Podcast appearances and mentions of Ben Gurion Airport

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Adventure Awaits: A Chance Encounter at Ben Gurion Airport Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-06-19-07-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: ריח הקפה הטרי שבקע מבית הקפה בשדה התעופה בן גוריון מילא את האוויר.En: The scent of fresh coffee wafting from the cafe at Ben Gurion Airport filled the air.He: רעשי טרולי מתגלגלים וקולות הכרוז חתכו את הדממה היחסית.En: The sounds of rolling carts and the announcer's voice cut through the relative silence.He: יעל ישבה ליד שולחן קטן, ספל קפוצ'ינו בידה, מביטה באנשים החולפים על פניה.En: Yael sat at a small table, a cappuccino cup in her hand, watching people pass by.He: היא חזרה ממסע עסקים ארוך ומייגע וניסתה למצוא מעט שלווה לפני העלייה לטיסה הבאה הביתה.En: She had returned from a long and exhausting business trip and was trying to find a bit of calm before boarding the next flight home.He: היא אהבה לתת למחשבותיה לשוט כאשר הייתה לה הזדמנות שכזו, אך הרעש מסביבה הקשה עליה להתרכז.En: She loved to let her thoughts drift when she had the chance, but the noise around her made it difficult to concentrate.He: לידה, סטודנט צעיר בשם אלי ישב בשקט, עם התרגשות ניכרת בעיניו.En: Next to her, a young student named Eli sat quietly, with evident excitement in his eyes.He: "את הולכת או חוזרת?En: "Are you coming or going?"He: " שאל לפתע אלי בקול מלא חיים.En: Eli suddenly asked, his voice full of life.He: "חוזרת," השיבה יעל בחיוך קל.En: "Going back," Yael replied with a slight smile.He: "ואתה?En: "And you?"He: ""אני בדרכי להרפתקה הראשונה שלי בחו"ל!En: "I'm on my way to my first adventure abroad!"He: " הוא השיב בהתלהבות.En: he answered enthusiastically.He: "אף פעם לא נסעתי לבד.En: "I've never traveled alone."He: "החיבורים התמימים של אלי עוררו סקרנות ביעל.En: Eli's innocent enthusiasm piqued Yael's curiosity.He: היא החליטה לשוחח עמו בתקווה שהשיחה תסיח את דעתה ותקל מעט על ליבה הכבד.En: She decided to talk with him in hopes that the conversation would distract her and lighten her heavy heart a bit.He: "לאן אתה נוסע?En: "Where are you going?"He: " היא שאלה.En: she asked.He: "פראג.En: "Prague.He: שמעתי שיש שם טירות יפות ואוכל מצוין," השיב אלי בהתלהבות מדבקת.En: I heard there are beautiful castles and excellent food there," Eli replied with infectious enthusiasm.He: הם המשיכו לדבר, יעל שואלת ואלי עונה בהתלהבות ובסיפורים על חלומותיו לבקר במקומות רחוקים.En: They continued to talk, with Yael asking and Eli answering with enthusiasm and stories about his dreams of visiting distant places.He: הסיפורים שלו הזכירו ליעל את התשוקה שפעם הייתה לה למסעות ולחקירות.En: His stories reminded Yael of the passion she once had for travel and exploration.He: היא נזכרה בריגוש וההרפתקאות מהמסעות הקודמים שלה.En: She recalled the thrill and adventures from her previous journeys.He: הזמן חלף והשיחה נהייתה מעמיקה יותר.En: Time passed, and the conversation became deeper.He: הם דיברו על החיים, על המשמעות ואפילו על עתידם.En: They talked about life, its meaning, and even their futures.He: יעל חשבה על השגרה שאליה תחזור ופתאום הרגישה שינוי בתוכה.En: Yael thought about the routine to which she would return and suddenly felt a change within her.He: המכריז קרא לפתע לעלות לטיסות.En: The announcer suddenly called to board the flights.He: יעל ואלי החליפו מבטים וחיוכים.En: Yael and Eli exchanged glances and smiles.He: הם קמו ממקומם, ואחרי חילופי ברכות ידידותיות נפרדו בדרך לגרם המדרגות המתפתל.En: They stood up, and after exchanging friendly goodbyes, parted ways toward the winding staircase.He: יעל עלתה לטיסה שלה עם לב קל יותר וכמה מחשבות חדשות.En: Yael boarded her flight with a lighter heart and some new thoughts.He: היא חשה שניצוץ ההרפתקנות הפנימי שלה נולד שוב.En: She felt that the inner spark of her adventurousness was reignited.He: עם תחושת בניית תוכניות חדשות ומחשבות על יעדים חדשים, היא ידעה שיום אחד היא תחזור למסע, לא רק מתוך חובה, אלא מתוך תשוקה אמיתית.En: With a sense of making new plans and thoughts about new destinations, she knew that one day she would return to travel, not just out of obligation, but out of genuine passion. Vocabulary Words:scent: ריחwafting: בקעannouncer: הכרוזcappuccino: קפוצ'ינוexhausting: מייגעcalm: שלווהdrift: לשוטconcentrate: להתרכזevident: ניכרתinnocent: תמימיםcuriosity: סקרנותinfectious: מדבקתenthusiasm: התלהבותpassion: תשוקהexploration: חקירותthrill: ריגושroutine: שגרהchange: שינויwinding: מתפתלstaircase: גרם המדרגותinner: פנימיadventurousness: הרפתקנותobligation: חובהgenuine: אמיתיתspark: ניצוץstories: סיפוריםexchange: חילופיglances: מבטיםparted ways: נפרדוdestinations: יעדיםBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Baggage and Laughter: A Tale of Suitcase Mix-ups and New Friends Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-06-16-07-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: בבניין המתכת הגדול של נמל התעופה בן גוריון, הנוסעים זזו מפה לשם.En: In the large metal building of Ben Gurion Airport, the travelers moved from here to there.He: הם גררו מזוודות גדולות אחרי מסעות רחוקים.En: They dragged large suitcases after distant journeys.He: מרים חייכה לעצמה כשהגיעה למחלקת הכבודה.En: Miriam smiled to herself as she arrived at the baggage department.He: היא חזרה מחופשה ביוון ורצתה מאוד לספר לכל חבריה על הטיול המפתיע.En: She had returned from a vacation in Greece and was eager to tell all her friends about the surprising trip.He: כשהמזוודות החלו להופיע על המסוע, מרים זיהתה מיד את המזוודה שלה.En: When the suitcases started appearing on the conveyor belt, Miriam immediately recognized her suitcase.He: מזוודה שחורה, גדולה, עם מדבקה בצורת כוכב.En: A large black suitcase with a star-shaped sticker.He: היא רצה אליה, אך ידה פגשה ידה של אחר — זה היה אבי, בחור גבוה עם חיוך שובב.En: She ran to it, but her hand met another's—Avi, a tall guy with a playful smile.He: שניהם עמדו ליד המזוודה והביטו זה בזה בפרצופים מופתעים.En: Both stood by the suitcase, looking at each other with surprised expressions.He: "סליחה," אמרה מרים, "זו המזוודה שלי.En: "Sorry," Miriam said, "this is my suitcase."He: " אבי גירד בראשו, "לא, זו שלי," התעקש.En: Avi scratched his head, "No, this is mine," he insisted.He: המזוודות היו ממש דומות והם החלו לבדוק היטב את המדבקות.En: The suitcases were really similar, and they began to carefully examine the stickers.He: המתח שבר בגיחוך קטן, ואז מרים הציעה רעיון: "בוא נפתח אותה ונבדוק מה בפנים.En: The tension broke with a small chuckle, and then Miriam proposed an idea: "Let's open it and check what's inside."He: "הם נדחקו במבטם מסביב לוודא שאף אחד לא בוחן אותם, ואז פתחו את המזוודה.En: They glanced around to ensure no one was watching them and then opened the suitcase.He: מרים ציפתה לראות את בגדי הקיץ שלה, אבל במקום זה הציצו ממנה תרנגולי גומי!En: Miriam expected to see her summer clothes, but instead, rubber chickens peeked out!He: מרים פרצה בצחוק, "זו לא שלי!En: Miriam burst into laughter, "This isn't mine!"He: " אמרה, מתגברת על ההלם הראשוני.En: she said, overcoming her initial shock.He: אבי חייך, "זו התפאורה למופע שלי.En: Avi smiled, "It's the props for my show.He: אני קומיקאי.En: I'm a comedian."He: " הם סגרו את המזוודה והלכו לבדוק את השם עליה.En: They closed the suitcase and went to check the name on it.He: הוא היה של דוד.En: It belonged to David.He: מהר הם גילו את המזוודה האמיתית של מרים וזה של אבי.En: Quickly, they found Miriam's real suitcase and Avi's.He: מרים צחקה עם אבי ואמרה, "לפחות עכשיו יש לי סיפור טוב לחברים שלי.En: Miriam laughed with Avi and said, "At least now I have a good story for my friends."He: "אחרי שהוחלפו חיבוקים, יצאו השניים בדרכם.En: After hugs were exchanged, the two went their separate ways.He: מרים למדה שבמצבים בלתי צפויים צריך גם לצחוק.En: Miriam learned that in unexpected situations, one should also laugh.He: היא ואבי הפכו לחברים, והמפגש המשעשע שלהם היה עוד פרק נפלא בסיפורים של מרים על העולם שמחוץ לגבולות הארץ.En: She and Avi became friends, and their amusing encounter was another wonderful chapter in Miriam's stories about the world beyond the borders of the country.He: המזוודה אומנם בלבלה, אבל הידידות נשארה איתה, כמו מדבקה חדשה של זיכרון טוב מהשדה.En: The suitcase may have been confusing, but the friendship stayed with her, like a new sticker of a good memory from the airport. Vocabulary Words:travelers: נוסעיםdragged: גררוeager: רצתה מאודappearing: החלו להופיעconveyor belt: מסועimmediately: מידstar-shaped: בצורת כוכבplayful: שובבsurprised expressions: פרצופים מופתעיםscratched: גירדinsisted: התעקשtension: מתחchuckle: גיחוךpeeked: הציצוprops: תפאורהshocked: בהלםcomedian: קומיקאיexchanged: הוחלפוunanticipated: בלתי צפוייםchapter: פרקborders: גבולותconfusing: בלבלהmemory: זיכרוןbuilding: בנייןsuitcase: מזוודהjourney: מסעbaggage: כבודהrecognize: זיהתהensure: לוודאovercoming: מתגברתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Homeward Reflections: Embracing the Warmth of Tel Aviv Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-06-16-22-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: אורי ישב על ספסל בנמל התעופה בן גוריון, מביט באור השמש שחודר מבעד לחלונות הזכוכית הגדולים.En: Ori sat on a bench at Ben Gurion Airport, gazing at the sunlight streaming in through the large glass windows.He: המזוודות לצידו היו מלאות בחפצים יותר ובזיכרונות אף יותר.En: The suitcases beside him were filled with more items and even more memories.He: בליבו הרגיש כבד בעודו ממתין לטיסה חזרה הביתה לאחר ביקור ארוך בתל אביב.En: In his heart, he felt heavy as he waited for his flight back home after a long visit to Tel Aviv.He: הבחוץ היה קיץ לוהט, והוא הרגיש את החום גם בתוכו - חום של משפחה והקשר הכל כך קרוב שיצר מחדש.En: Outside, it was a scorching summer, and he felt the warmth within him too - the warmth of family and the renewed close connection he had formed.He: מחשבותיו נדדו אל הרגעים היפים בעיר.En: His thoughts wandered to the beautiful moments in the city.He: הבקרים עם הקפה השחור וההיחשפות לרעננות הקבועה של השווקים.En: The mornings with black coffee and the constant freshness of the markets.He: הצלילים, הריחות, האנשים - הכל הרגיש כל כך ובית.En: The sounds, the smells, the people - everything felt so much like home.He: האנשים שהוא יקר להם - מאיה ונועם - עכשיו היו בפרידה משארזות.En: The people he cared for - Maya and Noam - were now in their farewells from their duties.He: נועה המאירה הראשונה פנתה אליו, נזכרת בניחותה.En: Noa, the first to illuminate, turned to him, recalling leisurely.He: הוא התלבט; אולי כדאי לבטל ולדחות בחזרה.En: He hesitated; maybe it was worth canceling and postponing the return.He: אך בתוך שלא נרצה לזוז?En: But deep inside, who really wants to leave?He: כשכר עכשיו כאן, ההשפעה כבר מהביתה.En: Especially now, when the influence is already heading home.He: ברגע של קושי אמתי חיזוק, מסכבת מאיה לו הודעה חמה שפתאום לא מתפשט מהכל לכל.En: In a moment of real difficulty, Maya sent him a warm message that suddenly spread from everything to everything.He: כתבה על חדש מהמשפחה, אינטימית שמחזירה פעם סנטימנטים של ממש.En: She wrote about new updates from the family, an intimate note that brought back real sentiments.He: כתבה לו תמיד הרחובות חייבים מקום.En: She wrote to him that the streets must always have room.He: ברגע זה, מקום לקריאות ואנשים לרצות ללב.En: In this moment, there was a place for calls and people to desire in the heart.He: הוא ידע מה צריך לעשות.En: He knew what needed to be done.He: עם לב ירוד, קם ולוקח מזוודות, מתכוון לקשה המשכיות.En: With a heavy heart, he stood up and took his suitcases, intending to continue the journey.He: למרות שקשה לעזוב, יש בית לשוב אליו אמנם גם להשאר.En: Although it's hard to leave, there is a home to return to and also a reason to stay.He: באותם רגע מוקשיים בטיסה, התחילה שעה עם מחוג הדקות הקרוב, נזכר יום לפעם חדשה.En: In those challenging moments during the flight, as the hour began with the next draw of the minute hand, he recalled a day for a new beginning.He: קיבל תובנה חשובה אחת: לשמור קשרים חמים, ריכוז שמירה לקרובים ליצור מרחוק.En: He received one important insight: to maintain warm relationships, a focus on staying connected with loved ones, even from afar.He: וכשגלגלי המטוס עלו לשמיים, אורי הבין - לפעמים אין די בחיים אלא להמשיך לעוף.En: And as the plane's wheels lifted into the sky, Ori understood - sometimes in life, there is nothing left to do but to keep flying.He: נזכר לשוב ולצעוק מחדש להגיע, כי תמיד יש מקום להשאיר את החום.En: He remembered to return and to shout anew to arrive, because there is always a place to keep the warmth. Vocabulary Words:gazing: מביטstreaming: שחודרscorching: לוהטilluminate: מאירהhesitate: התלבטpostponing: לדחותsentiments: סנטימנטיםresonate: תהדהדinsight: תובנהwandered: נדדוfreshness: הרעננותfarewell: פרידהdifficult: קשהintimate: אינטימיתwarmth: חוםrecalled: נזכרheavy heart: לב ירודcontinue: להמשכיותmaintain: לשמורconnections: קשריםchallenging: מוקשייםinfluence: השפעהbegan: התחילהfocus: ריכוזarrive: להגיעaffection: אהבהmemories: זיכרונותtranscend: לעלותdesire: לרצותsent: מסכבתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the latest ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel faces an early test as Iran and Hezbollah insist any lasting agreement must include a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory. We also look at mounting pressure on Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, where US military aircraft are occupying large parts of the country's main aviation hub, disrupting operations and reducing commercial capacity. US President Donald Trump says negotiations to end the war with Iran have reached their “final” stage, while criticising efforts in Congress to limit presidential war powers. In the UAE, authorities introduce tougher penalties for companies that repeatedly delay salary payments, including fines, work permit suspensions and potential travel bans for managers. And Dubai launches the SME in a Box initiative, a new programme designed to help entrepreneurs start businesses faster and at lower costs through a single access platform. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Mystery Suitcase: Tales of Love and Independence at Ben Gurion Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-05-20-07-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: מזוודת-תעלומה בנמל תעופה בן-גוריוןהמולת יום העצמאות נשמעה ברחבי נמל התעופה בן-גוריון.En: Mystery Suitcase at Ben Gurion Airport The bustle of Independence Day could be heard throughout Ben Gurion Airport.He: משפחות מאושרות נפגשו, מזוודות התגלגלו על הרצפה, ושירי חגיגות הדהדו בכל עבר.En: Happy families reunited, suitcases rolled on the floor, and celebration songs echoed everywhere.He: שלטי חבר לכאן בשמחה לכבוד החג, וריח של פלאפל מתובל פשט מהקיוסקים השונים.En: Signs proclaimed "Welcome with Joy" in honor of the holiday, and the scent of well-seasoned falafel wafted from various kiosks.He: ארי, נוסע סקרן וקצת לחוץ, עמד ליד המסוע של המזוודות.En: Ari, a curious and slightly anxious traveler, stood by the luggage carousel.He: ליבו פעם במהרה אך לא בגלל חששות טיסה.En: His heart was racing, but not because of flight anxiety.He: הוא חיפש אחר מזוודות שמאחרים לקחת.En: He was on the lookout for unclaimed suitcases.He: הוא זיהה מזוודה שחורה, מבריקה, שלא נאספה על ידי איש.En: He noticed a shiny black suitcase that no one had picked up.He: ארי נשם עמוק.En: Ari took a deep breath.He: בלבו הייתה תשוקה גלויה לפתור חידות.En: In his heart was a clear passion for solving puzzles.He: "מי הזניח מזוודה בלב הכאוס?En: "Who left a suitcase in the midst of this chaos?"He: " הוא תהה לעצמו.En: he wondered to himself.He: הוא היה אמור להיפגש עם לאה לדייט ראשון מרגש, אך הסקרנות גברה עליו.En: He was supposed to meet Leah for an exciting first date, but curiosity got the better of him.He: "מה אם מדובר באדם בצרה?En: "What if someone is in trouble?"He: " חשב בעל מבט מתוח.En: he thought with a tense expression.He: הוא ניגש למזוודה ובחן אותה בזהירות.En: He approached the suitcase and examined it carefully.He: היא נראתה כבדה ולא רגילה.En: It looked heavy and unusual.He: הוא העז למשע לפתוח ולראות בתוכנה.En: He dared to consider opening it to see its contents.He: אך אז, כשהתכופף לבדוק אותה, הבחין בפתק מסתורי שהודבק מתחתיה.En: But then, as he bent down to check it, he noticed a mysterious note stuck underneath.He: לבו של ארי החמיץ פעימה.En: His heart skipped a beat.He: היה עליו להחליט: להשאיר את הפתק ולהתמקד בדייט עם לאה או לנסות לפתור את התעלומה.En: Ari had to decide: leave the note and focus on the date with Leah or try to solve the mystery.He: "הפתק הזה יכול להיות חשוב", הוא חשב לעצמו.En: "This note might be important," he thought to himself.He: "אבל לאה מחכה לי.En: "But Leah is waiting for me."He: " ארי הבין שצריך לאזן בין תשוקתו לחידות ולכוונתו להיות עם לאה.En: Ari realized he needed to balance his passion for puzzles with his intention to be with Leah.He: הוא לקח את הפתק יחד עם המזוודה והפנה אותם לביטחון נמל התעופה.En: He took the note along with the suitcase and turned them over to airport security.He: בדיוק בזמן, לאה הגיעה והחלה לחפש את ארי בעיניה.En: Just in time, Leah arrived and began to search for Ari with her eyes.He: היא חייכה כשהיא ראתה אותו מחכה לה.En: She smiled when she saw him waiting for her.He: ארי רץ אליה, שמח שהצליח לפתור את החידה וגם להיות איתה.En: Ari ran to her, glad he managed to solve the mystery and also be with her.He: הוא הבין כי יש חשיבות גם לפתור תעלומות וגם ליהנות מהרגעים האישיים והחשובים יותר.En: He realized the importance of solving mysteries and enjoying personal, significant moments.He: ארי למד שהוא יכול לגלות התרגשות בשני העולמות - התעלומות החשאיות והיחסים האישיים והקרובים.En: Ari learned that he could find excitement in both worlds—the secretive mysteries and personal, close relationships.He: ובזמן לא חלף כלל, הם צעדו לעבר יציאה מהטרמינל, יד ביד, אל ההמולה והתשוקה של החיים.En: In no time, they walked toward the terminal exit, hand in hand, into the hustle and passion of life. Vocabulary Words:bustle: המולהindependence: עצמאותreunited: נפגשוcarousel: מסועunclaimed: שלא נאספהpuzzles: חידותamidst: בלבchaos: כאוסcuriosity: סקרנותcontents: תוכןmysterious: מסתוריnote: פתקhesitated: התמהמהbalance: לאזןpassion: תשוקהturned over: הפנהsecurity: ביטחוןmanaged: הצליחsignificant: חשוביםrealized: הביןsecretive: חשאיותrelationships: יחסיםclose: קרוביםterminal: טרמינלhustle: המולהwafted: פשטechoed: הדהדוexamined: בחןunusual: לא רגילהdecide: להחליטBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Yemen's Houthi group says it has carried out a joint military operation targeting Israel's Ben Gurion Airport and other key military sites, using a ballistic missile and multiple drones.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Heartstrings and Farewells: A Mother's Mission Beyond Borders Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-03-31-07-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: בעונת האביב, נמל התעופה בן גוריון היה עמוס כרגיל.En: In the spring season, Ben Gurion Airport was bustling as usual.He: אנשים מיהרו ממקום למקום, וצלילי הכרזות הבוקעות מהרמקולים מילאו את החלל.En: People hurried from place to place, and the sounds of announcements emanating from the speakers filled the air.He: הריח המוכר של אוכל כשר טרי מהמזנונים התפזר באוויר.En: The familiar smell of fresh kosher food from the snack bars wafted through the air.He: רינה עמדה לצד משפחתה, הלב שלה מתכווץ מעט.En: Rina stood by her family, her heart tightening slightly.He: היא עזבה למשימה ארוכה בחו"ל בדיוק בערב פסח.En: She was leaving for a long mission abroad just on the eve of Passover.He: "אמא, למה את נוסעת?En: "Mom, why are you leaving?"He: " שאל אלי בקול רך ותחושות של עצב.En: asked Eli softly, with a tinge of sadness.He: הוא היה קטן מדי להבין את החשיבות של נסיעה כזו, והימים שבהם יישאר בלעדיה הרגישו לו כמו נצח.En: He was too young to understand the importance of such a trip, and the days without her felt like an eternity.He: אבי, בעלה של רינה, עמד לצידה, מנסה לשמור על חיוך למרות הדאגה המורגשת בעיניו.En: Avi, Rina's husband, stood beside her, trying to maintain a smile despite the concern evident in his eyes.He: רינה חפצה להראות חזקה, לשדר ביטחון למשפחתה.En: Rina wanted to appear strong, projecting confidence to her family.He: אך בפנים, הרגישה דאגה ומעט אשמה.En: But inside, she felt worried and slightly guilty.He: "אני אחזור מהר יותר ממה שנראה," אמרה ברוך, מלטפת את ראשו של אלי.En: "I'll be back sooner than it seems," she said gently, stroking Eli's head.He: "אני אהיה בקשר, נשתמש בשיחות וידאו כל יום כמעט.En: "I'll keep in touch, we'll use video calls almost every day."He: "כששעתה של רינה לעבור את הבידוק התקרבה, אלי החל לבכות בקול.En: As Rina's time to pass through security drew nearer, Eli began to cry out loud.He: הוא הושיט את ידיו אליה, קולו מלא צער ותהייה.En: He reached out his hands to her, his voice full of sorrow and wonder.He: ברגע מכריע זה, רינה כרעה על ברכיה והתבוננה עמוק לתוך עיני בנה.En: In this decisive moment, Rina knelt down and looked deep into her son's eyes.He: "אל תפחד, אהובי," לחשה, "אני איתך בלב.En: "Don't be afraid, my dear," she whispered, "I'm with you in spirit."He: "רינה הוציאה מכיסה צעצוע קטן, ברווז גומי צהוב ומוכר.En: Rina pulled a small toy from her pocket, a familiar yellow rubber duck.He: "זה בשבילך, עד שאחזור," הבטיחה.En: "This is for you, until I return," she promised.He: היא ידעה שהצעצוע יהווה חיבור בין העולם שלה לעולם של אלי בזמן שתהיה רחוקה.En: She knew the toy would serve as a connection between her world and Eli's while she was far away.He: הזמן ללכת הגיע ורינה זקפה גב, מקבלת את החלטתה להיות כנה עם משפחתה.En: The time to leave had come, and Rina straightened her back, determined to be honest with her family.He: היא חיבקה את אבי בחוזקה ולחשה לו בשקט, "תדאג להם, ואני אשמור עלינו מרחוק.En: She hugged Avi tightly and quietly whispered to him, "Take care of them, and I will keep watch over us from afar."He: "בעודם מתרחקים, רינה הסתובבה, הביטה בפניהם של אבי ואלי, והבינה כי הפתיחות והכנות עם רגשותיה יאפשרו להם לתמוך בה גם כשהיא מרחקים מהם.En: As they parted, Rina turned around, looked at Avi and Eli's faces, and realized that being open and honest with her emotions would allow them to support her even when she's far away.He: במסעה הארוך לקראת שדה תעופה אחר, לבה היה מלא באהבה ובחוזק שספגה ממשפחתה.En: On her long journey toward another airport, her heart was filled with love and strength drawn from her family. Vocabulary Words:bustling: עמוסemanating: הבוקעותwafted: התפזרtightening: מתכווץeve: ערבtinge: תחושותeternity: נצחconcern: דאגהguilty: אשמהstroking: מלטפתdecisive: מכריעknelt: כרעהwonder: תהייהsorrow: צערpocket: כיסהserve: יהווהconnection: חיבורafar: מרחוקstrengthened: חוזקmaintain: לשמורprojecting: לשדרdetermined: זקפה גבstraightened: זקפהparted: מתרחקיםfaithful: נאמןfaith: אמונהsignificance: חשיבותannouncement: הכרזותcurled: התכווץBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Elior's Journey: Finding Home Through Flights and Family Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-03-31-22-34-01-he Story Transcript:He: אליאור עמד מול לוח הטיסות המהבהב בנמל התעופה בן גוריון.En: Elior stood in front of the flashing flight board at Ben Gurion Airport.He: המולת הנוסעים הציפה את האוזניים.En: The clamor of travelers filled his ears.He: כולם ממהרים.En: Everyone is in a hurry.He: אליאור עבד קשה מדי.En: Elior had worked too hard.He: לא הספיק להגיע לטיסה בזמן.En: He didn't manage to get to the flight on time.He: טיסה הביתה לפסח.En: A flight home for Passover.He: המשפחה מחכה, ותליה, אחותו, ניסתה כל כך לאחד את כולם.En: The family is waiting, and Talia, his sister, tried so hard to bring everyone together.He: הוא חשב על השולחן הערוך, המצות, הסדר עם השירים והמנהגים.En: He thought about the arranged table, the matzot, the Seder with the songs and customs.He: טלפון מצלצל.En: A phone rings.He: טליה.En: Talia.He: היא מזכירה לו כמה חשוב להיות ביחד.En: She reminds him how important it is to be together.He: היא אומרת, "אליאור, זה לא רק אוכל.En: She says, "Elior, it's not just about the food.He: זה להיות יחד.En: It's about being together.He: זה פשוט חג.En: It's simply a holiday."He: " הוא יודע שהיא צודקת.En: He knows she's right.He: הוא לא רוצה להישאר כאן בלילה הזה.En: He doesn't want to stay here on this night.He: הוא מחליט לפעול.En: He decides to take action.He: צריך למצוא דרך אחרת הביתה.En: He needs to find another way home.He: הזמן רץ.En: Time is running.He: אז הוא ניגש לדלפק המודיעין, ולפניו עומד עבדנר, איש עם מבט מבין.En: So, he approaches the information desk, and in front of him stands Abedner, a man with an understanding look.He: אליאור מסביר לו את הצורך הדחוף שלו להגיע הביתה.En: Elior explains his urgent need to get home.He: עבדנר מקשיב, ומנסה לעזור.En: Abedner listens and tries to help.He: הוא מביט במחשב, ועובד קשה למצוא פתרון.En: He looks at the computer and works hard to find a solution.He: "אין טיסות," אומר עבדנר אחרי כמה דקות עצובות.En: "No flights," says Abedner after a few sad minutes.He: אליאור חש ברק בגופו.En: Elior feels a jolt through his body.He: הוא כמעט מוותר.En: He almost gives up.He: ואז, עבדנר מעלה רעיון.En: Then, Abedner comes up with an idea.He: פתרון מורכב.En: A complex solution.He: רשת של חיבורים ואיחוד טיסות דרך ערים שונות.En: A network of connections and merging flights through different cities.He: זה ידרוש הרבה זמן ומאמץ, אבל זה סיכוי.En: It will take a lot of time and effort, but there's a chance.He: אליאור מסכים.En: Elior agrees.He: הוא מרגיש איך התקווה חוזרת.En: He feels hope returning.He: זמן קצר אחר כך, הוא כבר בטיסה הראשונה.En: Shortly after, he is already on the first flight.He: השעון מתקתק, ובדרכו הוא חושב על המשפחה ועל פסח.En: The clock ticks, and on his way, he thinks about the family and Passover.He: הלילה יורד כשהוא סוף סוף מגיע לדלת הבית.En: Night falls as he finally reaches the door of the house.He: האורחים כבר יושבים, צוחקים ומשוחחים.En: The guests are already seated, laughing and chatting.He: השולחן ערוך, והמילים הראשונות של ההגדה כבר נשמעות באוויר.En: The table is set, and the first words of the Haggadah are already heard in the air.He: אליאור פותח את הדלת ואמא רצה לחבק אותו.En: Elior opens the door, and his mother runs to hug him.He: כולם מחייכים ורואים כמה חשוב היה לו להגיע בזמן.En: Everyone smiles and sees how important it was for him to arrive on time.He: בתוך חום המשפחה והמסורת, אליאור מוצא את המקום שלו.En: Amidst the warmth of family and tradition, Elior finds his place.He: הוא לא רק מבין את ערכה של המסורת, אלא גם את הכוח שבמשפחה המאוחדת.En: He not only understands the value of tradition, but also the strength of a united family.He: הוא מבטיח לעצמו להיות יותר מעורב, יותר מחובר.En: He promises himself to be more involved, more connected.He: באותו לילה, כשכלו התחושות הקשות, הוא יודע שזה היה שווה כל רגע ולבסוף הוא מודה גם לעבדנר, על הסיוע שבלעדיו לא היה מגיע.En: That night, when all the hard feelings have gone, he knows it was worth every moment and he finally gives thanks to Abedner, for the assistance without which he wouldn't have arrived. Vocabulary Words:clamor: המולתcustoms: מנהגיםurgent: דחוףjolt: ברקmerging: איחודflashing: מהבהבnetwork: רשתeffort: מאמץreaches: מגיעseated: יושביםtradition: מסורתstrength: כוחinvolved: מעורבconnected: מחוברassistance: סיועmanage: הספיקreminds: מזכירהsolution: פתרוןcomputer: מחשבcomplex: מורכבthrough: דרךhope: תקווהticks: מתקתקHaggadah: הגדהguest: אורחchatting: משוחחיםgives: נותןnight falls: הלילה יורדreturns: חוזרתarranged: הערוךBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Yonatan's Masked Journey: Love Rekindled from Tel Aviv to NY Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-03-16-07-38-19-he Story Transcript:He: בבוקר אביבי בו השמש זורחת בעוצמה מעל תל אביב, יונתן עמד מחוץ לטרמינל של נמל התעופה בן גוריון.En: On a spring morning when the sun was shining brightly over Tel Aviv, Yonatan stood outside the terminal of Ben Gurion Airport.He: האנשים סביבו עטו תחפושות ופנים שמחות לרגל חג הפורים.En: The people around him wore costumes and happy faces in honor of the Purim holiday.He: גם יונתן, עם המסכה הסגולה על פניו, ניסה לשמור על רוח החג, אך בלבו נעו תחושות של שמחה וחשש.En: Yonatan, too, with a purple mask on his face, tried to maintain the holiday spirit, but inside, he felt a mix of joy and trepidation.He: יונתן היה בדרכו לניו יורק, לפגוש את מאיה, אהבתו רחוקת המרחק.En: Yonatan was on his way to New York to meet Maya, his long-distance love.He: חודשים עברו מאז שראו זה את זו, ויונתן הרגיש שהלב שלו פועם חזק מהתרגשות.En: Months had passed since they had last seen each other, and Yonatan felt his heart pounding with excitement.He: הוא רצה להדליק מחדש את הניצוץ ביניהם, אך הדאגות לגבי כיצד מאיה מרגישה כלפיו כיום לא השאירו אותו במנוחה.En: He wanted to rekindle the spark between them, but worries about how Maya felt about him now left him restless.He: בתוך נמל התעופה, רעש של אנשים, ילדים מחופשים, וצחוק מתעופף באוויר.En: Inside the airport, the noise of people, children in costumes, and laughter filled the air.He: תורים ארוכים ליד עמדות הבידוק, אך יונתן לבדו עם מחשבותיו.En: Long lines near the check-in counters, yet Yonatan was alone with his thoughts.He: הוא הביט סביב, מחפש קצת נחמה, ולפתע שמע בהודעה: "הטיסה לניו יורק מתעכבת".En: He looked around, seeking some comfort, and suddenly heard an announcement: "The flight to New York is delayed."He: ליבו ירד בכבדות.En: His heart sank heavily.He: הוא ידע שזה רק יוסיף למתח ביניהם.En: He knew this would only add to the tension between them.He: ובליבו, החליט לבצע מהלך פתאומי.En: In his heart, he decided to make a sudden move.He: הוא יגיע מוקדם ויפתיע את מאיה.En: He would arrive early and surprise Maya.He: אולי המסכה שלו תוכל להעניק לו את הביטחון שחסר לו.En: Maybe his mask could grant him the confidence he lacked.He: כשהגיע לרגע המיוחל בנמל תעופה JFK, יונתן צעד מבולבל ונרגש.En: When he arrived at the anticipated moment at JFK Airport, Yonatan walked confused and excited.He: האם מאיה תחייך כשהוא יצוץ כך פתאום עם המסכה?En: Would Maya smile when he appeared out of the blue with the mask?He: האם היא עדיין מרגישה כפי שהרגישה?En: Does she still feel the same as she did before?He: ואז, בתוך ההמון, הוא הבחין בדמות מוכרת.En: Then, amidst the crowd, he spotted a familiar figure.He: מאיה חיכתה לו עם חיוך רחב.En: Maya was waiting for him with a wide smile.He: "מה הקשר עם המסכה הזו?En: "What's with this mask?"He: ", צחקה מאיה, אבל בעיניה היה אור של חום וחיבה.En: Maya laughed, but her eyes shone with warmth and affection.He: היא חיבקה אותו, יונתן ידע באותו רגע שלחששות שלו אין מקום.En: She embraced him, and Yonatan knew at that moment that his worries had no place.He: הרגשות שלהם לא השתנו.En: Their feelings hadn't changed.He: באותו חיבוק, יונתן הרגיש איך חששותיו נמסים.En: In that embrace, Yonatan felt his apprehensions melt away.He: הוא הבין שיש דברים ששווים את המאמץ, והמסוכה שעומדת ביניהם היא רק עבורה פרס לאהבתם.En: He realized some things are worth the effort, and the barrier standing between them was merely a reward for their love.He: יום אחד, אולי תחפושת הפורים תהפוך לנכס משותף במסע החיים המשותף שלהם.En: One day, perhaps the Purim costume would become a shared treasure in their joint life journey. Vocabulary Words:trepidation: חששrekindle: להדליק מחדשspark: ניצוץrestless: במנוחהlaughter: צחוקannouncement: הודעהdelayed: מתעכבתanticipation: הרגע המיוחלconfused: מבולבלapprehension: חששותeffort: מאמץconfidence: ביטחוןembrace: חיבוקfigure: דמותsparked: הדלק מחדשdeparture: יציאהcostume: תחפושתshone: זורחתsenly: בחוזקהfamiliar: מוכרתaffection: חיבהlong-distance: רחוקת המרחקnoise: רעשqueues: תוריםsought: מחפשsank: ירדlack: חסרtreasure: נכסbarrier: מסוכהjoint: משותףBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

The first rescue flights bringing stranded travelers back to Israel landed at Ben Gurion Airport on Thursday morning, after five days of a complete closure of the country's airspace to commercial flights. Outgoing civilian air traffic is expected to resume on Sunday, subject to the security situation. Mark Feldman, CEO of Ziontours, spoke to KAN's Naomi Segal and offered insights for travelers (A repatriation flight lands in Israel) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For review:1. US President Donald Trump said Friday that he was “not happy” with Iran's conduct in nuclear negotiations after the sides held a third round of talks in Geneva but that he hadn't made a decision on whether to authorize a military strike on the Islamic Republic.2. The United States and Iran made significant progress in talks on Thursday aimed at resolving a longstanding nuclear dispute and averting new US strikes, said mediator Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi.3. At least nine American refueling tankers arrived at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport overnight as part of the United States's massive buildup of military forces in the Middle East, according to footage and analysts monitoring open-source flight tracking data.This week, several American refuelers and cargo planes were spotted at Ben Gurion Airport, and 11 F-22 stealth fighter jets — along with accompanying logistical support planes and aircrews — landed at Ovda Airbase in southern Israel.There are now at least 14 US refuelers deployed at Ben Gurion Airport.4. Iran has not allowed the United Nations nuclear agency access to its nuclear facilities bombed by Iran and the United States during a 12-day war in June, according to a confidential report by the watchdog circulated to member states and seen Friday by The Associated Press.5. The US State Department on Friday authorized non-emergency personnel and the family members of those stationed in Israel to leave the country due to “safety risks,” with US Ambassador Mike Huckabee reportedly telling embassy staff that if they want to leave Israel, they “should do so TODAY.”6. Britain, France, Germany and Poland on Friday warned against non-vital travel to Israel and the West Bank, joining multiple countries, including the US and China, that have issued warnings against travel to the region amid soaring tensions with Iran.7. Ukraine has repatriated the bodies of 1,000 fallen soldiers, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported on Feb. 26.The exchange comes as talks between Ukraine and the U.S. continue in Geneva, Switzerland, with preparations underway for a new round of trilateral negotiations with Russia that Washington hopes to broker in the coming weeks.Russian President Vladimir Putin's adviser, Vladimir Medinsky, said that Russia, in turn, received the bodies of 35 fallen Russian soldiers, Russian state-run media outlet RIA Novosti reported.8. A drone suspected to be of Russian origin was intercepted by the Swedish Navy some 13 kilometers from France's nuclear-powered aircraft carrier anchored in the port of Malmö, according to Sweden's chief of defense.

Tucker Carlson continues to dominate headlines as tensions within Trump's MAGA movement escalate over his controversial stance on Israel. Just days ago, Carlson conducted a nearly three-hour interview with U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, framing their discussion around what he called "America's deeply unhealthy relationship with Israel." The visit sparked immediate backlash, with Carlson claiming he was briefly detained by Israeli authorities, though officials characterized it as routine passport screening.Ambassador Huckabee has become one of Carlson's most vocal critics within the administration. Speaking to All Israel News, Huckabee expressed strong disapproval of Carlson's repeated attacks on Trump's Israel policy, stating he hopes the White House stops allowing Carlson access. According to reporting, Carlson was at the White House on Monday, though the White House has not officially confirmed the purpose of the visit.The civil war within Republican circles has intensified significantly. Laura Loomer, a prominent Trump supporter and Jewish activist, launched a scathing attack on Carlson, accusing him of attacking Trump publicly while privately requesting White House meetings. She called for the administration to issue an official statement condemning him. Conservative commentator Mark Levin also weighed in, calling Carlson "toxic" and urging GOP leadership to distance themselves from him.On the media front, Carlson's independent venture continues to gain traction. Since leaving Fox News in 2023, he's built a substantial digital following through his show on X and YouTube, with episodes routinely drawing millions of views. According to media reports, he's exploring new projects including subscription-based content and exclusive video series, positioning himself as a leader in the shift away from traditional cable news toward independent digital platforms.A recent controversy emerged regarding a sponsorship deal with Hallow, a Catholic prayer and meditation app. The partnership, announced on February 18, prompted polarized reactions from Christian users. Some said they planned to abandon the app due to the association, while others praised the collaboration. The announcement occurred as Carlson was promoting an interview with evangelical pastor Fares Abraham discussing Middle Eastern Christians and Israeli occupation.Trump has reportedly urged Carlson privately to tone down his Israel rhetoric, though no public rebuke has materialized. Political analysts note that Carlson maintains significant influence over a vocal segment of Trump's base, making any major rift within the movement potentially damaging to Republican unity heading into 2026 midterm elections.According to Washington Post reporting, Carlson's activities may particularly complicate matters for Vice President JD Vance, who has benefited from Carlson's support but now carries the political baggage associated with the commentator's controversial positions.Thank you for tuning in to the Tucker Carlson News Tracker podcast. Please subscribe for the latest updates on this developing story. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease.ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

For review:1. The next round of talks between the United States and Iran will be Thursday in Geneva, Oman's foreign minister said.2. American refueler and cargo planes were spotted at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv on Monday, amid a massive US buildup of military forces ahead of a potential attack on Iran.There was no comment from Israeli authorities regarding the American military deployment at Israel's main civilian airport.3. Bulgaria's Sofia International Airport briefly suspended civilian air operations twice over the weekend while a fleet of American military aircraft staged at the facility, fueling speculation that Washington is positioning forces ahead of a potential strike on Iran.4. US President Donald Trump hits back amid a series of reports that his top general has been warning him against the consequences of a prolonged military campaign against Iran. 5. Another round of talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine could be held at end of this week, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's chief of staff told Ukrainian media on Monday."I think at the end of the week, this week," Kyrylo Budanov told reporters when asked about the next round of talks.6. The Air Force today announced a new agreement with Northrop Grumman to “ramp” production of the in-development B-21 Raider, using $4.5 billion in reconciliation funding to help deliver the bomber by 2027.7. The US Army briefly published and then removed new official images of its Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), offering rare updated views of the system as it nears operational fielding.8. The US Marine Corps has confirmed it will not field the Sig Sauer M7 assault rifle, steering away from a potential adoption in partnership with the US Army.This decision leaves the service operating its M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) due to its proven effectiveness in amphibious deployments.

The Histadrut trade union federation has declared a labor dispute over the decision by low cost carrier Wizz Air to establish an operational base at Ben-Gurion Airport by the spring. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Mark Feldman, CEO of Ziontours, about the move , but first asked him about the impact on flights to and from Israel if the US attacks Iran. (Photo: Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tucker Carlson recently sparked international headlines with an explosive interview on his show featuring U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, where Huckabee claimed Israel has a right to much of the Middle East, drawing widespread uproar and criticism from Democrats and some Republicans alike. Politico reports the comments ignited fierce debate over U.S. foreign policy and Israel's influence. The interview followed Carlson's own controversial trip to Israel, where he claimed Israeli authorities detained him and his team at Ben Gurion Airport, seizing passports and interrogating his executive producer after the Huckabee sit-down; The New Republic and Daily Mail detailed how officials dismissed it as routine screening, but Carlson called it bizarre harassment amid his vocal criticism of U.S. support for Israel.This comes as reports surface that President Trump privately urged Carlson to tone down his Israel critiques, highlighting tensions within MAGA circles over foreign policy, according to insiders cited by media outlets. Carlson's influence persists, with BBC News analyzing his evolution into a key MAGA figure potentially eyeing a 2028 presidential run, complete with recent White House lunches with Trump and close ties to JD Vance, even as they clash on issues like Iran strikes.On the media front, insiders reveal Carlson is expanding his independent empire with plans for subscription-based content, exclusive video series, and tech platform partnerships in 2026, positioning him as a digital power player as cable news fades. Madeleinee.com notes this shift amplifies his long-form interviews reaching millions, stirring buzz about polarization while analysts predict it as the new model for commentators.Reactions tie into broader debates, with a BBC discussion exploring Carlson's role in post-Trump conservatism and his olive-branch interview with Nick Fuentes signaling outreach to the populist right's energized base. Meanwhile, Ray Dalio warned on Carlson's platform about central bank digital currencies enabling government overreach, per the Daily Caller, and Steven Witkoff offered a restrained Iran view in another Carlson interview, fueling war policy talks via Responsible Statecraft.These developments underscore Carlson's enduring sway in politics and media, challenging establishments while deepening party rifts.Thanks for listening to the Tucker Carlson News Tracker podcast—please subscribe for more updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

On Thursday's Mark Levin Show, Bernie Sanders continues to display a perplexing misunderstanding of economics with his recent attacks on billionaires like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. He claims these wealthy individuals are thwarting a wealth tax measure and insists they should pay their "fair share," ignoring the fact that the top 1% already contribute over 40% of federal income taxes. Instead of fostering an informed dialogue about economic realities, Sanders resorts to Marxist and Socialist rhetoric that vilifies success and oversimplifies the complexities of wealth creation. It's high time we confront this misguided socialist perspective and recognize the vital role that successful entrepreneurs play in driving our economy forward. In addition, Tucker Carlson made a brief stop at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel to film an interview with US Ambassador Mike Huckabee without ever stepping outside the airport. Carlson lied about leaking the fact that Israeli police and staff at the airport was mistreating him, even though there is video footage of Tucker hugging people. Also, at least a dozen Democrats from both the House and Senate will skip President Trump's State of the Union address to attend a rally on the National Mall as an alternative protest against his presidency. Lastly, Rep. Bryan Steil joins the show to discuss how Democrats are trying to find ways to protect illegal aliens from getting deported, and by not passing the SAVE Act, so that illegal aliens can vote. The people need to call our senators to pass the Save Act now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Jim and Greg for the Thursday edition of the 3 Martini Lunch as they break down French President Emmanuel Macron's controversial comments on limiting free speech, Tucker Carlson's claim that he was “detained” in Israel, and new polling that gives Republicans reason for optimism in this year's gubernatorial elections.First, they push back on Pres. Macron after he suggested tighter limits on speech he considers hateful or misinformation and anonymous speech online. Jim and Greg explain why restricting free expression is a dangerous path and what the freedom-loving response is to ugly speech. They also comment briefly on the arrest of former Prince Andrew in the UK.Next, they examine Tucker Carlson's claim that he and his team were “detained” at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel while traveling to interview Ambassador Mike Huckabee. Huckabee insists the screening was routine and that all travelers face similar scrutiny. Jim weighs in on Tucker's antics and the lesson Huckabee should learn here.Finally, they're encouraged that polling currently shows Republicans are likely to keep a majority of governorships following this year's elections. They offer different thoughts on why Republicans may fare better at the state level than the national level this year.Please visit our great sponsors:Help protect your family with life insurance through Ethos. Visit https://ETHOS.com/3ML to get your instant, free quote.  Every missed call is a missed opportunity. Capture every lead with QUO. Start today and save 20% on your first 6 months: https://Quo.com/3MLFind your way forward with BetterHelp when you sign up at https://www.BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month.New episodes every weekday. 

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Aviva's Leap: A Journey from Success to Self-Discovery Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-01-13-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: רעש של מזוודות מתגלגלות וקולות של הכרזות לאורך המסלול ליוו את אביבה כשהיא נעה באיטיות בשדה התעופה בן גוריון.En: The sound of rolling suitcases and announcement voices along the corridor accompanied Aviva as she slowly moved through Ben Gurion Airport.He: עונת החורף הייתה בעיצומה, וגשרי זכוכית מסביב היו מכוסים בטיפות גשם שנצצו לאור הניאון של המנורות המטאליות.En: The winter season was in full swing, and the glass bridges around were covered with raindrops that sparkled in the neon light of the metallic lamps.He: עשרות אנשים ממהרים, מחפשים את הדרך לפתחי הטיסות שלהם, אך אביבה עצרה לרגע, נושמת עמוק.En: Dozens of people hurried along, searching for their way to their flight gates, but Aviva paused for a moment, taking a deep breath.He: אביבה, מומחית מקצועית ומכובדת תמיד, הרגישה שהיא עומדת בצומת דרכים.En: Aviva, always a respected and professional expert, felt she was standing at a crossroads.He: כל חייה היא פעלה לפי תכנית ברורה ומדויקת: לימודים, עבודה, קריירה.En: All her life, she followed a clear and precise plan: studies, work, career.He: אך פנימה, בעומק הלב, הייתה צמאה להרפתקה, למשהו שובר שגרה.En: But deep inside, in her heart, there was a thirst for adventure, for something that breaks the routine.He: מבחוץ כולם רואים הצלחה, אבל אביבה יודעת שהיא מוכרחה עוד.En: On the outside, everyone saw success, but Aviva knew she needed more.He: חלופתה היתה צפויה – חזרה לבית, חזרה לשגרת העבודות הרקטולטריות שלה.En: Her alternative was predictable – returning home, returning to her routine clerical work.He: אך היום, דווקא כשהיא עם הפנים לתוך המסלול של החלה, התקבלה פניה עם אפשרות אחרת.En: But today, just as she was facing the path ahead, she was presented with a different option.He: טיסה יוצאת בעוד חמש דקות.En: A flight was departing in five minutes.He: לטוס משם, לנסוע לארץ רחוקה שבה התחום שלה פשוט לא מדבר.En: To fly from here to a faraway country where her field just wasn't relevant.He: משהו חדש.En: Something new.He: "הגיע הזמן ללכת," אמרה נועה, חברה ותיקה של אביבה שעמדה לצידה, קולטת את היסוסיה.En: "It's time to go," said Noa, an old friend of Aviva, who stood beside her, noting her hesitation.He: "את בטוחה?En: "Are you sure?He: אולי זה לא הדבר הנכון לעשות.En: Maybe it's not the right thing to do."He: ""את בטוחה?En: "Are you sure?"He: " חיזק איתן, חבר טוב נוסף שהתחבר לשיחה.En: echoed Eitan, another good friend who had joined the conversation.He: דמעות קלות נצצו בעיניהם אך גם חיזקו את החלטתם להישאר.En: Light tears glistened in their eyes but also strengthened their resolve to stay.He: אביבה חשבה שוב.En: Aviva thought again.He: התרגשות ופחד התערבבו יחד בליבה.En: Excitement and fear mixed together in her heart.He: ככל שהזמנים הלכו וחלפו, התחילה להבין שהיא חייבת לבחור בעצמה.En: As time went on, she began to understand she had to choose herself.He: אוי, הלחץ שההחלטה הכניסה בה התחיל לקפור את רגליה.En: Oh, the pressure of the decision started to freeze her legs.He: היא עמדה בקצה השביל המתפתל, לוקחת נשימה אחרונה לפני שהחלה בצעד הראשון לעבר ההחלטה שתשנה הכל.En: She stood at the edge of the winding path, taking one last breath before stepping forward towards the decision that would change everything.He: הכרזת הטיסות נשמעה שוב ושוב והשפתים מלמלו את "הקריאה האחרונה להמראה".En: The flight announcements sounded again and again, and lips murmured "the final call for boarding."He: אביבה עברה את נקודת השבירה, משהו בפנים התחיל להרגיש נכון, מלא ביטחון.En: Aviva passed the breaking point, something inside began to feel right, full of confidence.He: כתבתה את הכרטיס, חיוך קטן ניצח את היסוסה.En: She handed over the ticket, a small smile overcame her hesitation.He: היא נכנסה למטוס, הדלת נסגרה מאחוריה.En: She boarded the plane, the door closed behind her.He: היא ידעה שבחרה בהחלטה הנכונה.En: She knew she had made the right decision.He: שם, בלב של עבודות האלם, היא מצאה את עצמה אחוזה בציפיה ובאושר לא ידוע.En: There, in the heart of the bustling work, she found herself filled with anticipation and unknown happiness.He: היא השיגה את החופש שהיא חיפשה תמיד, והחיים שלה היו מוכנים להשתנות.En: She achieved the freedom she had always sought, and her life was ready to change.He: כל התחלותיה התחילו בצעד הקטן הזה לעבר המטוס, בליבם של חורפים שתמיד יבשרו חדשות טובות.En: All her beginnings started with that small step towards the plane, in the heart of winters that always herald good news. Vocabulary Words:corridor: מסלולaccompanied: ליווraindrops: טיפות גשםsparkled: נצצוannounce: הכרזותcrossroads: צומת דרכיםthirst: צמאהroutine: שגרהalternative: חלופהclerical: רקטולטריותhesitation: היסוסיהechoed: חיזקresolve: החלטתםexcitement: התרגשותanticipation: ציפיהpressure: לחץwinding: מתפתלmurmured: מלמלוconfidence: ביטחוןhesitation: היסוסהbustling: עבודות האלםachieved: השיגהfreedom: החופשbeginning: התחלותherald: יבשרוprofessional: מקצועיתprecise: מדויקתdecision: החלטהboarding: המראהglistened: נצצוBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Serendipity at Ben Gurion: A Tu Bishvat Connection Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-01-13-23-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: שערי נתב"ג היו פתוחים לרווחה.En: The gates of Ben Gurion Airport were wide open.He: אורות נצנצו והתנגשו עם רחש קולות הכרזות שלא פסקו.En: Lights twinkled and mingled with the constant hum of announcement voices.He: איתן עמד בשדה התעופה, מבטו תוהה על המסכים, המודיעים על העיכוב בטיסה שלו.En: Eitan stood in the airport, his gaze questioning the screens that announced the delay of his flight.He: הנוף סביבו מלא נוסעים ממהרים, אך בראשו היה ריקות משונה, משהו שלא התייחס אליו קודם.En: The view around him was filled with hurried passengers, but there was a strange emptiness in his head, something he hadn't paid attention to before.He: "יואו, תיעשה משהו עם עצמך," הציעה נועם, עמיתו, במבט משועשע כשצ'וטטו בוידאו.En: "Yo, do something with yourself," suggested Noam, his colleague, with an amused look during their video chat.He: "תמצא מישהי לדבר איתה.En: "Find someone to talk to.He: זה ט"ו בשבט, לא?En: It's Tu Bishvat, right?"He: "איתן חייך, מבין את הבדיחה, אבל הלב שלו ידע שהיא רוצה בטובתו.En: Eitan smiled, understanding the joke, but his heart knew she meant well for him.He: הוא לא תכנן לפגוש אף אחד, אבל אז הבחין בבחורה עם מצלמה משתלשלת מצווארה, עומדת בודדה ופניה עייפות אך מסוקרנות.En: He didn't plan to meet anyone, but then he noticed a girl with a camera hanging from her neck, standing alone, her face tired yet curious.He: "שלום," אמר איתן, מתקרב בזהירות.En: "Hello," said Eitan, approaching cautiously.He: "אני איתן.En: "I'm Eitan.He: אפשר לשבת לידך?En: Can I sit next to you?"He: "יהל, הנערה עם המצלמה, חייכה אליו.En: Yael, the girl with the camera, smiled at him.He: "בטח, אני יהל.En: "Sure, I'm Yael.He: נדמה לי שאני גם מחכה לטיסה שמתעכבת.En: I think I'm also waiting for a delayed flight."He: "התחילו לשוחח.En: They started talking.He: יהל סיפרה על אהבתה לצילום, על המסעות שלה ברחבי העולם.En: Yael shared her love for photography and her travels around the world.He: אך לאחרונה היא מרגישה שהיא הולכת לאיבוד בפן המקצועי.En: But recently, she felt lost professionally.He: איתן הקשיב בעניין, ובפעם הראשונה מזה זמן רב, לא רצה להסתתר מאחוריו המחשב הנייד שלו.En: Eitan listened with interest, and for the first time in a long time, he didn't want to hide behind his laptop.He: "העבודה שלי מדברת רק עם עצים וצמחים," הוא אמר.En: "My work speaks only with trees and plants," he said.He: "אבל שכחתי איך לדבר עם אנשים.En: "But I forgot how to speak with people."He: ""תן לי לנחש," חייכה יהל תוך כדי שהיא מצלמת את כוס הקפה בידיה.En: "Let me guess," Yael smiled as she photographed her cup of coffee.He: "ט"ו בשבט זה הדבר שלך.En: "Tu Bishvat is your thing."He: "איתן צחק, מתרשם איך הצליחה לשלב את שיחת החולין עם מקצועו.En: Eitan laughed, impressed at how she managed to blend small talk with his profession.He: "אולי זאת ההזדמנות להתחבר מחדש.En: "Maybe this is the chance to reconnect."He: "משך השיחה, הרגיש איך הקרבה הזאת, שהגיעה משום מקום, ממלאת אותו באנרגיה ותקווה.En: Throughout the conversation, he felt how this connection, which appeared out of nowhere, filled him with energy and hope.He: כל מילת יחס ותנועת גוף רק חיזקו את הקשר הנרקם ביניהם.En: Every gesture and movement only strengthened the bond forming between them.He: הם מצאו עולמות משותפים בהם התעניינו - נסיעות, טבע, ואפילו הכפר שבו גדלו בארץ.En: They found common worlds of interest—travel, nature, and even the village where they grew up in Israel.He: קול הכרזה בקע פתאום ממערכת הרמקולים, מבשר על תחילת העלייה למטוס.En: An announcement suddenly blared from the speakers, signaling the start of boarding the plane.He: המבט של איתן ויהל נפגש שוב, מלא התרגשות ותעלומות עתיד.En: The eyes of Eitan and Yael met again, full of excitement and future mysteries.He: "הזדמנות כזו לא קורית כל יום," הוא אמר.En: "Such an opportunity doesn't happen every day," he said.He: "חייבים לנצל אותה," ענתה יהל בהבנה מלאה.En: "We have to take advantage of it," Yael replied with full understanding.He: הם החליפו פרטי קשר, מבטיחים לשמור על קשר ולהמשיך לחקור את הקשר שלהם.En: They exchanged contact information, promising to stay in touch and continue exploring their connection.He: עם לבבות מלאי תקווה והתחדשות, עלו כל אחד למטוס, מתמלאים בהרגשה שיש להם לאן לשאוף מעבר לאופק.En: With hearts full of hope and renewal, each boarded their plane, filled with the feeling that they have something to aspire to beyond the horizon.He: וככה, בט"ו בשבט קר, בתוך שדה תעופה עמוס, מצאו איתן ויהל פיסה קטנה של השראה וחיבור אנושי אמיתי.En: And so, on a cold Tu Bishvat, in a crowded airport, Eitan and Yael found a small piece of inspiration and genuine human connection.He: קווי חייהם נמצאים כעת במסלול חדש, מסעיר ומלא באפשרויות.En: Their life paths are now on a new, exciting, and possibility-filled course. Vocabulary Words:gates: שעריtwinkled: נצנצוmingled: התנגשוhum: רחשannouncement: קולות הכרזותgaze: מבטוquestioning: תוההscreens: מסכיםdelay: עיכובemptiness: ריקותcolleague: עמיתוamused: משועשעapproaching: מתקרבcautiously: בזהירותtired: עייפותcurious: מסוקרנותprofessionally: בפן המקצועיgestures: מילת יחס ותנועת גוףbond: הקשר הנרקםblared: בקעspeakers: מערכת הרמקוליםexcitement: התרגשותmysteries: תעלומותopportunity: הזדמנותexchange: החליפוrenewal: התחדשותinspiration: השראהgenuine: אמיתיpossibility-filled: מלא באפשרויותcourse: מסלולBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

We're back to answer some burning questions, such as “Should you date someone you don't want to marry?”, “Is it ok to hate prenatal yoga?” and more importantly, “Did you pick up my keys?” The ladies recap their holiday trips as Kara does “A Pregnant Woman's Christmas in Wales” and Bethany embraces Catholicism for 45 […]

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan and diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, US bureau chief Jacob Magid fills in for Berman and goes in-depth into an exclusive report he published on just how close the Saudis were to normalization with Israel ahead of the Hamas onslaught on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, and the finer details of former Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s vision for post-war Gaza. We learn that months ahead of Hamas’s attack on Israel, the US had been hard at work crafting a document with Saudi Arabia, laying out what Israel would need to do in exchange for Riyadh joining the Abraham Accords. We begin by discussing what steps were taken towards a pathway to a Palestinian state. A few weeks following the Hamas massacre, Blinken presented his "Tokyo Principles," to G7 countries, essentially outlining his guiding principles in working towards a day after the war. We learn about the 5 "nos" and the three "musts." Magid compares and contrasts the differences between Blinken's eventual 14-point plan and the finally adopted 20-point Trump peace plan, including the idea of a multinational force and the role of the Palestinian Authority. We discuss the role of former British prime minister Tony Blair, who is the most well-known personality who worked with both the Biden and Trump administrations. And we hear about what a Hamas official told Magid over the weekend regarding why the terrorist organization took the current ceasefire deal. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Jacob Magid (courtesy) / Then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken waves as he arrives at Ben Gurion Airport, June 10, 2024. (Jack Guez/Pool via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eric Goldman is joined by filmmaker Yael Melamede to discuss her documentary portrait of Ada Karmi Melamede, one of Israel's most accomplished architects, whose landmark works include Israel's Supreme Court, Ben Gurion Airport and more.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Reuniting Under the Sukkah: A Family's Heartfelt Homecoming Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-10-28-22-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: העלים המשיר מהעצים ברחבי נתב"ג, לובשים צבעי זהב של סתיו.En: The leaves shedding from the trees around Ben Gurion Airport are taking on the golden hues of autumn.He: היה זה חג סוכות, ונוסעים עוברים במתחם הנמל מתבוננים בסוכות הקטנות שהוקמו בסמוך.En: It was the holiday of Sukkot, and travelers passing through the airport area observed the small Sukkahs that had been set up nearby.He: איליעב עמד מחוץ לאולם קבלת הפנים, נרגש ונפעם.En: Eliyav stood outside the arrivals hall, excited and moved.He: הוא לא ראה את מירים אחותו כבר שנה שלמה, ועכשיו היא שבה מניו יורק עם טליה, הבת הקטנה שאימצה.En: He hadn't seen his sister Miriam for an entire year, and now she was returning from New York with Talia, the young girl she had adopted.He: על הפנים של איליעב ניכרו קווי מתח, תוצאה של ימים ארוכים בעבודה כאדריכל בתל אביב.En: Visible on Eliyav's face were lines of tension, the result of long days working as an architect in Tel Aviv.He: אך ברגע שראה את מירים דוחפת את העגלה עם טליה, הוא הרגיש קרן של שמחה.En: But the moment he saw Miriam pushing the stroller with Talia, he felt a beam of joy.He: בלב הוא רצה לנטוש את כל הלחץ בעבודה ולחזק את קשרי המשפחה, במיוחד עכשיו עם טליה.En: In his heart, he wanted to abandon all the work stress and strengthen family ties, especially now with Talia.He: מירים צעדה בזהירות, מרגישה את המבטים עליה, מהאני משפחת חדשה בארץ המוכרת לה כל כך.En: Miriam walked cautiously, feeling the eyes upon her, part of a new family in a land so familiar to her.He: היא חששה, בתקווה שאיליעב ושאר המשפחה יקבלו את טליה באהבה.En: She was apprehensive, hoping that Eliyav and the rest of the family would accept Talia with love.He: טליה, למרות גילה הצעיר, היתה תינוקת רכה ושלווה, ואנרגיה חיובית הקיפה אותה.En: Talia, despite her young age, was a gentle and serene baby, surrounded by positive energy.He: כשראה איליעב את אחותו נאבקת עם המזוודות וטליה חסרת מנוחה, הוא רץ לעזור לה.En: When Eliyav saw his sister struggling with the luggage and a restless Talia, he ran to help her.He: הוא חייך חיוך רחב, ואחז בתינוקת.En: He flashed a broad smile and held the baby.He: "ברוכה הבאה הביתה," אמר, והאמירה הרגיעה את הלב של מירים.En: "Welcome home," he said, and the statement eased Miriam's heart.He: במהלך סוכות, המשפחה ישבה יחד בסוכה החדשה, נהנתה מארוחה חגיגית.En: During Sukkot, the family sat together in the new Sukkah, enjoying a festive meal.He: הרוח נשבה בחוץ, אך בתוך הסוכה היה חם ומשפחתי.En: The wind was blowing outside, but inside the Sukkah, it was warm and familial.He: איליעב, שהקדיש את כל זמנו למשפחה, הרגיש פתאום שחרור וקרבה שלא חווה זמן רב.En: Eliyav, who had devoted all his time to the family, suddenly felt a release and closeness he hadn't experienced in a long time.He: "אתה יודע," אמרה מירים, תוך כדי שהיא מביטה בטליה משחקת בדשא, "אני כל כך שמחה לחזור.En: "You know," said Miriam, as she watched Talia play on the grass, "I am so happy to be back."He: " איליעב הנהן והתמלא באהבה וחוזק מחודש.En: Eliyav nodded, filled with renewed love and strength.He: העבודה תמתין, הוא הבין כעת שהמשפחה היא באמת במקום הראשון.En: The work could wait; he now understood that the family truly came first.He: הם חייכו אחד לשנייה, שמחים להתאחד תחת אותה הסוכה, תחת אותו הלב.En: They smiled at each other, happy to reunite under the same Sukkah, under the same heart. Vocabulary Words:shedding: המשירhues: צבעיautumn: סתיוobserved: מתבונניםcautiously: בזהירותapprehensive: חששהeased: הרגיעהfestive: חגיגיתrelease: שחרורcloseness: קרבהrenewed: מחודשreunite: להתאחדstruggling: נאבקתgentle: רכהpositive: חיוביתrestless: חסרת מנוחהfamilial: משפחתיdevoted: הקדישstroller: עגלהarchitect: אדריכלbeam: קרןabandon: לנטושserene: שלווהwelcomed: ברוכהstruggling: נאבקתadopted: אימצהaccept: יקבלוsmiled: חייכוfeeling: מרגישהenergy: אנרגיהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Serendipity at Ben Gurion: An Encounter That Inspires Music Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-10-28-07-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: עמוס הסתובב בנמל התעופה בן גוריון, עייף מהמסע הארוך והופעות ברחבי אירופה.En: Amos wandered through Ben Gurion Airport, tired from the long journey and performances across Europe.He: רוח הסתיו הקרירה נשבה קלות, מזכירה לו את הבית בישראל.En: The cool autumn breeze blew gently, reminding him of home in Israel.He: החג סוכות כבר בארץ, והוא שמח לחזור למשפחה ולחברים.En: The holiday of Sukkot was already in the country, and he was happy to return to family and friends.He: במרכז הנמל, בית קפה קטן ומשתנה עסוק, אך עמוס הרגיש צורך לעצור ולהירגע לפני שימשיך לדרכו.En: In the center of the airport, a small busy café caught his eye, but Amos felt the need to stop and relax before continuing on his way.He: הוא התיישב עם קפה חם והביט סביב.En: He sat down with a hot coffee and looked around.He: בדיוק אז, ליאורה נכנסה עם תיק כבד על כתפה וספר ביד.En: Just then, Liora entered with a heavy bag on her shoulder and a book in hand.He: עמוס וליאורה נפגשו מבט.En: Amos and Liora met eyes.He: היא חייכה אליו בחיוך קל, והוא החזיר לה בהנהון ידידותי.En: She smiled at him with a slight smile, and he returned it with a friendly nod.He: ליאורה התיישבה ליד השולחן שלו והתחילה לשוחח איתו על נסיעותיה ועבודתה ככותבת מסעות.En: Liora sat down at his table and began to converse with him about her travels and her work as a travel writer.He: היא סיפרה לו על הפסטיבלים שהיא מתעדת והרגשות שהיא חווה בדרכים.En: She told him about the festivals she documents and the feelings she experiences on the road.He: עמוס הקשיב בהתלהבות.En: Amos listened enthusiastically.He: מחשבות הציפו את ראשו, והוא הרגיש כי היא מהווה השראה חדשה למוזיקה שלו.En: Thoughts flooded his head, and he felt that she provided new inspiration for his music.He: הם דיברו שעות, שוכחים מהשעה ומאחריות הנסיעה.En: They talked for hours, forgetting the time and the responsibilities of travel.He: החששות והפחדים שלהם הפכו לשיחה כנה וחמה.En: Their worries and fears turned into a sincere and warm conversation.He: בסופו של דבר, הם הבינו שהסיפורים והחוויות שלהם משיקים ויכולים ליצור קשר עמוק, גם אם מרחוק.En: Eventually, they realized that their stories and experiences intersected and could create a deep connection, even from afar.He: הם החליפו פרטי קשר והבטיחו לשמור על קשר, בתקווה שההשראה תמשיך לזרום בין הקווים הגיאוגרפיים.En: They exchanged contact details and promised to keep in touch, hoping the inspiration would continue to flow across geographic lines.He: עם עזיבתו את בית הקפה, עמוס הרגיש חידוש פנימי.En: As he left the café, Amos felt a sense of renewal.He: המוזות חזרו אליו והוא כבר חיכה לרגע בו יישב לכתוב על המפגש המסקרן עם ליאורה.En: The muses had returned to him, and he was already looking forward to the moment when he would sit down to write about the intriguing encounter with Liora.He: היא, מצדה, חשה פתאום תחושת יציבות, תחושה של בית שהיא יכולה לשאת איתה בכל מסע.En: She, for her part, suddenly felt a sense of stability, a sense of home she could carry with her on every journey.He: כך הסתיים המפגש ביניהם, אך התחושה שהם מצאו משהו משמעותי אחד אצל השנייה נשארה בלבם.En: Thus ended their encounter, but the feeling that they had found something significant in each other remained in their hearts. Vocabulary Words:wandered: הסתובבperformances: הופעותbreeze: רוחreminding: מזכירהreturn: חזורcaught: תפסrelax: להירגעentered: נכנסהconverse: לשוחחenthusiastically: בהתלהבותflooded: הציפוinspiration: השראהresponsibilities: אחריותworries: חששותfears: פחדיםsincere: כנהintersected: משיקיםdeep: עמוקconnection: קשרexchanged: החליפוcontact: פרטיrenewal: חידושintriguing: מסקרןstability: יציבותsignificant: משמעותיremained: נשארהjourney: מסעexperiences: חוויותfestival: פסטיבלdocument: מתעדתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: A Journey Home: Finding Connection in Ben Gurion Airport Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-08-12-22-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: בני אדם התרוצצו סביבם.En: People scurried around them.He: עגלות טיסה עוברות בבהילות יחד עם אנשים שמזדרזים להגיע לשערם.En: Flight carts rushed by along with people hurrying to reach their gates.He: אורי עמד באמצע הטרמינל של נמל התעופה בן גוריון, מביט סביבו ומרגיש כאילו הוא מנותק מההמולה.En: Ori stood in the middle of the terminal at Ben Gurion Airport, looking around and feeling as if he was detached from the commotion.He: לרגע קט, הוא נשם עמוק את האוויר שכבר היה רווי בקולות של קריאות כריזה ובניחוחות הקפה.En: For a brief moment, he took a deep breath of the air already filled with the sounds of public announcements and the scents of coffee.He: בלבו הייתה מטרה ברורה: הוא צריך למצוא מזכרת לליורה.En: In his heart, there was a clear goal: he needed to find a souvenir for Liora.He: משהו שיבטא את מה שעבר עליו במשך החפירה הארכיאולוגית האחרונה.En: Something that would express what he had experienced during his recent archaeological excavation.He: אך החנויות הצפופות נראו לו כולן זהות. כולן מלאות במתנות סטנדרטיות, שלא הצליחו להעביר את העומק של המסע שלו או את אהבתו לליורה.En: But all the crowded shops seemed identical to him, full of standard gifts that failed to convey the depth of his journey or his love for Liora.He: אורי החליט לנסות לחשוב מחוץ לקופסה.En: Ori decided to try thinking outside the box.He: הוא פנה לצד הטרמינל שבו החנויות היו פחות מוכרות, עטופות בשקט יחסי.En: He turned to the side of the terminal where the shops were less familiar, enveloped in a relative calm.He: בזווית העין הוא ראה דוכן קטן ואוהד במיקומו.En: Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a small and welcoming stall.He: היה בו איש זקן מחייך, ולידו עבודות יד: תכשיטים ומזכרות מכל מיני חומרים טבעיים.En: An old smiling man was there, alongside handcrafted items: jewelry and souvenirs made from various natural materials.He: בעיניים בורקות, אורי עצר ליד הדוכן.En: With sparkling eyes, Ori stopped by the stall.He: תפס את עיניו פסלון קטן, עשוי אבן גיר.En: A small figurine, made of limestone, caught his eye.He: היצירה הזו הזכירה לו את האדמה עליה עבד, את האוצרות שקבורות תחתיה ואת הסיפורים שהיא מספרת.En: This creation reminded him of the ground he worked on, the treasures buried beneath it, and the stories it tells.He: הוא חש במשהו עמוק, מסר של חיבור.En: He felt a deep something, a message of connection.He: בחיוך של הקלה והתרגשות, אורי רכש את הפסלון.En: With a smile of relief and excitement, Ori purchased the figurine.He: כשהוא חזר למעבר הנוסעים, האוויר סחף אותו קדימה, רגוע ומוכן לטיסה.En: When he returned to the passenger walkway, the air swept him forward, calm and ready for the flight.He: ליבו היה מלא בתקווה שסוף סוף ימצא את מקום מנוחתו בבית, עם ליורה.En: His heart was full with the hope that he would finally find his place of rest at home, with Liora.He: במטוס, בעודו עוצם עיניים ומדמיין את פניה של ליורה, הוא הבין שבבחירה שלו הוא מצא הרבה מעבר למזכרת.En: On the plane, as he closed his eyes and imagined Liora's face, he realized that in his choice, he found far more than a souvenir.He: הוא מצא דרך לחבר את העבר עם ההווה שלו ולהשתית כוח לגעגוע שלו לבית.En: He found a way to connect his past with his present and instilled strength in his longing for home. Vocabulary Words:scurried: התרוצצוterminal: טרמינלdetached: מנותקcommotion: המולהbrief: קטannouncements: קריאות כריזהscent: ניחוחותsouvenir: מזכרתarchaeological: ארכיאולוגיתexcavation: חפירהidentical: זהותconvey: להעבירdepth: עומקfamiliar: מוכרותenveloped: עטופותstall: דוכןhandcrafted: עבודות ידfigurine: פסלוןlimestone: אבן גירburied: קבורותconnection: חיבורrelief: הקלהpassenger: נוסעיםwalkway: מעברswept: סחףinstilled: להשתיתlonging: געגועimagined: מדמייןstrength: כוחgoal: מטרהBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

In this episode, we hit record aboard the fast train from Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport and continue the conversation from inside the terminal itself. With rolling suitcases and travel stresses in the background, we unpack the challenges of air travel in and out of Israel since October 7. We are heading off for a month of summer break like most Israelis, but not before leaving you with a slice of Israel, recorded in motion.

Can you visit Israel during a war due to the danger? How do hospitals deal with patients during missile alerts? Is there an obligation to go to a bomb shelter while you are learning Torah? Is it permitted to travel to and from Israel via Egypt, Jordan or Cyprus when Ben Gurion Airport is closed? Can someone in Yerushalayim travel to Bnei Brak or Tel Aviv where it's more dangerous? Host: Ari Wasserman, author of the newly published, revised and expanded book Making it Work, on workplace challenges and Halachic Q & A on the Job You can order "Halachic Q & A on the Job” at https://mosaicapress.com/product/halachic-q-a-on-the-job/ with Rabbi Anthony Manning – Jewish educator, author and speaker – 12:22 with Dov Kram – general contractor and project manager in Israel – 39:15 with Rabbi Yossi Sprung – Rav of Shaare Zedek Medical Center and  Rosh Beis Medresh, Beis Medrash Govoha for Medical Halacha – 49:31 Conclusions and takeaways – 1:21:46 מראי מקומות   

//The Wire//2300Z June 18, 2025////ROUTINE////BLUF: ESCALATIONS CONTINUE IN MIDDLE EAST. CONCERNS GROWING REGARDING SALE OF PUBLIC LANDS IN AMERICAN WEST.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE------International Events-Middle East: The war continues as before, with both Israeli and Iranian missile strikes taking place overnight. Both nations have also cracked down on internet use throughout their respective populations, due to operational security risks pertaining to how effective strikes actually were.The United States has begun the large-scale evacuation of citizens from Israel, which is being carried out via commercial cruise ships, as Ben-Gurion Airport was closed to all commercial flights last Friday, until further notice. At the moment Israeli citizens are not permitted to leave the country, as the Transportation Minister has enacted the wartime policy forbidding citizens from departing.-HomeFront-Washington D.C. - Diplomatic efforts continue as before, with varying statements being made by the White House regarding the situation in the Middle East. Earlier yesterday afternoon, journalists in the press corps stated that they were told that President Trump would address the nation, however a short time after this announcement the speech was canceled and the White House called a lid for the day. This afternoon the White House stated that President Trump has not yet made the decision to strike Iran or not, though multiple Situation Room meetings have occurred throughout the past few days.Western USA: Concern is growing regarding the potential sale of public lands throughout the region. Over the past few days, information has leaked pertaining to the recent reconciliation bill in the Senate. Though this verbiage is still being considered, the latest draft of the amendment to the "Big Beautiful Bill" allegedly allows the sale of roughly 3 million acres of public lands.AC: This sale is not yet set in stone, and details are very vague regarding what the impact of this potential sale might actually be. All of these concerns can be eliminated simply by the swipe of a pen, however going off of the information that is available right now, concerns are mounting.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: More strategically, the large-scale deployment of military assets continues as before. Some airfields are being packed with airframes, while other bases (which are within range of Iranian missiles) are being emptied out to protect assets from retaliatory strikes.Overnight, CNN reported that the USS GERALD FORD (CVN-78) has been ordered to deploy to the Mediterranean Sea, to supplement the two Carrier Strike Groups already in the CENTCOM theater. The FORD has not departed port yet, and this deployment may not necessarily be a rapid and unplanned endeavor; the FORD was scheduled to undertake a routine deployment this summer anyway. However, three CSG's in CENTCOM is not particularly a sign indicating peace.Analyst: S2A1Research: https://publish.obsidian.md/s2underground//END REPORT//

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Popular Irish low-cost airline Ryanair has extended its suspension of flight services to Tel Aviv until July 31, following the Houthi missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport at the beginning of May. More chaos is expected for Israelis over the busy summer holiday period. Mark Feldman, CEO of Ziontours, told KAN's Mark Weiss that his travel agency will now only book flights on Israeli carriers for passengers flying to and from Israel. (Photo:Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Gifts of the Heart: A Shavuot Surprise at Duty-Free Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-05-27-22-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: הריחות המשכרים של תחנת הבשמים, השוקולדים המבריקים, והאלכוהול המזמין דגדגו את חושיה של אביגיל בעוד היא הלכה בצעדים מהירים בין המדפים הצבעוניים של דיוטי פרי בנמל התעופה בן גוריון.En: The intoxicating scents from the perfume station, the shiny chocolates, and the inviting alcohol tickled Avigail's senses as she walked swiftly among the colorful aisles of the Duty-Free at Ben Gurion Airport.He: האביב פרח וספירות החג של שבועות הזכירו לה את הכנסתו החשובה של המשפחה הממשמש ובא.En: Spring was in bloom and the festive atmosphere of "Shavuot" reminded her of the approaching important family gathering.He: היא ידעה שהיא צריכה לבחור במתנות שיעבירו את רוח החג, אך התחילה להילחץ מהמגוון הרחב ומהזמן הקצר שנותר לה לפני ההמראה.En: She knew she needed to choose gifts that conveyed the holiday spirit, but she started to feel pressured by the vast selection and the limited time left before takeoff.He: באמצע חיפושיה, פנתה אביגיל לעובד חנות שחייך אליה באמפתיה.En: In the midst of her search, Avigail turned to a store employee who smiled at her empathetically.He: שמו היה מתן, והוא היה מנוסה בהבנת רצונותיהם של לקוחות נמהרים.En: His name was Matan, and he was experienced in understanding the desires of hurried customers.He: "מה את מחפשת?En: "What are you looking for?"He: " שאל בעדינות, כשראה את ההיסוס בעיניה.En: he gently asked, noticing the hesitation in her eyes.He: "שבועות מתקרב," השיבה אביגיל, "ואני רוצה לתת למשפחה שלי מתנות מיוחדות לחג.En: "Shavuot is approaching," Avigail replied, "and I want to give my family special gifts for the holiday."He: "מתן הצביע לעבר מדף מאיר עיניים המלא באמנות ישראלית, גבינות מקומיות וזוג יינות המשלבים את גידולי ארץ ישראל.En: Matan pointed towards an eye-catching shelf filled with Israeli art, local cheeses, and a pair of wines that incorporate the produce of the Land of Israel.He: "זה יכול להיות מושלם לחג," אמר בביטחון.En: "This could be perfect for the holiday," he said confidently.He: בזמן שאביגיל שקלה את הבחירות, היא הופתעה לראות דמות מוכרת מרחוק.En: While Avigail was considering her options, she was surprised to see a familiar figure from afar.He: זה היה שי, חברה הקרוב, שהגיע במיוחד להיפרד ממנה ולהעניק לה מזכרת מיוחדת: עוגיות עיראיות מסורתיות שעשה בעצמו לכבוד החג.En: It was Shai, her close friend, who had come especially to bid her goodbye and to give her a special souvenir: traditional "Iraqi" cookies he had made himself for the holiday.He: "שי!En: "Shai!He: איזו הפתעה נפלאה!En: What a wonderful surprise!"He: " קראה אביגיל בהתרגשות, נרגשת מהמחווה המרגשת.En: Avigail exclaimed excitedly, touched by the heartfelt gesture.He: המפגש הלא צפוי חימם את ליבה ועזר לה להבין שהמתנות הטובות ביותר הן דווקא הרגעים המיוחדים והקשרים האנושיים שהן מייצגות.En: The unexpected meeting warmed her heart and helped her realize that the best gifts are indeed the special moments and the human connections they represent.He: בסופו של דבר, אביגיל ארזה את המתנות בשמחה רבה.En: In the end, Avigail packed the gifts with great joy.He: המתנות המושלמות נקנו, תודה למתן על הייעוץ, ושי על ההפתעה המיוחדת.En: The perfect gifts were purchased, thanks to Matan for the advice and Shai for the special surprise.He: היא עלתה למטוס בתחושת התרגשות גדולה מהאפשרות לחגוג עם משפחתה, יודעת שהמתנות נושאות בתוכן יותר מאשר את חומריהן, אלא גם את הזיכרונות והרגשות שבן.En: She boarded the plane with a sense of great excitement at the opportunity to celebrate with her family, knowing that the gifts carried more than their material substance; they also held the memories and emotions entwined within. Vocabulary Words:intoxicating: המשכריםscents: הריחותaisles: המדפיםfestive: ספירות החגconveyed: שיעבירוpressured: להילחץempathetically: באמפתיהhesitation: היסוסeye-catching: מאיר עינייםincorporate: המשלביםaforementioned: הממשמש ובאsuave: נמהריםpensive: שקלהfamiliar: מוכרתgesture: מחווהsouvenir: מזכרתtraditional: מסורתיותrealization: הבנהmoments: הרגעיםconnections: הקשריםwrapped: ארזהpurchased: נקנוexcitement: התרגשותtis: מהgathering: הכנסתוapproaching: הממשמש ובאfestive: ספירות החגdesires: רצונותיהםdistant: רחוקIsraeli: הישראליתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Israel bombed Yemen’s Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port within 24 hours, as tensions have been escalating in response to Israel's war on Gaza. On Sunday, the Houthis launched missiles that landed near Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. What does it mean for Yemenis facing this escalation? In this episode: Maysaa Shuja al-Deen (@maysaashujaa), Yemeni writer and researcher Episode credits: This episode was produced by Chloe K. Li, Sonia Bhagat, and Sarí el-Khalili with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Khaled Soltan, Kisaa Zehra, Kingwell Ma, Remas Alhawari, Mariana Navarette and our guest host, Natasha Del Toro. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is the Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

On Tuesday, May 6, President Trump declared that the United States would immediately halt its bombing of Houthi targets, bringing an end to months of intensified U.S. strikes across Yemen. The president linked the policy reversal to what he described as the Iran-backed Houthis' capitulation to U.S. demands, stating that the group had agreed to cease its assaults on U.S. and commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The president's decision comes as U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations are expected to advance this weekend and follows Israeli air raids on Sanaa's airport earlier this week—retaliation for a Houthi missile attack on Israel's Ben Gurion Airport. Asher Grant-Sasson speaks with Jon Alterman, director of the CSIS Middle East Program, about the core drivers behind this policy shift and the implications it might bear on key regional files, such as the prospect for a renegotiated U.S.-Iran nuclear deal. 

The Houthis launched a ballistic missile at Tel Aviv this week, which landed near Ben Gurion Airport and wounded six people. In response, Israel struck Yemen's main airport and two other sites. Unlike the Houthis, Israel gave a warning before their attack to avoid civilian casualties, yet pro-terror activists demonize Israel's response and justify Houthi terrorism. Tune in to learn about the conflict.The CUFI Minute is another way to enjoy CUFI's online newsand analysis segment, the CUFI Weekly. Featuring host Kasim Hafeez, this microcast is a quick yet in-depth topical segment you can listen to while commuting to work or making your afternoon cup of coffee. We should stand in solidarity against terrorism including when it happens in Israel.In under 10 minutes a week, learn about the history behind many threats facing Israel, the significance of important holidays and anniversaries throughout the year, and what's happening in Israel and the broader Middle East.

Israeli innovation envoy Fleur Hassan-Nahoum returns to the JNS Jerusalem studio alongside journalist and Iranian expert Emily Schrader, women's rights advocate Shoshanna Keats Jaskoll and media entrepreneur & IDF reservist Raquel Karamsin for a no-holds-barred panel on the week's most urgent security and political developments.

On Tuesday's Mark Levin Show, 2 days after the Houthis struck near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport with a ballistic missile and 4 days before negotiations with Iran - the Houthis surrendered. This seems odd. Then afterward the Houthis say they will continue to attack Israel, even after the ceasefire with the U.S. What's going on? Have you noticed how much the fifth-column isolationists sound like Bernie Sanders, AOC, and the rest of the Squad? And not just on foreign policy and national security. They often use the same Marxist class warfare propaganda and the ACLU's extremist misinterpretation of our Constitution including the 1st amendment. Also, we know that Democrats goal to transform the population through immigration to undermine and dismantle the existing societal structure. The Constitution doesn't grant due process to everyone, and the Supreme Court lacks clarity on its meaning. Democrats want to extend full due process to 21 million illegal aliens, which is not possible due to limited courts and judges. This is a strategy to allow illegal aliens to come in, then keep them here by arguing due process. If they succeed the country is dead. Later, Trump's tariffs on Chinese imports are causing economic disruption in China, leading to protests as workers demand unpaid wages. This is positive but the Trump administration should hold off on negotiations right now, they should slow walk it. The tariffs are doing exactly what they're supposed to do. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

JNS senior contributing editor Ruthie Blum and former Israeli ambassador to the United Kingdom Mark Regev—both former advisers at the Prime Minister's Office—examine Israel's two-day operation in Yemen in response to a direct ballistic missile strike near Ben-Gurion Airport. But beyond the immediate headlines, they examine what this strike means for Israel's long-range deterrence, Iran's nuclear threat and the shifting fault lines in U.S.-Israel relations.

Tensions escalate across the Middle East as Israel launches a new operation in Gaza, targets Syrian infrastructure, and responds forcefully to a Houthi missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport. Amir Tsarfati and Pastor Barry Stagner unpack the dramatic developments in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen—and how each fits into the larger prophetic picture. Plus, insights into Iran's nuclear ambitions, rising global deception, and the growing delusion gripping today's culture.Connect with us on social:Telegram: @beholdisraelchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amir.tsarfati/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beholdisrael/X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/beholdisraelYouTube: https://youtube.com/@beholdisrael

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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Horovitz discusses the Israeli Air Force missile attack on the Yemen port, in response to the Houthi missile that hit Israel's Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning, and the ongoing bafflement about how to handle the challenge presented by the Iran-backed Houthis, and one that isn't going to fade. He discusses the mood in the country as thousands of reservists are called up again to fight in Gaza, as polls show that two-thirds of Israelis would be prepared to stop fighting to bring the remaining hostages home. Horovitz notes that the language used by the government and army are subtle with an unclear plan in Gaza and an unpredictable US administration. Horovitz also offers a brief look at the latest regarding the cabinet decision against a state commission probing October 7, as the attorney general had suggested. He notes that there is domestic concern on the part of the public who want to be sure that a disaster of that scope will never happen again and the concern that Israel will be able to defend itself internationally with the proper scrutiny into what took place on that day. Finally, Horovitz comments on remarks made by US Mideast envoy Steve Witfkoff at an Israel Independence Day event at the US Embassy in Washington, DC, and his clear message that Israel needs to be united despite all the pressures from the outside and inside. IMAGE: An Israeli reservist kissing his wife and child goodbye as he leaves for reserve duty, in Jerusalem, May 5, 2025. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu says the military will continue to stay put in Gaza; The cabinet has rejected an official state probe of the October 7 attacks & 20 Israeli fighter jets strike Houthi targets in Yemen on Monday night. We have an interview with a woman who saw the initial rocket from Yemen rocket fall into Ben Gurion Airport.Click that you heard about Hasod (gift boxes) from “a podcast” when you check out. https://www.hasodstore.com/shopsmallIsrael Daily News website: https://israeldailynews.orgIsrael Daily News Roundtable: https://www.patreon.com/shannafuldSupport our Wartime News Coverage: https://www.gofundme.com/f/independent-journalist-covering-israels-warLinks to all things IDN:⁠ https://linktr.ee/israeldailynews⁠Music: Lo Hakol Binary - Tiferet Cohen https://www.hopp.bio/tiferet-cohen

The Iran-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning. The IDF said it tried to intercept the missile using Arrow and THAAD systems, but failed. A number of US and international airlines have since suspended flights in and out of Israel. This was the first time the Houthis had successfully […]

The Iran-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning. The IDF said it tried to intercept the missile using Arrow and THAAD systems, but failed. A number of US and international airlines have since suspended flights in and out of Israel. This was the first time the Houthis had successfully […]

The Iran-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning. The IDF said it tried to intercept the missile using Arrow and THAAD systems, but failed. A number of US and international airlines have since suspended flights in and out of Israel. This was the first time the Houthis had successfully […]

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 reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Late last night, Israel approved a plan to significantly broaden the military offensive against the Hamas terror group in the Gaza Strip. The plan provides for the “conquering of Gaza” and retaining the territory. One voice was heard above all in warning, that of Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who reportedly warned ministers that this could endanger the hostages held there. Fabian debriefs us on what he knows about this plan and what else is happening on the ground in Gaza. Yesterday morning, a Houthi ballistic missile struck the Ben Gurion Airport compound. Fabian explains the initial conclusions about the failure and discusses Israel's anti-missile array, including a Patriot air-defense system that will be refurbished and sent to Ukraine. Finally, we learn conclusions from the IDF's probe into the October 7, 2023, battles at Zikim Beach and hear that a squad of Israeli soldiers stationed near the border with the Gaza Strip abandoned civilians sheltering on the beach as Hamas terrorists invaded the coast. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel okays ‘conquering Gaza, holding the territories,’ as IDF chief said to warn ‘we could lose’ the hostages IDF planning major shift in Gaza aid delivery in bid to thwart Hamas diversion UN humanitarian agency rejects new Israeli plan for Gaza aid deliveries Netanyahu threatens Houthis, and Iran, as cabinet convenes after missile hits airport Patriot air-defense system based in Israel to be refurbished, sent to Ukraine – NYT Most foreign airlines halt flights to Tel Aviv after Houthi missile hits airport In ‘massive failure,’ troops abandoned civilians at Zikim Beach on Oct. 7, IDF probe finds Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Troops operating in the Gaza Strip in an undated photo released for publication on May 4, 2025 (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ESCALATION: Israel Vows to Strike Iran after Ballistic Missile Hits Tel Aviv Airport BREAKING: BALLISTIC MISSILE Hits Ben Gurion Airport | Israel Vows to STRIKE Iran

Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/HJI2mXArk Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.orgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:The Iran-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning. The IDF said it tried to intercept the missile using Arrow and THAAD systems, but failed. A number of US and international airlines have since suspended flights in and out of Israel. This was the first time the Houthis had successfully hit Israel's national airport. To help us understand what happened and possible next steps, we are joined by Call Me Back regular Nadav Eyal for an emergency episode. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer

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 Lazar Berman and environment reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Earlier this morning, a Houthi ballistic missile struck inside the area of Ben Gurion Airport after the Israel Defense Forces failed to intercept it. Landings and takeoffs were halted before the projectile struck. Magen David Adom says six people were physically hurt in the Houthi missile attack on Ben Gurion Airport. Berman explains how the biggest blow may have been to Israel's reputation. Two IDF soldiers -- Cpt. Noam Ravid, 23 from Sha’arei Tikva and Staff Sgt. Yaly Seror, 20, from Omer -- were killed and two were wounded in an explosion in a booby-trapped tunnel shaft in southern Gaza’s Rafah Saturday, the military announced. This terrible announcement comes after we heard last night that the military will resume mass call-ups of reserves for more intensive operations in Gaza. Berman weighs in on whether Israel is gearing up for "the" big operation in Gaza, or whether that will be on hold until after US President Donald Trump's visit to the region. The Israel Defense Forces said its fighter jets had carried out a wave of airstrikes in Syria late Friday, less than a day after Israel attacked near the presidential palace in Damascus, amid Israeli warnings to Syria’s new Islamist rulers not to harm their country’s Druze minority following deadly sectarian clashes. Also, on Saturday, the IDF said troops were “deployed to southern Syria and prepared to prevent hostile forces from entering the area and Druze villages.” This comes as an Israeli Air Force helicopter ferried humanitarian aid to the Sweida area of southern Syria and retrieved wounded Druze. Berman gives insight into Israel's activities. The Fire and Rescue Service said Thursday evening that firefighters had gained control of the conflagrations that had ravaged the Jerusalem hills for close to 30 hours. The announcement came hours after roads and train lines were reopened and evacuees from the area were permitted to return to their homes. Surkes describes the factors that led to this massive outbreak and why lessons definitely have yet to be learned. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Houthi missile hits grounds of Ben Gurion Airport after interception fails; 6 injured Two IDF soldiers killed, two wounded in blast in booby-trapped Rafah tunnel IDF calls up tens of thousands of reservists ahead of expanded Gaza offensive IDF strikes military targets across Syria, says troops deployed to protect Druze PM: Qatar ‘playing both sides’; Doha: He’s trying to justify crimes against civilians Israeli chopper ferried aid to Druze in southern Syria, 70 km from border — source Government accused of failing to take fire threat seriously despite years of warnings Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Israeli security forces at the site where a missile fired from Yemen hit an area of Ben Gurion Airport, May 4, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, the family of Edan Alexander approved the publication of a Hamas propaganda video released Saturday, which showed signs of life from the US-Israeli hostage soldier who has been held by the terror group since he was kidnapped on October 7, 2023. Born in Tel Aviv, Alexander grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey. He returned to Israel to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces after graduating from high school in 2022. Fabian fills us in and we hear a segment of the video. This morning, we learned that over 1,600 former IDF paratroopers and infantry soldiers signed a letter demanding the government reach a deal to bring the hostages home, even if it means ending the war. We discuss this latest appeal, which adds to a growing wave of public pressure to end the ongoing war following similar letters from IDF reservist doctors, the Talpiot program, former 8200 intelligence unit members, ex-Mossad members, navy reservists, and reservist air force personnel. We focus on the air force letter, which has brought the most media attention, and hear what steps -- if any -- the IDF is taking to stem this tide. The Israel Defense Forces announced at noon Saturday that it had completed the capture of the Morag Corridor in the southern Gaza Strip, cutting off the city of Rafah from Khan Younis. Fabian explains how this is part of a greater plan to widen the new border buffer zone. Yesterday, the Israeli military carried out an airstrike on a hospital in Gaza City, after telling staff and patients to evacuate ahead of the overnight attack, one of a series of strikes that Israel said were targeting Hamas operational centers. No casualties were reported in the hospital strike, with Israel issuing a warning to evacuate the facility before the attack. We learn where civilians are meant to go during such airstrikes, and in general. Air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile fired at Israel by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen early on Sunday evening. The Houthis claimed to have fired two missiles in the attack, one targeting the Sdot Micha Airbase — where, according to foreign reports, Israel holds nuclear-capable Jericho missiles — and the other aimed at Ben Gurion Airport. Fabian weighs in. On Friday, the IDF confirmed that it participated in a just-completed annual aerial exercise hosted by Greece, which this year included the participation of Qatar -- along with 11 other countries. We ask Fabian how significant this joint exercise is. Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: ‘Why am I not home?’ Edan Alexander’s family okays publication of Hamas propaganda video Over 250 ex-Mossad members, 3 former chiefs urge hostage deal even if it ends war IAF to dismiss reservists who signed letter demanding prioritization of hostages over war IDF says it hit a Hamas command center embedded in Gaza City hospital IDF fully surrounds Rafah as Katz warns Gazans of ‘final moment to remove Hamas’ IDF says Houthi missile intercepted; shrapnel falls in West Bank In first, Israeli Air Force participates with Qatar in aerial exercises hosted by Greece Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Troops of the Givati Brigade operate in Gaza, in a handout photo issued on April 9, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. This morning, the Israeli military said it has deployed troops along the coast of the far north of the Gaza Strip, as well as in the Netzarim Corridor and in the southern Gaza Strip. We discuss the ongoing airstrikes -- and how targets are chosen -- and the potential goals of the increased ground operation so far. Yemen’s Houthi rebels issued a statement claiming responsibility for the ballistic missile fired at Israel overnight, saying the Palestine-2 projectile targeted Ben Gurion Airport. Earlier, on Tuesday evening, the Houthis also launched a ballistic missile at Israel from Yemen Tuesday evening, which marked the first attack from the Iran-backed group since the ceasefire came into effect in the Gaza Strip two months ago. What were the results of both missiles? On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces presented its probe into the battle at Kibbutz Alumim — the latest in its detailed investigations of some 40 battles that took place during Hamas’s October 7 attack, when some 5,600 terrorists stormed across the border, massacred some 1,200 people, and took 251 hostages to Gaza. In the second half of our program, we go in depth into the Alumim probe and address the IDF's devastating probe of Kibbutz Nir Oz, which was released last week. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF ground forces operating in Gaza; Katz warns of ‘total destruction’ unless hostages returned IDF downs Houthi missile as sirens send millions in central Israel to shelters at 4 a.m. Civil defense team stopped major Hamas invasion at Alumim, but dozens were murdered outside ‘Massive failure’: First troops reached Kibbutz Nir Oz 40 minutes after last terrorists left Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF troops of the 252nd Division operate in northern Gaza, in a handout photo issued by the military on March 20, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.