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. Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today's episode. We begin by reviewing Friday morning's gunfight in the northern West Bank village of Tell. A far-right hiking group of Israelis allegedly raided the town and a gunfight broke out between the Palestinian residents and Israeli hikers. Benayahu Mellet, a 32-year-old member of the neighboring Havat Gilad settlement’s civil security squad, was fatally shot by a Palestinian, along with Maj. Yuval Ezra, an IDF officer who had been dispatched to the scene. Four Palestinians were killed during the clash. Jeremy Sharon walks us through the parties involved in the fight and gives an overview of the different narratives surrounding why the group of settlers was in the area. How was the conflict initiated? From there we move on to discuss broader patterns in the West Bank since October 7, 2023. These include the rapid expansion of settlements in the area, and markedly higher rates of tensions and violence between Israeli and Palestinian residents. Following the break, we hone in on how Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has taken steps to entrench the powerful Settlements Administration agency he established in 2023. Sharon explains how these changes will help to continue expanding the settlement enterprise, and how they will make it more difficult for a new government to undo those gains. We hear about a variety of other ways the current administration has financed and supported the expansion of the settler movement. Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.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 Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, the head of Realign for Palestine, an Atlantic Council project that challenges entrenched narratives in the Israel and Palestine discourse. Alkhatib gives us an overview of the conditions on the ground right now in the Gaza Strip. We learn about an uptick in diseases such as chicken pox due to extreme unsanitary conditions and lack of vaccinations. There are new efforts to allow residents to open bank accounts -- but where is the money to be found even as paper bills are so worn they are disintegrating? Khalil al-Hayya has been elected to be the new leader of Hamas, the terror group announced Monday after months of speculation following a vote in the General Shura Council. We learn how, following the subjugation of protests in the Gaza Strip in late June, al-Hayya's annointing is another signal that the terror group is entrenching its ties with Iran and continuing consultations with Hezbollah. In the second half of the program, we discuss the intensity of support for Hamas in three population centers: the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian Authority, and Jordan. Alkhatib's comment on the Palestinians living in the Hashemite Kingdom may surprise. Finally, Alkhatib describes his new short book, "Hamas and its Two Million Hostages." Part memoir, part explainer, the work is an attempt to offer an approachable take on the past almost three years of war and how Hamas's stranglehold is only tightening on the people in the Strip. And so this week, we ask Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, 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 Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Reel Schmooze with ToI film reviewer Jordan Hoffman and host Amanda Borschel-Dan, where we bring you all the entertainment news and film reviews a Jew can use. This week, Hoffman starts the program with a unique dvar Torah, tying together the new blockbuster "The Odyssey" with James Joyce's "Ulysses" and antisemitism in Ireland. Goes well with white fish. Then we turn to the main event: "Reading Lolita in Tehran," which was directed by Israeli filmmaker Eran Riklis and is currently playing in select cinemas. Labeled "a memoir in books," the film is based on the bestselling autobiography by author Azar Nafisi, published in 2003. The film is divided into chapters based on famous literature, including "The Great Gatsby," "Daisy Miller," and "Pride and Prejudice." It stars Golshifteh Farahani (known from a Hoffman favorite, "Paterson"), Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Mina Kavani and Israeli mega-star entertainer Rita. Let's hear who gave this film an "oy," "meh" or the prized "not bad" this week on The Reel Schmooze. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Even for Israeli standards, it's been a pretty wild week in Israel's neighborhood. The ceasefire war between the US and Iran continues to escalate. The threats from US President Donald Trump against Iran grow ever more bombastic, but there is a real feeling that he might carry out a significant attack soon that goes well beyond the limited strikes that we have seen over the past two weeks. Of course, Iran is hitting back, primarily at Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, saying it is targeting US bases in those countries. The Iran-backed Houthis struck two Saudi oil tankers, as that conflict begins to heat up. Houthi threats to the Bab al-Mandeb would mean the Iranian axis is closing the two waterways connecting the Middle East and Europe to Asian markets. There was slightly better news to the north. After six rounds of direct talks and an agreement that envisions peace between Israel and Lebanon, Lebanese forces began moving into the first pilot zone vacated by Israeli forces. Joined by Times of Israel colleague Nava Freiberg, Lazar made sense of the interconnected but distinct theaters that Israeli leaders and citizens are paying close attention to. He explained what Iran is trying to do with its attack on Arab countries. It is determined to impose its reading of the MOU on the world, especially as it comes to control over the Strait of Hormuz. That is why it hasn't hit Israel. Iran knows that Israel, Lazar said, isn't about to run to Trump and ask him to give in to Iran's demands to get it stop firing. Instead, Israel would relish the opportunity to carry out some of the attacks that it had to call off in April, and would likely go well beyond what the Americans are doing. It doesn't make sense for Israel to go out of its way to get involved either. For now, Iran is being degraded, it isn't getting economic relief, and Trump is becoming increasingly frustrated with his Iranian interlocutors. Meanwhile, life is fairly normal in Israel, with flights returning to Ben Gurion Airport and citizens focusing on the election fight. Lazar also shed light on alternative energy pathways being developed in the wake of Iranian threats to the Strait of Hormuz. Israel might have an opportunity to be key element of some of these plans, but it has to change the tenor of relations with some of its Arab partners. Lazar explained why the Saudi-US nuclear deal is a problem for Israel. First of Israel, it shows that Israel is not being consulted by the White House on strategic decisions. In addition, it represents a potential proliferation risk, especially if the current regime in Riyadh is replaced. Turning to Lebanon, Lazar said that progress on the first pilot zone is undoubtedly a positive step. Still, the Lebanese army is incapable of taking on Hezbollah at this stage, and a lot will have to happen before disarming Hezbollah is a likely outcome. It will be important to help the Lebanese government show the public that negotiations with Israel achieve results, especially the return of some civilians to their homes. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.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 Ben Sales joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Iran-backed Houthis struck two Saudi oil tankers on Thursday that they accused of violating a naval blockade imposed by the group. These attacks signal a potential new front in the US-Iran conflict, as the US military struck Iran for the 12th successive night and Iran lashed out at its neighbors. Arguably related to stymying Iran and its ambitions, the United States and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday forged a new agreement that could potentially provide the kingdom with uranium enrichment capability for its civilian nuclear program. We hear why Israel is worried. Overnight, the US House of Representatives narrowly passed its version of a massive defense policy bill, despite Democrats’ concerns about its huge price tag, the Iran war and a provision that would boost Pentagon ties to Israel. The NDAA includes several provisions that allocate hundreds of millions of dollars to US-Israel joint military projects. Sales explains the political considerations in voting for Israel aid right now. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday acknowledged that he cannot actually arrest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite his past pledges to do so. Most legal experts had come to that conclusion years ago. Why is this in the news right now? Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Yemen’s Houthis hit tankers in Red Sea as US strikes Iran for 12th consecutive night US confirms signing a nuclear cooperation pact with Saudi Arabia, to Israel’s alarm Mamdani’s vision of NY as ‘a city of international law’ runs up against reality Mamdani admits he lacks power to arrest Netanyahu, after repeated pledges to do so Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.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 reporter Nava Freiberg joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today's episode. Following an 11th consecutive night of US strikes on Iran and Iranian strikes on its Gulf and Arab neighbors, Freiberg offers possible paths forward in the war. Freiberg analyzes US President Donald Trump's claim Tuesday that the US will be striking Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain “probably pretty soon,” amid reports that Tehran has moved nuclear centrifuges, and possibly even enriched uranium, to the secretive underground enrichment site. Is this bombastic threat just part of Trump's strategy to keep Iran guessing or could the US be prepping a ground invasion? Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with US President Donald Trump in Washington on Tuesday, where Aoun declared that his country will permanently end hostilities with Israel. Freiberg comments on Trump's remark at the meeting that he is open to speaking directly with the Iran-backed terror group -- if Beirut asked -- after Aoun requested backing in his efforts to disarm Hezbollah. In the second half, we move on to discuss Trump’s Gaza peace plan, which nine months ago was hailed as an end to the war in the Strip and the beginning of Gaza's reconstruction. Freiberg explains why the framework is only moving forward in “baby steps.” The episode closes with a special visitor, Sarah Tuttle-Singer, curator of the Peoples of Israel project, who introduces us to her work and the project's goals.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. Israeli intelligence has reportedly assessed that Iran has moved thousands of nuclear centrifuges into a site in the Natanz area known as Pickaxe Mountain, burying them deep underground and making them harder to target in aerial strikes. We hear from Fabian about the IDF's current assessment of Iran's capabilities. Lebanese army troops began deploying in the southern Lebanese town of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh this morning after Israeli forces withdrew from the area, the Lebanese Armed Forces said in a statement, in line with a US-brokered plan for “pilot zones” in the south. We learn which areas are in the pilot program and the IDF's readiness to step back into the vacuum. Hezbollah launched over 400 rockets from the Beaufort Ridge toward northern Israel during the current round of fighting, mainly at the border community of Metula, according to the IDF. Fabian visited a massive warren inside the mountain that the terrorists carved out over more than a decade. We get a sense of the scope of the underground base. An analysis by Fabian has found that, despite the ceasefire, the IDF has in the past few months stepped up a large-scale retribution campaign with the avowed aim of hunting down and eliminating every single terrorist who took part in the October 7 massacre. Fabian unwinds the competing narratives surrounding these targeted killings. After the Knesset voted to extend the mandatory military service period for males to 32 months, the chief of the IDF’s Personnel Directorate said Friday that the move did not replace the army’s immediate need for more troops. Fabian explains why. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Iran says it’s in ‘full-scale war’ with US as mediators said to proffer 10-day truce Israeli intel said to show Iran has moved centrifuges to Natanz’s Pickaxe Mountain US indicates Lebanese army deploying to ‘pilot zones,’ including one IDF will withdraw from Beneath Beaufort’s strategic bulwark, a Hezbollah lair built to attack Israel is unearthed Israel steps up campaign to kill all 5,000 Oct. 7 terrorists; 1,200 were killed on the day, 1,500 so far since IDF says it killed terrorist who attacked Nova festival, abducted Inbar Haiman on Oct. 7 IDF manpower chief: Extension of service period doesn’t replace need for more troops Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.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 forces struck Iran for a ninth consecutive day on Monday as the number of confirmed American military deaths in the renewed fighting rose to three, and concerns grew over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which the Trump administration accused the Islamic Republic of seeking to control “as leverage against the world.” Yesterday, Israel launched interceptors after fragments from Iranian missiles fired at Jordan’s southern city of Aqaba potentially threatened the nearby city of Eilat. We discuss why the Iranians are trying to keep Israel out of the fray and why US President Donald Trump has not asked the Jewish state to join in the fight. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is in Washington, DC, this week in the first trip to the US capital by a Lebanese head of state since Michel Sleiman was received by Barack Obama in 2009. Aoun is slated to meet with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday. We learn what is on the agenda and why Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not invited. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran for 9th night, confirms American servicemember killed in Iraq IDF fires interceptors over Eilat as Iranian missiles target nearby Aqaba in Jordan At meeting in DC, Rubio lauds Lebanon president’s ongoing push to disarm Hezbollah Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.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 joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Knesset voted early Friday morning to disband itself ahead of the October 27 election, heading into a recess after the coalition’s last-ditch blitz succeeded in passing a spate of controversial legislation into law. Addressing the plenum, Knesset Speaker MK Amir Ohana, of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, called the 25th Knesset the “most challenging” in Israeli history, encompassing Israel's longest war and widespread social upheaval. Schneider takes us back to the beginning of the Knesset session and explains which aspects of the judicial overhaul package have passed -- and what moves the Supreme Court has made to counter some of them. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Knesset officially disperses, after coalition completes its drastic legislative blitz Coalition passes media overhaul law, giving government greater regulatory control Coalition’s ‘legislative blitz’ is designed to shore-up, unshackle right-wing power Coalition passes law gutting attorney general’s powers, removing key check on government Iran said to tell Hezbollah, allies to prepare for wider conflict, which could rope in 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 Ari Schlacht.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. With the sudden death of US Sen. Lindsey Graham this week, Rettig Gur is asked to expound on the loss of this staunchly pro-Israel politician who was able to rally both sides of the aisle. We then turn to the recent visits of two Democratic wannabe presidential candidates -- Rahm Emanuel, most recently the US ambassador to Japan, and US Rep. Ro Khanna. We hear how both politicians came with distinct messages and very different goals. And finally, as America turns 250, we learn about Anglo Jewry's inability to foresee the new phenomenon of antisemitism hitting the US's teeming shores. Does the vilification of Israel change their hypothetical plans for escape? 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 Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Reel Schmooze with ToI film reviewer Jordan Hoffman and host Amanda Borschel-Dan, where we bring you all the entertainment news and film reviews a Jew can use. This week, Borschel-Dan begins the episode with her impressions of the United States after not having visited for eight years. We hear how American cottage cheese stacks up after all this time. We devote the rest of the program to "Tuner," the first narrative full-length feature by young Canadian filmmaker Daniel Roher and co-written by Robert Ramsey. Roher's 2022 film "Navalny," about the Russian political prisoner Alexei Navalny, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature Film. But "Tuner" is a huge departure for the 33-year-old filmmaker and Hoffman explains how he manages to punch high while keeping his budget low. The plot surrounds a young piano tuner played by Leo Woodall who must make a quick buck after his mentor, played by Dustin Hoffman, falls on hard times. Tuner Niki White meets a team of thuggish Israelis, headed by Uri (Lior Raz), who exploit the tuner's highly sensitive hearing for nefarious means. Let's hear who gave these this film an "oy," "meh" or the prized "not bad" this week on The Reel Schmooze. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. The ceasefire war between the US and Iran continues to expand. Instead of making do with a wildly favorable memorandum of understanding signed by US President Donald Trump, Iranian leaders want more -- especially recognition of their control over the vital Strait of Hormuz. Nicholas Carl, assistant director for the American Enterprise Institute's Critical Threats Project, said that the current fighting should be understood as the next stage in the US-Iran war -- namely, the Battle of Hormuz. Carl noted that the US and Israel achieved extensive military success in their campaign against Iran's ballistic missiles, nuclear program, conventional forces, defense industry, and leadership. But that military success has not been translated into enduring strategic success. "We haven't compelled the Iranians to accept a positive political outcome for us yet," said Carl. "They're still willing to fight." The Iranians came dangerously close to imposing their will on Trump, and winning the war, he argued, as the president halted the campaign and signed an MOU that came under withering criticism even from his allies. Iran is now trying to make its victory permanent, said Carl, and is working to press its advantage and end the war with its maximalist demands met. Iran is seeking to destabilize energy markets sufficiently to convince Trump that ongoing war is too costly, both economically as well as politically, and that he should accept a permanent agreement that is even more advantageous to Iran. If the war ends with Iran receiving significant financial relief and in formal control of Hormuz, he said, it will have won the war. That would certainly contribute to regime stability, but it is impossible to predict how long it will last. Something must give, argued Carl -- either the regime or the people. The regime might fall under ongoing cycles of mass protest. But it could also become even more repressive, turning into a Middle Eastern North Korea. Alternatively, it might fracture into ethnic enclaves, much like Syria. Carl said the reported Mossad plan to install former Iranian president Ahmadinejad as the leader of a new Iran is a bit far-fetched in terms of its chances for success. On the US-Israel partnership, there are certainly new forces in American politics challenging the relationship, but both countries must recognize that they're stronger together against actors like Iran. In the meantime, he said, the war between the US and Iran "is going to keep on going until one side has outlasted the other." Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.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 House on Wednesday defeated a vote to end Israel aid. Still, with nearly 50% of Democrats backing the measure, Magid notes the significance of the measure and the vote, which he says sends the message that Israel will not have the bipartisan support it used to have if it continues its current policies toward the Palestinians. Magid reviews the recent visit of US lawmaker Ro Khanna to the West Bank, where he was briefly detained in a Palestinian village by Israeli settlers. Magid examines whether the incident was later amplified by Khanna or constitutes another case of settler violence. He touches on the venting JD Vance did during a recent podcast hosted by Joe Rogan, in which the US vice president expressed frustration over an Israeli social media campaign that criticizes the Iran deal. The latest round of Israel-Lebanon talks ended in Rome, and while the tone was positive, Magid tells us that it's unclear whether Israel will be withdrawing anytime soon from the two agreed-upon pilot zones in southern Lebanon. He opines that Israel's reluctance is probably tied to the upcoming elections and notes that the lack of progress is a sore spot for the Lebanese. The Board of Peace is progressing with plans for Gaza, with its own set of pilot zones, says Magid, but those plans are still theoretical for now. And he tells us that the Palestinian Authority has brought in an outside consultancy to vouch for progress in its reform of West Bank prisoner payments, in an attempt to prove that it is no longer incentivizing attacks on Israelis. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US House defeats amendment to end Israel aid, but nearly 50% of Democrats back measure US lawmaker detained by settlers says lack of punishment shows Israeli complicity ‘Go to hell’: Vance lashes out at reported Israeli-backed online campaign smearing Iran MOU Lebanon talks in Rome wrap up without specific timeline for pledged IDF withdrawals Board of Peace plans launch of pilot Gaza housing project, but green light elusive PA says external audit proves payments incentivizing attacks on Israelis have ended Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: US bureau chief Jacob Magid appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)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. There are at least 19 US warships in the Arabian Sea, including two aircraft carriers and an amphibious assault ship with more than 1,000 Marines aboard. This threat -- and US President Donald Trump's renewed blockade on the Strait of Hormuz -- is not deterring the Iranians' determined chokehold on the waterway. Berman delves into the logic behind Iran's moves. Adding further nuance, we take a look at Iran's strikes on its Gulf neighbors and Jordan. What is being targeted and how is this conveying the regime's message? Next, we turn to an unexpected escalation in the Gulf: The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen said they launched missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia’s Abha International Airport on Monday in response to airstrikes they blamed on Saudi Arabia that struck Sanaa International Airport earlier in the day. What is behind this flare-up? And finally, Rome is host this week to a sixth round of talks between Israel and Lebanon. On the agenda is a pilot IDF pullout from specific locations in southern Lebanon. Berman raises the pluses and minuses of this plan. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US reimposes naval blockade as Trump threatens to ramp up strikes on Iran: ‘You better make a deal’ Iran’s strikes show its priority is flexing muscle on Hormuz, not dealing with Trump After blocking Hormuz, Iran signals it could ramp up pressure and shut Red Sea gateway, too In major escalation, Yemen’s Houthis target Saudi Arabia’s Abha airport Trump said to urge Netanyahu to pull Israeli troops from Syria, Lebanon in recent call Sixth round of Israel-Lebanon talks begins in Rome, with focus on IDF pullout ‘pilot’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.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 US launched strikes on Iran early Tuesday, hours after President Donald Trump said Washington was “reinstating” a blockade on Iranian ports. Trump separately suggested the United States will act as "guardians" of the Strait of Hormuz and in return will charge ships for safe passage. With Iran lashing out against its Gulf neighbors and Jordan, has the war essentially restarted? The New York Times reported Monday that Israel engaged in a multiyear effort to recruit and re-install as leader Iran’s former hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. In the report, citing US officials and sources with knowledge of the failed Israeli plot, we learn of a detailed plan that fell apart on February 28, even as the US and Israel attacked Iran and picked off its top leadership. Horovitz relates what we know so far. As part of a legislative blitz ahead of its dissolution on Friday, the Knesset voted 63-52 on Monday to pass a deeply divisive Basic Law declaring Torah study a “foundational value” of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Horovitz delves into the problematic ripple effects of this law, other legislation catering to the Haredi community that is set to be passed this week, and the IDF chief of staff's rare public outcry against it. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US attacks Iran and Tehran retaliates across Middle East as both vie for control of strait Trump resumes blockade of Iran’s ports, says US ‘guardian’ of Hormuz, will charge ‘20% on all cargo’ Report: Ahmadinejad met Mossad chief under Israeli plan to install him as Iran leader Israel passes quasi-constitutional law declaring Torah study a foundational value IDF chief denounces ‘inconceivable’ bill freezing ultra-Orthodox enlistment Full text: IDF chief’s letter to Netanyahu, Katz against bill freezing Haredi enlistment Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.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 Ariela Karmel joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The Knesset is in the midst of a legislative blitz before parliament dissolves on July 17. Karmel notes that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing to pass controversial bills important to the ultra-Orthodox and nationalist, right-wing parties in his coalition, to solidify his alliances ahead of October 27’s general election. Karmel discusses the various bills likely to be passed into law, including a Basic Law on Torah study that would shield Haredi men from the army draft; the repeal of a kashrut reform that weakened the Orthodox rabbinate; and a bill to gut the powers of the attorney general. A bill to establish a politically appointed probe into the failures surrounding the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led invasion, which would give the coalition unilateral control over the commission to investigate its own conduct, may not be enacted due to time constraints. Much of this legislation is vulnerable to constitutional challenges, reports Karmel, but there is no certainty that the coalition, if reelected, would abide by future High Court rulings, which, in turn, raises the question of whether the current government would concede if it loses on October 27. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Election date finalized for October 27, with government set to complete full term Bill approved for final Knesset readings would freeze Haredi enlistment for at least 7 months Bill to gut attorney general’s powers approved by Knesset committee for final readings Coalition aims to pass raft of contentious bills in final week before Knesset dissolution Netanyahu said seeking Haredi loyalty after election, but party leaders noncommittal Knesset advances controversial bill for politically appointed Oct. 7 probe in 1st 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 Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Political correspondent Ariela Karmel appears on today's Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (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. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The US military said it launched another round of strikes on Iran early Sunday, the third in recent days, after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps struck a container ship traveling through the Strait of Hormuz and declared the waterway closed until further notice. Fabian speaks to what it may take for the IDF to rejoin the fight. US Democratic lawmaker Ro Khanna said he was detained by Israeli settlers armed with US-made rifles during a West Bank visit late last week. Also making headlines, four Israeli settlers were detained for allegedly attacking a CNN media crew near the West Bank town of Sinjil on Saturday. After allegations of IDF inaction, Fabian reviews the military's role in defusing similar situations. The Israel Defense Forces on Friday announced that three Hamas commanders were killed in airstrikes in Gaza, including one who raided the IDF’s Re’im base in southern Israel during the October 7, 2023, onslaught that sparked the subsequent war in the Strip. This comes amid an uptick in similar announcements of targeted killings of terrorists who participated in the massacre or held hostages in Gaza. Fabian tells us about the apparent trend. Yesterday, a US military delegation met with Lebanon’s army in Beirut to discuss the implementation of Israel’s withdrawal from a “pilot zone” in southern Lebanon. We hear where and how it may take place. And finally, to end the program, we learn about Pvt. Yaakov Zarihan, killed in action on April 20, 1948, during Israel’s War of Independence. He had been considered missing for 78 years, and last week it was announced that he was identified as buried in a mass grave in a kibbutz near Jerusalem. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran again, after IRGC attacks ship in Hormuz and declares strait closed US Democrat Ro Khanna says he was detained by armed settlers during West Bank visit 4 settlers detained for alleged attack on CNN crew in West Bank town of Sinjil Off-duty IDF soldier, two Israeli women extracted from West Bank’s Jericho IDF kills three Hamas commanders, including Oct. 7 invader, in Gaza airstrikes US military delegation visits Beirut to discuss IDF ‘pilot zone’ withdrawal IDF troops to withdraw from Lebanon pilot zones in coming days, says US official IDF says soldier missing since 1948 war determined to be buried near 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 Ari Schlacht.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 Deborah Gilboa, MD, an expert in resilience and navigating change. The Pittsburgh-based family physician and author of "From Stressed to Resilient: The Guide to Handle More and Feel It Less" begins the program by defining what is -- and what is not -- resilience. We learn that it can be exercised and strengthened to be employed when we are presented with unexpected choices, positive or negative. Gilboa, whose son served and was injured as a lone soldier in Gaza, shares how she personally found inner fortitude following his deployment in October 2023 and was able to be the mother he needed when called upon. We also hear about Dr. G's Squirrel Hill community and its coping mechanisms in the wake of the October 27, 2018, shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue, in which 11 people were killed by a white supremacist terrorist. We learn that the community's response to US President Donald Trump's visit lines up with resilience tactics, including drawing boundaries and uniting through tragedy. Finally, Gilboa gives quick tips for how listeners may hack their own resilience muscle in times of stress. And so, this week, we ask Dr. Deborah Gilboa 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 edited by Yitzchak Ledee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. A few short weeks ago, US President Donald Trump signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran that was widely panned, especially in Israel. The bizarre agreement met none of the US or Israel war aims, extracted no concessions from Iran, and even gave it effective control over the fighting in Lebanon. Predictably, the MOU hasn't led to anything like peace. This week, Iran launched attacks on civilian ships in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to US strikes, followed by Iran launching drones and rockets at Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. Is the Trump MOU dead? If it's not, how should Israel ensure that its goals are met, even if returning to war in the short term is not possible? And what does this mean for Israel's fight against Iranian proxies on its borders? Dr. Eyal Hulata, a veteran of Israel's security services, served as National Security Adviser in the previous government under Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid. As the figure who led Israel's inter-agency effort to confront the Iranian threat, Hulata is uniquely positioned to discuss Israel's long fight against the Islamic Republic. He said that Israelis should be proud of the effectiveness and accomplishments of the two air campaigns against Iran, which pushed back the Iranian nuclear program significantly. However, said Hulata, as long as the regime controls Iran, it will be almost impossible to solve the Iranian problem. Even though the US and Iran failed to topple the regime, Hulata stressed that the country is being led by new figures, and it is too early to say whether they will be more hardline than their predecessors. Regardless of the disappointing way the campaign ended, Hulata noted, what is important now is to look toward the next phase of the struggle against the Iranian threat. Iran's military and defense industry were badly degraded, but those achievements will be temporary if they are not followed up by ongoing pressure, sanctions, and intelligence operations. Israeli intelligence must remain intensely focused on Iran's nuclear sites, he said, in order to detect any attempts to return to nuclear enrichment. Israel will have to respond to such a development, Hulata emphasized. Ballistic missiles will continue to not only be a threat to Israel, but also to Iran's Arab neighbors. Israel must ensure that Iran's missile stockpile doesn't become too large for Israeli multi-layered air defenses, said Hulata. Any deal reached between Trump and Iran, even if that is unlikely, must not give Iran anything they don't have right now, said Hulata. Iran has not been able to enrich uranium for over a year, he noted, and should not be given permission to do so in an agreement. However, Iran will not make any concessions unless they are pressured into doing so, Hulata emphasized. "We shouldn't buy into this narrative that they have won in this military conflict," said Hulata. "They've suffered unprecedented amounts of of of damage, direct losses and indirect losses. The only way that they can recover from this is through the waivers that an American president will give them in exchange for a negotiated agreement." "This is why it is important that this negotiated agreement demands substantial outcomes," he continued. "Otherwise will be just kicking the can down the road and this will not be good in the long term." Turning to Lebanon, Hulata said the agreement signed with Beirut is the right approach, though Israel should not give anything up that compromises its security. The Lebanese government understands the Hezbollah threat, he said, but lacks capacity. In order for it to succeed, Beirut needs to commit to pushing back militarily against Hezbollah, with the firm backing of international partners. At the same time, Iran's financial support for Hezbollah must be cut off. On Syria, Hulata said that while Ahmed al-Sharaa is a jihadist, he shares the Israeli interest in reducing Iran's influence in Syria. At the same time, Turkish influence there is a serious problem, and Israel needs to keep a close eye on a growing threat from Ankara. Hulata said that while Israel could have done much more to break Hamas rule in Gaza, its best move now is to stick with Trump's 20-point plan, while bringing in partners like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. "Hamas is way weaker than it was before," Hulata said. "Hamas is disconnected from external lifelines of support. There is an ability to have a civilian rule in Gaza that would take power from Hamas and push it away." That would take creating safe civilian areas in the Israeli-controlled parts of Gaza in order to create new conditions in Gaza. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht. Check out last week's Lazar Focus: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. For the second straight day, the United States struck Iran late Wednesday and into early Thursday morning after hitting Iranian targets a day earlier in retaliation for attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Islamic Republic responded by attacking sites in Kuwait and Bahrain, but not yet Israel. Berman assesses the causes for the current flare-up and where things may go from here. Although Israel did all it could to convince the White House not to provide Turkey with advanced military hardware that would drastically improve its air force, US President Donald Trump seems keen on pushing for Turkey's rejoining the F-35 program. Berman breaks down why the country was initially ejected from the program and what Israel's objections are. During the NATO summit in Ankara on Wednesday, Trump informed his Syrian counterpart Ahmed al-Sharaa that he had decided to remove the country from the US list of designated state sponsors of terrorism. During this same meetup, Trump touted his decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and spoke to Turkey's influence in Syria. Berman puts the pieces together. Israel-Jordan relations are at a nadir as the Jewish state decided not to renew a 2021 "goodwill" agreement that would see Israel doubling its required water allotment to its parched neighbor. We learn how we got here -- and how the relationship could soon be improved. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US launches 2nd night of strikes against Iran, as Israel said bracing for war to restart NATO summit and Trump’s support for F-35s sale boost Turkey’s standing, as slumping Israel sees clout erode US to delist Syria as state sponsor of terror, in new boost to Sharaa Parched Jordan fuming at Israeli refusal to renew expired water deal – report Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.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. Almost three weeks into the 60-day period in which the US and Iran are tasked with negotiating a final deal to end the war, the US military unleashed a new wave of strikes against Iran on Tuesday and revoked a license allowing the country to sell oil after three tankers were hit by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz. Can this further pressure on an already fragile ceasefire spiral both sides back into war? US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he would “certainly consider” selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, as he sat alongside his "good friend" Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan ahead of a NATO summit in Ankara. We hear Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's caustic response. The Knesset voted 59-0 on Monday to pass, in the first of three readings, controversial legislation establishing a politically appointed probe into the failures surrounding Hamas’s October 7, 2023, massacre. The legislation would give the government that was in power when the attacks took place the authority to unilaterally appoint the body investigating its own conduct. This is only one of several controversial pieces of legislation being pushed through in a last-minute drive from the current coalition. Horovitz weighs in. Ahead of the Knesset’s expected dissolution next week and general elections in October, Yoaz Hendel’s Reservists party announced Tuesday it would join forces with former Blue and White MK Chili Tropper. We learn how this move -- as well as a newly announced party from longtime Likud MK Yuli Edelstein -- could shift coalition building blocks. And finally, we hear Horovitz's commentary on last night's nail-biting World Cup match between Egypt and Argentina. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran, revokes oil sanctions waiver after attacks on tankers in Hormuz Sitting alongside ‘friend’ Erdogan, Trump says he’ll ‘certainly consider’ F-35 sale to Turkey Knesset advances controversial bill for politically appointed Oct. 7 probe in 1st reading Yoaz Hendel’s Reservists teams up with ex-minister Chili Tropper ahead of election Messi leads Argentina in stunning late 3-2 comeback to oust Egypt from World Cup Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.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. Jewish world and real estate correspondent Zev Stub joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today’s episode. We begin our conversation by diving into the Maccabiah Games, which are being held at venues across Israel through July 13. Zev Stub explains how, after last year's Maccabiah was postponed because of Israel's June 2025 war with Iran, the opening of the two-week competition carried an added sense of symbolism and significance. We then examine Stub's reporting on the Israeli Chief Rabbinate's apparent decision on Thursday to authorize the liberal Tzohar Rabbinical Organization to issue kashrut certifications under Israeli law for the first time, following a High Court of Justice ruling last month requiring it to withdraw its refusal to recognize the group. Within hours, however, the decision was thrown into doubt, with senior officials saying the approval had not been properly authorized and therefore had no legal standing. Stub walks us through the competing claims and the possible outcomes. In the second half of our discussion, Stub delivers a real estate snapshot of current trends in Israel's housing market. We analyze how the strong shekel, fluctuating interest rates and rising antisemitism worldwide are shaping buyer behavior. To close, Stub takes us inside "Bat Sheba's Palace," a Caesarea property listed for an asking price of $210 million. With gold-plated fountains, imported stone and nearly 74,000 square feet (6,900 square meters) of interior space, the Versailles-inspired estate embodies a level of luxury once unimaginable in the Jewish state.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. Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. A low-level constitutional crisis is brewing, Sharon says, as Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi and Justice Minister Yariv Levin both said they won't respect a High Court of Justice ruling regarding the Second Authority, the regulatory body for commercial broadcast media and the proposed sale of Channel 13. Sharon reports that President Isaac Herzog and opposition leaders immediately warned that when the government refuses to heed certain High Court decisions, it paves the way for other, more severe situations, such as electoral interference, and ultimately threatens Israel's democracy. Sharon reports on another recent High Court decision that could also have led to a constitutional crisis, as the deputy court president ruled that the government must redo the election for the state comptroller following a suspicion of violations of ballot secrecy in the previous round. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Government defiance of High Court paves way for future disregard of the law In first, government vows to disobey High Court ruling, setting up constitutional crisis High Court rules state comptroller election violated ballot secrecy, must be held again Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (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. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. IDF clashes with Hezbollah in south Lebanon continue, reports Fabian, but on a more limited basis following the recently signed Beirut-Jerusalem framework, in comparison to previous iterations of ceasefires with the Iranian proxy terror group. The IDF targeted and killed a Hamas chief of security in Gaza who commanded a terror cell that raided the Nahal Oz army base and kibbutz on October 7, 2023, notes Fabian. The cell seized the body of tank commander Daniel Perez and took hostage Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samar Talalka, who later escaped their captors and were accidentally killed in December 2023 by IDF troops in Gaza. Fabian discusses a statement made by IDF chief of staff Eyal Zamir at an assessment on Thursday in which, without citing it explicitly, he takes aim at the government's advancing a Basic Law that would prioritize ultra-Orthodox Torah study over the army's stated need for more personnel as it battles on several fronts. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF says it killed armed Hezbollah operative after manhunt in southern Lebanon IDF shells Hezbollah sites after soldier hurt in clash with gunman in south Lebanon IDF says strike killed Hezbollah operative who emerged from tunnel in south Lebanon IDF says it killed Hamas terrorist who abducted tank officer Daniel Perez, held hostages After Basic Law exalting Torah study advances, IDF chief says soldiers must be prioritized Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)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 acclaimed chefs and restaurateurs Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook. Solomonov and Cook, the trailblazing chefs behind Philadelphia hospitality group CookNSolo Restaurants, are known champions of the Israeli culinary landscape, a history that began with their first restaurant, Zahav, which is considered their flagship and was established 17 years ago. The James Beard Foundation award-winning restaurateurs speak about how they met as line cooks in Philadelphia, when they ran to a tiny Middle Eastern market to stock up on freekeh, silan and spices for their developing menu. Solomonov, the son of a Bulgarian-Israeli father and American-Israeli mother, and Cook, the son of an American rabbi, speak about the Jewish and Israeli influences in their lives. They discuss how Zahav came to be, in an unlikely corner of Philadelphia, an upscale version of an Israeli grill restaurant, eventually branching into additional restaurants and cafes in the city, in New York, and in Florida. Their take on Israeli cuisine has been at the forefront of the American discovery of creamy hummus and tahini, roasted meats and fresh salads, a concept they discuss during the podcast. Cook and Solomonov review the last two and a half years since the bloody October 7 Hamas onslaught and the concurrent wave of anti-Zionist sentiment, when it became much more challenging to run a chain of Israel-influenced restaurants. With nearly 500 employees at their 18 restaurants, the pair say they feel proud to be an Israeli restaurant group, knowing that it is inspiring to some and a reason for others to express hate and vitriol. Solomonov and Cook agree that they won't apologize for their identity, for their culture or community, and will continue to prepare and develop their dishes and restaurants to represent their roots. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Celebrated restaurateurs and chefs Steve Cook (left) and Michael Solomonov (right) speak to What Matters Now host Jessica Steinberg for this week's podcast (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Israelis and many Americans -- not to mention Gulf Arabs -- were stunned by the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Trump administration and the Iranians last month. There was much to criticize in the MOU, but one of the most egregious elements was the inclusion of Lebanon in the ceasefire deal. Although neither Israel nor the Lebanese government were signatories to a deal between Washington and Tehran, it specifically mandated a halt to Israel's campaign against Hezbollah, Iran's most powerful proxy. Then, last Friday, a reason for some hope. As a beaming US Secretary of State Marco Rubio looked on, the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to Washington signed an agreement envisioning peace between the neighbors and the staged disarming of Hezbollah by the Lebanese army. Could this be the beginning of the end for Hezbollah, the tool of Iranian control of Lebanon? Can we expect a real peace deal that would see Israelis and Lebanese moving across the border? Or is this another half-baked Trump agreement that will lead nowhere, and will allow Israel's enemies to rebuild and keep their weapons? Hanin Ghaddar, a Shiite Lebanese scholar who grew up in southern Lebanon, says that even her community is sick of Hezbollah. The turn against the organization -- which claims to represent and protect the Shia -- began a decade ago, as they sided against anti-government protestors. With the country in a deep economic crisis and political stalemate, the organization dragged the country into war on October 8, 2023, in support of Hamas. The majority of Shiites in Lebanon, said Ghaddar, are done with Hezbollah. "The resistance is dead as a solution to everything," she posited. There's no belief in the resistance anymore. Hezbollah is still there with its arms, and people relate to it because of the factor of fear, not loyalty." Hezbollah dragged Lebanon into a war in support of Iran again this year. Lebanese citizens want Israel out, but see an agreement as the way to accomplish that goal. Ghaddar offered the possibility that the notoriously ineffective Lebanese military is actually more capable than Hezbollah after the Shiite militia was severely degraded by years of war with Israel. However, to disarm Hezbollah, she said, the Lebanese army must be willing to engage in armed conflict if necessary, with the backing of the US, Europe and Saudi Arabia. She made the point that while Israel's relationships with Arab countries are with their governments, the public continues to disdain the Jewish state. In Lebanon's case, the public wants an end to the conflict with Israel, while governments have been loath to act. "Lebanese are ready," she said. "Lebanese are definitely ready for peace." Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.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 reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As far-left, anti-Israel candidate Melat Kiros wins in the Colorado primaries, Tress discusses the emerging pattern of far-left candidates running on Israel issues and winning, first in New York and now in Colorado. Tress also reviews last week’s New York primary winners, comparing Darialia Avila Chevalier with Kiros, both young doctoral students without legislative experience who beat long-term Democratic incumbents, creating a new model of outsiders sweeping the primaries. Along similar lines, Tress reports on a video on social media that shows Scott Weiner, a left-wing Jewish and openly gay legislator from the San Francisco area who is a longtime supporter of the transgender community, being run out of a transgender march in the city. Tress notes the wide swath of 700 rabbis who condemned New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's comments about AIPAC, when he called the lobbying group "monsters," including antisemitic tropes. Finally, Tress discusses a New York City council law meant to protect the schools from protests as part of a broader plan to combat antisemitism, but was narrowed and watered down by a Mamdani veto. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Anti-Israel candidate wins Colorado primary, says she’s aiming to ‘end genocide in Palestine’ Mamdani-backed primary sweep further cements anti-Zionist politics in NYC Over 700 rabbis denounce Mamdani’s AIPAC ‘monsters’ speech as ‘dangerous’ to Jews NYC passes law to protect schools, but not colleges, after anti-Israel protests Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: New York reporter Luke Tress appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (AP Photo/Ryan Murphy)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 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged with the Hebrew media on the pro-government Channel 14 Tuesday night, Magid reports on the Israeli leader’s messaging and his description of improvements in the region, including the elimination of Hamas leaders and wider buffer zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria. He also references the prime minister’s attempt at humor in an initial response to a question about how October 7, 2023, has changed him. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner traveled to Qatar — ostensibly for talks with Iranian officials, according to US President Donald Trump, notes Magid — but will only be meeting with Qatari mediators to discuss further implementation of the memorandum of understanding with Iran, amid ongoing issues with control of the Strait of Hormuz and Israel’s presence in Lebanon. Magid briefly discusses the full text of the Israel-Lebanon deal, which features the establishment of pilot zones from which the IDF will be expected to withdraw, based on the Lebanese Armed Forces’ success in disarming Hezbollah. The Board of Peace is further along in clarifying its plan for technocrats to take over the administration of Gaza, reports Magid, but there is still no timeline for entry. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu: Pursuit of ‘total victory’ against Iran and its proxies ‘never ends’ Asked how he changed since October 7, Netanyahu jokes that he lost weight US envoys in Qatar to meet mediators, but no direct talks with Iran set for coming days ‘Eventual IDF redeployment from Lebanon’: Full text of Israel-Lebanon deal security annex Board of Peace finalizing plans for Gaza, but implementation timeline up in the air Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: US bureau chief Jacob Magid appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (YouTube screenshot)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 Ben Sales joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As the US-Iran deal progresses, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu knows he can’t mount the same kind of campaign he did 11 years ago against the 2015 Iran deal spearheaded by then-President Barack Obama, Sales discusses, noting that the Israeli leader can only operate behind the scenes this time around. Sales reviews the three Democratic candidates who won the New York City Congressional primaries last week, two with virulently anti-Israel politics, and notes that support for Israel was once a unifying factor, but now opposition to Israel is a unifying factor in American politics. As the 50th anniversary of the July 4, 1976 raid on Entebbe approaches, Sales reports on the release of a huge trove of archival material that relates salient details about the operation, including that it was not a foregone conclusion in the hours before it took place. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu can’t run the playbook he used to fight the 2015 Iran deal — and Trump knows it American pro-Israel activists may have just had their worst week ever ‘Zero hour is coming’: How Israel went from negotiating over hostages to the daring raid at Entebbe Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee. IMAGE: Netanyahu speaking to Congress in 2015. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) 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 Ariela Karmel joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today's episode. Karmel opens the episode with a look at what's expected to dominate the Knesset agenda this week. Lawmakers are set to hold marathon committee sessions to advance the coalition's controversial proposed Basic Law enshrining Torah study as a foundational value of the State of Israel, legislation promoted by the ultra-Orthodox parties as part of ongoing efforts to shield yeshiva students from military conscription. She also walks us through other contentious bills making their way through the Knesset, including proposed changes to the attorney general's powers and a government's communications bill, which could have broad implications for broadcast and media independence, as the coalition pushes to advance key pieces of legislation before the summer recess. In the second half of the episode, we turn to the political landscape ahead of Israel's October election. Karmel breaks down reports of a possible alliance between Benny Gantz's Blue and White party, Yoaz Hendel's Reservists party and political newcomer Dedy Simhi, explaining why significant issues between the parties remain unresolved. We close by taking stock of the broader political field, discussing the status of several key figures, including Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as parties continue to weigh alliances and position themselves for the campaign ahead.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. After Israel and Lebanon signed a deal that includes a partial IDF withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Fabian discusses the strikes against Hezbollah on Saturday and Israel's ability to continue acting against threats from the terrorist organization. For now, Israel will remain in the security zone it established in southern Lebanon, reports Fabian, withdrawing from only two trial areas as part of the agreement. Fabian notes that the deal's efficacy will depend on whether the Lebanese army will be able to exercise control over Hezbollah, which has already stated that it does not respect the deal. An IDF strike killed another Hamas terrorist, the nephew of the terrorist organization's political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, reports Fabian, part of the ongoing Shin Bet effort to locate all Hamas members who took part in the bloody October 7, 2023 assault. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir utilized a televised cadet ceremony to make it clear that the army will not back down from a pilot program to bring women into the armored corps, says Fabian, given the need for more combat soldiers and the availability of women who want to serve in tank units. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF says it struck terror operatives in south Lebanon, after framework deal announced PM: Iran, Hezbollah to have ‘no role in Lebanon’ under deal, Israel can maintain security zone IDF says strike killed Oct. 7 terrorist commander, nephew of ex-Hamas chief Haniyeh IDF chief says military needs ‘every male and female combat soldier’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Military correspondent Emanual Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing (AP/ Mohammed Zaatari)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Reel Schmooze with ToI film reviewer Jordan Hoffman and host Amanda Borschel-Dan, where we bring you all the entertainment news and film reviews a Jew can use. This week, Borschel-Dan starts the episode with important news: She finally finished "My Name Is Barbra," Barbra Streisand's much-discussed 900+-page autobiography. Turning to the main event: Fifty years since the daring IDF rescue of over 100 hostages from Entebbe, Uganda, we dedicated this week's The Reel Schmooze to two movies, the 1977 feature film "Operation Thunderbolt" and the 2012 documentary, "Live or Die in Entebbe." Shot with the help of the Israeli government only a year after the raid, "Operation Thunderbolt" presents a fictionalized account grounded in the realism of documentary footage of Israeli leaders, including then-prime minister Yitzhak Rabin and defense minister Shimon Peres. Directed and co-written by Menachem Golan, it stars Israeli actor/singer Yehoram Gaon, who plays the head of the sayeret matkal unit, Yoni Netanyahu (the brother of current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu). We hear about other key performances from Klaus Kinski and Sybil Danning playing the villainous German terrorists, as well as appearances from notable Israeli actors. In the final segment of the program, we hear about a documentary that focuses on the family of one of the fallen hostages, Jean-Jacques Mimouni, a 19-year-old French-Israeli. Let's hear who gave these two films an "oy," "meh" or the prized "not bad" this week on The Reel Schmooze. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and can be found wherever you get your podcasts. IMAGE: A cheering crowd at Tel Aviv's Ben-Gurion Airport raises a member of the rescue squad which freed the hijack hostages from Uganda earlier in the day, July 4, 1976. In the background is the C-130 transport plane which took part in the raid. The rescuer's face is obscured for security reasons. (AP Photo/Pool)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 celebrated writer Etgar Keret. Etgar Keret, a leading voice in Israeli literature, with books published in over four dozen languages, talks about how his perception of writing has changed since the October 7, 2023, Hamas onslaught. Using typical Keret metaphors and description, he explains the challenges of the times, how he once wrote about ethics and ideas and community, and finds that those more abstract ideas have evaporated. Keret speaks at length about the disadvantages of being an Israeli artist in the public sphere, as audiences wait to hear something they don't like. He also discusses social media in this time period and the shifts in the artist-audience relationship. Keret's Substack newsletter, Alphabet Soup, has become a more amenable space in which to share his short stories and ideas. Keret, who teaches creative writing at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, now directs a new MFA program at the Jewish Theological Seminary and he speaks about his students and his desire to make a small but important change by leading the group of nascent writers. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Acclaimed author Etgar Keret speaks to What Matters Now host Jessica Steinberg for this week's podcast (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. ToI founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With US President Donald Trump desperately attempting to end the war with Iran, Horovitz reviews the mixed messaging delivered by the US leader as he fawns over the Tehran regime's "nice, new" leaders and signs a "peace" deal that doesn't achieve any war goals but that he may think will keep alive his dream of the Nobel Peace Prize. Horovitz notes that the US readiness to authorize an Iranian role in Lebanon is undermining the unique readiness of the Beirut government to work with Israel toward a diplomatic, long-term arrangement. Rather than disconnecting Iran from Hezbollah -- an explicit war goal -- the US is essentially partnering with Iran regarding Lebanon's future, dooming the Israel-Lebanon talks it is currently hosting in Washington, DC. Our discussion moves on to Tuesday's New York City primaries, in which two virulently anti-Israel Democratic Socialists of America candidates and one progressive Democrat won elections against more established candidates, further bolstering Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his anti-Zionist politics in the rapidly changing city. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: In Trump’s delusions of peace with Iran and efforts to bully Israel, dark echoes of appeasement Trump’s deal is a catastrophic capitulation to Iran’s aggressors, leaves Israel vulnerable and constrained American pro-Israel activists may have just had their worst week ever Mamdani-backed primary sweep further cements anti-Zionist politics in NYC Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee. IMAGE: ToI founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's Daily Briefing podcast (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. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following the first of three days of talks between Jerusalem and Beirut, Magid discusses the sharp critique first issued by Israel's US Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, regarding the connection being made between the Lebanon talks and the US-Iran deal, and the notion that Iran is being allowed to demand a ceasefire in a separate country. There is a battle of narratives in US President Donald Trump's administration over the US-Iran deal, notes Magid, extending into the Israel-Lebanon talks. US Vice President JD Vance is leading the Israel-Lebanon talks and supports some degree of Iranian influence over Hezbollah in Lebanon, reports Magid, viewing it as the only way forward for the embattled country. It appears that Secretary of State Marc Rubio, currently on a regional tour in the United Arab Emirates, isn't as supportive of the terms of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding, says Magid, or of Iranian influence in Lebanon, and is keeping some distance, perhaps to protect his place as a possible Republican Party candidate for the 2028 presidential election. Finally, Magid discusses Gaza's Board of Peace, as various members head to Cyprus for a retreat to continue figuring out how to move forward, while insisting that it will take time to make headway on Hamas disarmament and Gaza reconstruction. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘A train wreck’: As Jerusalem and Beirut hold talks, Israeli envoy pans linkage to US-Iran deal Rubio: Iran will not be allowed to charge tolls in Strait of Hormuz under any final deal Board of Peace members to ‘recalibrate’ at Cyprus resort after rocky first six months Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing podcast (ToI/Israeli Embassy)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. Following an IDF press tour of a Hezbollah underground military base, Fabian describes the massive space created with Iranian planning and funds, used as a staging ground for car-sized UAV drones that can travel the length and width of Israel. Fabian notes that the underground base is similar to what has been found in Iran, missile sites built into a mountain to hold and launch assets, and constructed during the last decade. With Israel and Lebanon slated to start talks in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, Fabian discusses the IDF's positioning in Lebanon and the army's ceasefire limitations from acting against all but the most immediate threats. Several Hamas terrorists in Gaza -- known to have been involved in taking hostages on October 7, 2023 -- were recently targeted and killed by IDF strikes. Fabian reports that while the operations violate the ongoing ceasefire, the IDF claims the terrorists were planning on carrying out strikes on Israeli forces. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF captures Hezbollah drone factory and launch site hidden inside south Lebanon mountain On eve of direct Jerusalem-Beirut talks, Israel vows to maintain presence in Lebanon IDF: Oct. 7 terrorist who held Omer Shem Tov hostage killed in recent Gaza strike IDF says it killed Hamas sniper who moonlighted as Al Jazeera cameraman Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing podcast (ToI/Emanuel Fabian)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. Health reporter Diana Bletter joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today's episode. Bletter joins us from her home near Nahariya after speaking with residents across Israel's north about life during an uneasy, on-again-off-again ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon. She describes a region unable to move forward. Residents are exhausted after another disrupted school year, uncertain about what the coming months will bring, yet determined to remain in the communities they call home. She shares stories of hardship and resilience from communities living just kilometers from the Lebanese border. Later in the episode, we move on to discuss a breakthrough in cancer therapy developed by scientists from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, who have engineered nanoparticles that treat aggressive “triple-negative” breast cancer tumors without chemotherapy or drugs. We conclude by diving into a revolutionary method of identifying life beyond Earth by analyzing the diversity of molecular groups, pioneered by Israeli researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science. Bletter explains how scientists plan to use this method on Eureka, an Israeli spacecraft concept currently in planning. Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and edited by Ari Schlacht.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 Ben Sales joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. A round of US-Iran negotiations on implementing the agreement to end the war was set to kick off in Switzerland today. US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reportedly added a special session on Lebanon to their packed agenda. The talks come after an Israel Defense Forces soldier was killed and 13 were wounded in southern Lebanon in an attack by the Hezbollah terror group early Saturday morning, and a four-man IDF tank crew was killed early Friday. The IDF said Saturday it “halted its fire” outside its declared “security zone” in southern Lebanon, but would continue operations within it. Sales discusses how Vance's personal opinion of Israel -- including harsh statements on Israel's supposed ingratitude to the Trump administration and an accusation that Israel tries to kill its way out of every problem -- could color the negotiations. In the second half of the program, we ask, is it the end of a golden age of Jewish American travel to Israel? Is it because the sponsoring institutions have shifted away from thinking that an American Jew who has traveled to Israel is more likely to stay Jewishly involved, marry Jewish and support the Jewish state? And why, despite the offer of a free trip, are many fewer young adults coming? Sales weighs in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US-Iran set for new talks; Trump threatens US tolls in Hormuz if deal not reached in 60 days Vance slams Israeli ‘freakout’ over Iran deal, says Trump only world leader who still likes Israel IDF soldier killed, 13 injured in overnight Hezbollah attack in southern Lebanon Trump’s unfiltered commentary on Lebanon is leaving Israel with an impossible choice Canceled flights, high prices: Is the golden age of American Jewish travel to Israel ending? Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Reel Schmooze with ToI film reviewer Jordan Hoffman and host Amanda Borschel-Dan, where we bring you all the entertainment news and film reviews a Jew can use. This week, as Borschel-Dan continues to read Hoffman's recommendation -- "My Name Is Barbra," Barbra Streisand's verrrrry long biography -- we turn to an audience favorite, the 1972 screwball comedy, "What's Up, Doc?" Directed by Peter Bogdanovich, the film is a cleverly stylized updated homage to the golden era of Hollywood. It features Streisand playing a wacky vagabond and hunky Ryan O'Neal as a nerdy musicology prof, plus a slew of then-unknown Jewish stars, including Madeline Kahn. But the real star of the show is the 1970s fashions and cars. Let's hear who gave it an "oy," "meh" or the prized "not bad" this week on The Reel Schmooze. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.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. This week, we hear from former prime minister Naftali Bennett in conversation with founding editor David Horovitz and political correspondent Tal Schneider. Speaking with ToI on June 11 at the campaign headquarters of Together, the new, merged party he now leads with former prime minister Yair Lapid, Bennett said Israel is facing “an existential moment,” and warned that another term under the current government would leave the country without a functioning economy, society or international position. “Another four years with this government, we won’t have an economy, we won’t have a society,” he charged. “The Haredi issue will just crash us all. We won’t have an international standing anywhere. We have to act now.” And so, this week, we ask Naftali Bennett, what matters now. For further reading: Bennett to ToI: ‘We’re at an existential moment. Another four years with this government, we won’t have a society’ What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was edited by Yitzchak Ledee. Former prime minister Naftali Bennett (ToI) / Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men scuffle with police during a protest against military recruitment and call for the release of detained draft resisters outside a military prison near Kfar Yona, Israel, June 17, 2026. (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. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a deal Wednesday meant to end the Middle East war, causing it to go into effect two days earlier than originally envisioned, with Tehran agreeing to dilute its enriched uranium in return for large-scale economic relief. Magid takes us through the points of primary concern for Israel, including its right of self-defense against Hezbollah attacks. In a lengthy press conference at the G7 summit in France yesterday, Trump claimed Iran should be allowed to keep some of its ballistic missiles. He also repeatedly castigated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including stating he is less justified in criticizing the memorandum of understanding that Trump signed with Iran because the Israeli premier purportedly pulled out of a joint operation to kill top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in 2020. We hear other sharp criticisms of Netanyahu, including accusations of disproportionate force. In the second half of the program, Magid brings his exclusive scoop that the US is in talks with the Palestinian Authority about boosting what has been a strained bilateral relationship, as Washington seeks Ramallah’s cooperation to advance its landmark policy initiatives in the region. And who is chaperoning the reforms DC is seeking? Enter Saudi Arabia. And finally, Magid explains how former UK prime minister Tony Blair is taking on a larger role in the Board of Peace, where he will be tasked with managing the various mechanisms that are meant to oversee the postwar management of Gaza. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US, Iran sign war-ending deal, which enters into effect 2 days earlier than planned ‘Shall not develop nuclear weapons’: The 14-point memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran As deal takes force, Trump says ‘it’s okay’ for Iran to have some ballistic missiles Trump suggests Israel in no place to criticize Iran deal since it backed out of 2020 strike on Soleimani US weighs boosting ties with PA as it seeks to advance Gaza plan and Abraham Accords Tony Blair takes on larger role as US-led Board of Peace struggles to advance Gaza plan Gaza mediators glum on chances for breakthrough before Israeli elections in the fall Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.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. During the course of the G7 summit of global leaders in France on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said that Syria should replace Israel in the fight against Lebanon’s Hezbollah. He argued that the Jewish state’s war on the Iran-backed terror group has been too prolonged and indiscriminate, adding that Israel would have been “blown off the face of the earth” if not for him. Horovitz unpacks the multilayered concerns plaguing Israel in the wake of Trump's statements. The US-Iran memorandum of understanding, expected to be signed at an in-person gathering on Friday, reportedly provides for a full cessation of hostilities by Iran, the United States and their allies — including in Lebanon, where Israel has been battling Tehran’s proxy Hezbollah. This comes as Israel and Lebanon are nearing a US-mediated lasting ceasefire agreement, according to a Tuesday report. If the IDF were to withdraw from southern Lebanon, are Lebanese forces really strong enough to face Hezbollah? Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich claimed on Tuesday to have “abolished” components of the 1997 Hebron agreement that gave the Palestinian municipal council of Hebron authority over planning, zoning and construction in the H2 zone of the West Bank city, where the Jewish settlement of Hebron is located along with the Tomb of the Patriarchs. Can this effort be isolated from the looming elections? Horovitz weighs in on this and the current ultra-Orthodox move in the Knesset to pass Basic Law: Torah Study. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump: Israel’s war on Hezbollah is too long, too deadly; Syria should fight the group instead US-Iran deal said set to halt regional hostilities, including in Lebanon, lift blockade Israel-Lebanon talks said close to yielding lasting ceasefire deal Smotrich says he’s ‘abolished Hebron agreement,’ given Israel more power in flashpoint city Netanyahu denounces ‘police state’ trial as his cross-examination ends after over a year Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.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. Iran and the US will start a new round of negotiations on Friday in Switzerland to reach a final agreement, after the official start of an interim agreement that day, Iran’s foreign minister says. This announcement comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a rare press conference last night, outlining his narrative of Israel's stance in Lebanon following the memorandum of understanding. Israel was sidelined entirely throughout the negotiating process, a fact that was highlighted when Netanyahu informed a reporter that Israel does not yet know the details of the deal, which is to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday after a digital signing on Sunday night. Berman unpicks this knotty issue. US Vice President JD Vance and a pair of top officials in Trump’s administration shed some light on how the deal will be implemented and what it contains. Berman discusses how their version differs from the narrative being pushed out by Iran. And finally, after Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar opened Somaliland’s embassy in Jerusalem on Monday -- the eighth top-level diplomatic mission in the capital -- Berman assesses Israel's standing on the global diplomatic stage. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu avoids criticizing US-Iran deal, claims war’s main goals have been achieved Ministers say Israel won’t be bound by Iran deal, as opposition castigates Netanyahu’s ‘absolute failure’ US says Trump, Vance and Iran’s Ghalibaf ‘digitally’ signed Iran deal on Sunday Visiting Somaliland president opens embassy in Jerusalem Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.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. Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed Monday that the Israeli military will remain in southern Lebanon and warned that if Iran strikes, it will be hit “with full force,” promising that Israel will resist any pressure after the US and Iran agreed a deal to end the war that also reportedly includes a commitment to end hostilities in Lebanon. We hear about where the IDF is currently holding in southern Lebanon and the strike on Beirut that almost derailed the Iran-US memorandum of understanding last night. Late last week, senior Hezbollah commander Ali Mussa Daqduq, mastermind of a January 2007 attack that killed five US troops in Iraq, was killed in an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon, the IDF announced Sunday. Who was this terror architect and what else was he responsible for? The IDF seeks to erect, for the first time, a permanent post in an area meant to be fully controlled by the Palestinian Authority. The post is set to be built in the northern West Bank’s Jenin refugee camp. What is the purpose of this first permanent post in Area A? Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel vows to stay in south Lebanon; if Iran strikes, we’ll hit it ‘with full force’ IDF says over 70 Hezbollah sites hit as troops advance near south Lebanon’s Nabatieh Israel braces for Iranian missile fire after strike on Hezbollah target in Beirut IDF says it killed key Hezbollah official responsible for deadly 2007 attack on US troops As IDF prepares to build post in Jenin, 2 soldiers hurt, 1 seriously, in blast Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.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 President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that the framework for a peace deal with Iran that would end the months-long conflict was scheduled to be signed on Sunday and that the key Strait of Hormuz waterway would then be immediately “open to all.” Iran has denied the signing will take place so soon. Berman breaks down what could be part of any potential deal and assesses the feasibility of it being signed soon. As fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in south Lebanon continues, the government has instructed the Israel Defense Forces to avoid actions that could endanger the emerging deal between the US and Iran, Kan news reported Friday. Berman explores how else Israel is being restrained in light of the ongoing negotiations with Iran -- and how any deal may cement those fetters. Some international media is discussing the theory that Israel will soon turn its gaze to Syria -- where it holds a buffer zone -- and fight a proxy war there with Turkey -- which also holds territory. Berman weighs in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump says US-Iran deal to be signed Sunday, contradicting Tehran Government reported to restrain IDF action in Lebanon to avoid derailing US-Iran talks Iran MOU would cap self-defeating ceasefire for Trump, marks huge problem for Israel Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Reel Schmooze with ToI film reviewer Jordan Hoffman and host Amanda Borschel-Dan, where we bring you all the entertainment news and film reviews a Jew can use. The duo sat down to record early this week during the confluence of three major events: Iran again struck Israel, the Tonys were awarded, and RUSH played in Los Angeles. Movie maven Hoffman gives us the Jangles from the awards recognizing the best Broadway productions during the 2025–26 season and follows up with all that is Jewish about RUSH. The main feature this week is Joseph Cedar's 2007 "Beaufort," which became all too relevant again when the IDF recaptured the medieval castle early last week. Set in 2000, the blockbuster Israeli film depicts the (then) final week of the IDF's occupation of the famed UNESCO site in southern Lebanon. In the grisly Oscar-nominated movie, we meet -- and lose -- soldier after soldier who are stuck on the besieged rock. As it hits all too close to home for mother-of-soldiers Borschel-Dan, she decides to grade the film according to two scales. Let's hear who gave it an "oy," "meh" or the prized "not bad" this week on The Reel Schmooze. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.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 Israel Democracy Institute senior fellow Dr. Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler. Shwartz Altshuler, the head of the IDI's Democracy in the Digital Age Program, weighs in on the nefarious ways in which AI is being used to manipulate hearts and minds -- from elections to smear campaigns. She breaks down in practical terms how AI is now able to flood the public sphere with noise and confusion. We discuss the ripple effects of increased reliance on chatbots versus Google-type searches and how information can easily be poisoned by bad actors. The technology law and policy expert gives an overview of the potential possibilities for regulation -- and the chaotic Wild West reality we're living in. Turning to Israel's upcoming elections, we learn how the delegitimization of the results has already begun. And so, this week, we ask Dr. Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler, 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 edited by Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Last week, Germany failed to secure a temporary seat on the powerful United Nations Security Council. There were several theories about the reason for Berlin's failure, but Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul offered a striking one — that it could be that Germany's support for Israel cost it the coveted seat. Germany is indeed one of Israel's closest allies in the world, and has been for decades. At the same time, the special relationship Israel enjoys with Berlin -- like its ties with other key allies -- has come under strain in the wars it has pursued in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. In August 2025, Germany announced a partial arms embargo on Israel over its decision to conquer Gaza City. To discuss the roots and the state of the Germany-Israel relationship, German Ambassador Steffen Seibert joined the podcast, weeks before he wraps up his four-year tenure and returns to Berlin. He rejects the idea that Germany's approach to Israel is guided by "Holocaust guilt." Instead, he says that the Shoah is a compass for Germany, which has the responsibility to learn the appropriate lessons from that dark period and let them guide its foreign policy. Seibert stresses that the Germany-Israel relationship is also rooted in shared democratic values and common interests. At the same time, he emphasizes that the special relationship exists within the pre-1967 borders, and that it sees Israel's presence in the West Bank as a violation of international law. On the war in Gaza, Seibert calls Israel's military response "inevitable and logical." Still, he says, there are questions over "how it was fought, how long it was fought." Still, he says that Hamas bears the main responsibility for the plight of Gazans. Seibert explains that Germany's decision not to intervene on Israel's behalf in the ICJ genocide case against Israel is a tactical move, as Berlin faces its own charges over its support for Israel: "It changes the assessment that we took at the beginning of the conflict. It's to do with the court case that we find ourselves in." Turning to the Iran war, Seibert says the Israeli-US campaign was "definitely understandable," but that continued fighting won't achieve much, and that it is now time to turn military gains into a political arrangement. Seibert, who learned Hebrew during his tenure, says that he is not sure what he will do next, but intends to continue spending time in Israel while he works to "reinvent" himself in the next phase of his career. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht. 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 reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following the arrest of defendant Mohammad Al-Saadi, who allegedly orchestrated a string of attacks on Jewish targets in Europe and the US on behalf of Iran, Tress tracks the details shared by the suspect, who spoke freely with investigators, emphasizing his use of social media to recruit operatives and noting that all Iranian proxies are related to one another. Marking one year since the Colorado firebombing attack of a rally for Israeli hostages that killed one elderly woman, Tress explores patterns of support among anti-Israel groups for perpetrators of violent hate crimes. After a bogus Miss Israel appeared at the Israel Day Parade in New York, Tress discovers that the Miss Universe franchise is now privately owned by a Florida enterprise and has little relation to Israel or Israeli culture. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. NY case sheds light on alleged Iran-linked terror campaign targeting Diaspora Jews US anti-Zionist groups keep backing activists who are incarcerated for violence Miss Israel says this year’s contest will be bogus, sparking break with organizers 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 Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: New York correspondent Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing podcast. (ToI/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. Political correspondent Tal Schneider joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The US military carried out strikes in Iran early Wednesday following the downing of an Apache helicopter that US President Donald Trump accused Iran of shooting down and vowed retaliation for. Schneider describes uncertainty in Israel this morning as US bases housed by its neighbors are being targeted. During an interview about the Iran war with ABC News correspondent Jonathan Karl, Trump claimed Tuesday that it was an “open question” whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, 76, wants to continue his political career, while a poll showed that over 60 percent of Israelis don’t want the longtime premier to run in the upcoming Knesset election. Schneider weighs in. Legislation enshrining Torah study as a Basic Law is set to be brought to a vote today. The proposed law, backed by Haredi parties United Torah Judaism and Shas, would establish Torah study as a foundational national value and define long-term Torah study as “meaningful service” to the state, equivalent to army service, with implications for the rights and obligations of those engaged in it. What could this mean for the country? Italian prosecutors have put Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir under investigation over the treatment of Gaza flotilla activists seen in a video he published last month. This comes as France has barred Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, four leaders of settler organizations and 21 violent settlers from entering the country, as several countries introduced fresh sanctions against settlers and organizations deemed to be responsible for violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Even as the Israeli ministers brush off the sanctions, Schneider explains why this matters. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran after Trump vows retaliation for downing of US helicopter over Hormuz Trump says Netanyahu may quit politics, as poll shows 61% of Israelis want him out Italy investigating Ben Gvir for alleged torture, kidnapping over Gaza flotilla video Smotrich banned from France as 4 countries introduce new sanctions against settler violence Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.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. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly called off a further major strike on Iran on Monday following Israel's initial retaliation to Iran's ballistic missile barrages overnight Sunday. With IAF fighter jets on the runway, Trump instructed the premier to deescalate Israel’s fight with the Islamic Republic. Later, the president explained to a BBC reporter, "If I tell him to do something, he does it." On today's episode, we unwind the political ripple effect of Trump's assertion and ask whether Israel is truly still operating as a sovereign nation even as its hands are increasingly tied when combating the terror threat on its northern border. Additionally, as Iran appears to consider Lebanon its own vassal state that is intrinsically embedded in the Trump ceasefire negotiations, we talk through the initial goals of the war launched on February 28 and assess the Jewish state's current standing. In the second half of the program, Horovitz gives a broad-strokes picture of where political parties lie in recent polling -- while it's still anyone's game -- as Israel gears up for elections a few months away. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump seeks to tie Netanyahu’s hands, as the partnership that went to war 100 days ago collapses Netanyahu called off major Iran strike after Trump warned Israel would be on its own — reports Vance: Iran deal a ‘home run for the American people,’ whether Israel likes it or not IDF downs drone over Eilat launched by Yemen’s Houthis Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.