Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Oren

Former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren joins Brian to discuss the direct links between ISIS-inspired terror plot in New York City and the regime in Iran. Plus, Kathy Lee Gifford and Dennis Prager join the show to discuss faith, history, and the battle between good and evil. [00:08:52] Dennis Prager   [00:44:33] Patrick McGarry   [00:55:14] Stuart Varney   [01:13:38] Michael Oren   [01:32:01] Kathie Lee Gifford Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a gripping interview interrupted by active missile sirens in Tel Aviv, former Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. Michael Oren joins Brian Kilmeade to deliver a stark warning. From the recent ISIS-linked terror plot at Gracie Mansion in NYC to the rocket fire raining down on Israel, Oren exposes the common theology and singular goal of the global Islamic extremist network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hugh discusses the war in Iran with Sen. Tom Cotton, Lucas Tomlinson, Dr. Michael Oren, Nadav Eyal, Salena Zito, Leland Vittert, and Dr. Ross Greene (author, "The Kids Who Aren't Okay").See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Martha Raddatz interviews U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Michael Waltz about the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran as the war expands across the Middle East; Former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Dr. Michael Oren joins Martha Raddatz in Jerusalem to analyze the Israelis' approach to the war and relationship with the United States. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For decades the conflict between Israel and Iran lived in the shadows—proxies, sabotage, and covert strikes. Not anymore. According to my guest, Michael Oren—historian and former Israeli ambassador to the United States—what began with Hamas's October 7 attack has spiraled into a widening regional war stretching from Gaza to Tehran. Oren shares his view of how a long-building confrontation suddenly burst into the open, drew in the United States, and what it may mean for the future of the Middle East and the world. Get full access to Talk Cocktail Podcast at jeffschechtman.substack.com/subscribe

Filling in for Hugh today is Mark Davis, host of "The Mark Davis Show" on Dallas' 660 AM The Answer. Mark discusses the war in Iran with Joel Pollack, Roger Zakheim, Simone Ledeen, Dr. Michael Oren, Philip Klein, Michael Doran, Sarah Bedford, and Ezra Cohen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Hugh discusses the war in Iran with Haviv Rettig Gur, Mark Dubowitz, Abe Greenwald, Dr. Michael Oren, Byron York, Sen. Joni Ernst, John Ashbrook, and David Drucker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour: Full coverage of the war in Iran by Carl Quintanilla, Sara Eisen, and David Faber - and the impact on global markets with a great line-up of experts. Hear from CNBC's own Michael Santoli and Rick Santelli... alongside Ian Bremmer from Eurasia Group, former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, market veteran Richard Bernstein, and Former Israel Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren.    Squawk on the Street Disclaimer Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Israel has never been stronger. Since October 7, 2023, Israel has steadily rolled back its enemies in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. A staunch friend of Israel is in the White House, and he might well launch a second wave of strikes on Israel's archenemy in Tehran. Or is Israel historically vulnerable? None of the adversaries it has taken on since the Hamas invasion are defeated. US President Donald Trump is an ally, but both the Democratic and Republican parties have influential and growing wings that are hostile to Israel, if not antisemitic.To make sense of this moment, one needs a grasp of military strategy, Middle East geopolitics, and the workings of the US-Israel relationship. Michael Oren, Israel's former envoy in Jerusalem and a leading Middle East historian, says that the post-October 7 wars represent "one of the greatest military victories in modern history, perhaps in all history." However, it remains to be seen whether Israel can translate the military victories into permanent strategic and diplomatic gains. On the potential for a US strike in Iran, Oren stresses the importance of missile defense for the US Navy, as Iran's greatest achievement would be the sinking of an American aircraft carrier. He predicts that after Trump issued clear threats and put his reputation on the line, he is not going to back down and leave a legacy that could be compared to that of Barack Obama. Looking at the future of the US-Israeli relationship, Oren notes that the US is going through domestic processes that Israel has no control over, but often use Israel to score political points. Given those trends, Israel should diversify its diplomatic relationships, but there will never be a replacement for American support. Oren firmly supports Israel moving off of US military aid, and transforming its relationship with Washington into one of equal partners working together to develop capabilities. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses Gaza, the Board of Peace, Iran options, and talks with Haviv Rettig Gur, Ambassador Mike Waltz, Dr. Michael Oren, and Bethany Mandel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outcome-Based Selling sounds powerful - but most sales transformation efforts stall because organizations still think like product companies. In this episode, we unpack what it really takes to shift from product selling to true customer centricity and enterprise sales strategy. In this episode of the B2B Sales Trends Podcast, Harry Kendlbacher sits down with Michael Oren, SVP Americas Sales at Dematic, to explore the uncomfortable truth behind outcome-based selling and sales transformation inside enterprise environments. This is not theory. It's lived experience - from Xerox to Dematic - across real organizations, real customers, and real accountability.

Hugh discusses Iran and more with Dr. Michael Oren, Jim Talent, Noah Rothman, Eliana Johnson, Josh Kraushaar, Sarah Bedford, Philip Balboni, and Jonathan Williams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses Iran and the partial government shutdown, and talks with Dr. Michael Oren, Bethany Mandel, Sen. Tom Cotton, Vic Matus, and Haviv Rettig Gur.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since his interview with President Trump on January 8, Hugh has conducted a series of longer interview with American and Israeli experts not currently in intelligence jobs, on the likely war with Iran. They are collected in this podcast. The guests are President Trump, Haviv Rettig Gur, Mark Dubowitz, Behnam Ben Taleblu, Rear Admiral Mark C Montgomery (USN, Ret), Danielle Pletka, Dr. Michael Oren, former Senator Jim Talent, Richard Goldberg, Eli Lake, Abe Greenwald, and Karim Sadjadpour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses Minneapolis, Canada, and Iran, and talks with Dr. Michael Oren, Dan Wall, Sen. Tom Cotton, Bethany Mandel, and Benham Ben Taleblu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stateoftelaviv.comAmbassador Michael Oren brings decades of deep experience as an historian, diplomat, and politician to bear on this critical moment in Mid-East volatility. Asked at the outset of our discussion what's at stake, he did not hesitate for a second. “Everything.” We discuss the always wobbly status quo in the region and the sweeping change that has gone down…

Hugh discusses the Iran protests and possible actions by President Donald Trump, and talks with Dr. Michael Oren, Steve Hilton & Gloria Romero, Sen. Tom Cotton, Mark Dubowitz, Adm. Mark Montgomery (USN, Ret.), David Bahnsen, and Sebastien Lai.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses Operation Absolute Resolve, the latest news for Venezuela, and talks with Senator Tom Cotton, former Ambassador and NSA Robert C. O'Brien, Dr. Michael Oren, Daniel Runde, and Vic Matus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Col. Kurt Schlichter fills in for Hugh and talks with Jim Geraghty, David Drucker, AAG Harmeet Dhillon, Dr. Michael Oren, Ric Grenell, Andrew Kolvet, and James Lileks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses the GDP and inflation numbers that came out, the Tim Walz/Minnesota fraud scandal, talks with callers as well as David Drucker, David Bahnsen, Dr. Michael Oren, Noah Rothman, Adm. Mark Montgomery (USN, Ret.), and Eli Lake.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special episode of Hub Dialogues features the opening statements from the Munk Debate on the Two-State Solution moderated by The Hub's Rudyard Griffiths. Arguing in favour of the resolution was former Israeli prime minister, finance minister, and mayor of Jerusalem, Ehud Olmert. His debate partner was Tzipi Livni, who served as Israel's justice and foreign minister and the country's chief peace negotiator in 2008 and 2014.  Arguing against the resolution was the celebrated historian, former Israeli ambassador to the United States and deputy minister in the Prime Minister's Office, Michael Oren. His debate partner was Ayelet Shaked, who most recently served as Israel's justice minister and minister of the interior. The debate was held on December 3rd at Toronto's Meridian Hall. For more information visit www.munkdebates.com.   The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go: https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify)    Want more Hub? Get a FREE 1-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en   CREDITS: Ricki Gurwitz - Producer & Editor Amal Attar-Guzman - Assistant Editor  Rudyard Griffiths - Host   To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts email support@thehub.ca.

On this special podcast episode we are sharing the opening statements from the Munk Debate on the Two-State Solution which took place on December 3rd in front of an audience of 3,000 people at Toronto’s Meridian Hall. The debate resolution was Be it resolved, it is in Israel’s interest to support a two-state solution Arguing in favour of the resolution was former Israeli prime minister, finance minister, and mayor of Jerusalem, Ehud Olmert. His debate partner was Tzipi Livni, who served as Israel's justice and foreign minister and the country's chief peace negotiator in 2008 and 2014. Arguing against the resolution was the celebrated historian, former Israeli ambassador to the United States and deputy minister in the Prime Minister's Office, Michael Oren. His debate partner was Ayelet Shaked, who most recently served as Israel's justice minister and minister of the interior. As with all our live Munk Debates, the audience voted on this resolution prior to hearing the debate. Initially, 67% of attendees voted in favour of the debate motion, and 33% voted against. We did another poll after the debate to find out how many people had changed their minds once they listened to arguments from both sides. If you would like to watch or listen to the full debate go to www.munkdebates.com

Hugh recaps Thanksgiving, Ohio State winning "The Game" against Michigan, and updates on Israel with Haviv Rettig Gur, Bethany Mandel, David Drucker, Dr. Michael Oren, Vic Matus, and Doug Lesmerises.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren, a diplomat and former member of the Israeli Knesset, says he has always refused to do public “gladitorial” debates when it comes to representing Israel these last two decades in public life. But the American-born statesman and author changed his long-standing practice to come to Canada this Wednesday Dec. 3 to headline the Munk Debates on stage in Toronto. Organizers are mounting what they admit is their thorniest topic ever: be it resolved that supporting the two-state solution is in Israel's best interests. Oren is on the “no side” together with right-wing former Israeli politician Ayelet Shaked. They'll take on a former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert former cabinet minister Tzipi Livni, who will be arguing for the “yes” side. The debate is already attracting controversy for several reasons: there were no Palestinian voices invited on the program, and organizers are expecting protests, so security has been ramped up. They also had to move from their traditional venue, Roy Thomson Hall, for the first time in 15 years. But despite the side show, Oren believes the Munk Debates are important to reach a massive online audience with reasoned arguments, including why most Israelis oppose the so-called two-state solution in any near future. He calls the proposal “deranged”, especially after Oct. 7, even though most Western countries, including Canada, are doubling down on the idea. And says the two-state solution is a tragedy for Palestinians. So what's in store for Israel, the Palestinians, and the Middle East? Oren joins The CJN‘s “North Star” podcast host Ellin Bessner on today's episode, for his take. Related Links: Learn more about watching the Munk debate on Dec. 3, 2025. Follow Amb. Michael Oren's columns, his Israel 2048 organization and his books, at his website . Read Amb. Michael Oren's praise for former Canadian prime minister, Stephen Harper and foreign minister, John Baird, during a 2013 speech in Montreal, from The CJN archives Credits:https://munkdebates.com/membership/ Host and writer: Ellin Bessner ( @ebessner ) Production team: Zachary Kauffman (senior producer), Andrea Varsany (producer), Michael Fraiman (executive producer) Music: Bret Higgins Support our show Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to North Star (Not sure how? Click here )

Hugh discusses the MLB gambling scandal, antisemitism and socialism in the Democratic Party, Israel's actions against Lebanon, and talks with Ohio Senator Jon Husted, Former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Dr. Michael Oren, NewsNation's Leland Vittert, Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, Vic Matus of the Free Beacon, Adm Mark Montgomery (USN, Ret.), and Doug Lesmerises of The Bill and Doug Show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses the impending AI bubble, the increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, and talks with Sen. Tom Cotton, Alex Gray, Dr. Michael Oren, Vic Matus, and Doug Lesmerises. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses the reopening of the government and the rise of socialism on the Left with Noah Rothman, John Podhoretz, Josh Kraushaar, Adm. Mark Montgomery (USN, Ret.), Jim Talent, Dr. Michael Oren, and a long conversation with Haviv Rettig Gur.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the hosts tackle the fallout from Zohran Mamdani's election in NYC and the controversy over CAIR's support. Jewish leaders including Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch and Amb. Michael Oren and  voices including Sen. Ted Cruz and commentator Ben Shapiro warn of growing threats, as the ADL and AJC closely monitor Mamdani's activities. In the Middle East, a fragile Gaza ceasefire leaves Hamas fighters trapped in Rafah tunnels, with Rabbi Pesach Wolicki questioning the ceasefire's durability and Netanyahu rejecting a state inquiry regarding October 7. Across the Atlantic, the episode examines antisemitism in the UK — an NHS physician continues to treat patients despite repeated antisemitic outbursts, and Aston Villa's ban on Israeli fans during a match against Maccabi sparks outrage as protesters chant. Back in the U.S., authorities successfully thwarted jihad-inspired terror plots targeting Jewish communities in Michigan and New Jersey, underscoring the growing urgency of vigilance and communal security. Thank you for listening, subscribing and sharing the Third Opinion Podcast.

Hugh discusses the results of Tuesday's elections and talks with New York Congressman Tom Souzzi, Dr. Michael Oren, Phil Balboni, Noah Rothman, Sen. James Lankford, Sarah Bedford.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses Israel-Gaza, the Mayoral race in NYC, and the Gubernatorial race in New Jersey, and talks with Sen. Tom Cotton, Dr. Michael Oren, Bethany Mandel, Adm. Mark Montgomery (USN, Ret.), and Vic Matus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses the NBA gambling scandal and talks with Noah Rothman, Ben Domenech, Dr. Michael Oren, Robert C. O'Brien, Ed Evans, Josh Kraushaar, Seth Mandel, David Drucker, and Jim Geraghty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With his son Yoav Oren (former IDF special‑forces soldier) Ambassador Michael Oren (historian; former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S.) sits down for anunvarnished assessment of the war what “victory” actually means. Highlights: Psychology of war & the IDF: A deep dive into moral erosion under prolonged combat; how rage, fear, and fatigue are managed; why some units choose capture‑over‑kill in close quarters; and the IDF practice of embedding psychologists with frontline units during Gaza operations to stabilize judgment in real time. Oren's two‑line verdict: “Emphatically yes” on military success; “tragically no” because the fight mutates if Hamas retains weapons and cover. The “Hezbollah model” in Gaza: why a foreign peacekeeping shield + undisbursed weapons equals a forever threat. Hostages, Doha, and leverage: what actually forced movement — and what happens next if disarmament stalls. Gaza casualty math, explained from Oren's perspective (the 1:1 claim and why the numbers are contested). How Hamas turns humanitarian aid into a war economy; the logistics and the alleged skimming. On restraint under fire: Yoav's close‑quarters firefight, triage under fire, and the decision to capture, not kill. Anti‑Semitism's uncensored return in the West — and why, according to Oren, arguments and “hasbara” often misfire. USS Liberty: Oren's step‑by‑step rebuttal to the “deliberate attack” narrative. The strategic endgame: surgical strikes, cutting aid diversion, and whether disarmament is possible without a full re‑invasion. 00:00 Intro 01:50 Did Israel “win”? 04:30 Gaza's tunnels and the unique urban fight 06:10 Multi‑front picture (Hezbollah, Iran, Houthis) 07:45 From battlefield gains to regional diplomacy 08:50 Hostages and the “diplomatic shield” 12:50 Why Hamas released hostages (and why it mattered) 15:10 Will Israelis accept another ground push? 15:40 Surgical strikes vs. re‑invasion 16:30 Aid diversion and UN logistics 23:00 Doha strike debate 32:10 IDF conduct under fire; Yoav's firefight 41:00 Rules of engagement, restraint, and misinformation 55:20 Psych support embedded with IDF units 59:00 USS Liberty — the case against conspiracy 1:09:10 Closing thoughts: victory, vigilance, and what comes next

Families are rejoicing across Israel as the remaining living hostages have returned home after two years of Hamas captivity. Former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren joins the Rundown to discuss the emotional reunions, how the Trump administration's personal relationships in the region contributed to the current developments, and whether or not he thinks this is a temporary peace, or the beginning of a new era in the Middle East. A little over two years after the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas, the war that followed it has been ended. President Trump was in Israel meeting with hostage families and spoke before the Knesset before he travelled to Egypt for a peace summit. New York Republican Representative Mike Lawler joins the Rundown to discuss his reaction to the announcement and events unfolding in the Middle East. Plus, commentary by Fox News Legal Analyst & commentator Gregg Jarrett. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hugh discusses the Israel-Gaza ceasefire deal being signed as hostages are reunited with families, and talks with Jonathan Bush, Dr. Michael Oren, Josh Kraushaar, Vic Matus, and Noah Rothman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Families are rejoicing across Israel as the remaining living hostages have returned home after two years of Hamas captivity. Former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren joins the Rundown to discuss the emotional reunions, how the Trump administration's personal relationships in the region contributed to the current developments, and whether or not he thinks this is a temporary peace, or the beginning of a new era in the Middle East. A little over two years after the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas, the war that followed it has been ended. President Trump was in Israel meeting with hostage families and spoke before the Knesset before he travelled to Egypt for a peace summit. New York Republican Representative Mike Lawler joins the Rundown to discuss his reaction to the announcement and events unfolding in the Middle East. Plus, commentary by Fox News Legal Analyst & commentator Gregg Jarrett. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Families are rejoicing across Israel as the remaining living hostages have returned home after two years of Hamas captivity. Former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren joins the Rundown to discuss the emotional reunions, how the Trump administration's personal relationships in the region contributed to the current developments, and whether or not he thinks this is a temporary peace, or the beginning of a new era in the Middle East. A little over two years after the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas, the war that followed it has been ended. President Trump was in Israel meeting with hostage families and spoke before the Knesset before he travelled to Egypt for a peace summit. New York Republican Representative Mike Lawler joins the Rundown to discuss his reaction to the announcement and events unfolding in the Middle East. Plus, commentary by Fox News Legal Analyst & commentator Gregg Jarrett. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fmr. Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A federal grand jury indicts New York Attorney General Letitia James after President Trump called for the Justice Department to bring charges against her. After President Trump touts an Israel-Hamas peace deal that could pave the way for a ceasefire in Gaza, former Israeli Ambassador the U.S. Michael Oren and father of an American hostage Ruby Chen hope for an end to the war and release of the hostages. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's been two years since the October 7th attacks on Israel. On that day in 2023, Hamas fighters killed 1,200 people and took hundreds hostage. In response, Israel unleashed a military campaign that has brought death and devastation to Gaza. Now President Trump, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by his side, has unveiled a 20-point plan he says will bring a lasting peace to the region. On Oct. 3, Hamas said it agrees to release all Israeli hostages, alive or dead, under the terms of Trump's plan and signalled readiness to immediately enter mediated negotiations to discuss the details. Michael Oren, a former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. and a military historian joins The Excerpt with my colleague USA TODAY Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page to discuss the new peace plan. * Note: This conversation was recorded on October 1, 2025.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ICE Under Attack   [00:00:00] Todd Lyons   [00:18:24] Michael Oren   [00:36:47] Marc Thiessen   [00:55:08] Josh Holmes   [01:13:29] Liz Claman [01:31:55] Alizera Jafarzadeh   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“For many of its secular pioneers,” writes former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren in his most recent SAPIR essay, “Zionism was a revolt against chosenness. It was an attempt to become a nation like every other.” Today, especially after October 7, many Israelis are reevaluating this very notion and wondering: is the Jewish state chosen, and if so, for what purpose?Ambassador Oren joined SAPIR Editor-in-Chief Bret Stephens for a searching discussion on Israel's identity and destiny in a post-October 7 world. This SAPIR Conversation was recorded live on Monday, September 8th. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/theo-gerard/monsieur-groove

Hugh discusses the Chinese military parade, Israel-Gaza, and talks with Dr. Michael Oren, Mary Katharine Ham, John Podhoretz, John Campbell, Salena Zito, and Sarah Bedford.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duane Patterson, host of the "Duane's World" podcast, TownHall.com VIP columnist, fills in for Hugh and discusses President Trump deploying National Guard to Washington DC (and more) with Adm. Mark Montgomery (USN, ret.), Dr. Michael Oren, Mary Katharine Ham, Vic Matus, and Bethany Mandel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh discusses U.S.-E.U. trade deal, the market, the media's false claims of famine and genocide in Gaza, Democrats' increasingly low poll numbers, and talks with Senator Tom Cotton, Dr. Michael Oren, Adm. Mark Montgomery (USN, Ret.), Bethany Mandel, and Olivia Beavers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unpacking Israeli History goes live in Chicago! Join host Noam Weissman and historian, statesman, and bestselling author Michael Oren for an extraordinary conversation on Israel's Rubicon moments, missed opportunities, and the decisions that shaped the Jewish state. From 1948 to Iran's nuclear ambitions, discover the pivotal stories behind Israeli history—recorded live with a packed audience. Click here to shop for our latest merch. Please get in touch at noam@unpacked.media. Check us out on ⁠⁠⁠Youtube.⁠ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews⁠⁠⁠⁠

When we last recorded Saturday night, the U.S. had just announced its strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. The U.S. had entered the war. The restrainers had seemingly lost. In the following hours, President Donald Trump said the mission was a “spectacular military success.” And Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the program “obliterated” Iran's nuclear sites.  But there's much more to that story than meets the eye. As Jay Solomon wrote in our pages: Before the U.S. struck, 16 cargo trucks entered the fortified mountain complex and moved unidentified equipment to another location. Are the sites destroyed or merely damaged? Was enriched uranium smuggled out? It all remains unclear. Now the war is heating up. Israel has expanded its bombing campaign beyond nuclear facilities to hit regime targets. Qatar has closed its airspace. And just as we write this, Iran has reportedly fired toward Qatar and Iraq. It all begs the question: Was the strike on Iran's Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant the end of this war—or just the beginning? And what comes next? To understand the state of the nuclear facilities and the state of the war, we've brought together three of the most well-read experts: Michael Oren, Jay Solomon, and Matti Friedman. Oren is the former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. He served from 2009 to 2013. He is also a former Knesset member. He is the author of many books, including Ally: My Journey Across the American-Israeli Divide. Solomon is an investigative journalist who has covered Iran and the region for decades. He just published an explosive piece for The Free Press titled “Did Iran Just Sneak Out Critical Nuclear Material from Fordow?” And, Friedman is our Jerusalem-based columnist, and the author of four books, including his latest, Who by Fire: Leonard Cohen in the Sinai. He just wrote  “After the Bombs: American B-2s Just Changed the Middle East. Now It's Time to Return the Region to the Humans Who Live Here” for our pages. We'll note we recorded this Monday morning, starting around 11 a.m. ET, as a Free Press Live event. To join these, you just need to do one thing—and that's become a Free Press subscriber. Be sure to go to sapirjournal.org/honestly to sign up for your free subscription today! Check out What Could Go Right—available on all major podcast platforms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the early hours of Friday morning, Israel pulled off a historic strike on Iran. As I record these lines, Iran is reporting a “massive explosion” in Isfahan, in a province that is home to several nuclear facilities. In Israel, where Shabbat has begun, the government has ordered all synagogues to shut down—and for citizens to remain close to bomb shelters as they brace for a retaliatory strike. It is hard to overstate the magnitude of this operation. Israel has taken out much of Iran's military leadership and some of its top nuclear scientists and hit nuclear facilities across the country. And it is still going. Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to do whatever it takes in order to prevent a nuclear holocaust. Meanwhile, the X account for Iran's military  has threatened that “our response will be lethal.” And the country's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, has tweeted: “The Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see.” Donald Trump, for his part, is using this as an opening to push Iran into a nuclear deal. This is a historic juncture for the region—not just for the state of Israel, but for the West. So last night, just as the news of these attacks broke, I sat down with former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren and former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett to discuss all of it: the strikes, what they accomplished, how Israel defied conventional wisdom and seemed to pull off the impossible, what we can expect in the days ahead, and—perhaps most importantly to many of our listeners—whether or not America is supporting Israel in its efforts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices