Podcast appearances and mentions of jessica steinberg

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid and political correspondent Sam Sokol join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As an Israeli official states that Qatar isn't being helpful in the hostage talks and an Arab official tells The Times of Israel that reports are being manufactured by Israeli officials looking to harm the negotiations, Magid offers a deeper look. We hear about the last few days of the talks and the government's desire for victory in Gaza, which could lead Israel into a deeper, more extensive battle against Hamas. Magid reports on a conversation he had with Republican lawmaker Rep. Marlin Stutzman, one of the first US lawmakers to meet Syria's new Islamist leader, President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Stutzman cautions against Israel's interest in dividing the fledgling government into several autonomous regions and the Syrian president's vehement opposition to that idea. Several top aides to former US president Joe Biden commented in a TV interview on several aspects of Israeli relations with the US during the Biden administration, including a missed opportunity to reach a normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia last year. Magid fills us in. Sokol speaks about a demonstration of Haredi protestors outside one of two IDF recruitment centers on Monday, where ultra-Orthodox men harassed conscripts to the new ultra-Orthodox brigade. He discusses the IDF's inability to recruit 4,8000 Haredi men during the 2024-2025 draft cycle, given the lack of consensus in the ultra-Orthodox community, while Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman Likud MK Yuli Edelstein is determined to finalize the draft of a law regulating ultra-Orthodox enlistment. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Arab source: To shield Netanyahu, Israel leaking false claim Qatar sabotaged talks GOP lawmaker cautions Israel against ‘dividing’ Syria, after meeting with Sharaa Biden officials vent frustrations in dealing with Netanyahu, decry missed chance of Saudi deal ‘Zionists are not Jews’: Haredi extremists harass recruits from their community at IDF centers IDF won’t meet 2024-2025 Haredi conscription targets, official tells Knesset defense committee Edelstein says Knesset close to drafting new enlistment law, won’t accept ultimatums 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.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 and culture editor Jessica Steinberg join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Fabian was in the Gaza Strip last week at the Morag Corridor. He compares this trip to previous IDF embeds and describes what he saw. We learn about the very intense fighting in the Strip and hear about the incidents in which three servicemen recently lost their lives: Master Sgt. (res.) Asaf Cafri, Cpt. Ido Voloch and Sgt. Neta Yitzhak Kahane, of the Border Police’s Yamas covert unit. For only the third time since a ceasefire in Lebanon went into effect in November 2024, the IDF carried out an attack in the Beirut area. We learn what the IDF was targeting and what this means for the ceasefire. Some 12,000 people led by Holocaust survivors and an Israeli delegation of released hostages, hostages’ family members, and bereaved families marched Thursday from Auschwitz to the Birkenau camp for the 2025 March of the Living, with the horrors of the murder of six million Jews mingling with the plight of the captives in Gaza. Steinberg was on the ground with them and reports back. To end the program, we hear about a rally staged Sunday night by the families of the “Beautiful 6,” six hostages murdered by Hamas terrorists in Gaza at the end of August last year. The six hostages killed by their captors in Gaza were Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Almog Sarusi, Or Danino and Alex Lubanov. We hear about an evening of song, prayer and calls for unity. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: As troops advance in south Gaza, IDF says it’s seeing cracks emerge in Hamas’s rule IDF reservist killed, three wounded during fighting in northern Gaza Soldier and cop killed in Gaza City fighting, as IDF prepares to ramp up offensive IDF strikes Hezbollah missile warehouse in Beirut, kills operative in south Lebanon At Auschwitz, Oct. 7 survivors and freed hostages sing ‘Hatikvah’ Former hostages, survivors and the bereaved walk together in March of the Living Hostage families join Holocaust survivors ahead of 2nd Auschwitz march since Oct. 7 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: Asaf Cafri (left), an IDF reservist who was killed in Gaza on April 25, 2025 and his great-grandmother, Holocuast survivor Magda Baratz, pictured in a billboard set up in Rishon LeZion in honor of Holocaust Remembrace Day, the day before his death. (Oren Dai/Rishon LeZion Municipality)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon and environmental reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following Israel's procedural victory at the International Criminal Court, in which the Jewish state argued it could challenge the court's jurisdiction to try Israeli citizens for war crimes, Sharon examines the basis for the jurisdiction reasoning and what it could mean going forward regarding the arrest warrants issued last year for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. Sharon also discusses the potential for a constitutional crisis following the allegations made in writing to the High Court by Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar against Netanyahu. Now that Bar has backed up his initial claims with documentation and evidence in his affidavit to the High Court, Sharon says it will be far harder for the court to avoid ruling on the substantive issues of the case, potentially bringing the government and judiciary into direct conflict. A highly unusual shark attack in which an Israeli man was mauled to death brought visitors to the beach where it happened, reports Surkes, despite police attempts to keep people away. Surkes discusses the environmental changes that have affected shark behavior along the Israeli coast. Surkes also discusses her visit to the southern city of Ofakim and the neighborhood that was most heavily attacked on October 7, 2023, and how the small city has reacted, with community efforts to draw together in healing and unity. This conversation can also be viewed here: Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: ICC Appeals Chamber rules lower court must hear Israel’s challenge to jurisdiction Bar’s allegations against Netanyahu have raised the risk of a constitutional crisis Diver missing, feared dead, after rare shark attack off the coast of Hadera Seasonal fish mortality draws sharks to central beach, alarming bathers A scarred Ofakim neighborhood grows into a community after October 7 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: Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon and environmental reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following Israel's procedural victory at the International Criminal Court, in which the Jewish state argued it could challenge the court's jurisdiction to try Israeli citizens for war crimes, Sharon examines the basis for the jurisdiction reasoning and what it could mean going forward regarding the arrest warrants issued last year for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. Sharon also discusses the potential for a constitutional crisis following the allegations made in writing to the High Court by Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar against Netanyahu. Now that Bar has backed up his initial claims with documentation and evidence in his affidavit to the High Court, Sharon says it will be far harder for the court to avoid ruling on the substantive issues of the case, potentially bringing the government and judiciary into direct conflict. A highly unusual shark attack in which an Israeli man was mauled to death brought visitors to the beach where it happened, reports Surkes, despite police attempts to keep people away. Surkes discusses the environmental changes that have affected shark behavior along the Israeli coast. Surkes also discusses her visit to the southern city of Ofakim and the neighborhood that was most heavily attacked on October 7, 2023, and how the small city has reacted, with community efforts to draw together in healing and unity. This conversation can also be viewed here: Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: ICC Appeals Chamber rules lower court must hear Israel’s challenge to jurisdiction Bar’s allegations against Netanyahu have raised the risk of a constitutional crisis Diver missing, feared dead, after rare shark attack off the coast of Hadera Seasonal fish mortality draws sharks to central beach, alarming bathers A scarred Ofakim neighborhood grows into a community after October 7 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: Israelis on the beach in Hadera on April 26, 2025, where a man was attacked and killed by a shark during Passover (Photo by Yossi Zamir/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. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and archaeology reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol delves into comments made by leaders of the Knesset’s opposition parties, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of placing Israel in existential danger, after Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar alleged that the premier demanded his loyalty. Sokol notes that the opposition is exploring legal avenues against Netanyahu's actions, as political rhetoric in Israel becomes increasingly heated. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made it clear in an interview Monday morning that the hostages are not the priority of the government, which Sokol calls a clarifying statement of the coalition government, bringing tremendous criticism from hostage families and one ultra-Orthodox member of the coalition. Following the death of Pope Francis, Tercatin shares insights on the Jewish community in Rome, its relationship with the late pope and the community's deep historical connection to the Vatican. She also reports on archaeological findings related to the production of biblical purple dye, confirming an industrial-scale production of purple dye that took place in the region several thousand years ago. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Opposition leaders say Netanyahu’s conduct, as described by Bar, endangers Israel Smotrich slammed for willingness to ‘sacrifice’ hostages Smotrich says returning hostages ‘not the most important thing,’ sparking fierce backlash For Rome’s Jews, ties with ailing pope are personal. And increasingly complicated Made from snails and fit for kings: First biblical-era dye factory found on Israel’s coast 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: A protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and in support of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, as a protestor carries a sign that says, 'Save the country from itself,' at Habima Square, April 21, 2025 (Photo by Avshalom Sassoni//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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement Saturday night detailing his refusal to negotiate a deal that ends the war to free the hostages, Horovitz discusses the anguish of the hostage families and their growing concern over the government's plans. He explores the prime minister's stance on the war with Hamas as well as Netanyahu's detailed reasoning amid the growing skepticism and dismay about Netanyahu's motivations regarding the war. As the US and Iran head into more nuclear talks on Wednesday, following another round in Italy on Saturday, Horovitz considers the implications of the talks, and the role of special envoy Steve Witkoff in the negotiations, and the concerns about Israel's security. Finally, Horovitz takes a brief look at the latest spat in Qatargate, as lawyers for the one of the main suspects goes up against a spokesperson for the prime minister, and how the entire scandal connects back to the forced resignation of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu: Won’t surrender to Hamas by ending war to get back hostages; can’t trick Hamas either Israeli soldier killed in Hamas attack, in first since collapse of Gaza ceasefire After Rome talks, Tehran says Iran and US ‘to start designing framework’ for nuclear deal In public spat, lawyers for Qatargate suspect accuse Netanyahu spokesman of ‘hysteria’ 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: Sylvia Cunio, mother of hostages and brothers David and Ariel Cunio, at the Gaza border near Kibbutz Nir Oz calling for her sons and the other hostages to be freed in one phase. (Credit Tanya Zion-Waldoks/Israeli Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following a phone meeting of the security cabinet, Berman discusses that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar was involved in the conversation that included Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite efforts to fire the Shin Bet chief. Hamas officials have said they will not accept any partial deals and still demand an end to the war, with some of the terrorist group's reactions appearing to react to protests in Israeli society, says Berman. He also speaks about criticism regarding top hostage negotiator Ron Dermer, with remarks from both the Qataris and hostage families about Dermer, a close advisor to Netanyahu. With the latest headlines about ongoing talks between Iran and the US, Berman expresses concern about Israel's position. He discusses chief negotiator Steve Witkoff, who doesn't have much background in Iran or the nuclear program but has Trump's ear and is a skilled negotiator. Berman notes that Netanyahu can't undermine Trump in this potential Iran deal, but the final result may not be as good for Israel. Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas said to reject Israeli proposal that it disarm as part of 6-week ceasefire Hostage talks said to have lost ‘momentum’ since Dermer took over negotiating team Iran wants to drag out talks, Trump wants a deal now. Neither is good for Israel Trump waved off planned Israeli attack on Iran to pursue negotiated nuclear deal — NYT 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: Outside the home of chief hostage negotiator Ron Dermer in Jerusalem on his birthday, protestors call on him to light up hope instead of blowing out candles (Credit Adar Eyal/Israeli Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)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. Tech editor Sharon Wrobel and archaeology reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The setting of a 17% tariff on Israel by the US appears to be paused for the moment, as Wrobel discusses. Israel thought it could receive a reduction on the tariff, the main worry is the indirect impact and talk of a recession in Israel's tiny market and the instability and uncertainty that could cause. There are ongoing negotiations with efforts to protect Israeli companies and concerns over exposure to machinations in global markets and the value of Israeli savings. Over 8,000 tech employees have left Israel in recent months and Israel was downgraded in the global ranking of top 50 wealthiest cities as millionaires and tech workers relocated, following first the judicial overhaul and then the ongoing war and hostage situation. Wrobel discusses the biggest concern in that shift, given the high-tech sector's payment of taxes, and its effect on the state and the Israeli economy. Tercatin discusses research at the Academy of the Hebrew Language, looking at how Hebrew accents developed across different communities and millennia, and the role of cultural heritage in preserving those language differences. She also talks about a Sicilian farmer who is part of a centuries-old ritual to harvest a sweet, white sap from the bark of ash trees, a syrup known as manna. Tercatin describes the process and the substance, following an interview with the 75-year-old Sicilian farmer on the eve of the holiday of Passover, when Jews across the world commemorate the Exodus from Egypt, and when they ate manna in the desert. This conversation can also be viewed here: Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Demand for state-backed insurance soars as Israeli exporters fear Trump tariff chaos War spurs brain drain, outflow of Israeli high-tech employees, report finds Tel Aviv drops in global ranking of top 50 wealthiest cities as millionaires decamp Research center works to save myriad Hebrew dialects shaped by millennia of wandering In this Sicilian town, manna is a heavenly delicacy with deep roots 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: A boy looks at shipping containers in Haifa's port , Israel, Wednesday, April 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Culture editor Jessica Steinberg joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We begin today's program by discussing Israeli art in a post-October 7 world. Steinberg brings us several examples, starting with Design Museum Holon latest exhibit, “Heroines.” Steinberg explains how this show examines how fashion design provided a sense of hope during dark times. Our next stop is the spiral surroundings of the Bat Yam Museum of Art, which are hosting artist Ester Schneider in her first solo museum exhibit, “Hoshana,” which showcases her installations, paintings and watercolors. Steinberg sets the scene. Sofie Berzon Mackie, Kibbutz Be’eri’s art gallery director and curator, has lived and worked in more than one temporary home since the Hamas onslaught on October 7, 2023, decimated her home and community. Steinberg shares how the Be’eri gallery, an art institution cherished on the kibbutz since 1986, was torched by Hamas terrorists, leaving nothing untouched. She explains where the art -- and curator -- are now. Finally, we turn to how hostage parents have prepared themselves for another Passover seder without their children who are still in bondage. One example is Viki Cohen, whose son Nimrod Cohen was a soldier taken captive by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023. Viki has recently released a children’s Haggadah for Passover, adding illustrations of the hostages — those still in captivity, those who were freed and those who were killed — and symbols and signs of their lives. We hear more. For further reading: Fashion exhibit looks at design as symbol of hope during World War II Artist calls for salvation in show at Bat Yam museum Be’eri artist and gallery director finds clarity in temporary home, art and family Hostages’ families yearn and mourn in new Passover Haggadahs 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: From 'Heroines,' an exhibit about fashion design during wartime at the Holon Design Museum, from April 2025 (Credit Elad Sarig)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host arts and culture editor Jessica Steinberg speaking with Idit Ohel, mother of hostage Alon Ohel. Ohel talks about her son, who was taken captive by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, from the Nova music festival. Ohel discusses what she knows about the injuries sustained by Alon on October 7, including shrapnel in his eye, and she firmly demands that he receive medical attention. She says she deeply believes that despite his injuries and captivity, he is surviving and will continue to do so until he's released home. She explains what she's heard from released hostages Eli Sharabi, Or Levy and Eliya Cohen, who were kept captive with Alon, and we hear how Alon endures, playing imaginary piano on his chest as a musician, whistling favorite songs and talking about his family. Ohel says that her son, like her, has always meditated, and she assumes he is still doing so as one of the many methods that has allowed him to survive so many months underground. She discusses what it's like to mark another Passover without her son, and the need for the entire country and Jewish nation to rally behind the remaining hostages, in order to push the government toward an extension of the hostage deal. So this week, we ask hostage mother Idit Ohel, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Idit Ohel, mother of hostage Alon Ohel, speaks during a rally calling for the release of Israelis held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza, at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, March 8, 2025. (Avshalom Sassoni/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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With nuclear talks between the US and Iran planned for Saturday, Horovitz discusses the implications of the upcoming talks and how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to be surprised by Trump's announcement of the diplomatic approach. He reviews past diplomatic efforts with Iran, and the role in the talks taken by Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, as well as Israel's role in potential military responses. There are still 59 Israeli hostages in Hamas captivity in Gaza, and Horovitz talks about how Trump, perhaps uncharacteristically, gently and patiently hosted three freed hostages at an event this week, as the US president appears to be trying to grapple with the reality of what he's been told about the brutality of Hamas. Horovitz also discusses the headline about the Israeli Air Force decision todismiss Air Force reservists who signed a controversial letter, appealing for the hostages over a return to a military campaign against Hamas. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. This conversation can also be viewed here:For further reading: IAF to dismiss reservists who signed letter demanding prioritization of hostages over war Trump: Israel would ‘be the leader’ of strike on Iran if nuclear talks fall apart ‘We owe our lives to you’: Former Gaza hostages implore Trump to help free the rest Attacked online by PM’s backers, ex-hostage hits back: ‘Wish death upon Hamas, not me’ 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: US President Donald Trump greets Israeli hostages who were released from Gaza, during the National Republican Congressional Committee's (NRCC) "President's Dinner" at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC on April 8, 2025. (SAUL LOEB / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host arts and culture editor Jessica Steinberg speaking with Idit Ohel, mother of hostage Alon Ohel. Ohel talks about her son, who was taken captive by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, from the Nova music festival. Ohel discusses what she knows about the injuries sustained by Alon on October 7, including shrapnel in his eye, and she firmly demands that he receive medical attention. She says she deeply believes that despite his injuries and captivity, he is surviving and will continue to do so until he's released home. She explains what she's heard from released hostages Eli Sharabi, Or Levy and Eliya Cohen, who were kept captive with Alon, and we hear how Alon endures, playing imaginery piano on his chest as a musician, whistling favorite songs and talking about his family. Ohel says that her son, like her, has always meditated, and she assumes he is still doing so as one of the many methods that has allowed him to survive so many months underground. She discusses what it's like to mark another Passover without her son, and the need for the entire country and Jewish nation to rally behind the remaining hostages, in order to push the government toward an extension of the hostage deal. So this week, we ask hostage mother Idit Ohel, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Idit Ohel, mother of hostage Alon Ohel, speaks during a rally calling for the release of Israelis held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza, at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, March 8, 2025. (Avshalom Sassoni/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. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Berman discusses Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trip to Hungary, followed by his unexpected stop in the US. Netanyahu was welcomed warmly by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. A call between Orban, Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump during the visit led the Israeli prime minister to accept the last-minute invite to head to the US for a meeting in the Oval Office. Berman says Trump surprised Netanyahu with several statements, including his announcement about high-level talks this Saturday between US and Iran, the existing tariffs on Israel and unexpectedly effusive comments and praise from Trump for Turkey's Erdogan. The matter of the 59 remaining hostages in Gaza did not dominate the conversation, although it was discussed, says Berman. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: After softball visit to Hungary, Netanyahu strikes out in DC meeting with Trump Stressing ‘billions’ in aid, Trump refuses to commit to removing tariffs on Israel Trump suggests he can mediate between Israel and Turkey on Syria Hosting PM, Trump announces direct nuke talks with Iran; Tehran: Indirect dialogue only 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: President Donald Trump, left, greets Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Monday, April 7, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Released hostage Amit Soussana is honored by the US State Department as a Woman of Courage and is the only one of eight women honored to speak at the event. Magid notes that she uses the platform to speak about the remaining hostages and the need to return to negotiations, something echoed by former hostage Yarden Bibas and his focus on US President Donald Trump in his CBS interview with "60 Minutes." Magid speaks about the freed hostages who feel comfortable making their opinions clear, and their concerns about the intensification of military pressure and the current impasse in hostage negotiations. The spontaneous, sporadic protests in Gaza against Hamas are the first in years, according to Magid, as people take a huge risk calling for an end to war in Gaza. A 22-year-old protester was tortured and killed, says Magid, who follows several Palestinian activists on social media who are planning more protests in the coming days. Magid notes that it would be best if Israel did not comment on them, leaving the movement as real, genuine protests against Hamas that could help impact the terror group as it approaches the ongoing hostage talks. This conversation can also be viewed here: Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Ex-hostage Amit Soussana receives US’s International Woman of Courage Award Yarden Bibas to 60 Minutes: Only Trump can convince Netanyahu, Hamas to renew ceasefire-hostage deal Gazan man murdered by Hamas after joining protests against terror group, family says Gazan clan executes alleged Hamas operative who killed one of their relatives IMAGE: Former hostage Amit Soussana, left, holds her hands over her heart while being applauded after speaking during the International Women of Courage awards ceremony, next to Henriette Da, of Burkina Faso, Georgiana Pascu, of Romania, Major Velena Iga, of Papua New Guinea, and first lady Melania Trump, at the award ceremony, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the State Department in Washington. S (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz and reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As the IDF warns Gazans to leave Rafah in southern Gaza, saying the military is returning to fight to eliminate terrorist capabilities as part of its military pressure to bring about a hostage deal, Horovitz reviews the situation in the Gaza Strip. He discusses the ongoing divide in Israeli society over how to bring the remaining hostages home, whether through military pressure or negotiations. Horovitz also looks at the CBS "60 Minutes" interview with released hostages, including freed captive Yarden Bibas, who pointedly called for US President Donald Trump to help bring about a return to negotiations. As Trump threatens Iran with strikes if it doesn't return to nuclear talks, Horovitz talks about the rise in rhetoric between the two nations. Kibbutz Kfar Aza, one of the hardest-hit collectives on October 7 is working to remember its dead and find solutions for its future, and Surkes discusses a book written by one of its residents about the challenges facing the kibbutz that had been privatized years before the Hamas terror attack. She also describes a recently installed memorial for those killed on the kibbutz on October 7. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. 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. For further reading: IDF tells Gazans to flee entire Rafah area in largest evacuation since fighting resumed Yarden Bibas to 60 Minutes: Only Trump can convince Netanyahu, Hamas to renew ceasefire-hostage deal Trump threatens ‘there will be bombing’ if Iran fails to make deal on nukes ‘A murder in every corner’: 60-year resident writes book on Kfar Aza challenges post-Oct. 7 Kfar Aza Oct. 7 memorial forms unforeseen stop on trail envisioned by murdered Ofir Libstein IMAGE: Palestinians attend Eid prayers in Khan Yuni in the southern Gaza Strip, on March 30, 2025. (Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/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. Today's we're bringing you an episode of What Matters Now, our weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World. This installment is hosted by arts and culture editor Jessica Steinberg, who is speaking with Jonathan Dekel-Chen, father of released hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen. Dekel-Chen, a dual Israeli-American citizen, was a vocal and visible hostage parent throughout the months of his son’s captivity. Sagui Dekel-Chen was taken hostage on October 7, 2023, from Kibbutz Nir Oz, while his pregnant wife and two young daughters hid in their safe room. Dekel-Chen discusses the relief he and the family experienced upon seeing his son released home to Israel, the challenges that Sagui, the family and the Nir Oz community still face, and the sense of rebirth that Sagui feels post-captivity. For 496 days, Sagui didn’t know the fate of his nuclear family, as well as what happened to extended members of his family and friends. Dekel-Chen also reflects on the sense of abandonment felt by many hostage families from the Israeli government throughout the months of the war, and particularly now, since the army returned to fighting in Gaza, leaving 59 hostages still in captivity. He speaks about the tremendous support he and other hostage families received from the US government, both from the Biden and Trump administrations, and his surprise to learn that American Jewish organizations didn’t band together to support the hostage families. So this week, we ask history professor Jonathan Dekel-Chen, what matters now? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. 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: Freed hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen with his father Jonathan aboard an IDF helicopter en route to the hospital soon after his release from 498 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza, February 15, 2025 (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. Following the early morning passage of the highly controversial law that greatly increases political power and influence over the judicial appointments process in Israel, Horovitz discusses details of the measure, and the fact that it will only come into effect in the next Knesset, meaning after Israel’s next general elections, currently scheduled for October 2026. Horovitz discusses why this measure is being taken now by the coalition government, and how the opposition parties and Israeli society are reacting to this measure that has been in the making since the right-wing government was elected into office in November 2022. There have been waves of protests over the last ten days, with rallies calling for the return of the hostages and anti-government demonstrations in Jerusalem, and Horovitz looks at what's being said in those gatherings and if they have any effect on current politics. He also speaks about the continuing protests in Gaza, reportedly against Hamas, although the terror group claims that the Gazans are protesting Israel's return to IDF strikes. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Knesset passes law greatly boosting political control over appointment of judges ‘Democracy isn’t in danger,’ Netanyahu tells Knesset in tirade against ‘deep state’ Happening now: The smooth, malevolent unraveling of Israel’s vulnerable democracy Thousands protest outside Knesset ahead of final votes on controversial judicial bill Hundreds in Gaza join rare protests against Hamas rule, call for an end to the war Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ministers in the Knesset plenum during a vote on a bill to remake Israel's judicial appointments process, March 27, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with arts and culture editor Jessica Steinberg hosting and speaking with Jonathan Dekel-Chen, father of released hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen. Dekel-Chen, a dual Israeli-American citizen, was a vocal and visible hostage parent throughout the months of his son's captivity. Sagui Dekel-Chen was taken hostage on October 7, 2023 from Kibbutz Nir Oz, while his pregnant wife and two young daughters were hiding in their safe room. He talks about the relief that he and the family felt upon seeing Sagui released home to Israel, the challenges that Sagui and the rest of the family and Nir Oz community still face, and the sense of rebirth that Sagui feels post-captivity. For 496 days, Sagui didn't know if his own family had survived, as well as extended members of his family and friends. Dekel-Chen also reflects on the sense of abandonment felt by many hostage families from the Israeli government throughout the months of the war, and particularly now, as the army has returned to fighting in Gaza, leaving 59 hostages still in captivity. He speaks about the tremendous support he and the other hostage families received from the US government, from both the Biden and Trump administrations and his surprise that American Jewish organizations didn't join together to support the hostage families. And so this week, we ask history professor Jonathan Dekel-Chen, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Freed hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen with his father Jonathan aboard an IDF helicopter en route to the hospital soon after his release from 498 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza, February 15, 2025 (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon and archaeological and religions reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. Following the cabinet decision to fire Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, various opposition political parties and legal organizations filed petitions against the decision in Israel's High Court. Sharon discusses the government's response to the petitions and its stance that the court should not interfere in the decision to fire Bar. Sharon also reviews Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's reaction to the government decision and her view that the firing will have implications for the functioning of law enforcement and the Shin Bet in the future. The Shin Bet is also conducting a covert probe into the possible infiltration of extreme-right elements into the Israel Police and Sharon discusses the existence of Kahanist elements in National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir's party that led to the probe. Tercatin looks at a recent archaeological discovery that grapevines and olive trees may have once grown on the land under the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, with evidence being uncovered of agricultural tools, pottery, and new technologies that can research pollen remains and seeds that relate to the time of Jesus. She also discusses a poll of high school teens from religous Zionist high schools regarding sexual activity, leading to the researcher's determination that there's a need for more openly discussing sex with religious teens. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Government tells the High Court it can’t be forced to work with Shin Bet chief it doesn’t trust Report: Shin Bet covertly probed Kahanist infiltration into police under Ben Gvir Echoing Gospel account, traces of ancient garden found under Church of Holy Sepulchre Poll showing religious teens are sexually active sparks rethink of when to have the talk 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: Protestors march toward the Knesset on March 25, 2025, holding a banner that reads, 'Guarding democracy' (Credit Yair Palti/Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. As Israel continued to bombard parts of the Gaza Strip for the second night in a row, Magid discusses the full-throttled support for Israel from the US. He comments that the Trump administration believes that Hamas is at fault, and the terror organization could have released hostages but refused and chose war instead. Magid comments on the shift from the Biden administration and the fact that US President Donald Trump hasn't yet commented on the military pressure. Magid looks at the latest with hostage envoy Adam Boehler after his unsuccessful attempts to negotiate directly with Hamas, a move that angered Israel. It appears that Steve Witkoff is back in charge of the US negotiating efforts for Israel. Boehler spent the week in Montana, says Jacob, hosting a summit at his home with participants from several countries, part of a collaboration to ensure that the act of hostage-taking around the world is eradicated. Magid also discusses the latest in the US funding of Palestinian Authority security forces in the West Bank, as PA President Mahmoud Abbas canceled legislation that conditioned welfare payments to Palestinian security prisoners on the length of their sentences in Israeli jails. Instead, the PA will be basing payments to all Palestinians strictly on financial need. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel resumes Gaza strikes, says Hamas collapsed truce by refusing to free hostages US envoy to UN says blame for renewed Gaza fighting ‘lies solely with Hamas’ Embattled US hostage envoy hosts summit for global counterparts in Big Sky, Montana 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: Israelis marching for hostages and efforts by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to try and fire Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, on Road 1 outside Jerusalem, March 18, 2025. (Photo by Yonatan SIndel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Sam Sokol joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. As the IDF faces problems recruiting reserve troops after more than 15 months of war and mounting anger against the ultra-Orthodox for not shouldering the burden, Sokol discusses the latest in the Haredi draft issue, coming to a head in the current budget debates. Sokol says the various ultra-Orthodox parties are playing this issue differently, although they all appear to want the same thing: exemptions for yeshiva students and will use different tactics to achieve their goals. He also describes his ongoing investigation into the growing number of Haredi organizations offering advice to yeshiva students and families about how to dodge draft notices. Sokol is investigating the pattern of behavior that's emerging, the illegalities involved in advising someone to avoid the draft, and the security apparatus's reticence to take action on this growing trend. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: AG, police silent in face of growing ecosystem of Haredi evasion organizations Hasidic MKs tell Netanyahu they’ll oppose budget if draft exemption law not passed Haredi lawmakers split on approach to budget, which must pass this month or gov’t falls ‘Do not cooperate’: Nonprofit linked to top Haredi rabbis encourages draft dodging 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: Haredi Jews clash with police during a protest against the ultra-Orthodox draft on Road 4 outside Bnei Brak on March 2, 2025 (Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. As Israel’s hostage negotiating team remained in Doha, Qatar overnight, Horovitz reviews the latest in the ceasefire situation and the sense that US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff appears to be the only person who can push Israel toward a second phase of a hostage deal. Horovitz discusses how it was Witkoff who pushed Israel toward the first stage of the deal that brought 33 hostages home, eight of them no longer living. Horovitz also notes that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his coalition are on a two-week deadline to pass the budget by March 31, and if they fail, his government will fall. Horovitz notes that Netanyahu has to mollify coalition partner Bezalel Smotrich, who has threatened to leave if Israel doesn't return to war in Gaza, as well as the ultra-Orthodox, who want a permanent IDF exemption for Haredi yeshiva students. Another deadline looming for the prime minister's coalition is pushing through laws that will neuter the Supreme Court and give the political echelon control over how Israel's judges are selected. Horovitz also talks about US President Donald Trump's statements about the future for Gazans, as he softened some of his previous comments regarding their relocation, underlining how complicated the entire topic is for all of the countries involved. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Steve Witkoff, Israel looks to you Meet Adam Boehler, Trump’s complacent, confused and dangerously naive hostage envoy Coalition to drive forward budget, judicial appointments bills in intense Knesset push Trump says ‘nobody’s expelling any Palestinians,’ in apparent softening of Gaza plan 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: Singer Kobi Oz and the Teapacks band perform for Einav Zangauker and Ilana Gritzewsky, mother and girlfriend of hostage Matan Zangauker on March 13, 2025 at the hostage family tent encampment on Tel Aviv's Begin Road outside the Defense Ministry (Credit Amir Yaacobi)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. Tech Israel editor Sharon Wrobel and health editor Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. As Israel's two largest banks, Bank Hapoalim and Discount Bank, posted massive financial gains for 2023, Wrobel discusses how Israel's banks achieved increases during months of war. She notes that Israelis may have ignored banking issues and statements while serving prolonged reserve duty and dealing with more heightened personal issues during the height of the war. Bletter delves into her investigative piece of the allegations pointed at Israel, regarding whether IDF troops targeted Gazan children during the war. She looks in particular at the allegations made in two essays printed in The New York Times and The Guardian, discussing her interview with an American urban warfare expert, the lack of forensic evidence and the long history of Hamas of exploiting and harming minors and adult civilians to advance its political goals. As Israir becomes the third Israeli airline to join the Tel Aviv-New York route, offering more competition to carriers El Al and Arkia, Wrobel discusses what it will take for Israir to gain customers, as travelers seek better deals. Wrobel also talks about Israelis booking cruises, as they seek some relief from war and October 7 trauma, and a secure vacation given anti-Israel sentiment worldwide and the high prices of airline tickets. With thousands of residents of the Western Galilee heading home last week, Bletter visited Arab al-Aramshe — the only non-Jewish community evacuated in Israel for the war, a Bedouin village whose residents were holed up in hotels and other communities for the last months. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israeli banks rake in record profits as their war-battered customers drown in debt After doctors accuse Israel of shooting Gazan kids, experts see need for a second opinion Israir set to become third Israeli carrier serving New York route, with lower airfare As war brings spikes in airfare and antisemitism, cruise ships see a new wave of Israelis Bedouin and Jewish residents who evacuated from north return home to mourn and rebuild 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: Illustrative: Parked airplanes belonging to Israir and El Al at the Ben Gurion International Airport, August 8, 2020. (Olivier Fitoussi/FLASH90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. Following US President Donald Trump's State of the Union address on Tuesday, in the presence of several recently released Hamas hostages, Magid discusses that Trump did not mention any of the former Israeli hostages by name, although some were in the audience. Magid speaks about his interview with a senior Qatari official who emphasized the need to stick to the current hostage deal and that any new ideas won't work, noting that Hamas won't accept releasing hostages en masse as suggested by the US, unless there's an end to the war. He reviews the much-anticipated summit of Arab states, which gathered to discuss alternatives to reconstructing Gaza, not aligning with Trump's plan of relocating Gazans. The current plan, led by Egypt, will have technocrats ruling Gaza for an interim period and dividing the area into zones before handing it over to the Palestinian Authority. Magid also discusses the positioning of the Palestinian Authority on the Gaza plans and the frustration of Arab countries with PA President Mahmoud Abbas, as they try to get him to be more flexible, or at least not be an obstacle to the planning in Gaza. Finally, Magid briefly looks at prisoner payment reform after an interview with a senior Palestinian Authority official, who spoke of a threat to cut ties with the Trump administration if the US president advances with his plan to take over Gaza. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘We are bringing back our hostages from Gaza,’ Trump says in address to Congress As Israel, US align on new hostage proposal, Qatar urges sticking to existing framework Aiming to stymie Trump’s ‘Riviera’ vision, Arab leaders endorse $53 billion Gaza plan Seeking funds abroad, Abbas ally touts prisoner payment reform that’s ‘unpopular’ at home Feeling heat from Trump to ‘solve’ Gaza, Arab states losing patience with PA’s Abbas 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: A tent camp for displaced Palestinians is set up amid destroyed buildings in the west of Al-Shati camp, west of Gaza City, on Monday, March 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Zman Yisrael founding editor Biranit Goren joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. Early this morning, a terror attack was carried out in Haifa's bus station, killing one man and injuring four others before the terrorist was neutralized by security forces. Goren discusses some of the known details of the attack, noting that it bore some resemblance to the terror attacks of the second intifada, targeting public transportation and carried out by lone attackers. Freed hostage Eli Sharabi spoke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this morning, as he heads to the US to push on the hostage negotiations with US President Donald Trump. Goren notes that Sharabi, despite recently returning from captivity in skeletal condition to hear that his entire family was killed on October 7, appears to be a person of great emotional strength, focused on getting the remaining hostages home and telling the prime minister that in their conversation. She also discusses the Best Documentary win at the Oscars on Sunday night, when the Palestinian-Israeli film "No Other Land" took home the Academy Award. Goren notes that the film's win wasn't a surprise, and takes Culture Minister Miki Zohar to task for calling the film's win "a sad moment" for the film industry, saying that public funding should be for Israeli films about any subject, regardless of politics. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Man stabbed to death in suspected terror attack at Haifa bus terminal Netanyahu apologizes to recently released hostage Eli Sharabi: ‘Sorry that it took us so long’ Freed hostage Eli Sharabi to meet Trump this week, brother says ‘No Other Land,’ about Israel razing Palestinian village, wins best documentary Oscar 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: Eli Sharabi is interviewed on Channel 12's 'Uvda' program, in a segment aired on February 27, 2025. (Screenshot: Channel 12, used in accordance with Clause 27a of the Copyright Law)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. ToI founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. Following the heartbreaking Wednesday afternoon burial of Shiri Bibas, Ariel Bibas and Kfir Bibas, Israel receives the bodies of four more hostage bodies, Itzik Elgarat, Tsahi Idan, Ohad Yahalomi and Shlomo Mantzour, received in the middle of the night on Wednesday. Horovitz discusses the ongoing national mourning for the hostages, including the outpouring of sorrow for the Bibas family, who became a symbol of the October 7 tragedy, highlighting the emotional toll on the mourning families and the nation as a whole. The return of the four hostage bodies marks the end of the first phase of the hostage deal, and Horovitz reviews Israel's military strategy and political dynamics that are closely intertwined in the negotiations. Horovitz also examines how Hamas is perceived by the US, and the role of Qatar in the conflict, reflecting on the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the ideology behind Hamas and reeducate the region. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: ‘Bitter news’: Israel confirms identities of 4 bodies of hostages returned from Gaza Shiri, Ariel and Kfir Bibas buried in a single casket: ‘They will remain together’ With orange balloons and cries of ‘sorry,’ masses line route of Bibas funeral procession What Israel’s leaders, Donald Trump, and the rest of the free world owe Yarden Bibas IMAGE: People pay their respects along the convoy carrying the bodies of hostages Shiri Bibas, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, in Rishon LeZion, February 26, 2025. (Photo by Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing. The negotiations for extending phase one of the hostage deal will begin Wednesday, says Magid, with US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff's arrival first in Israel, as Israel is currently seen as the toughest partner. Any extension of the first phase of the ceasefire would include only a trickle of additional hostages, adds Magid. Israel has also demanded that Hamas stop the ceremonies held upon each hostage release, arranged to show that the terrorist group is still in power in Gaza. However, says Magid, the grotesque ceremonies have pushed the Trump administration, making them more unwilling to accept a Hamas presence in Gaza. There's more heat from the Arab world about the Hamas presence in Gaza, says Magid, with leading comments from senior Hamas politburo member Moussa Abu Marzouk in The New York Times. Magid remarks that it's worth taking those comments at face value, as they are also indicative of the entry of President Trump into the equation. Magid also looks at a United Nations vote that brought the US, Russia and Israel together against a Ukrainian UN resolution intended to condemn Russia. Magid comments that the vote signifies a shift in US intentions, with the US joining Russia and Israel taking a position because it doesn't want to antagonize President Trump. This conversation can also be viewed here: Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ben Wallick. For further reading: In first, Witkoff says US looking to extend hostage deal’s current phase Hamas ceremonies spurring Trump pressure for Arab plan to push group out — diplomats Senior Hamas official: I wouldn’t have backed Oct. 7 if I’d known outcome for Gaza US backs Israel’s decision to push off release of 602 Palestinian security prisoners Joining US, Israel votes against UN motion condemning Russian invasion of Ukraine IMAGE: People pay their respects as the coffin of hostage Oded Lifshitz, killed in Hamas captivity, makes its way from Rishon Lezion, February 25, 2025. (Photo by Miriam Alster/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. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Sunday visit in Israel, Berman discusses the seemingly coordinated statements made by Rubio and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The prime minister spoke about the deep synchronicity between him and the Trump administration, a relationship Netanyahu says he has cultivated for years, leading to an unprecedented opportunity in Israel's history. Berman notes that there did not seem to be any pressure to discuss the second phase of the hostage deal, until Trump's Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff commented later on a Fox News interview that the second phase will happen, with talks happening this week. Following Witkoff's statement, the Prime Minister's Office said a negotiating team would go to Cairo for the talks, and the cabinet is meeting Monday night. Berman notes there appears to be pressure from the Trump team, but it's unclear what Netanyahu wants. There's a paradox regarding the second phase of the hostage talks, says Berman, which calls for the end of the war, yet Hamas can't remain in power in Gaza, and it still retains forces and power in the region. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Trump envoy says there will ‘absolutely’ be stage 2 of ceasefire, as talks continue Hosting Rubio, Netanyahu says ‘gates of hell will surely open’ if all hostages not freed Former Israeli hostage negotiator says Israel missed two windows for deal Netanyahu cagey on Israel’s next steps as Trump deadline to free all hostages passes IMAGE: Protestors blocking Namir Road in Tel Aviv on the 500th day of captivity, with signs that read, 'President Trump, leave no hostage behind - 500 days in hell' on February 17, 2025 (Credit: Dana Reany/Israeli Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As certain details emerge regarding the 15-month captivity of the three hostages released on Saturday, Horovitz discusses the scraps of information shared so far, including what's known about Iair Horn's brother Eitan, who is still a captive, that Sagui Dekel-Chen was tortured, and the potential implications of any information that is shared. Horovitz also reviews the latest in the hostage deal, how many hostages remain to be released in the first stage and the delayed start to negotiations for the second stage of the ceasefire. He discusses whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is debating whether to return to negotiations and what kind of leverage US President Donald Trump has in this situation. Horovitz also discusses comments made by a former Israeli hostage negotiator regarding the missed opportunities for a hostage deal months earlier while the Prime Minister's Office offered an official statement dismissing the accusations. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Hours after release, freed hostages talk of Hamas torture, psychological torment Netanyahu cagey on Israel’s next steps as Trump deadline to free all hostages passes Former Israeli hostage negotiator says Israel missed two windows for deal IMAGE: Freed hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen is reunited with his wife Avital on his return to Israel after 498 days in captivity in Gaza, February 15, 2025. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and environmental reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol looks at the coalition's struggle over ultra-Orthodox army service exemptions, between those who want to minimize exemptions and those who want to use legislation to create a gradual increase leading to universal enlistment. He discusses a recent Likud lawmaker conference on the subject, that called for a more universal Haredi draft and sanctions on draft dodgers. In honor of Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish holiday of the trees, Surkes reports on the new Jewish Climate Trust, with heavy involvement from philanthropist Steven Bronfman, of the Canadian Bronfman family. The fund, which is launching next month, will be the first to focus specifically on climate, aiming to help Jewish and Israeli climate organizations build interfaith bridges and regional bridges in the Middle East. Surkes also speaks about several moshav communities in the south that were attacked by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023. Two are located just outside the designated zone of the Gaza Envelope and are therefore not eligible for the funding necessary to rebuild after the October 7, 2023 attacks. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Likud lawmakers hold conference calling for Haredi draft, sanctions on dodgers Budding climate fund seeks to guide Jewish response to era’s greatest threat Just 138 yards too far from the Gaza border, towns are denied post-Oct. 7 state support IMAGE: Haredi men protest and clash with police against the ultra-Orthodox draft on January 28, 2025. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Magid discusses how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flip-flopped Tuesday night with a series of statements regarding the current ceasefire and the number of hostages to be released on Saturday. Magid suggests it could be part of an ongoing effort to back US President Donald Trump's demands and to also keep Hamas guessing. As the IDF prepares to move enlisted soldiers down south to the Gaza border and called on reservists to ready themselves, Magid says there may be more legitimacy from the US toward Israel to battle Hamas again in order to achieve the broader goals of the region. Magid reviews Trump's meeting with Jordanian King Abdullah and Abdullah's offer to take in 2,000 sick Palestinian children, although it appears that Jordan is not interested in taking in mass amounts of Gazan refugees, and sees it as exporting the conflict. He also talks about the Palestinian Authority agreement to review legislation regarding welfare payments for Palestinian prisoners and families of slain attackers who killed Israelis in terrorist attacks. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Netanyahu: ‘Intense fighting’ to resume in Gaza if hostages not released by Saturday Trump urges ending Gaza ceasefire if all hostages not released by noon Saturday Abdullah says Jordan will take in 2,000 sick Gazan kids as Trump pushes relocation plan Architect of US law against PA ‘pay-to-slay’ skeptical of Ramallah effort to end it IMAGE: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a plenum session at the Knesset on February 10, 2025 (Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and diaspora reporter Zev Stub join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Schneider discusses further details about some of the hostages that have emerged from the recently released hostages, including signs of life about twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman. There is also the news that hostage Shlomo Mansour, 86, appears to have been killed on October 7, 2023, his body taken into captivity by Hamas terrorists. As the government cabinet meets Tuesday morning to discuss the Hamas accusation that Israel has breached the ceasefire deal, Schneider reviews what those breaches may be, including that Israel didn't send a negotiating team to Qatar for the second stage of the deal, and its delays in sending certain supplies to Gaza. Stub offers a preview of the World Zionist Organization's upcoming elections in March, and how the event, held every five years, represents the Orthodox-liberal struggle in the Jewish world. He also discusses the growth of the Orthodox Union in Israel, and the organization's decision to embrace that growth by moving into new offices. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: IDF says Shlomo Mansour was killed on Oct. 7 and his body taken to Gaza Hamas says it’s delaying next hostage release, alleging Israeli truce violations Trump urges ending Gaza ceasefire if all hostages not released by noon Saturday The man with the plan: DC prof sent Trump study on Gaza relocation, development in July Upcoming WZO election sees Orthodox-liberal struggle, opportunity for North American Jews As religious immigration rises, OU expands presence in Israel, investing in integration IMAGE: A protest that took place outside the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem on February 11, 2025 as a cabinet meeting was held inside, discussing the ceasefire (Credit: Orna Kupferman)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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With the return to Israel of the three most recently released hostages, several hostage families are receiving the first signs of life from their loved ones, including hostage Alon Ohel. Horovitz discusses the heartbreaking descriptions shared by Idit Ohel, Alon Ohel's mother, on the Sunday night news. Ohel broke down crying as she described her son's injuries and abuses, now known by the family as Ohel was held until Saturday with released hostages Or Levy and Eli Sharabi. Horovitz talks about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's return home to Israel, where he and his cabinet summarily postponed the discussion of convening a state commission of inquiry into the failures that led to the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, a commission that would presumably cause his government to fall. Horovitz also reviews Netanyahu's reactions to US President Donald Trump's ideas about the Gaza Strip, a plan that the prime minister seemingly didn't know about before arriving in the US last week, and how Trump's support of Israel is pushing Netanyahu forward on his goals in Gaza. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Pleading for his release, mother says hostage Alon Ohel is wounded, chained in Hamas tunnels At rowdy meeting, cabinet delays for 3 months decision on state inquiry into Gaza war PM returns to court for criminal trial testimony, says he faces medical ‘challenges’ Trump’s ‘Extreme Makeover: Gaza Edition’ has many flaws. One of the worst is its absent morality IMAGE: In Kfar Saba in February 2025, a protestor holding images of hostages, Tsahi Idan, left, included in the first stage of the exchange, while hostage Alon Ohel, right, is not (Credit: Danor Aharon)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As the three hostages, Or Levy, Eli Sharabi and Ohad Ben Ami return to Israel, questions arise about what they knew of their families' fates as they were released. Fabian discusses some of the details about what each man learned upon coming home to Israel, whether Eli Sharabi found out that his wife and daughters had been killed from Hamas, the Red Cross or his family, and if Or Levy knew his wife Eynav had been killed before he was taken into captivity. Palestinians are allowed to return to northern Gaza, along the Netzarim Corridor, after the IDF cleared out its remaining positions, says Fabian, adding that Gazans are already approaching the area. With nine more days left in the ceasefire with Lebanon, Fabian discusses Israel's enforcement of the ceasefire agreement, and the additional understandings that allow Israel to act against any Hezbollah act, including its Saturday strikes against Hezbollah members at a strategic missile site, which Israel said were a blatant violation of the ceasefire. Following the Saturday IDF strike on a Hamas arms depot near Damascus, the first in more than a year, Fabian talks about the site as one that was known to the IDF. It was suspected that the arms could be used to attack IDF troops in the area. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Almog, 3, to his dad, freed hostage Or Levy: ‘It took you a long time to come back’ IDF strikes Hezbollah operatives in eastern Lebanon; 6 reported killed, 2 wounded IDF says it carried out airstrike on Hamas arms depot near Damascus IMAGE: Hamas hands over hostage Or Levy to the Red Cross on February 8, 2025. (Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/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. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spent Thursday on Capitol Hill, Berman reports from the Capitol, where much of the focus is still on US President Donald Trump's proposal to offer Gazans to relocate from the war-torn region. Berman says the atmosphere toward Netanyahu is friendly and the prime minister's entourage is "almost giddy" with the sense of friendship and support from the Trump administration, following the criticism and tension that existed with members of the Biden administration. While the date to restart negotiations over the second phase of the ceasefire with Hamas has come and gone, Berman says that Israel is now trying to extend the current stage of the deal as much as possible and to get some more hostages out in this first stage. He adds that Israel currently has the upper hand right given Trump's support, and Hamas appears to be carefully maneuvering itself, in its attempt not to be seen as the one making the deal fail. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Netanyahu gifted Trump a golden pager at White House meeting, PM’s office confirms Trump says Israel would hand Gaza to US when war ends, no American troops needed there PM calls Trump’s Gaza plan ‘remarkable’; Katz tells IDF to prep for voluntary emigration Meeting Netanyahu, US defense secretary says Trump seeking ‘new ways to solve problems’ Trump’s Gaza plan won’t happen, but it could certainly shake up the region IMAGE: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, center, is welcomed by, from left, Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., as they meet at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and reporter Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol discusses the range of comments and reactions from Knesset members to the remarks made by US President Donald Trump regarding the possible relocation of Gazans from the Strip during the expectedly long reconstruction period. He looks at the expectedly pleased statements from the far-right end of the government, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to the more guarded comments from opposition leader Yair Lapid and National Unity party leader Benny Gantz. Bletter reports on her trips to several northern villages, where residents are waiting to see if the ceasefire with Hezbollah will hold. Her visit to Alawite village Ghajar, the Israeli town of Mattat and the Druze village of Hurfeish left her with an impression of residents eager to return to regular life but unsure as to what the future may hold. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Ben Gvir says he’ll return to government if PM implements Trump’s Gaza transfer plan Smotrich says he supports Saudi normalization, but not if it means ending war Lapid: We need to ‘study the details to understand’ Trump’s plan for Gaza Gantz welcomes Trump’s Gaza comments: ‘Creative, original and interesting thinking’ ‘Fear is now in our DNA’: With pause in Hezbollah attacks, two border towns regroup As Alawite village on Israel-Lebanon border reopens, locals fear for relatives in Syria IMAGE: Displaced Palestinians return to their homes in the northern Gaza Strip via Rashid Street located on the sea, on February 5, 2025 (Photo by Ali Hassan/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. After US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met in the White House on Tuesday, Trump repeated his statements to the press about relocating all Gazans, possibly placing US troops in Gaza and annexing the West Bank. Magid reviews the highlights of Trump's comments and the press conference that followed, as well as reactions from Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, condemning Trump's plan. Magid discusses Trump's ideas regarding a peace process with Saudi Arabia and looks at the US President's statements regarding the annexation of the West Bank as a pressure tactic and one that naturally emboldens Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners. In Magid's exit interview with Israel's Ambassador to the US, Mike Herzog, who served two different Israeli governments, the diplomat shares his perspectives on US-Israel relations, criticizing the Biden administration for its delays in shipping armaments, but also warning against relying solely on Republican support for Israel. Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. 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. For further reading: Trump: US will ‘take over’ Gaza, level it and create ‘Riviera of the Middle East’ Countering Trump, Saudi Arabia says no Israel normalization without Palestinian state Hosting PM, Trump urges permanent relocation of all Gazans: ‘That place has been hell’ After finishing DC tour, an Israeli ambassador known for his discretion is ready to talk IMAGE: US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu holding a joint press conference at the White House in Washington D.C., February 4, 2025. (Photo by Liri Agami/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. Reporter Amy Spiro joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. With the release home of hostage and surveillance soldier Agam Berger, followed by the terrifying mayhem surrounding the release of hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and the five Thai hostages, Spiro discusses Israel's delay of the release of Palestinian prisoners, and its demand to Hamas to guarantee safe passage in the release of future hostages. Spiro reviews what is known about the release of the Thai hostages, Pongsak Thenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Seathao, and Surasak Lamnau, and reactions from the Thai Embassy. US President Donald Trump's Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff was in Israel yesterday, meeting with some of the released hostages and in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square and Spiro discusses his central role in the ongoing ceasefire and his meetings with some of the more right-wing partners of the coalition government. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is traveling to the US next week to meet with Trump, amid the ceasefire talks, and Spiro talks about expectations for those negotiations. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: ‘We’ll never leave you again’: Families meet freed hostages after 15 months of agony Furious over ‘shocking scenes’ of hostage handover, Israel delays release of prisoners Surveillance soldiers all finally home: Agam Berger’s return closes one horrific Oct. 7 chapter In Thailand, families of hostages weep with joy upon news of their release from Gaza Working through the trauma, Thai farmhands who survived Oct. 7 return to the fields Zakaria Zubeidi among terrorists to get heroes’ welcome as Israel frees 110 prisoners Witkoff meets freed soldiers, ex-hostages, officials, stresses commitment to full deal Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Arbel Yehoud, center, with her parents and siblings on an IDF helicopter after being freed from captivity on January 30, 2025. (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Magid takes a look at President Donald Trump's first week in office, including Trump's controversial comments regarding Gazans and where they could be moved, even temporarily during the reconstruction of parts of Gaza, and how Egypt and Jordan view the influx of Palestinians as a security threat. He also discusses Steve Witkoff's role in hostage negotiations and his seemingly personal connection to the families of released hostages, as Witkoff touches down in Israel for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about Saudi Arabia. Magid shares insights from his interview with Barbara Leaf, a top Middle East diplomat from the Biden administration as they explored the ongoing challenges in Gaza post-war. Leaf expressed regret over the lack of a post-war plan for Gaza, and commented that recent developments in Syria and Lebanon could positively impact regional stability. Finally, Magid looks at the Trump administration's claims about foreign aid spending during the Biden years, including a humorous controversy regarding US foreign aid for supposed condom distribution in Gaza. This conversation can also be viewed here: For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Trump says ‘would be nice’ to solve Iranian nuclear crisis without Israeli strikes Trump doubles down on proposal to move Gazans; insists Egypt and Jordan will agree ‘We averted much worse’: Biden’s top Mideast diplomat looks back on tumultuous term Trump invites Netanyahu to visit White House; PM’s office says meeting set for Feb. 4 White House: Biden allotted $50m for Gaza condoms; ex-official denies ‘feverish dream’ 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: At the entrance to a Tel Aviv conference entitled 'Opportunities for Israel under Trump,' in Tel Aviv. January 28, 2025. (Photo by Tomer Neuberg/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. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Israel allows thousands of Gazans to return to the north of the Strip, as per the hostage-ceasefire deal, following confirmation that hostages Arbel Yehoud, Agam Berger and a third hostage would be released this week on Thursday, while three more hostages, all men, will be released on Saturday, Schneider notes. She also reviews the latest regarding the Hezbollah ceasefire, which is being extended until February 18, during which time the Lebanese army is supposed to to deploy to the eastern part of southern Lebanon, close to Syria and the Golan Heights, and stabilize what is currently seen as a fragile ceasefire. Schneider describes a recent visit to Kibbutz Nir Oz near the Gaza border, one of the kibbutzim hardest hit by the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, where only half a dozen homes were left standing. IDF forces never reached Nir Oz on that day, and neither have Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or many other ministers in the ensuing 15 months. Surkes talks about how some veteran Israeli aid workers are caught between considering the humanitarian needs of war-torn Gaza, which they haven't been able to enter since the war began, and mourning communities and individuals victimized by the brutal Hamas onslaught on October 7, 2023, which started the war. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Thousands of Gazans gather on coastal road as IDF blocks access to Strip’s north Israel: Arbel Yehoud, Agam Berger, 3rd hostage to be freed Thursday; 3 more on Saturday Israel and Lebanon extend truce, with IDF troop withdrawal deadline moved to Feb. 18 22 killed in south Lebanon as IDF fires on suspects trying to break through to villages Israel fiddled while Nir Oz burned, but the kibbutz will rise again Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Displaced Palestinians make their way back to their homes in the northern Gaza Strip on January 27, 2025. (Photo by Ali Hassan/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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Horovitz reviews the fraught, ongoing process of the hostage releases, both those that took place last Sunday and the four living women expected to be released on Saturday. He comments on how every day carries a new twist in the ceasefire and hostage exchange, and the terrifying moment of transfer in Gaza City, last Sunday. He also talks about some of the behind-the-scenes aspects of the ceasefire, how and why it finally came about, the cooperation between the Trump and Biden administrations, the weakened Hezbollah and positioning of Hamas, along with the fact that it's not an easy deal for Israel, but it will save hostages' lives. Discussion of phase two of the deal has also begun, as hostage families plea for their loved ones' lives. Horovitz discusses some of the politics that will enter that part of the process, and how that could affect the stability of Netanyahu's political coalition and what he might do about that. Horovitz talks about the likelihood of the Palestinian Authority taking some portion of control over Gaza, and the tremendous amount of nuance involved in any discussion of that possibility. Finally, he talks about the resignation of IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, due to take effect in March, and what it has meant to have Halevi take responsibility for the failures that led to October 7, as well as why many Israelis still feel loyal to him. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Top officials said already gearing up for 2nd phase hostage talks, ahead of schedule Israel said to tell Hamas it expects Arbel Yehud to be among next freed hostages Farewell Herzi Halevi, uniformed embodiment of our national tragedy, leader of the fightback IDF chief Halevi’s resignation letter: Oct. 7 failure will stay with me for rest of my life 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: Varda Ben Baruch, grandmother of Idan Alexander who is held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, holds a sign as she stands outside the Prime Minister's office in Jerusalem, January 23, 2025. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Magid reviews the leadup to President Donald Trump's inauguration into office as the 47th president of the United States, including the President-elect's role in the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal that began with the release of three female hostages on Sunday. Magid points out that reaching the second phase of the deal may be more difficult, given the pressures on Netanyahu's coalition government, and the prime minister's desire to remain fighting Hamas in Gaza. Magid also looks at Trump and Netanyahu's various supporters, and who has sway over the two leaders in their decision-making process. Magid discusses Trump's comments during the inauguration rally, as he invited hostage families and former hostage Noa Argamani on stage, but made a point about releasing the January 6, 2021 "hostages," not referring to the hostages taken by Hamas to Gaza. After the inauguration and rally, says Magid, Trump signed a number of orders, including undoing the Biden sanctions against violent Israeli settlers, revoking the Biden order that removed Trump's 2020 sanctions on the International Criminal Court and ordering a 90-day pause in foreign development assistance. Finally, Magid discusses Trump's casual comment regarding the Gaza ceasefire and that it may not hold, remarking that the war in Gaza is "their war, not our war," perhaps as a way for Trump to distance himself from the region and situation. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Trump looks to ride on success of hostage deal as he readies to take oath of office On day one, Trump rolls back Biden sanctions regime targeting violent Israeli settlers Trump orders 90-day pause in foreign development assistance, likely impacting Palestinians Trump revokes Biden order that removed his 2020 sanctions on the ICC Trump believes Israeli-Saudi normalization can be reached ‘soon’ Trump says not confident Gaza deal will hold through all three phases ‘I thought I’d die in Gaza’: First testimonies from freed hostages released 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: President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance and first lady Melania Trump greet families of hostages held in Gaza, during an indoor Presidential Inauguration parade event at Capital One Arena, Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Reporter Amy Spiro filling in for diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman and environmental correspondent Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Spiro says there is optimism that the proposed hostage deal will be signed by Wednesday or Thursday, and reviews the proposed details of the deal that it is very similar to what was proposed last May, with a first stage of 33 hostages to be released in exchange for around 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in Israel, and negotiations on a second phase of hostages 16 days into the ceasefire. Spiro says that Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar calls this a gradual deal, not a partial deal. She reviews the process of approving the deal, which would first go to the security cabinet and then to the entire government cabinet. Spiro remarks that Likud ministers have said the deal will pass, even without right-wing politicians National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir or Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on board, and that opposition leader Yair Lapid has said he will do what is necessary to ensure the deal goes through despite any longer-term political implications. Surkes discusses the new reforms aimed at changing the range of imported goods from the European Union, intended to lower prices on goods in Israel. Surkes also looks at a Tel Aviv University study regarding the lack of cave art in the Levant and a bereaved family member's newspaper that looks at how Israel could become a better place. The printed newspaper, written only by bereaved families, aligns with the latest Yoni Bloch song that Steinberg speaks about briefly, with an AI clip that imagines the hostages released home and peace in the Middle East. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Smotrich undecided on hostage deal at this ‘fateful moment’ Gaza ceasefire-hostage deal on brink of finalization, as reports spell out details Israeli officials: Deal will see 33 hostages freed in 1st stage, most of them alive Ben Gvir says he repeatedly foiled hostage deals, urges Smotrich to help him stop this one Along with soaring prices, Israel rings in 2025 with economic reforms, but will they work? Israeli researchers devise woolly solution to enigma of why Levant has no cave art AI music clip imagines all hostages released, a new MidEast 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: Protestors at Begin Gate in Tel Aviv on January 15, 2025, calling for the release of all the hostages and the end to the war (Credit Yoav Loeff)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and reporter Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Tensions are high in Israel over the possibility of a proposed hostage deal. Schneider discusses the Sunday phone conversation between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden regarding the negotiations. She also reviews which Israeli officials are currently in Doha, along with Steve Witkoff, President-elect Donald Trump's Middle East envoy. Schneider says Netanyahu met with coalition leaders Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, as the prime minister needs those two powerful coalition partners on board to approve any hostage deal. Bletter talks about her visits to two northern kibbutz communities where residents have been evacuated for more than a year and now have to decide what the future holds for them. She also discusses a Weizmann Institute study about ants, and their ability to work well as a team, unlike their human counterparts. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Biden stresses ‘immediate need’ for hostage-truce deal in call with Netanyahu Netanyahu dispatches top negotiators to Qatar talks amid push to seal hostage deal PM to meet with Smotrich to gauge support for a potential hostage deal — report Inside the Lebanon-border closed military zone, kibbutz members prepare to start over Ants have more ‘group smarts’ than humans, Israeli study 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 Podwaves. IMAGE: People walking next to a poster of Israelis held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, 'We won't stop until they're all released!' in Jerusalem, January 12, 2025 ( Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As US Secretary of State Antony Blinken nears the end of his term in the Biden administration, Blinken says that mediators are very close to securing a ceasefire and hostage release agreement, something that hasn't been stated in a while. However, Magid says it may only be finalized at the start of the new Trump administration. He discusses other aspects of the hostage deal under discussion, including the refrain from hostage families that a deal for only 34 hostages, some of them no longer living, will leave two-thirds of the remaining hostages behind, a death sentence for them, adds Magid. Magid notes that Blinken placed the blame on Hamas for holding up a hostage deal for months in his recent interview with The New York Times, a comment which suggests that the US never wanted to blame Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his positioning on the deal, says Magid, even when it frustrated the negotiating teams. He also looks at the proposed $8 billion arms deal being prepped by the Biden administration, and which has to be approved by the Senate and House committees. Magid says the deal is to ensure that Israel has the arms it needs in the case of any further Iranian attacks. Magid talks about the appointment of Morgan Ortegus as deputy Middle East envoy, someone who opposes Trump's isolationist approach and therefore Trump didn't offer a ringing endorsement of her appointment. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Blinken: We’re very close to hostage deal, it’ll be handed to Trump if not finalized Blinken: After Oct. 7, I threatened to nix Biden visit if Israel didn’t let aid into Gaza Biden administration prepping $8 billion arms package for Israel, including heavy bombs Trump appoints Ortagus as deputy Mideast envoy, but admits he’s not excited about it Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ben Wallick. IMAGE: Demonstrators protest outside the prime minister's Jerusalem residence after the IDF recovered the body of hostage Youssef Ziyadne from a Gaza tunnel, January 8, 2025. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Arab Affairs correspondent Gianluca Pacchiani and Tech Editor Sharon Wrobel join host Jessica Steinberg on today's show. Pacchiani discusses the latest with the Hamas list of proposed hostages that would include some 34 living captives out of the remaining 100 hostages left in Gaza, as Hamas asks for greater numbers of prisoners in a hostage exchange. Pacchiani also reviews the status of Hezbollah in Lebanon as the 60-day ceasefire with Israel draws to an end, the opportunity for Hezbollah to rest and prepare for a possible renewal of fighting and what it all means for the balance of power in Lebanon's complicated political mosaic. Wrobel talks about comments made by the Bank of Israel governor at the start of the new year, with some cautious optimism for the Israeli economy and a look at the costs borne by the country for the ongoing war. She also discusses the emergency grants offered to evacuated families from Israel's north. To take advantage of the financial packages, families must return home by March 2025. Wrobel dives into consumer legislation being considered by the government to cancel flight compensation for passengers, as part of an effort to ease the financial costs to airlines and help bring foreign airlines back to Israeli skies. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israeli negotiators head to Qatar amid some reported progress in hostage talks Central bank sees economy improving but warns of continued geopolitical uncertainty Israel lays out NIS 3.4 billion plan to get northerners back home in March Israel to cut travelers’ flight cancellation compensation to woo back foreign airlines Who’s afraid of the Houthis? Iran’s last proxy standing is proving no pushover for Israel Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Nomi Studios. IMAGE: Watching planes take off at Ben Gurion International Airport, August 26, 2024. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's show. Magid discusses why former defense minister Yoav Gallant resigned from the Knesset, which appears to be primarily due to his opposition to legislation that would allow ultra-Orthodox men exemptions from army service. The move is somewhat confusing, given that Gallant's vote could have made a difference regarding certain legislation, but he seems to be leaving as a political move, to cement his future possibilities. Magid looks at why the hostage talks are reported to have stalled, with obstacles that included Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's not offering a viable alternative as to who would fill the void of Hamas leadership in Gaza, and the Hamas stance that it can't locate all the remaining hostages held in Gaza. He also reviews a Palestinian Authority crackdown on armed terror groups in Jenin in the northern West Bank, and its relationship to the fall of Assad to rebel groups in Syria. Criticism of the Palestinian Authority's activity was broadcast on Al Jazeera, and the news channel was then barred temporarily from the West Bank. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Gallant resigns from Knesset, denounces imminent bill to exempt Haredim from IDF Hamas said willing to free only 22 of 34 living hostages demanded by Israel in deal PA halts Al Jazeera West Bank broadcasts amid criticism of its terror crackdown 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: MK Yoav Gallant in the corridors of the Knesset on December 23, 2024. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Sam Sokol joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's show. Sokol discusses the political machinations in the Knesset as voting over the 2025 budget leads National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and several ultra-Orthodox parties to threaten to oppose the bill, given some of the planned cuts. While Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have banded together in the past over their political aspirations, the two have been at odds for some time, which could possibly lead to a break in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition, explains Sokol. Sokol reviews the further political dramas that played out on Tuesday in the Knesset, as Netanyahu, recovering from a successful prostate removal surgery at the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, was forced to leave his hospital bed and return to the Knesset, in order to cast a decisive vote on the budget law, and thwart Ben Gvir. Another Knesset member, Likud MK Boaz Bismuth, who was in the midst of the seven-day mourning period for his mother, was also pushed to leave the shiva and come to the Knesset and vote in favor of the bill. Sokol also offers a brief description of the fragment of a Houthi missile that landed in his Beit Shemesh neighborhood late Monday night. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: PM leaves hospital to cast decisive vote on a budget law, thwarting Ben Gvir revolt Coalition factions threaten to vote against key budget bill over cuts, Haredi draft In rare cross-aisle cooperation, MKs back bill to penalize ministers who snub oversight IDF downs ballistic missile from Yemen as sirens heard across central Israel Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a vote at the plenum of the Knesset in Jerusalem, on December 31, 2024. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Horovitz discusses ongoing spin regarding ongoing hostage negotiations, more than a year after the release of 105 hostages that took place during a brief pause in fighting last November 2023. It's not clear if it's a truce or ceasefire, says Horovitz, but Israel says it needs to know how many people or who Hamas would be releasing, and mutual recriminations continue without a final deal. He also discusses how it has become the "semi-norm" for half of Israel to dash for shelter in the middle of the night to avoid incoming rockets from the Houthis in Yemen, and how complicated it is to retaliate to this Iranian-linked organization. Horovitz reviews his latest op-ed about a new sense of awareness and preparedness of the IDF on the many fronts where it's been fighting, including the unfolding situation in Syria, where it is being extremely wary and doing what it can militarily, to minimize possible future consequences with the new regime. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israel and Hamas accuse each other of foiling hostage-ceasefire deal IDF probe: Intel on 6 hostages murdered by Hamas was lacking; troops acted carefully Houthis fire missile at central Israel for 4th night in past week; IDF intercepts it Houthi drone crashes in south as terror group said to brace for major Israeli attack Report: Mossad chief believes Israel should target Iran to get at Houthis; PM disagrees IDF’s prewar complacency replaced by wariness on every front, proactivism where possible Israel shifts focus to Houthis, but it needs partners to defeat distant foe 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: Mia Shalom, mother of IDF soldier Almog Shalom who was killed in battle, lights the first Hanukkah candle on his grave at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem on December 25, 2024. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Magid discusses the ongoing hostage negotiations, commenting that if a deal happens, it will probably take place closer to the January 20 inauguration date for President-elect Donald Trump. Magid says that Qatari negotiators are asking the Israeli government to be more flexible in their current mandate, as Hamas seeks assurances that Israel won't return to fighting after the discussed first phase. Magid reviews some threatening comments made during a podcast interview by Mike Waltz, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for national security advisor. Waltz spoke about punishments and reprisals for those who take US hostages, with an emphasis placed by both Trump and Waltz in recent comments on the American hostages who are held in Gaza. Magid speaks about an unlikely statement from US Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew, who asserted that a new report alleging famine in north Gaza was incorrect, remarking that the data used was outdated. The unexpected statement was possibly a final shot by Lew as an outgoing ambassador, says Magid. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hostage negotiators returning to Israel for ‘internal deliberations,’ says PM’s office Trump national security pick threatens US hostage-takers with ‘bullet in forehead’ US calls new report asserting famine in north Gaza ‘outdated and inaccurate’ 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: Demonstrators dressed as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, right, and Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, left, take part in a performance during a protest against the government and call for the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip by the Hamas militant group, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and environmental reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Schneider discusses the ongoing discussion in Israel's defense establishment of changing Israel’s long-range attack systems from the country's use of air power, as seen in retaliatory Israeli strikes against Iran in October and against Yemen this month. She also reviews the lifting of the gag order on the name of reservist Ari Rosenfeld, the IDF officer charged with transferring classified information in the Prime Minister's Office. Rosenfeld is under arrest, and his lawyer and wife wanted his name publicized to put pressure on the legal establishment. Surkes examines the net-zero factory created by the founder of the Shoresh sandal empire in northern Israel and his aim to convince other industrialists and Israelis to do the same. She also talks about the reopening of the Hula nature reserve in Israel's north, closed for 14 months during the Hezbollah rocket attacks from Lebanon and how that affected the birds that migrate in the spring and fall to the area. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Amid IDF rethink, some see air-launched missile doctrine moving to more solid ground ‘My Ari does not deserve this treatment’: Wife of suspect in PM’s office document leak scandal calls for his release After 14 months at risk of Hezbollah attacks, Northern Israel’s Hula Lake Park reopens 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: Security forces at the scene where a ballistic missile fired from Yemen hit a playground in Jaffa on December 21, 2024. (Photo by Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.