Podcasts about West Bank

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political reporter Ariela Karmel and religion and archaeology correspondent Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As the Prime Minister's Office comes under fire for releasing official photos in which images of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wife, Sara Netanyahu, have been heavily retouched, Karmel discusses the distortion of the historical record and possible breach of important ethical guidelines, and the involvement of the Government Press Office, which is seeking to resolve the issue. A new version of a bill whose purpose is to extend Israeli authority over antiquities and heritage sites in the West Bank, and aims to include Areas A and B — where the Palestinian Authority has civilian control — has the local archaeology world in an uproar, reports Tercatin. The bill aims to extend the powers of the Israel Antiquities Authority, while some archaeologists say the bill would politicize archaeology and create professional problems for them globally. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Sara Netanyahu touches up official photos of herself, distorting archival record New West Bank antiquity bill seeks to extend Israeli authority over Areas A and B Archaeologists dig in against antiquities bill aiming to deepen Israel’s hold on West Bank Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: An image distributed by the Prime Minister's Office and apparently manipulated by Sara Netanyahu, showing her, center, and Benjamin Netanyahu at the Shul of Bal Harbour, Florida, on December 31, 2025. (Amos Ben-Gershom / GPO / Sara Netanyahu)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel has revoked the licenses of 37 international humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza and the West Bank. The move came despite Palestinian objections and appeals from UN agencies and global aid groups.

The Department of Health and Human Services says it is freezing child care payments to Minnesota amid fraud allegations, threatening access for families statewide. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu downplayed escalating settler violence in the West Bank as the actions of “about 70 kids,” drawing outrage as attacks continue. In the U.S., right-wing activists are openly declaring they will stop paying taxes. Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/TYT and use code TYT and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Hosts: Ana Kasparian SUBSCRIBE on YOUTUBE ☞  https://www.youtube.com/@TheYoungTurks FOLLOW US ON: FACEBOOK  ☞   https://www.facebook.com/theyoungturks TWITTER  ☞       https://twitter.com/TheYoungTurks INSTAGRAM  ☞  https://www.instagram.com/theyoungturks TIKTOK  ☞          https://www.tiktok.com/@theyoungturks

Hamas Of The “West Bank” Planning October 7th Style Attack!PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://yishaifleisher.com/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YishaiFleisherTVSUPPORT & CONNECT:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/yishaiFight4Israel: https://fight4israel.givecloud.coTwitter: https://twitter.com/YishaiFleisherLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yishaifleisherFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/YishaiFleisher Support the show

Ten foreign ministers have condemned Israel's decision to close down dozens of international NGOs providing aid to Palestinians in Gaza, urging the Israeli government to "lift these obstacles to humanitarian access and fulfill its commitments" in the territory. The foreign ministers, including from Britain, France and Canada, expressed "deep concern" over the "catastrophic" humanitarian situation and called on Israel to "ensure that international NGOs can operate in Gaza on a sustainable basis." Israel took the decision to revoke the licenses of 37 aid groups working in Gaza and the West Bank from today, claiming they failed to meet requirements under new registration rules. NGO’s that did not renew their registration are no longer allowed to operate in the Gaza Strip starting from today. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Tirza Leibovitz from Physicians for Human Rights (Photo:Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2025 may go down as the year Canada's relationship with the United States was forever changed. Nearly 11 months into U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war, the economic damage is clear. The remedies are not. Washington correspondent Katie Simpson and senior business correspondent Peter Armstrong look at the prospects for a new free trade deal.And: Also in 2025, Trump broke the mold and re-cast the U.S. presidency in his own image. He claimed vast new powers, setting aside existing laws and norms. Washington correspondent Paul Hunter on what Trump's presidency looks like now, and how it may continue into the new year.Also: Officially, there is a ceasefire in Gaza, but for many Gazans, and for Palestinians in the West Bank, the suffering, the hunger and the violence continue. We'll look at the state of the peace plan with Israel and what obstacles lie ahead.Plus: “The weather outside is frightful!” It's not just a line from a classic holiday song. It's how climate experts are interpreting the weather data from 2025. “Extreme” was the word of the year: more hot days, more flooding, more drought, and more fires.

The EU says a new Israeli ban on nearly 40 aid groups working in Gaza and the West Bank would prevent lifesaving assistance from reaching Palestinians. Also in the programme: How did thieves use a drill to steal €30m in a German bank heist? And the best moments from Newshour in 2025.(Photo: MSF treat displaced Palestinians in Rafah. Credit: Haitham Imad/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

Some international humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza and the occupied West Bank say they cannot comply with Israel's demands to supply details of Palestinian staff due to data infringement and safety concerns.Also in the programme: we ask why there is a shortage of female toilets in Japan's parliament; conservation efforts saving albatrosses in South Africa; and we look at the best moments from Newshour in 2025.(Photo: A Palestinian man carries food items collected from aid packages dropped from an airplane, amid a hunger crisis, in Deir Al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, August 12, 2025. REUTERS/Ramadan Abed)

PM Netanyahu and President Trump at Mar-a-Lago take questions on Iran, Gaza, Syria, Judea and Samaria ("West Bank") Malkah joins Yishai to break it all down ... PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://yishaifleisher.com/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YishaiFleisherTVSUPPORT & CONNECT:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/yishaiFight4Israel: https://fight4israel.givecloud.coTwitter: https://twitter.com/YishaiFleisherLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yishaifleisherFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/YishaiFleisherSupport the show

Queen Camilla has praised the courage of BBC racing commentator John Hunt and his family - after his wife, Carol, and two daughters, Louise and Hannah, were killed by Louise's ex-partner.Israel's ban on almost 40 aid agencies working in Gaza and the West Bank is described as "unacceptable" by countries including the UK. The Israelis say the organisations must vet their staff more thoroughly.Plus: our political editor Chris Mason reflects on the prospects for Labour and the Prime Minister in 2026.

In this episode of Geopolitics with Ghost, Ghost breaks down the long anticipated Trump–Netanyahu meeting and the global reactions surrounding it. Going beyond headlines, he walks through the full press conference, examining tone, body language, and what was said, and not said, about Gaza, Hamas disarmament, the West Bank, Iran, Turkey, Syria, Hezbollah, and the Abraham Accords. Ghost also explores Netanyahu's legal troubles, Trump's comments on Iran and nuclear negotiations, and the broader implications for Middle East power dynamics. The episode expands into Russia and Ukraine, including the drone incident near President Putin's residence, Lavrov's warning, and what it signals for ongoing negotiations. Ghost closes with deeper historical context, economic considerations, and pattern recognition across conflict zones, tying food scarcity, terrorism, and global influence together into a larger geopolitical framework.

The Israeli government is set to revoke the licences of 37 aid groups working in Gaza and the West Bank, which have failed to meet its new vetting rules. Israel says the suspensions will not affect the delivery of aid, but the move has drawn widespread criticism.

Mo Amer is a Palestinian American comedian who puts himself at the heart of his work, using his own lived experiences to fuel his comedy. But with the situation in Gaza and the Israeli occupied West Bank right now, that's getting harder to do. This past summer, Mo joined Tom Power to talk about the pressure he's feeling as a Palestinian American comedian, the emotional conversations he's been having with his fans, and how his life in comedy all got started

To support the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology: ats.org/callmebackSubscribe to Inside Call me Back inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsListen to What's Your Number: lnk.to/GsOESPSubscribe to Nadav Eyal's Substack: https://nadave.substack.com/Subscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: https://lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': https://lnk.to/rfGlrAFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: Critics of Israel often emphasize the phenomenon of extremist settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Yet it can be difficult to understand the scope of the problem from afar, given the anti-Israel bias and false reporting demonstrated by many media outlets, especially following October 7. To get to the bottom of this controversial issue — and to filter signal from noise — Dan sat down with Ark Media contributor Nadav Eyal and Rabbi David Stav. Rabbi Stav is the co-founder and chairman of the Tzohar rabbinic organization and serves as Chief Rabbi of the city of Shoham in central Israel.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerBRITTANY COHEN - Production ManagerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS AND PATRICIO SPADAVECCHIA - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Associate ProducerGABE SILVERSTEIN - Community ManagementYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer

Critics of Israel often emphasize the phenomenon of extremist settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Yet it can be difficult to understand the scope of the problem from afar, given the anti-Israel bias and false reporting demonstrated by many media outlets, especially following October 7. To get to the bottom of this controversial […]

Defense Minister Yisrael Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have termed the large-scale burning of trash by Palestinians in the West Bank as a national security threat and the potential to cause respiratory harm. The Palestinians lack sufficient local landfills and are supposed to transport their trash on trucks to other locations. But truckers often dump the trash earlier to save time and money, and the trash is then burned. The fumes cause problems both for West Bank Palestinian communities and for settlements and communities over the green line inside Israel such as Modi’in and Shoham. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Naomi Kahn from the Regavim NGO about the problem. (Photo: Environmental Protection Ministry)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Jess and Jamal look back at 2025 and the turmoil in the Middle East. While global attention remained fixed on Gaza, Israel accelerated land seizures in the West Bank. The year saw a record number of new settlement approvals, alongside a sharp rise in settler violence.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, catch diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, we’re joined by Eran Ortal, a brigadier-general (res.) in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and a leading military theorist. Ortal commanded The Dado Center for Interdisciplinary Military Studies, and wrote "The Battle Before the War: The Inside Story of the IDF's Transformation," which came in second place for the Institute for National Security Studies's 2025 Tshetshik Prize. Months before the October 7 invasion of southern Israel by Hamas, Ortal warned in an interview with The Times of Israel that the country's "military situation is eroding, not improving," and that “time is not on our side." Ortal explains what glaring problems he saw in the military in which he served for decades. He says that the IDF concept in its initial decades enabled it to win its famous victories over far more numerous foes. He then lays out why the IDF's center of gravity moved from the armored corps to the Air Force and intelligence services. Over time, says Ortal, Israel also moved away from its focus on decisive victory, and pursued a series of indecisive deterrence operations against non-state enemies like Hamas and Hezbollah. While there were efforts underway in the IDF to implement a wide-ranging series of reforms in the years before October 7, the Hamas attack took place before they had the desired effect. Israel, he says, went to war with an army that had not been properly trained and resourced, which affected the course of the war in Gaza. Looking forward, the IDF must go through another transformation, Ortal argues. Those who argue for continuing to prioritize airpower are mistaken, as are those who call for a return to a focus on mass ground maneuver. Instead, there must not only be investment in AI, drones, and a network that brings them to the troops on the battlefield; Israel also needs a new strategy that employs cutting-edge technology to achieve decisive victory over its enemies. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Israeli soldiers are seen during an army raid in the West Bank town of Tubas, November 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Majdi Mohammed)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec. 26, 2025- In light of Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani becoming mayor of New York City in a few days, we dug into The Capitol Pressroom archives and we're dedicating the entire show to some of our past conversations. The appearances include the summer of 2020 after winning a Democratic Assembly primary, March of 2021 during his first few months at the Capitol, May 2022 when we dove into "Stranger Things," and a 2023 exploration of West Bank politics. We hope these interviews shed a little light on the personality and evolution of the future leader of the Big Apple.

YouTube link: https://youtube.com/live/pHtFCrwL1_wSupport the show

This is the Hudson Mohawk Magazine's holiday special on Gaza, produced and hosted by Moses Nagel. The stories we highlight include: - Benno Green's interview with with a healthcare worker at Albany Medical Center. - Elizabeth EP Press speaks with a nurse who volunteered in Gaza and the WestBank.  -Mark Dunlea speaks with Phylis Benis ahead of this years' Kateri Peace conference. -Albany's Jewish Voice for Peace chapter on the detention of Columbia student Mahmoud Kahlil. -A public Sukkot celebration to demand an end to the starvation of Gaza -Mark Dunlea speaks to Tom Ellis of The Palestinian Rights Committee about the current ceasefire and fundraising for Gaza.

US officials have uncovered a million more documents which could be connected to the dead sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Department of Justice said that given the volume of material, its full release may take a few weeks. Also: Israel's parliament approves the first reading of legislation for a politically controlled inquiry into the October 7th Hamas-led attacks, disappointing families of the victims; Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank celebrates Christmas for the first time since the war in Gaza began; Californians evacuate their homes as an intense storm approaches; we look back on a year of AI; and tracking Santa's sleigh, will he deliver all those presents on time? The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

This week's show features stories from Radio Deutsche-Welle, France 24, NHK Japan, and Radio Havana Cuba. http://youthspeaksout.net/swr251226.mp3 (29:00) From GERMANY- The US military seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers and naval blockade of the coast is being called piracy by many countries in the world. Analysis of the legality of US actions by Cecilia Hellestveit, an expert on international law in Norway. Is the US attempting to drive away other nations from influence in South America? Trump appointed a special envoy to Greenland-he is repeating the call for the US to take over the island- a report and some analysis by Teri Shultz. From FRANCE- French President Macron has slammed a visa ban against a former EU Commissioner and 4 others because they have pushed for legislation combatting hate speech and disinformation online. Macron visited French troops in the UAE where he announced France will build a new nuclear aircraft carrier. The UAE is the largest buyer of French weapons. From JAPAN- North Korea is building a nuclear powered submarine and South Korea has made an agreement with the US to also build one. Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to resume ceasefire talks. Greta Thunberg was arrested in London for holding a sign saying I Support Palestine Action Prisoners. I Oppose Genocide. From CUBA- The Israeli Security Cabinet has given final approval to another 19 illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. Available in 3 forms- (new) HIGHEST QUALITY (160kb)(33MB), broadcast quality (13MB), and quickdownload or streaming form (6MB) (28:59) Links at outfarpress.com/shortwave.shtml PODCAST!!!- https://feed.podbean.com/outFarpress/feed.xml (160kb Highest Quality) Website Page- < http://www.outfarpress.com/shortwave.shtml ¡FurthuR! Dan Roberts "Avoiding climate breakdown will require cathedral thinking. We must lay the foundation while we may not know exactly how to build the ceiling." --Greta Thunberg Dan Roberts Shortwave Report- www.outfarpress.com YouthSpeaksOut!- www.youthspeaksout.net

Today on America in the MorningChristmas In America & Around The World America is welcoming in Christmas Day today, a day that will be the first for Pope Leo as Pontiff, and the town of Bethlehem in the West Bank will hold Christmas celebrations for the first time since the Israel-Gaza war began.   Severe California Weather Southern California is in the midst of a deluge as a powerful winter storm is dumping as much as 10 inches of rain in the Greater Los Angeles area.  Mud and rock slides have buried several roads, and with flash flood warnings in place, the state is pleading with drivers to avoid any Christmas travel plans.  With a state of emergency and numerous power outages reported, some people in counties in and around Los Angeles will be spending the holiday in shelters due to mandatory evacuations.  Correspondent Mike Hempen reports on a very rainy California Christmas.   Gender Care Lawsuits 18 States and the District of Columbia are suing the Trump administration over its efforts to end gender-affirming care for minors.  The details from correspondent Rich Johnson.   Rideshare Driver Saved A rideshare driver is lucky to be alive after she was kidnapped by three fugitives including a convicted killer who escaped a Georgia prison.  LisaDwyer reports that the Lyft driver was forced to go with the inmates to South Florida before authorities tracked them down.   Diddy Wants Freedom Disgraced music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs is spending Christmas behind bars, but is seeking immediate release from prison.  Correspondent Julie Walker reports.   Miracle Baby Christmas is the season for miracles, and for one California woman, it was the miracle of birth that defied all the odds.  Correspondent Haya Panjwani reports a 41-year-old nurse who had no idea she was pregnant until the day before she gave birth, did so in a one-in-a-million pregnancy – what she originally thought was a large ovarian cyst turned out to be a healthy baby girl.     More Epstein Files Found The Department of Justice says they've discovered more than one million additional documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, which they say compromises their ability to release everything now as required by law.  John Stolnis has more from Washington.   60 Minutes Reaction The CBS News Editor-in-Chief is defending her move to slice out a 60 Minutes segment that angered both viewers and network employees.  Steve Futterman reports the segment, about deportations and a notorious prison in El Salvador, is still getting viewed worldwide after it was mistakenly sent out on streaming media.   Nursing Home Explosion Investigators will be spending Christmas and the days after sifting through wreckage after a deadly Eastern Pennsylvania nursing home explosion believed to have been caused by a gas leak that took the lives of a resident and a nurse, and injured 20 others.  Correspondent Julie Walker reports.   First Christmas As Pontiff People around the world are ringing in Christmas Day unwrapping presents and attending mass in the United States, as Pope Leo ushers in Christmas for the first time as Pontiff at the Vatican.  Ukrainians marked their fourth Christmas in wartime after Russia rejected a holiday truce.  For the past two years, the city of Bethlehem in the West Bank held very subdued ceremonies, but this year with a fragile peace in place, they will usher in Christmas celebrations.  Correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports.  Wind Projects Halted The Interior Department is putting a halt on offshore wind projects, impacting states from Massachusetts to Virginia, citing national security concerns.  Correspondent Ben Thomas reports the Trump administration's move could lead to a multi-state court fight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thousands flocked to Bethlehem's Manger Square on Christmas Eve, the spot where Christians believe Jesus was born. It's in the occupied West Bank, and celebrations were canceled over the last two years because of the Israel-Hamas war. Producer Karl Bostic looks at what life is like for Palestinians who live there. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

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 and settlements reporter Jeremy Sharon joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Defense Minister Israel Katz told settlements leaders on Tuesday that, “With God’s help when the time comes, we will also establish… pioneer groups in northern Gaza, in place of the settlements that were evacuated.” He later walked back his statements, but not before Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich doubled down on them and also pushed for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convince US President Donald Trump to recognize annexation of the West Bank in his upcoming US trip. We dive into the issues of Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip and West Bank in the first half of the program. The IPC famine monitoring organization stated on Friday that food security conditions in the entire Gaza Strip “remain critical,” in a new report covering the second half of October and all of November that classified the territory as being in its “Emergency” Phase 4 category — the fourth highest of its five levels of food insecurity. Sharon explains Israel's criticism of the report and raises the question of whether the Hamas-run Gazan Health Ministry has been manipulating its numbers of war casualties. Earlier this month, the High Court of Justice ruled unanimously 7-0 to annul the government’s decision to fire Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, asserting that the government had failed to provide legal justification for its decision to change the way an AG is fired, and determining that the new system it designed was fundamentally flawed. Sharon reviews the decision and updates us on the ongoing existential crisis between the government and the court. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Katz vows Israel will build settlements in northern Gaza, later walks back comments Dozens of settler activists enter Gaza, plant Israeli flags in bid to resettle enclave PA accuses Israel of ‘tightening colonial control’ over West Bank with new settlements Government announces 19 new West Bank settlements and legalized outposts IPC monitor says ‘famine conditions’ over but Gaza food security still ‘critical’; Israel rejects findings Israel says famine monitor did not seek aid facilitators’ input for upcoming Gaza report High Court annuls firing of attorney general; cabinet ministers urge defiance of ruling Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A tent camp for displaced Palestinians in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, December 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Thousands flocked to Bethlehem's Manger Square on Christmas Eve, the spot where Christians believe Jesus was born. It's in the occupied West Bank, and celebrations were canceled over the last two years because of the Israel-Hamas war. Producer Karl Bostic looks at what life is like for Palestinians who live there. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

Part 2 of our conversation with Jasper Nathaniel, the New York–based writer and reporter who covers Israel's occupation of the West Bank on his Substack, Infinite Jaz. Nathaniel helped bring national attention to the case of Mohammed Ibrahim, the Palestinian American teenager who was released in late November after more than nine months in an Israeli military prison.

Part 2 of our conversation with Jasper Nathaniel, the New York–based writer and reporter who covers Israel's occupation of the West Bank on his Substack, Infinite Jaz. Nathaniel helped bring national attention to the case of Mohammed Ibrahim, the Palestinian American teenager who was released in late November after more than nine months in an Israeli military prison.

The US Department of Justice has published thousands more files relating to the late sex- offender, Jeffrey Epstein -- its largest such release to date. Among the documents is an email from an investigator that says Donald Trump travelled many more times on Epstein's private jet than was previously reported. Mr Trump has denied any wrongdoing in relation to the Epstein scandal.Also on the programme: Amid ongoing violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, we report on the trauma of modern-day birth in Bethlehem; and we hear from Mulatu Astatke, known as the father of Ethio-jazz. (Photo: A newly-released unsealed indictment of disgraced late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is seen in this handout image released by the U.S. Justice Department and printed and arranged for a photograph by Reuters in Washington, D.C., U.S., December 19, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst)

Pastor Munther Isaac talks about his hometown of Bethlehem – the scene of the nativity – celebrating Christmas for the first time in three years. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Saudi Arabia’s former intelligence chief, Prince Turki bin Faisal, spoke with Magid on Sunday and said that Riyadh is currently not even entertaining the idea of normalizing relations with Israel and will only do so if Jerusalem begins acting like a “normal country.” We hear how Israel could behave more "normally" and what else the royal family member said. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee held a rare meeting with Palestinian Authority Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh in Ramallah last Wednesday to discuss ongoing tensions in the West Bank. We speak about the fraught US-PA ties and how this meeting comes on the heels of increased cooperation surrounding ceasefire efforts in the Gaza Strip. And finally, US Vice President JD Vance claimed in an interview on Sunday that almost no Americans are antisemitic and that concerns about antisemitic voices are raised as a way to avoid discussing “a real backlash to a consensus view in American foreign policy” on Israel. Magid delves into this thorny issue, even as attacks against Jews in the US continue to be at a high since the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Ex-Saudi intel chief to ToI: Riyadh will consider normalization when Israel acts normally Huckabee holds rare meeting with PA official to discuss West Bank tensions — officials Huckabee: Iran ‘didn’t get the full message’ when US bombed its nuclear sites Vance: Almost no Americans are antisemitic, real issue is ‘backlash’ to US policy on Israel Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: Illustrative: Saudi Prince Turki al-Faisal talks to the Associated Press in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, November 24, 2018. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports on frequent Israeli settler violence in the West Bank.

Attacks by Jewish settlers on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank have broken UN records this year, reaching the highest level in almost 20 years.Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has blamed a “minority” that “does not represent the large settler public”. Meanwhile, Israel's security cabinet has just approved the recognition of 19 new settlements as the government continues its settlement expansion push. We're joined by the BBC's Sarah Montague who has been speaking with Palestinians who say they are experiencing settler intimidation, and with a prominent settler who is a member of the Israeli parliament. Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: Bridget Harney Mix: Marty Peralta Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Israeli border police remove settlers near Hebron. Credit Abir Sultan/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock.

The BBC has gained rare access to rebel-held parts of Myanmar, where thousands of civilians have been displaced in an air and ground offensive by the country's military government. The attacks in Myanmar's western Chin State come ahead of the country's first general election since the army overthrew the government in 2021. Also: Israel's security cabinet officially recognises 19 settlements in the occupied West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law. And: Spaniards prepare for their annual Christmas lottery, known as "El Gordo". The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Pam Duncan Glancy Labour MSP to quit Holyrood over links to sex offender More than 800 migrants cross English Channel in December record US reportedly pursuing third oil tanker linked to Venezuela In pictures Druids descend on Stonehenge to mark winter solstice Epidural kit shortage could last until March, regulator says Kings Foundation chair and nominee peer admits misleading doctorate claim Puppy farm and trail hunt ban promised in animal welfare strategy A memorial ends but Bondi tragedy has left Australia reeling, again At least 13 photos removed from Justice Department released Epstein files Israel approves 19 new settlements in occupied West Bank

Israel's move to authorise 19 West Bank settlements has reignited debate over security, annexation and the future of a Palestinian state. Supporters say it formalises existing outposts, while critics say it deepens occupation and fuels violence. The decision has also sharpened political divisions here in Australia over recognition and the two-state solution.

There are reports that the US coastguard may be trying to intercept another oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, but why is US oil firm Chevron still operating in the country?Also in the programme: Israel's security cabinet approves 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank; and an elegy for the US penny that is no longer being produced after 230 years.(Photo: Government supporters participate in a protest against US President Donald Trump's order to blockade sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, in Caracas, Venezuela on 17 December 2025. Credit: Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria)

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Israel Defense Forces said Friday it was investigating a strike in Gaza City which reportedly killed at least five people, including civilians. According to the military, during operations on the Israeli side of the ceasefire line in the Strip’s north, troops spotted several suspects in “dominant structures” on the western side of the Yellow Line — meaning not in IDF-held territory. Fabian discusses the idea of "dominant structures" and reports on the uptick of Gazans attempting to cross the Yellow Line into Israeli-controlled Gaza. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said yesterday that his country is close to completing the disarmament of Hezbollah south of the Litani River. This comes after Israel struck Hezbollah targets across Lebanon on Thursday morning, hitting weapons stores deep inside the country and a training camp used by the terror group. So which is it? Fabian weighs in. The Israel Defense Forces captured a suspected Islamic State jihadist in an overnight raid earlier this week in southern Syria, the military said in a Saturday statement. We learn how active ISIS is in southern Syria. Finally, an Israeli woman who reported having been kidnapped on Friday was extracted by the Palestinian Authority’s security forces from the West Bank city of Jericho, the military said. We hear about the oft-overlooked close coordination between Israeli and PA forces.Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 5 said killed in Gaza City strike; IDF says it’s investigating, regrets any civilian harm Army says it killed two terror operatives who crossed Gaza’s Yellow Line Lebanese PM says country close to completing Hezbollah disarmament south of Litani River Widescale IDF strikes target Hezbollah training camp, terror sites across Lebanon IDF says it nabbed suspected ISIS jihadist in southern Syria operation PA forces extract Israeli from Jericho who reported being kidnapped 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: An Israeli woman who was extracted from the West Bank city of Jericho is seen next to an officer from the Civil Administration, December 19, 2025. (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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US forces are reported to have intercepted an oil tanker in international waters near Venezuela. The South American country has accused the US of international piracy. The Trump administration says the vessels were carrying sanctioned oil. Also: Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, is booed at an event held to remember the victims of the Bondi Beach attack. Israel approves 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. In Cricket, England's winless run continues, losing the Ashes in three tests.

Israel is pushing ahead with construction in the Palestinian occupied West Bank. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports.

Für die Palästinenser des besetzten Westjordanlandes hat der von den USA erzwungene Waffenstillstand in Gaza keine Verbesserung gebracht. Die palästinensische Pastorin Sally Azar, der israelische Rechtswissenschaftler Adam Shinar und die Autorin Sumaya Farhat-Naser liefern Einschätzung und Erfahrungsberichte aus Betlehem zur Weihnachtszeit und zur Gewalt in der Westbank. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Imagine being able to see your place of worship, but not be able to reach it. For many Palestinian Muslims in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, stricter Israeli security measures, rising tensions with settlers, and movement restrictions introduced after the 7 October attacks, have made access to mosques increasingly challenging. Reporting from Hebron and East Jerusalem, Emily Wither explores how these pressures are reshaping the spiritual lives of worshippers living at the heart of one of the world's most contested religious landscapes.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced in a video message that he has approved the largest energy deal in Israel’s history. The natural gas deal with Egypt is worth NIS 112 billion ($34.7 billion), of which NIS 58 billion ($18 billion) will go into public coffers. Magid gives insight into the slow rollout of this massive deal. Magid reported yesterday that the US has secured commitments from Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Italy and Germany to have their leaders join US President Donald Trump on the Board of Peace that will oversee the postwar management of Gaza. We review the significance of the names that are currently not on the list and the ambiguous mandate of the International Security Force -- including an apparent walk-back from forcing Hamas to disarm. On Sunday, hundreds of Palestinians attended protests across the West Bank against the Palestinian Authority’s new prisoner payment system. Does this public anger indicate that Ramallah is moving ahead with the Western-pushed welfare reform, or is it all smoke and mirrors, as Israel's Foreign Ministry alleges? In the annual Hanukkah party on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said that Congress “is becoming antisemitic,” as the “Jewish lobby” is no longer the strongest in Washington. Though he wasn't given a White House latke this year, Magid agrees to set the scene and delves into statements made at the celebration.Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘Historic moment’: Netanyahu announces $34.7 billion natural gas deal with Egypt Six countries have committed to joining Trump’s Board of Peace, say officials ISF will not fight Hamas, say US officials, who still seek to deploy force next month Palestinians protest PA prisoner payment reform, in apparent sign of implementation At White House Hanukkah party, Trump laments ‘Jewish lobby’ no longer most powerful Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Podwaves. IMAGE: A view of the platform of the Leviathan natural gas field in the Mediterranean Sea is pictured from the Israeli northern coastal beach of Nasholim, on August 29, 2022. (JACK GUEZ / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas lights are back on in Bethlehem for the first time since Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza began. Yet behind the celebrations, deep economic hardships and mounting pressure from Israeli military incursions and settler violence continue to shape daily life for Palestinian Christians across the occupied West Bank. In this episode: Rev Dr Fares Abraham (@faresabraham), Founder and President, Levant Ministries Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tracie Hunte and Sarí el-Khalili, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Haleema Shah, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Senior officials from the US, France and Saudi Arabia are set to meet in Paris today amid fears that Israel could embark on a new military operation against Hezbollah in Lebanon after a December 31 deadline to disarm the Iran-backed terror group passes, a diplomatic official told The Times of Israel on Tuesday. We have seen an uptick in tensions over the past few weeks. Fabian takes us back to early October to give context for what is currently happening on the ground. In one of his first moves, new Military Advocate General Maj. Gen. Itai Ofir decided today to close a criminal case against a senior reserves officer who was facing charges over his involvement in the circumstances that led to the deaths of a soldier and a civilian researcher in southern Lebanon in November 2024. Fabian was in the area when this occurred and fills us in. Israeli settlers torched a vehicle and sprayed graffiti in a West Bank village near Ramallah overnight, according to Palestinian media. The suspected crime took place in Ein Yabrud. The conflict in the West Bank, always at a low boil, but are appearances deceiving in that it seems to be on a higher flame in the past several weeks? After Palestinian media reported a series of Israeli airstrikes in eastern Gaza City, the IDF said it is conducting routine activity to demolish Hamas infrastructure in the Israeli-controlled area. In addition to the tunnel demolitions, there are almost daily incidents in which Gazans attempt to cross the Yellow Line from the Hamas-ruled side. Fabian gives several scenarios for the attempted crossings. Earlier in the month, Fabian visited Hamas’s “most complex” tunnel network in the Gaza Strip, where, eventually, the remains of Lt. Hadar Goldin were recovered. He was killed and abducted by the terror group in 2014, and it transpires that he was held some two kilometers from the Israeli border. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US, French, Saudi officials to meet in Paris about preventing renewed war in Lebanon IDF postpones planned strike on alleged Hezbollah site as Lebanese army searches it IDF drops charges against reserve officer over deadly Lebanon incident last year Settlers said to torch vehicle, spray graffiti in attack on West Bank village Scouring massive labyrinth under Rafah, IDF just missed finding Hadar Goldin’s body 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: An officer with the elite Yahalom unit is seen inside a tunnel in the Rafah area of the southern Gaza Strip, where the body of Lt. Hadar Goldin was held, December 8, 2025. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Palestinian village of Sebastia, a living place where history, memory, and daily life are deeply intertwined. In this episode of This is Palestine, Diana Buttu speaks with Zaid Azhari, a cultural heritage researcher from Sebastia and a member of the Save Sebastia campaign, about Israel's plans to seize large parts of the town's archaeological heart under the pretext of “heritage development.” Zaid explains how archaeology is being used to deprive Palestinians of their land, livelihoods, and identity, and why protecting Sebastia means protecting a living community, not just ancient ruins. Thank you for tuning into This is Palestine, the official podcast of The IMEU! For more stories and resources, visit us at imeu.org. Stay connected with us:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theimeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/theIMEU Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theIMEU/ For more insights, follow our host, Diana Buttu, on:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/dianabuttu