas' attack on October 7, is embraced at the plaza known as Hostages Square, in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. All 20 living hostages were released in two stages this morning. Fabian speaks about their releases and their status. We hear about some of the more well-known faces among them and how they are faring today. Shortly before releasing them, the Hamas terror group on Monday morning orchestrated video calls between some of the living hostages and their families, who were anxiously awaiting their return. As we recorded just ahead of the Simhat Torah holiday in Israel, US President Donald Trump had just finished a long and colorful speech to the Knesset, in which, among other statements, he firmly announced the end of the Gaza War. Fabian summarizes Israel's losses and wounded in the war. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas stages video calls between hostages, families in lieu of handover ceremonies ‘You hero’: Emotional videos show returned hostages reuniting with their families Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: People hold Israeli flags in celebration after the arrival of freed hostages at Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva, Israel, following their release from Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip, October 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and military correspondent Emanuel Fabian join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. What may have been the final Saturday night protest calling for the release of the hostages took place last night in Tel Aviv. In an unprecedented appearance, on stage at Hostages Square were US envoy Steve Witkoff, the president’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and his wife, the president’s daughter Ivanka Trump. Schneider describes the scene at the square at gives highlights from Kushner's speech. Has Israel fully signed on to end the war? Overnight Friday, the cabinet voted on and ratified the implementation of phase one of the Trump plan. Schneider, who spent several days digging into the issue, explains. The Israel Defense Forces completed a withdrawal to agreed-upon deployment lines in the Gaza Strip on Friday at noon, officially beginning a ceasefire and a 72-hour countdown during which Hamas is to release the 48 hostages it is holding under the first phase of the US-brokered deal. Fabian delves into where the troops are now and what to expect from the hostages' release. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation will reportedly keep its aid distribution sites in the Rafah area of the southern Gaza Strip shuttered over the coming days, during the release of the hostages held by Hamas. Fabian explains what we know about the continued efforts of the GHF now that the IDF has left areas where it was operating. And finally, Fabian describes an early Saturday morning bombed hundreds of heavy engineering vehicles that the IDF said were being used by Hezbollah to restore its infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Could this sort of strike be a model for how the IDF will operate in the Gaza Strip during the ceasefire? Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump to visit Israel on Monday for 4 hours, address Knesset, meet PM and hostage families ‘Miracles can happen, the hostages are coming home,’ Witkoff tells packed Hostages Square At Hostages Square, Trump’s envoys gave Netanyahu a lesson in leadership Release of hostages set to begin Monday morning, Hamas and Israel say Witkoff visits Gaza base as ceasefire holds and displaced Palestinians return home The living hostages expected to be released from Gaza under the ceasefire deal IDF says strikes in Lebanon destroyed hundreds of Hezbollah construction vehicles Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A man wearing a mask resembling US President Donald Trump holds a sign designed like a Nobel Peace Prize medal during a rally in support of hostages held by Hamas, at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with The Times of Israel's senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur, marking two years since the October 7, 2023, Hamas onslaught on southern Israel. To gain a sense of the Israeli public sentiment after two years of war, Rettig Gur analyzes a new survey conducted by Agam Labs and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, led by Nimrod Nir and Dr. Gayil Talshir. The researchers found, in surveying 2,170 Jewish Israelis and 459 Arab Israelis, that there is a drastic shift in Israelis' perceptions of their society and politicians. In one of the more dramatic findings, the report states that the initial unity found in the early months of the war has flipped to a division: from 77% in 2023 saying the war “united society” to 66% in 2025 saying it made society more divided. Pointing to Israel's strengths and human capital, Rettig Gur leaves us with an optimistic framing of the internal work that needs to be done, even as Israel has largely defeated its greatest enemies. And so this week, we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: On October 7, 2025, thousands assemble in Hostages Square, Tel Aviv, to watch the broadcast of the Bereaved Families Memorial Ceremony marking two years since the October 7, 2023, massacre. (Paulina Patimer)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid and diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet voted early Friday morning in favor of a Gaza ceasefire deal that will see hostages freed in exchange for Palestinian security prisoners and a halt to the fighting, despite vocal objections from the premier’s far-right coalition partners. Magid fills us in on who voted for what. The Israel Defense Forces has begun its withdrawal to new lines inside of the Gaza Strip, 72 hours after which Hamas will release all the hostages. Magid expands on how much territory the IDF will hold under the "Yellow Line" and how it may respond to threats. And we learn about plans for a US military team of 200 people that will be deployed in the Middle East to “oversee” the Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Finally, we hear a full episode of the Friday Focus with Lazar Berman, "Is Israel's Hamas problem solved?" Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Gaza ceasefire takes effect as government approves deal to free the hostages From Doha strike to Sharm el-Sheikh breakthrough: How US brokered elusive Gaza deal Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF forces operate in the Gaza Strip in this October 9, 2025, handout image. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President Donald Trump announced overnight Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have signed off on the “first phase” of his plan to secure the release of all hostages and end the Gaza war, two years and a day after the fighting was sparked by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, massacre of 1,200 in southern Israel, with another 250 taken hostage to Gaza. Speculation had mounted that an announcement was imminent after photographers managed to snap photos of a note that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio passed to Trump during a White House meeting. Trump later took to his Truth Social platform, saying, “This means that ALL of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw [its] troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a strong, durable and everlasting Peace.” Trump’s announcement of the agreement set off a flood of emotion early Thursday morning among freed captives and families and Israelis gathered at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, where mass weekly rallies have been held to call for the hostages’ return, cheering the news and chanting, “Nobel Prize to Trump.” In Gaza as well, residents cheered the news of the deal even as the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee cautioned that the area north of Wadi Gaza — the northern part of the Strip — is still defined as a combat zone. Magid takes us through what we know of the pressures that pushed all sides to sign onto the deal and what obstacles remain. We hear about the probable timeline for the release of the hostages -- and a victory-lap visit by Trump to the region next week. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump announces deal reached on first part of his Gaza plan: ‘All hostages will be freed very soon’ Ex-captives and hostage families respond with tears, relief to news of upcoming release Trump, after securing deal: ‘This is more than Gaza. This is peace in the Middle East’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: People dance as they celebrate following the announcement that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan to pause the fighting, at a plaza known as hostages square in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As negotiating heavyweights White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, Middle East envoy and Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner and Israel's Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer arrive for talks in Egypt, Magid surmises that it's crunch time for the potential Gaza deal. He expects discussions to revolve around thornier issues, such as disarming Hamas, and which Palestinian prisoners the terrorist group is demanding in exchange for the remaining hostages. Following the Kumu (Rise Again) ceremony held to mark October 7 in Tel Aviv on Tuesday night, Steinberg discusses the speakers, singers and audience at the event, which is run by bereaved and hostage family members, and is not an official government event. Steinberg also talks about "Red Alert," the new October 7 drama series about four intertwined stories of survivors from that day. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: PM’s office reports progress in talks on Gaza deal as top negotiators set to join Trump ‘pretty sure’ there will be a Gaza deal, denies telling PM to not be ‘f*cking negative’ As negotiators head to Egypt, Trump aims for ‘first phase’ of Gaza deal this week ‘We will rise’: Grief, defiance and hope as 30,000 gather in Tel Aviv two years after Oct. 7 Oct. 7 series ‘Red Alert’ a harrowing global reminder of what unfolded in Hamas massacre Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: At the end of the Kumu (Rise Again) October 7 ceremony in Tel Aviv, on October 7, 2025 (Courtesy Eclipse Media)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. News editor Amy Spiro joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode, highlighting eight individuals from our Those We Have Lost project, which memorializes the 1,200 who were slaughtered by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The first entry was written on October 11, 2023, when the number of the murdered was still unclear and funerals were held around the clock. Today, with 1,250 individual entries covering almost every single person killed by Hamas and dozens of soldiers who fell in the war, headed up by Spiro, our Those We Have Lost project paints a picture of each of their lives and the ongoing ripple effects of their deaths. For this episode, we focus on eight immigrants to Israel who lost their lives at the very beginning of the war. They include: Carol Siman Tov, 70, from the United States; Haim Zohar, 73, from Iran; Staff Sgt. Binyamin Loeb, 23, from France; Sgt. First Class Mulugeta Gadif, 29, from Ethiopia; Silvia Mirensky, 80, from Argentina; Dr. Victoria & Prof. Sergey Gredeskul, 81, from Ukraine; Sgt. Emil Eliav Samoylov, 22, from Russia; and Jake Marlowe, 26, from England. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Carol Siman Tov, 70: Native of Pennsylvania and dedicated nurse Haim Zohar, 73: Loving grandfather with dementia slain in Be’eri Staff Sgt. Binyamin Loeb, 23: Orthodox paratrooper son of French rabbi Sgt. First Class Mulugeta Gadif, 29: Police officer left behind newborn Silvia Mirensky, 80: Argentine immigrant who loved kibbutz life Dr. Victoria & Prof. Sergey Gredeskul, 81: Acclaimed BGU scientists Sgt. Emil Samoylov, 22: Lone soldier immigrated from Russia to enlist Jake Marlowe, 26: British-Israeli musician for UK band Desolated Those we have lost Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. On Sunday, US President Donald Trump was asked by CNN what would happen if the Hamas terror group didn't relinquish power. Trump responded by text, “Complete obliteration!” Be that as it may, as Berman says, the Hamas terror group is treating the current talks in Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh as yet another round of negotiations. We learn about who is in the room where it may happen and what Hamas is demanding. Skirmishes are ongoing in Gaza despite a pause in offensive activity by Israeli forces. The IDF is reporting that it carried out a number of airstrikes in response to Hamas attacks yesterday and troops on the ground are carrying out defensive operations. Berman explains what "defensive operations" entail when there are tens of thousands of troops on the ground in the Gaza Strip. And finally, we speak about the large intercepted flotilla and the status of the hundreds of activists that were aboard. We learn that Swedish activist Greta Thunberg will be among more than 70 people of different nationalities to leave Israel on Monday, even as another flotilla is on the horizon this week. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: As negotiators head to Egypt, Trump urges ‘first phase’ of Gaza deal this week Hamas said to demand release of terror chiefs, Oct. 7 terrorists in deal for hostages Hamas faces ‘complete obliteration’ if it clings to power in Gaza, warns Trump Greta Thunberg set to be deported from Israel Monday on flight to Athens Israel denies abuse as Ben Gvir touts harsh handling of Greta Thunberg, flotilla activists Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A man walks past a mural depicting the Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, with a message that reads in Arabic, 'See you soon,' on Israel's separation barrier in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, August 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Intensive negotiations to potentially finalize the Trump peace plan are set for Monday in Egypt. Israel and Hamas are sending teams and US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to join with Arab mediators in what may be a final attempt to broker the agreement to release all Israeli hostages and end the almost two-year war in the Gaza Strip. To begin the program, Magid fills us in on some of Hamas’s amendments to the 20-point deal. In its response to US President Donald Trump, the terror group overtly said it expects to be part of a "comprehensive Palestinian national framework" that discusses the future of the Gaza Strip, and will contribute to it with full responsibility." What does that mean for Israel's insistence that Hamas has no role in Gaza? On Saturday night, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a cautiously optimistic statement that he hopes to see the hostages back home, “even during the Sukkot holiday,” which begins this week. The Israel Defense Forces was ordered to halt its offensive to capture Gaza City on Saturday after Trump said his Gaza truce plan was accepted by Hamas and called on Israel to stop bombing the Strip. We hear more about Netanyahu's statement and learn about a Friday phone call between the prime minister and the US president. In another sign of public support for the peace plan, Chief Sephardic Rabbi David Yosef, at the start of a weekly homily delivered after the end of Shabbat, said Israelis “must pray that leaders make the right decisions.” Magid describes the careful steps that politicians such as Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir -- who oppose stopping the war -- are taking as they navigate the push-pull of public support and elections on the horizon. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: PM: Hopeful all hostages will be freed in days; Trump: I told Bibi, this is your victory Full text: Hamas’s response to Trump plan for ending Gaza war, returning hostages IDF strikes in Gaza City ‘significantly subside,’ but dozens said killed in past day Ben Gvir threatens to bolt government if Hamas ‘continues to exist’ after hostages freed Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF forces operate in the Gaza Strip in this October 3, 2025, handout photo. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Jessica Steinberg speaking with Rachel Goldberg-Polin, mother of murdered hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin. Goldberg-Polin, who has become a well-known voice in the Jewish and Israeli world since October 7, 2023, when Hersh was taken captive by Hamas terrorists, speaks about the challenge of being active, present, and even thankful in the aftermath of Hersh's death. She speaks about the public nature of the family's mourning, as she and her husband, Jon Polin, remain active advocates for the remaining hostages, but grapple with their deep mourning in the public eye. Goldberg-Polin shares anecdotes about her life, including her extended Jerusalem community during the high holiday period, and her desperate hope to grow from the challenges she's faced during the last two years. She speaks about the need to help repair herself and the world around her and the need for some relief from the pain and suffering of this time period. And so this week, we ask Rachel Goldberg-Polin, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: People walk next to a mural of hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin in central Jerusalem, August 18, 2025. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. New York reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The New York City mayoral race pits candidate Andrew Cuomo against Zohran Mamdani as Mayor Eric Adams drops out of the race, discusses Tress, but while Cuomo will gain some of Adams' votes, Mamdani is still the frontrunner. Tress discusses how close Adams has been to the New York City Jewish community and some of the distance that exists between Cuomo and the Haredi population of New York, especially after he instituted COVID restrictions on gatherings while serving as governor during the pandemic. Tress mentions a complaint filed this month to the International Criminal Court in the Netherlands by an Israeli resident of New York State, whose family was killed by Hamas terrorists. The complaint charges Iran with genocide and other crimes for its involvement in the October 7, 2023, invasion of Israel. Following the various protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outside the United Nations last week, Tress notes that while all the protests were against the Israeli leader, their politics don't allow them to align with one another. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: NYC Mayor Eric Adams drops reelection bid, boosting pro-Israel Cuomo against Mamdani After Adams drops out, Brooklyn Jewish group endorses Cuomo for NYC mayor NYC mayor thanks Netanyahu for defending the West as Mamdani accuses him of genocide Complaint to International Criminal Court seeks Oct. 7 genocide charges against Iran Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Mayoral candidates Andrew Cuomo, left, shakes hands with Zohran Mamdani, center, as Whitney Tilson reacts after participating in a Democratic mayoral primary debate, Wednesday, June 4, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, Pool)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Two people were killed and three seriously injured when a man drove a car into people outside a packed Orthodox synagogue in Manchester, northern England, on Thursday and then began stabbing them, in a terror attack on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year. The rabbi leading Yom Kippur services at the Manchester synagogue targeted in a deadly terror attack was hailed as a hero, with eyewitnesses describing how he helped protect congregants. Fabian begins the program with some updates from Gaza where an IDF officer was seriously wounded and two other troops, including a reservist, were lightly injured by gunfire during fighting in the central Strip earlier today. He reports on the five rockets that were launched by Hamas from northern Gaza toward Ashdod last night, with four intercepted by air defenses and one hitting an open area. Israel’s navy intercepted what remained of the 47-boat Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to break its maritime blockade on the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip. We will hear about this Yom Kippur operation that ended around 2 pm today. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 2 killed, 4 seriously injured in Yom Kippur attack at UK synagogue; terrorist shot dead Israel intercepts Gaza flotilla, says blockade not breached; Thunberg, others detained Hamas fires 5 rockets from Gaza on Yom Kippur, triggering sirens in Ashdod; no injuries Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Activists in orange life jackets sit aboard a Gaza-bound Sumud flotilla boat as Israeli navy soldiers sail it into the port of Ashdod, Israel, October 2, 2025, after it was intercepted while approaching the Gaza coast. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz and military correspondent Emanuel Fabian join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The 47-boat Global Sumud Flotilla is set to reach the Strip this week, potentially over the Jewish holy day, Yom Kippur, which starts tonight. It is carrying over 500 activists, including Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg, as well as parliamentarians and lawyers. Fabian tells what he can us about the IDF’s plans for interception, within the confines of the military censor. On Tuesday, Israel’s Foreign Ministry said that Hamas documents recovered by Israeli troops in Gaza allegedly reveal the terror group’s “direct involvement” in the flotilla, through the group’s foreign arm, the Palestinian Conference for Palestinians, or PCPA. We hear more about the PCPA and how Israel links Hamas to it. A senior Hamas official told the BBC this morning that the terror group will likely reject US President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Gaza, telling the British network that it “serves Israel’s interests” and “ignores those of the Palestinian people.” Horovitz delves into the Hamas terror group's points of opposition. We hear how Qatar, Egypt and Turkey have urged Hamas to give a positive response to US President Donald Trump’s proposed Gaza ceasefire-hostage deal. Horovitz speculates on whose best interests these countries are representing, even as they have signed on to helping rebuild and fill the security vacuum in Gaza as Israel pulls out in the day after the war. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Gaza flotilla rebuffs calls to stop, as Israel readies for complex interception Documents from Gaza show Hamas’s ‘direct involvement’ with aid flotilla, Israel claims Italian navy frigate to quit shepherding Gaza aid flotilla as it approaches coast Qatar, Egypt and Turkey said to urge Hamas to accept Trump’s Gaza ceasefire proposal Arab, Muslim nations pledge to realize Trump’s Gaza plan; Hamas examining it ‘responsibly’ Trump says Hamas has ‘three or four days’ to respond to Gaza plan or ‘pay in hell’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A boat that is part of the Global Sumud Flotilla departs to Gaza to deliver aid amidst Israel's blockade on the Palestinian territory, in the Tunisian port of Bizerte, September 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Anis Mili)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman and US bureau chief Jacob Magid join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. In a dramatic joint press conference at the White House on Monday, US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out some of the 20 points of the Trump plan for “eternal” peace in the Middle East with the US president as head of the “Board of Peace.” Before we get into the content of the Trump peace plan and how it diverges from the draft we spoke about earlier in the week, we discuss the atmosphere inside the White House — especially during the seemingly very long wait for the two leaders to appear. We also learn about an unprecedented apology delivered by the prime minister to Qatar and a plan for a vague trilateral security mechanism between Qatar, the US and Israel. The pair assesses the chances for success for the peace plan and gives insight into some of the potential complications. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump unveils Gaza peace plan, hailing backing from Israel, Arab and Muslim states Netanyahu secures key edits to Trump plan to slow and limit Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza Trump’s unique diplomacy offers Netanyahu a path to goals in Gaza and beyond ‘The closest we’ve ever come’: Full text of Trump, Netanyahu statements on deal to end Gaza war Full text: Trump’s 20-point ‘comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict’ Arab, Muslim nations pledge to realize Trump’s Gaza plan; Hamas examining it ‘responsibly’ Netanyahu apologizes to Qatar for violating its territory with strike on Hamas chiefs Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: President Donald Trump greets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the West Wing of the White House, September 29, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We begin the program with an update on the car-ramming attack on Sunday in the West Bank that took the life of Staff Sgt. Inbar Avraham Kav, 20, of the Paratroopers Brigade’s 890th Battalion. Turning to Gaza, we speak about how the IDF is operating in the Strip by land, air and sea: The Israeli Air Force struck some 140 targets in the Gaza Strip in the past day, the Navy shelled a weapons depot and other buildings Hamas operatives were using in the Strip’s north, and ground troops from three IDF divisions continue to push into Gaza City. Hamas claimed Sunday that it had lost contact with two hostages during Israeli operations in a pair of Gaza City neighborhoods. Fabian weighs the claims and gives more background information. A ballistic missile launched by the Houthis in Yemen at Israel overnight Sunday was intercepted by air defenses. This comes after what Fabian calls the most intensive strike in Yemen yet. Thousands of Hezbollah supporters gathered Saturday at the tomb of slain leader Hassan Nasrallah to commemorate one year since his assassination by an Israeli airstrike. Fabian assesses the changes in Israel's operations in Lebanon over the past year. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF soldier killed by gunfire during car-ramming in northern West Bank IDF says 780,000 have fled Gaza City; Hamas says dozens killed in unrelenting strikes Hamas says it has lost contact with two hostages amid IDF push into Gaza City IDF intercepts Yemen ballistic missile; Houthis say it had cluster bomb warhead Drones circle overhead as thousands in Beirut mark anniversary of Hezbollah’s chief’s death Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF's Givati Brigade operates in Gaza City in this September 29, 2025, handout photo. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We start with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech on Friday at the UN General Assembly. Magid describes the atmosphere in the room and points out that since Netanyahu was the first speaker of the session, in order to stage a dramatic emptying of the hall, the nations' delegates needed to be punctual -- just to walk out. We learn about what Netanyahu said and hear about the gimmicks used in his delivery. In the second half of the program, we discuss the 21-point US proposal for ending the war in Gaza, which encourages Palestinians to remain in the Strip and provides for the creation of a pathway to a future Palestinian state, according to a verified copy of the plan obtained by Magid. We delve into the plan, point by point, and Magid provides commentary on some of the more confusing or vague statements. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Revealed: US 21-point plan for ending Gaza war, creating pathway to Palestinian state Full text of Netanyahu’s speech: We won’t let the world shove a terror state down our throat In defiant UN speech, PM rips world leaders for turning backs on Israel, recognizing Palestine IDF ordered to broadcast Netanyahu’s UN speech to residents of Gaza Strip Hamas hails walkout during Netanyahu’s UN speech, says it shows Israel’s ‘isolation’ Trump vows ‘intense’ talks to continue until deal reached to free hostages, end Gaza war Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF forces operate in the Gaza Strip in this September 28, 2025, handout. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Yossi Klein Halevi. This week, we speak with Hartman Institute senior fellow, author and thinker Yossi Klein Halevi from his Jerusalem home overlooking the back of the Mount Herzl National Military Cemetery. With that backdrop, we delve into a recently published Klein Halevi essay, "Our season of reckoning: Israel’s moral crossroads in Gaza," which he said was the hardest piece he's ever written -- and the one that has received the most response. We learn why Klein Halevi felt it important to chart this moment of ethical dimension, as it is unlike any other the IDF and the nation has faced. While Klein Halevi may not have the answers to the multitude of questions facing the world's most moral army, he believes the struggle and questioning are imperative for both Israelis and Diaspora Jews. And so this week, we ask Yossi Klein Halevi, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Yossi Klein Halevi (courtesy) / People take part in a protest demanding the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and calling for the end of the war in the Gaza Strip, in Jerusalem, September 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan and diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. On Sunday, the tally of the 193 UN members who recognize a State of Palestine grew to at least 145 as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal formally joined their ranks. Several other countries, including France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Malta, followed suit during a summit on the future of the two-state solution chaired by France and Saudi Arabia on Monday at United Nations headquarters in New York. We discuss why these states believe that this recognition is an anti-Hamas gesture and may kick off negotiations to end the war in Gaza. Israel, for its part, thinks that the recognition is a prize for terror: On this, Hamas appeared to agree, thanking the UK and Canada and calling their action a “victory.” This week, Berman delves into the knotty issue of Palestinian statehood and potentially unforeseen ripple effects. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Lazar Berman (courtesy) / A sticker on a desk reads 'State of Palestine' at the Palestinian mission to France, one day after France recognized Palestinian statehood, September 23, 2025, in Paris. (AP Photo/Aurelien Morissard)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following US President Donald Trump’s must-anticipated meeting at the United Nations with leaders of eight Arab countries, Magid discusses aspects of Trump’s 21-point plan, based on the proposal worked on by former UK prime minister Tony Blair. Magid points out that Trump assured the participating leaders that the US will not allow Israel to annex parts of the West Bank, after being quiet on their position. Magid also discusses the French plan to stabilize the region, with five Arab countries named as likely sponsors and with a two-page proposal that specifically discusses disarming Hamas as part of the plan. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump presented comprehensive plan to end Gaza war in UN meeting with Muslim leaders French proposal envisions multinational Gaza force tasked with gradually disarming Hamas Heading to UN, Netanyahu dismisses Palestine recognition as ‘shameful capitulation’ Qatar, Jordan denounce Netanyahu as warmonger, regional threat; Indonesia says ‘Shalom’ US envoy Witkoff ‘confident’ of Gaza breakthrough in coming days as peace plan floated France, Saudi Arabia in warning to Israel: ‘Any form of annexation is a red line’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: US President Donald Trump attends a multilateral meeting with leaders of Qatar, Jordan, Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, during the United Nations General Assembly, Tuesday, September 23, 2025, in New York. (Reuters)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Documentary filmmaker Yonatan Nir joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Ahead of the launch of season three of DocuNation, the online festival of Israeli documentary films for the Times of Israel Community, Nir discusses how the event got started in March 2020, during the initial outbreak of the coronavirus. At the time, Nir's screenings were canceled, and he turned to Zoom to offer free screenings and discussions about his films. DocuNation eventually included other Israeli documentary films that were screened for online audiences, with ToI offering the same concept for English speakers, with subtitled films or films that are mostly in English. Nir talks about the kinds of films screened, those showing Israeli life and society, the parts of life usually not shown in the news, offering a more uplifting look at life during difficult times. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Wilfrid Israel, an unsung Holocaust hero, gets his due In Arctic, polar bear is final frontier for famed Israeli wildlife photographer He ain’t heavy, he’s my sibling ‘Dolphin Boy’ gets picked up by Disney Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Documentary filmmaker Yonatan Nir brings third season of DocuNation festival to ToI Community in October 2025 (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Culture editor Jessica Steinberg joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Today, we dive into aspects of Israel's culinary life and hear about Steinberg's most recent visit to Kibbutz Be'eri in the south: Just two weeks before Rosh Hashanah, Steinberg joined baker Yaki Sagi as he was pouring honey cake batter into loaf tins at the Lalush bakery in Be’eri's dining hall complex. We learn how Be'eri is slowly rebuilding and about Sagi's flourishing bakery. We then turn to Tel Aviv, where Steinberg attended the 11th Whisky Live event. One of the whiskies she tasted is called Single Be’eri, a single malt project led by Be’eri resident and former Knesset member Haim Jelin, distilled at Tel Aviv’s Milk & Honey, with part of the proceeds donated to the rehabilitation of communities in the Western Negev. And finally, we learn how nearly 10 months after the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, a new set of culinary tours by the Tel Aviv-based Asif Culinary Institute of Israel is aiming to boost restaurants in Israel’s north that are still struggling with the fallout of the war. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Can spinach pies infuse strength back into Kibbutz Be’eri? This baker hopes so 10 months after Lebanon war, culinary tours aim to help local eateries Israel’s Whisky Live 2025 to feature local malt honoring Kibbutz Be’eri Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Chef Yaki Sagi and the Lalush brownies beloved by many Kibbutz Be'eri members (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. More than half of the estimated one million Palestinians residing in Gaza City have evacuated to the Strip’s south, the military said Sunday, as Israeli troops moved deeper into the city amid an expanding offensive against Hamas in the area. We learn about IDF efforts on the ground. IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin voiced frustrations about the lack of cooperation from international humanitarian organizations yesterday, saying, “At Kerem Shalom crossing, thousands of tents and supplies are waiting right now for collection by the UN and international organizations." He further said that Hamas is a major obstacle to distribution. We ask Fabian whether the IDF would consider becoming the point of aid distribution in the Strip. The IDF will bolster its presence in the West Bank with eight additional companies during the Jewish holiday season in light of heightened security risks. Fabian compares the troop deployment to that of October 6, 2023, saying that with the additional troops in place, the Judea and Samaria Division will be staffed by the equivalent of 23 battalions. An Israeli drone strike killed five people, including a father and his three children, in the southern Lebanese town of Bint Jbeil on Sunday. Fabian explains what we currently know about how bystanders were killed as a Hezbollah operative was neutralized. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: UK, Canada, Australia, Portugal announce recognition of Palestinian state; PM: Won’t happen IDF troops push deeper into Gaza City, as half a million residents said to have left Two rockets fired at Ashdod; IDF says ‘many’ Hamas fighters killed in Gaza City push In southern Gaza, new anti-Hamas enclave emerges under militia claiming Israeli backing IDF to deploy reinforcements in West Bank in preparation for Jewish holiday season IDF investigating after strike on Hezbollah operative also kills 4 Lebanese civilians Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF forces operate in the Gaza Strip, September 22, 2025. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Last week, ToI's founding editor took a whirlwind trip to Damascus as part of a small delegation of US Jewish leaders, scholars and rabbis, which was coordinated by the new Syrian government. In today's episode, we hear that getting there was just the beginning of the adventure. What would have ostensibly been a three-hour car drive with open borders for Jerusalem-based Horovitz took three flights -- from Tel Aviv to Athens, then to Istanbul, and finally, from Istanbul to Damascus. He describes how, at the Damascus International Airport, the group immediately launched into their packed itinerary, which had the simultaneous dual tracks of a Jewish roots tour and a "friendship visit" with high-level Syrian officials. Horovitz describes at length what sounds like the pinnacle of the tour, a rare visit to the Dura-Europos synagogue, a 2,000-year-old shul in eastern Syria that was rediscovered in 1932. We learn about the seven-meter-high, vividly-colored wall paintings that lined the walls of the synagogue’s assembly hall and their near miraculous survival. And finally, we learn what the Syrian government wished the delegation to take back home and pass on to their leadership -- American and Israeli. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 48 surreal hours in Damascus — an Israeli reporter’s travelogue from an enemy capital After years of war, world’s oldest synagogue paintings seen intact in Damascus Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Times of Israel Editor David Horovitz and academic Jill Joshowitz stand near the Dura-Europos Synagogue wall paintings in the Damascus National Museum in Syria, September 16, 2025. (Times of Israel)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Daniel Gordis. Gordis, an author, scholar, rabbi, activist and sometime Times of Israel blogger, is the creator of the popular Substack blog and podcast, "Israel from the Inside." He recounts how he began the blog in 2021 to pull the curtain back on the Jewish state for those living abroad. In this episode, we discuss the evolution Gordis's decision to be a pro-Israel, yet critical voice in a tricky global environment of rising antisemitism and uncertainty. Wearing his rabbi hat, he speaks about how existential loneliness is a part of the experience of this season of High Holy Days and he further describes the loneliness of being Israeli at this time in history. Gordis challenges American Jews to consider that Israelis are fighting for their homeland -- both in Gaza and during the ongoing protests in the streets. And so this week, we ask Daniel Gordis, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Daniel Gordis (courtesy) / A California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer detains a protestor while clearing a pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel encampment after dispersal orders were given at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) campus, on May 2, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (MARIO TAMA / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan and diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa said on Wednesday this week that ongoing negotiations with Israel to reach a security pact could lead to results “in the coming days.” However, later on Wednesday, an Israeli foreign ministry official told AFP that Syria will seal several security and military agreements with Israel by the end of the year. Despite the discrepancy in timing, it is clear that both countries are interested and invested in completing a security pact in the near future. On this week's Friday Focus, Berman reviews other previous pacts with Syria -- and attempts -- throughout Israel's history. We learn how the civil war in Syria and the fall of the Assad regime have recalibrated how Israel operates inside its neighbor to the north. And we hear about the conflicting Israeli feelings in losing a strong leader who kept the border relatively quiet. Finally, Berman discusses what Israel may demand from Syria -- where it's willing to withdraw and where it decidedly will not. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Lazar Berman (courtesy) / Syria's President Ahmad Al-Sharaa in Damascus, September 12, 2025. (SANA/AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Magid discusses the draft of a developed proposal, formed by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, regarding a transitional body for post-war Gaza. He notes that Israel is still engaging with this topic and that the proposal does not call for the displacement of Gazans. As security talks in the UK between Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Israel continue, Magid says an announcement could be within days, possibly coinciding with al-Sharaa's upcoming appearance at the United Nations. The long-running 'pay-to-slay' program for the Palestinian Authority that critics claimed incentivized terror attacks against Israelis is over, according to Magid, with a new program instituted to pay people based on economic need. There haven't been any payments yet as the PA is out of cash and relies on revenues that Israel collects on its behalf, which Israel has been withholding over various issues. After US Senator Bernie Sanders used the term genocide to refer to the ongoing war in Gaza, Magid discusses that Sanders has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Revealed: Tony Blair’s US-backed proposal for ending the Gaza war and replacing Hamas PA document shows ‘pay-to-slay’ has been scrapped, new system in place Hostage families camp outside PM’s home amid rumored start to Gaza City ground op Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Former British Prime Minister and Middle East envoy Tony Blair (center) visits Beit Hanun in the northern Gaza Strip, in his first visit to the Hamas-run enclave since being appointed, March 1, 2009. (Mahmud Hams/AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. At least 600,000 Gazans are still in Gaza City as the IDF ground offensive enters its second day, says Fabian, and the army is steering clear of them. Estimates suggest that the operation will take months, although Fabian notes that it is unclear if the government or international community will allow it to continue for that long. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir was on the frontlines in Gaza City on Tuesday at the start of the offensive, says Fabian. He discusses the chief of staff's complicated role in leading the army and his need to present to the government the complications and risks to the troops and hostages in the Gaza offensive, as well as the possible opportunities. The IDF struck the Houthi-held port of Hodeida on Tuesday and, in response, Israel received the 85th rocket strike from the Yemeni rebel force in the evening, which was intercepted. Fabian explains that the IDF has repeatedly hit the Yemeni port, as it is where the Houthis receive imports of Iranian weapons. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF begins major Gaza City ground offensive targeting Hamas; dozens of Gazans said killed IDF chief insists it’s his duty to warn of Gaza City op’s ‘risks and opportunities’ Israel strikes Houthi-held port of Hodeida in response to drone and rocket fire As Hamas urges Gazans to stay put, its leaders are trying to flee Strip, says Israel Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir (right) speaks with 98th Division commander Brig. Gen. Guy Levi and other officers in Gaza City, September 16, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Zman Yisrael editor Biranit Goren joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Two IDF divisions, made up of tens of thousands of troops, began expanded ground operations in Gaza City overnight as the army launches a “new stage” of its offensive against Hamas. The early stages of the offensive, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots B” began several weeks ago with increased strikes on Hamas targets, including high-rise towers, and ground operations on the outskirts of Gaza City and in several neighborhoods in the west of the city. We learn what is happening on the ground in Gaza City so far and the responses from the families of the 48 Israeli hostages held in the Strip, 20 of whom are presumed alive. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while en route to Doha from Tel Aviv, announced that Qatar and the United States are on the verge of finalizing an enhanced defense cooperation agreement, after Israel’s attack targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar last week drew widespread condemnation. He also called for Qatar to continue its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza war. Goren discusses what we're hearing from the Trump White House and how Israel could be connected to this finalized defense agreement. In a speech yesterday evening, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel is facing increasing isolation on the world stage and will have to become more self-reliant in the years to come. He said, “We will increasingly need to adapt to an economy with autarkic characteristics,” he said, using the term for economic self-sufficiency. Describing the ongoing war and its effects, he said, “We are Athens and Sparta. But we’re going to be Athens and super-Sparta,” he said. “There’s no choice; in the coming years, at least, we will have to deal with these attempts to isolate us.” Goren gives context and weighs in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hostage families camp outside PM’s home amid rumored start to Gaza City ground op Alongside Rubio, Netanyahu claims Qatar strike succeeded because it sent a ‘message’ Netanyahu admits Israel is economically isolated, will need to become self-reliant Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: The 98th Division expands its ground operations in Gaza City, September 16, 2025. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Israel and at recording time has just finished his meeting in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Jerusalem office. On Friday, Trump and special envoy Steve Witkoff had dinner with the Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in New York, after al-Thani held a four-hour-long meeting with Vice President JD Vance and Rubio at the White House. We learn what Rubio has so far said during his meetings in Israel about Israel's strike on Hamas leaders in US-ally Qatar last week. We also speak about the stated agenda for Rubio's visit to participate in the opening of the Pilgrims' Path excavated tunnel that leads from east Jerusalem's City of David to the Temple Mount plaza. Qatar is still fuming over last week's attack on its soil. Qatar’s prime minister accused Israel of “state terrorism,” and said its attack in Doha last week targeting Hamas’s leaders was “an attack on the principle of mediation itself,” but nevertheless vowed to continue efforts to reach a ceasefire. Berman explains why the country will continue to serve as a mediator, even as it may attempt to stir trouble for Israel in other realms. Israel is building two new aid distribution sites, which, according to the military, will be handed over to the US- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in the coming days. The IDF invited journalists to visit the sites on Wednesday before they become operational. Berman was there and reports back on what he saw, and how the war may look moving forward. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Rubio opens Israel visit with Netanyahu at Western Wall amid Gaza ops, Qatar fallout Qatari PM says Israel must be ‘punished’ for strike, vows to continue ceasefire efforts After Israeli strike, Qatar to host emergency Arab-Islamic summit to discuss response Waiting for Gaza City residents to head south, Israel readies new aid sites in Rafah Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, right, hosting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem on September 15, 2025. (Haim Zach/GPO)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode. On Tuesday, Israel targeted leaders from the Hamas terror group gathering in Qatar who were reportedly there to discuss a new ceasefire proposal put forward by Trump’s administration. Yesterday, Netanyahu appeared to acknowledge that the missile strike had failed to kill the targeted leaders. Fabian brings us new information on how the strike was carried out. Following an evacuation warning, the IDF says it struck a high-rise tower in Gaza City that was being used by Hamas. Just after recording time, two more 10- to 15-story buildings were demolished, in each case after civilians were warned by the IDF to evacuate. We learn about why the IDF is targeting these buildings and how they are taken down. A drone launched by the Houthis in Yemen was intercepted by Israeli air defenses near Ramon Airport in southern Israel this morning. Last week, a drone launched by Yemen’s Houthis evaded air defenses and smashed into the Ramon Airport terminal. Fabian speaks about the Houthis’ new targeting tactic and its results so far. Israeli soldiers raided the home of Palestinian activist and Oscar-winning director Basel Adra in the southern West Bank yesterday after two Israelis were injured by stone throwing in the area, according to the military. Adra told The Associated Press that before the army raid, Israeli settlers had attacked his village of at-Tuwani, injuring two of his brothers and one cousin. Fabian discusses how these “he said-he said” attacks are all too common. To close the program, we turn to last week’s violent terror attacks in Jerusalem and Kibbutz Tzuba. Fabian explains how intensive IDF efforts in the West Bank have brought attacks of this nature to almost zero — but that there is a steep price to be paid. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF says 280,000 Gaza City residents have left; high-rise said used by Hamas hit in strike IDF downs Yemen missile aimed at Tel Aviv; Houthis claim it had cluster bomb warhead West Bank home of Basel Adra, activist and Oscar-winning director, raided by IDF IDF seals homes of Palestinian terrorists behind deadly Jerusalem shooting Two wounded, one seriously, in terror stabbing at hotel west of Jerusalem Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: IDF strikes leveling mid-rise buildings in Gaza City on September 10, 2025. (Screencapture/STRINGER/AFPTV/AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur. There are still lots of questions and not a lot of answers after a bold Israeli airstrike targeted a meeting of Hamas’s top leaders in Qatar’s capital, Doha, on Tuesday. According to some reports, the leadership had gathered to discuss a new US-sponsored hostage-ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the war in Gaza. At publication, reports still differ as to whether the attack was successful. And just before recording on Wednesday, the IDF confirmed it had carried out strikes against the Houthis in Yemen, saying it struck military camps where operatives were gathered, the headquarters of the terror group’s propaganda division, and a fuel depot, in both Sanaa and in the al-Jawf area north of the capital. Borschel-Dan asks Rettig Gur: Is Israel acting like an unpredictable "Middle Easterner" to restore deterrence on all fronts? In a quick-take conversation, we hear why Rettig Gur doesn't put much weight into diplomatic theatrics as Israel fights its existential war against the Hamas terror group that launched the war on October 7, 2023. We ask: What does it mean to fail in a daring op? Has Israel burned all of its allies' goodwill? And so this week, we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now?What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. Illustrative image: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Astana, Kazakhstan, October 13, 2022. (Vyacheslav Prokofyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.