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 Tal Schneider and diplomatic reporter Nava Freiberg join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK would recognize a Palestinian state in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the war and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and meets several other conditions, including recommitting to a viable peace process. This is happening while, for the past several days, high-level representatives at a UN conference have urged Israel to commit to a Palestinian state. We discuss fallout to Starmer's announcement, the “New York Declaration” and which other states may follow suit in potentially recognizing Palestine this fall. In his announcement, Starmer said that Israel could forestall the recognition by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza, making clear that it will not annex the West Bank (or Gaza), and committing to a peace process that results in a two-state solution. This comes as there are increased rumors of plans to annex parts of the Gaza Strip. But are these rumors just a negotiation tactic? Schneider weighs in. At the NY two-state solution conference this week, Arab and Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan and Turkey, signed a declaration condemning for the first time Hamas’s onslaught of October 7, 2023, and calling on the Palestinian terror group to release all the hostages it is holding, disarm and end its rule of Gaza, in a bid to end the devastating war in the Strip. Schneider and Freiberg explain that all may not be as laudable it seems. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: UK to recognize Palestinian state in Sept. unless Israel ends Gaza war, commits to peace PM says ‘obstinate’ Hamas blocking hostage deal, as he weighs annexing parts of Gaza In 1st, entire Arab League condemns Oct. 7, urges Hamas to disarm, at 2-state solution confab 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: Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street after the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza, in London, July 29, 2025. (Toby Melville, Pool Photo via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today’s episode. The situation in Gaza remains incredibly problematic and unclear, says Horovitz, with a lack of independent journalism in Gaza, complicating the narrative. For the moment, Israel has reversed its policy regarding aid to Gaza, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu didn’t invite his two far-right coalition members, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir to the cabinet meeting discussing an increase of aid to Gaza. Horovitz discusses the mixed signals and strategic incoherence from the current government on this mix of issues. There is talk about getting aid into Gaza at the same time as unsourced reports that the army has proposed a tightened siege in the Strip, and held discussions of annexation or occupation in Gaza, offering a great deal of contradictory information, says Horovitz. Horovitz also discusses the wave of recommendations about excluding Israel from academic projects alongside instances of Israeli tourists requiring security assistance in various EU locations, amid the rising tide of criticism against Israel. People feel deeply troubled by what they are seeing and hearing about Gaza, he notes. Israeli negotiators are no longer in Doha for the ceasefire talks, although the terrorist organization Hamas has said it is trying to make this current proposal work. Horovitz says that Israel’s strategy is hard to fathom, given its insistence on military pressure in Gaza and Netanyahu’s continued endorsement of US President Donald Trump’s initial idea of helping Gazans leave, something that the US leader isn’t saying that any longer. Check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: PM says Israel will ensure lots of Gaza aid; ministers said to mull occupation, annexation ‘You can’t fake that’: Trump sees ‘real starvation’ in Gaza, says Israel must do more Image of Gazan child with genetic illness being used to falsely smear Israel, COGAT charges Smotrich signals he won’t bolt coalition despite objecting to Gaza humanitarian aid EU proposes cutting Israeli access to research funds over Gaza humanitarian crisis 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: Palestinians at the site of an Israeli air strike, at the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, on July 29, 2025. (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. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, aircraft from Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan airdropped dozens of pallets of humanitarian aid in the northern and southern Gaza Strip. This morning, Israel says more than 120 truckloads of food aid were distributed by the UN and aid agencies in the Gaza Strip on the first day of a partial pause in fighting. Berman explores how Israel's currently softened position is playing out on the global stage and compares it to previous cycles in which Israel allowed more aid into the Strip. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to press US President Donald Trump on ending “the unspeakable suffering” in Gaza when they meet at the US president’s golf resort in Scotland today, according to a Downing Street spokesperson says. The meeting at Turnberry, southwestern Scotland, comes as European countries express growing alarm at the situation in Gaza. What is Trump currently saying about the war in Gaza? Foreign Ministry director general Eden Bar-Tal summoned France’s deputy ambassador Mikaël Griffon for a reprimand at ministry headquarters in Jerusalem yesterday, over French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement last week that Paris would recognize a Palestinian state. During the dressing down, he accused France of undermining talks for a hostage release deal with Hamas, as well as future negotiations with the Palestinian Authority. Berman delves into the idea that all the pressure on Israel to end the war -- and this "prize" of a state to the Palestinian people -- could harm the ceasefire negotiations and drag out the war with an emboldened Hamas. And we ask, is the UK set to follow France's example? And finally, the home of a Chabad rabbi in Dnipro was hit during a deadly Russian missile attack on the central Ukrainian city early Saturday. We learn about the "Shabbat miracle" that saved his family and hear what is happening with the Jewish community in Ukraine as the war marks some 1250 days. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Once again, Israel tried to restrict Gaza aid. Once again, it failed miserably Trump: Israel will ‘have to make decision’ on Gaza war, images of starvation ‘terrible’ Hundreds of rabbis demand Israel stop ‘using starvation as a weapon of 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: An Israeli soldier stands next to a truck at the Kerem Shalom crossing between southern Israel and the Gaza Strip on July 27, 2025. (Carlos REYES / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Israel carried out its first airdrop of humanitarian aid into Gaza early Sunday since the start of the ongoing war against Hamas, and pledged to halt fighting in certain parts of the Strip in 10-hour stints and create safe passages for the United Nations to distribute goods to the Palestinian population. We learn what has been airdropped so far, what's on the horizon and how much aid awaits distribution along the border. Fabian reports back on his trip late last week with the IDF to Gaza City. We learn that the troops are largely "fighting infrastructure" -- tunnels and booby-trapped buildings -- and that the Hamas battalion is largely defeated. Fabian wonders if this approach will indeed lead to the release of the Israeli hostages. Law enforcement on Saturday arrested a man suspected of carrying out a car-ramming attack in central Israel last week that wounded eight IDF soldiers. Police said the suspect, named earlier as Arkan Khaled, a 27-year-old Israeli resident of Taybeh, was caught while hiding at a construction site in the town of Kfar Yona close to the Beit Lid junction where the attack occurred. Israeli forces took over a pro-Palestinian activists' boat, Handala, that was attempting to break Israel’s maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip on Saturday night, and towed it toward the Ashdod Port. Handala is operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which also dispatched the previous boat and was carrying 19 activists and two Al Jazeera journalists. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Two IDF soldiers killed when armored vehicle hit by explosive in Khan Younis IDF reservist succumbs to wounds sustained last week in roadside explosion in Gaza IDF airdrops aid into Gaza for 1st time, vows to implement ‘pauses’ for UN deliveries Back in Gaza City again, IDF finds itself fighting ‘infrastructure,’ not terrorists Suspect in Thursday car-ramming caught at central Israel construction site IDF takes over pro-Palestinian activist boat attempting to break Gaza blockade 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: Israeli Air Force staff prepare boxes of humanitarian aid ahead of an airdrop in the Gaza Strip, July 26, 2025. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with leading economist Prof. Dan Ben-David. Ben-David heads the Shoresh Institution for Socioeconomic Research and is a senior faculty member in the Department of Public Policy at Tel-Aviv University. Earlier this month, he wrote an op-ed in The Times of Israel with the provocative headline, "‘Just not Bibi’ is not an action plan for a national pivot." In it, he lays out the need for a complete overhaul of swaths of Israeli society and institution -- and insists that this is the pivotal moment that it must be done. “The demographic-democratic window of opportunity is closing at an exponential pace. This is the time for leaders who demonstrate that they grasp the gravity of this moment and what is required of them at the crossroads that we’ve now reached,” he wrote. We drill down into Ben-David's vision for Israel 2.0 and its four cornerstones — educational overhaul, budgetary overhaul, a change in our system of government, and a constitution. We also dive into the role that the ultra-Orthodox or Haredi community plays in implementing — or torpedoing — his vision. And so this week, we ask Dan Ben-David, 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: Ultra-Orthodox Jews gather at the gravesite of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai at Mount Meron during the Jewish holiday of Lag BaOmer, which marks the anniversary of the death of the Talmudic sage in Meron, northern Israel, on May 15, 2025. (Jalaa MAREY / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. The vast majority of the Zionists in the world are Christian. Israel’s closest allies are majority-Christian or officially Christian countries, and the world’s largest Christian denominations have many of their holiest sites in Israel. At the same time, there’s no adviser for Christian Affairs in the Prime Minister’s Office, no minister tasked with outreach. On today's Friday Focus, we discuss three recent difficult incidents with the Christian world, which official Israel was diplomatically unprepared for. Berman discusses the need for a point person, an office or even a ministry in the Prime Minister's Office who will be tasked with liaising with the Christian world -- just like what is found in the governments of our Muslim neighbors.  Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. For more on this topic: Causing strategic, moral harm, Netanyahu lets others dictate Israel’s ties with Christians Friday Focus with Lazar Berman: Attacks on Christians in Israel are national stain IMAGE: Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, censes during Sunday morning mass at the Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City on July 20, 2025. (Omar AL-QATTAA / AFP)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. New York reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As New York City Mayor Eric Adams establishes the Anti-Semitism Task Force, Tress examines the comprehensive plans of the citywide project, its political implications, and the recent incidents of vandalism linked to anti-Israel activism. Following the vandalization of Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's office in the Bronx in response to her vote on funding for Israel's Iron Dome defensive system, Tress discusses the trend of activists vandalizing politicians' offices due to their perceived support for Israel. He also explores the work of an American scholar who studied and wrote about the historical roots of anti-Zionist slogans, tracing their origins back to the Soviet Union and examining how the language of anti-Zionism has permeated modern activism and modern leftist rhetoric, and has roots in Soviet propaganda. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘AOC funds genocide in Gaza’: Anti-Israel activists vandalize Ocasio-Cortez’s NY office Pro-Palestinian activist in New York charged by feds for torching 11 police vehicles Columbia University suspends and expels dozens of students over anti-Israel unrest Why are US socialists so anti-Israel? Scholar lays out Soviet roots of anti-Zionist rhetoric 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: Anti-Israel protesters in Times Square, New York City, June 16, 2025. (Luke Tress/Times of Israel)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 and settlements reporter Jeremy Sharon and Knesset reporter Ariela Karmel join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We begin the program with an update on the ongoing saga of the attempts to fire Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. On Sunday morning, the five-member ministerial committee recently set up to dismiss the attorney general voted unanimously to recommend that the government to dismiss her. We hear what are the potential next steps toward firing her -- and probable backlash. Yesterday at the Knesset conference called “The Gaza Riviera – from vision to reality,” Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich endorsed a “security annexation” of the northern Gaza Strip and claimed that Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir favors the idea. Dozens of right-wing politicians and activists claim they are set to "right a historic wrong" that occurred 20 years ago with the 2005 Disengagement. Karmel sets the scene. Israeli authorities have said they are taking control of the management of the Tomb of the Patriarchs holy site in Hebron, in order to carry out construction work at the flashpoint West Bank shrine. Sharon explains how there is precedent for this temporary control and delves into why the move is so controversial this time. And finally, in June, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police announced that it had opened an investigation into “matters related to the Israel-Hamas armed conflict,” with the possibility of uncovering “a perpetrator of core international crimes — such as genocide, war crimes, or crimes against humanity.” This announcement sparked concern among dual Israel-Canadian citizen soldiers. Karmel wrote an in-depth piece on the topic and shares the soldiers' fears. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Ministerial panel votes unanimously to recommend firing the attorney general Smotrich: Gaza will be ‘inseparable part of Israel,’ IDF chief favors ‘security annexation’ Israel to take administrative control over Tomb of Patriarchs for construction work ‘I’m afraid to go home’: Canadian IDF soldiers fear fallout from war crimes probe 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: An Israeli settler youth, wearing an anti-disengagement T-shirt that reads: 'A Jew doesn't expel a Jew,' September 27, 2005. (DAVID FURST / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode. Britain and 27 Western nations, including Australia, Canada, France, and Italy, said in a joint statement Monday that the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza “must end now,” arguing civilians’ suffering has “reached new depths.” The letter comes at a time of continued mass casualty events in the vicinity of aid distribution sites and on the day of expanded military operations in the Strip, in Deir al-Balah. How seriously is Israel taking this harshly worded appeal? French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urged Israel to allow foreign press into the Gaza Strip. His statement came after The Journalists Association for Agence France Presse (AFP) said that its freelancer reporters in the Gaza Strip are at serious risk of starvation, and that “without intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die.” Horovitz discusses Israel’s near-total ban on Israeli and foreign press entering Gaza following Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack and the ban’s repercussions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling Likud party will decide Wednesday on a replacement for MK Yuli Edelstein as head of the powerful Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee over his refusal to advance a bill enshrining sweeping military service exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox. We talk about Likud faction chairman Ofir Katz’s unusual announcement that he had decided to “hold elections” for the position and that he was taking nominations from within the party for Edelstein’s replacement. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Soldier killed in blast, as IDF pushes into central Gaza’s Deir al-Balah for 1st time 25 Western nations say Gaza war ‘must end now,’ suffering has ‘reached new depths’ Pope urges immediate end to ‘barbarity’ of Gaza war after church damaged Trump didn’t like seeing reports of Gazans killed while seeking aid — White House Likud to boot Knesset defense panel head Edelstein for blocking Haredi draft exemption 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: Protesters wave Palestinian flags and a banner reading 'Complicit' as they gather on Westminster Bridge in front of 'Big Ben,' at the Palace of Westminster, home to the Houses of Parliament, in central London, on June 4, 2025. (Adrian Dennis / AFP)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 aides to US President Donald Trump express their anger with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over IDF strikes in Syria last week, Magid examines the sources and timing of the remarks, noting that the US is attempting to continue talks with Syria. Magid updates the latest on hostage negotiations between Hamas and Israel, discussing the length of this latest round, and commenting that the sense is that while Hamas has been deliberating, the overall trend is toward a deal, as both sides have agreed on many of the issues. Finally, Magid discusses the ongoing chaos and violence at aid distribution sites in Gaza, where, reportedly, several dozen Palestinians were killed on Sunday, and the desperate need to find a better system of handing out the food packages. He also examines the system of distributing aid and the current international community's suggestions to flood the Gaza Strip with aid, to alleviate tension and pressure at aid distribution points. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘He bombs everything all the time’: US said fuming at ‘madman’ Netanyahu after Syria strikes Israel accuses Hamas of foot-dragging, as sides await group’s reply to softened proposal Hamas officials say at least 73 Gazans killed, most near aid site; IDF: Toll exaggerated 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: Palestinians gather to demand an end to Israeli attacks and the entry of humanitarian aid on July 20, 2025, in the central Gaza Strip. (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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Israeli military said this morning that it was set to begin ground operations in Deir al-Balah for the first time since the start of the war, issuing an evacuation order for Palestinians in the southwest of the city in the central Gaza Strip. Deir al-Balah is one of the few places in the Strip where the military has not yet operated with ground troops because it believed Hamas to be holding hostages there, though it has conducted airstrikes in the city. Fabian spells out scenarios why the IDF is now ready to operate there. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a statement late Thursday expressing its regret after IDF tank fire killed three civilians in Gaza’s only Catholic church, heeding a demand from US President Donald Trump, who angrily phoned the Israeli premier over the incident. Following the fatal strike, the Latin patriarch, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the highest-ranking Catholic official in Jerusalem, entered the Gaza Strip on Friday alongside Theophilos III, the Greek Orthodox patriarch of Jerusalem. Fabian describes the events that led to the accidental shelling. Dozens of Gazans were reportedly killed near aid distribution sites in the past few days. The Israeli military said it had fired warning shots at suspects who approached its troops after they did not heed calls to stop, about a kilometer away from an aid site that was not active at the time.The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a US-backed group that runs the aid site, said there were no incidents or fatalities there on Saturday and that it has repeatedly warned people not to travel to its distribution points in the dark. Fabian discusses the refusals from the IDF and the GHF for reporters to visit the sites and help clear up the tangled narratives. Israel is preparing to send medical equipment and medicine to a hospital in the Druze-majority city of Sweida, in southern Syria, after days of violence left an estimated 900 people dead and the medical facility badly damaged, the Health Ministry announced on Saturday. We hear about the IDF's involvement in the Syrian province over the past week and how hundreds of Israeli Druze have breached the border -- sometimes repeatedly. What does this mean about Israel's security along the border? Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF set to begin ground operations in central Gaza’s Deir al-Balah for first time More deaths reported near aid sites; Mossad chief, Witkoff said to discuss relocating Gazans Palestinians say at least 26 killed near Gaza aid sites; IDF says troops fired warning shots After angry call from Trump, PM says Israel deeply regrets mistaken shelling of Gaza church Jerusalem’s highest-ranking Christian officials enter Gaza to visit church hit by IDF Israel preparing to send medical gear to Sweida as clashes persist despite ceasefire 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: Members of Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, take part in a military parade along a street in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, on January 19, 2025. (BASHAR TALEB / 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 Jessica Steinberg speaking with Guri Alfi, comic, actor and producer of "The New Jew." Recorded before the conflict with Iran, Alfi speaks about his experiences filming the second season of "The New Jew," a series he first created with public broadcaster Kan 11 in 2021 that had him looking at the Jewish community in the United States. For these latest episodes, Alfi traveled to the US to speak to Jews in the wake of October 7 and the intense antisemitism and anti-Zionism that exploded across college campuses and American cities. Guri discusses his conversations with a range of Jewish leaders, including Reform Rabbi Angela Warnick Buchdahl, student leaders from Columbia and Harvard universities, and bereaved parents whose dual-citizen children became Israeli lone soldiers and were killed in the line of duty on October 7 and during the ongoing war. Guri says he wanted to show the bonds between the Israeli and American Jewish communities, and to show the hope and future that still exist despite the terrible events and trauma of the last 21 months. He also talks about one of his latest projects, “Speeches Against Despair” during the upcoming Israel Festival, in which he, along with actress Noa Koler, musician Noga Erez, actor Norman Issa, actress Maya Landsmann, screenwriter Galit Hoogi and others offer new interpretations to historical speeches. And so this week, we ask Guri Alfi 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, as violence between Syria's Druze and Bedouin communities reached a boiling point in the southern city of Sweida, hundreds of Druze rushed across the border from Israel, vowing to protect their community in Syria.  Israel joined in as the protector of the Syrian Druze and the IDF said it struck over 160 targets in Syria, mostly in the area of Sweida, including government tanks and machine guns headed there. The military also said it was bolstering forces in the Golan Heights, on the Syrian border, in preparation for days of potential conflict. Likewise, the Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi Kalman Ber issued an open call to Israel and the world to help the Druze in Syria, citing the biblical commandment “not to stand by the blood of your neighbor.” We delve into the origins of the mysterious religion and Israeli ties to the ancient people which came to settle in what is today three nations: Lebanon, Syria and Israel.  We discuss what could be Israel's motivations in taking on the mantle of protector of the persecuted minority -- and international backlash to it. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: A woman carries a Druze and an Israeli flag near the US Embassy in Jerusalem on July 16, 2025. (AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP)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 chaotic conflict that unfolded in Syria over the last days between the Syrian Druze minority, the Bedouin in Syria, and at times, Syrian-linked militia troops. US pressure on Israel pushed forward a quick resolution on the situation, bringing forward a ceasefire and Magid points out that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa ultimately wants the various ethnic groups in Syria, including the Druze and Bedouin, to fall in line, particularly as Syria and Israel have been moving forward toward more cooperation. As ultra-Orthodox party Shas left its ministerial positions in the government in protest over the proposed Haredi enlistment law, Magid discusses whether the Shas move could lead to early elections after the upcoming summer session break. A Gaza deal seems possible, says Magid, as Israel rolled back some of its demands regarding aspects of its withdrawal from Gaza, and mediators are currently more optimistic regarding a possible deal. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Syrian gov’t forces begin withdrawing from Sweida as Israel vows to protect Druze Rubio: ‘We think we’re on our way toward a real deescalation’ between Israel, Syria Shas bolts government over Haredi enlistment, remains part of PM’s coalition Official says Gaza deal ‘more likely than not,’ as Israel said to retract pullback demands 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: Druze residents protest near the Israel-Syria border fence in solidarity with their community in Syria, July 16, 2025. (Photo by Michael Giladi/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. New York reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Tress discusses several universities dealing with issues of antisemitism and anti-Zionism, including Tuesday's hearing in Congress as Republican officials questioned the CUNY chancellor and presidents of Berkeley and Georgetown about foreign funding, support for terrorism on campus and harassment of Jewish students on campus, keeping up the Trump administration pressure. He also discusses a report on Israel studies programs in universities, as a Jerusalem think tank looked at the climate on campuses, including anti-Zionism activism on campus alongside rich discussion and a broad array of viewpoints in the classroom. Tress talks about mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani and his threats to arrest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he ever visited New York, as well as the current feud between New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Comptroller Brad Lander about a possible BDS conflict over New York's divestment from Israel bonds. He also mentions the 100-year-old Adirondacks synagogue that has persisted despite the dearth of Jews in the area and the history of Jewish immigrants in rural America. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US university heads grilled in Congress about anti-Israel terror support on campus Shai Davidai, an outspoken Israeli professor at Columbia, leaves the university Israeli postdoc sues Stanford for discrimination; university denies it Israel studies programs on US campuses are at a crisis point, report warns NYC hopeful Mamdani’s vow to arrest Netanyahu likely oversteps what US mayors can do NYC mayor feuds with comptroller over Israel bonds investments NY’s rural 120-year-old ‘Peddlers’ Synagogue’ charts new path — without a congregation 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: FILE- Pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protesters demonstrate on the campus of DePaul University, April 30, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, file)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondents Tal Schneider and Sam Sokol join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We focus on domestic Israeli politics today on the Daily Briefing and start with Sokol, who sets the scene at the Knesset yesterday. We hear about the colorful circus that came to the Israeli parliament. The United Torah Judaism party announced its dramatic exit from the government last night. Schneider weighs in on the stability of the coalition, which, if the other major ultra-Orthodox party Shas also leaves, will drop to 50-51 seats for a minority government. Sokol delves into the ongoing debates surrounding the universal conscription bill. We learn about what is objectionable to the Haredi parties, including new sanctions on institutions such as yeshivas who are harboring draft dodgers. Schneider describes how threats to fire the legislator behind the bill -- head of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, MK Yuli Edelstein -- may not be enough to placate the haredi parties this time. A motion to expel Hadash-Ta’al chair Ayman Odeh from the Knesset failed to pass on Monday, with only 73 out of the required 90 lawmakers voting in favor. Fifteen MKs voted against the motion, while multiple opposition parliamentarians boycotted the vote. We learn why the petition was put into motion and its ripple effect. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara was not present as a controversial ministerial panel convened at the Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem to hold a hearing on her dismissal Monday afternoon. Schneider explains why Baharav-Miara calls this a "sham" process and shares the outrage the hearing has sparked. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Three IDF troops killed, officer seriously wounded in northern Gaza tank blast Motion to expel Arab party head Odeh from Knesset fails to pass; coalition MKs heckle him AG stays away from her dismissal hearing: ‘A sham that harms rule of law, democracy’ The government’s bid to fire Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara: What happens next? 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 protest in support of Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara outside the courthouse in Tel Aviv, July 14, 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Five IDF divisions, made up of tens of thousands of troops, continue to operate across Gaza. Dozens of airstrikes were carried out in the past days, but one in particular has captured international attention: a strike near a Gaza water distribution point that reportedly killed several children. The IDF said Sunday that it was an accident and attributed it to a “technical malfunction.” Fabian reports on the accidental strike and compares the IDF's quick accountability of it to reports of mass deaths from humanitarian aid distribution sites. A proposed plan to establish a “humanitarian city” in southern Gaza’s Rafah continues to receive backlash. According to the plan, at least 600,000 Palestinians would be allowed into a newly rebuilt area of the city after being cleared that they are not Hamas. Some critics -- including former prime minister Ehud Olmert -- allege that it resembles the Nazi concentration camps built during World War II. Fabian talks about the plan, puts it in to the greater context of the entire Gideon's Chariots operation and explains the reported criticism from within the IDF itself. Israeli troops found more than three tons of weapons while raiding military facilities inside Syria, including anti-tank mines, explosive devices, and rockets. The sites had been maintained by the deposed Bashar al-Assad regime. We hear about the raid and the scale of the troops' finds. Israel’s most advanced communications satellite, dubbed Dror-1, was successfully launched into space from Cape Canaveral in the United States on Sunday aboard a Falcon 9 two-stage rocket, manufactured by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Fabian was inside the Israeli control room and reports back. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF admits error in deadly strike on water delivery site as truce talks stay jammed IDF said to warn against Gaza ‘humanitarian city’; ex-PM brands it ‘concentration camp’ IDF seizes 3 tons of arms from ex-Assad regime sites; violence flares in southern Syria Israel’s most advanced communications satellite successfully launched by SpaceX 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 former Syrian regime military site found by IDF troops in southern Syria, in an IDF handout photo released on July 13, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. According to a Channel 12 Israeli television report, later today, Israel will present new maps for the IDF’s redeployment in the event of a ceasefire-hostage release deal along the Morag Corridor and perimeter around Gaza after Hamas rejected its previous offer. Magid updates us on the status of the Doha talks and speaks about the blame game from both sides. We hear about how the Trump administration is playing the "Witkoff card" -- or when US envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff will finally join the talks and what it will signify when he does. We turn to the results of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trip to Washington, DC, even as he comes home without any overt deals. What else was on the table for the trip and what was accomplished? Over the past day, security forces arrested six people in connection with an incident in the West Bank yesterday, where settlers allegedly killed two Palestinians on Friday. US citizen Saif al-Din Kamil Abdul Karim Musalat was allegedly beaten to death in Sinjil, a village north of Ramallah, the Palestinian Authority health ministry said. A second man, Mohammed Rizq Hussein al-Shalabi, 23, died after being shot during the attack, according to the Palestinian Authority health ministry. Magid describes what we know about this incident and weighs in on whether any rigorous investigation will be launched. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Doha talks stuck on IDF withdrawal; Palestinian officials say discussions nearing collapse US won’t allow Israel to resume war, but rejects truce text saying so explicitly — sources Two Palestinians, including US citizen, killed by settlers in West Bank attack — PA Family of American-Palestinian man allegedly beaten to death by settlers urges US probe 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 in Tel Aviv protest against the Israeli government and for the release of Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip, July 5, 2025. (Miriam Alster/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 host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with author and public intellectual Micah Goodman. Just ahead of this week's What Matters Now recording, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump sat in the White House for a celebratory meal. The table was set for a grand announcement -- a sealed hostage release-ceasefire deal -- but the guest of honor and his terrorist counterparts have yet to come to terms. Goodman looks back at the two huge "double gambles" made during these 21 months of war. The first was by former Hamas leader Yahye Sinwar, who launched the invasion of Israel on October 7, 2023, after viewing the intense divisiveness in Israeli society. His double-or-nothing bet was that Iran and its proxies would immediately join in the onslaught -- they didn't. Goodman compares Sinwar's double gamble to that of Netanyahu, who launched a surprise preemptive strike on Iran's nuclear program on June 13 and wagered that the United States would join. Now that Netanyahu's bet has paid off, Goodman describes how the region is ripe for a realignment -- if tough compromises can be made to end the Gaza war. And so this week, we ask Micah Goodman, 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Shiite Muslim mourners hold portraits of Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a religious procession held to mark Ashura, on the 10th day of the Islamic holy month of Muharram in Karachi on July 6, 2025. (Asif HASSAN / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. This Friday, join former hostage Keith Siegel and host Jessica Steinberg for a deep dive into what life is like for Siegel, five months after his release home from captivity in Gaza. Siegel discusses his need to do everything he can for the remaining hostages, including those with whom he was held hostage during periods of his 484 days of captivity, and who are still held captive. He speaks about the depraved terror he experienced and witnessed in captivity, the moments of grace, and his hope and optimism that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the White House will possibly bring the war to an end. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Aviva and Keith Siegel, after Keith's release home from Hamas captivity on February 1, 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. To begin the program we discuss the current status of IDF operations in the Gaza Strip and then turn to two deadly incidents this week. In the first discussed event, we learn that Master Sgt. (res.) Abraham Azulay, 25, was killed during an abduction attempt by terrorists who also attempted to snatch his body in the southern Gaza Strip. On Monday night, five Israeli soldiers were killed and 14 were wounded by roadside bombs in Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip. The slain soldiers were named as: Staff Sgt. Meir Shimon Amar, 20, from Jerusalem; Sgt. Moshe Nissim Frech, 20, from Jerusalem; Staff Sgt. Noam Aharon Musgadian, 20, from Jerusalem; Staff Sgt. Moshe Shmuel Noll, 21, from Beit Shemesh; and Sgt. First Class (res.) Benyamin Asulin, 28, from Haifa. We learn about this deadly attack and discuss the significance of both attacks -- regarding Hamas's continued battle-readiness and the IDF's vigilance. Turning to the north, on Tuesday, the IDF said it killed a “key Hamas terrorist” in a strike in Lebanon's Tripoli, naming him as Mehran Mustafa Bajur, a prominent Hamas commander. We learn about this strike, as well as ground operations inside southern Lebanon where troops raided several sites, destroying Hezbollah weapon depots and other infrastructure. Twice earlier in the week, the IDF carried out overnight raids in southern Syria, where forces captured a cell of operatives operating on behalf of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Fabian weighs in on the power vacuum left in this part of Israel's border with the new Syrian regime. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israeli soldier killed during attempted Hamas abduction in southern Gaza, IDF says 5 IDF soldiers killed, 14 injured by roadside bombs in northern Gaza IDF says it killed key Hamas figure in Lebanon, confirms death of Oct. 7 terrorist in Gaza Troops destroy Hezbollah arms in rare southern Lebanon ground raids, IDF says For 2nd time in days, IDF says troops arrested terror cell in Syria working for Iran 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 July 4, 2025, handout photo of IDF forces operating in the Gaza Strip. (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. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. After the optimism from US officials on Monday and calls for a hostage deal by the week's end, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu left the second meeting on Tuesday without any announcement, just a quiet exit from the White House, notes Magid. Magid discusses how negotiations are proceeding in Doha after US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and other officials involved in negotiations talk about several sticking issues, including humanitarian aid in Gaza, the parameters of the IDF withdrawal, ceasefire assurances, and the hostage and prisoner swap. He reviews Netanyahu's schedule for the rest of the week as well as what will be discussed in Doha on Wednesday, including Witkoff's expected arrival in Qatar for the ongoing hostage talks. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu quietly leaves White House without announcement of breakthrough in Gaza talks Israeli officials claim 80-90% of Gaza deal settled, but core issue of ending war unresolved Netanyahu and Trump said to discuss future of Gaza ‘day after’ war with Hamas Netanyahu and Trump were joined by Vance in White House meeting — Israeli readout 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, left, meets Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House, July 8, 2025. (Avi Ohayon/GPO)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 and US bureau chief Jacob Magid join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington, DC, but mediators in the ongoing negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal have been notified by the Trump administration that the president expects them to secure an agreement this week. US Special Envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff will travel to Doha today to advance the deal. We hear from Magid and Berman what the atmosphere is like in DC: Are officials still hopeful a deal could occur according to Trump's timeline? Ahead of a White House dinner, both US President Donald Trump and Netanyahu took American media's questions, including a query about the viability of the two-state solution. We learn what Netanyahu said at the dinner, as well as remarks following the meal from a senior Israeli official who intimated that Israel is ready to temporarily govern the Gaza Strip: “There has to be a system there that manages life,” the official said. “Maybe for a certain amount of time, it is us." Yesterday, the US announced that it was revoking its “foreign terrorist organization” designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group once linked to Al-Qaeda that took control of Syria in December 2024. This comes after last week, Trump formally dismantled US sanctions against Syria. We learn what was said during the Trump-Netanyahu dinner and the US's hopes to reintegrate Syria into the global economy. Part of the reason that Netanyahu is in DC is to celebrate the success of the 12-day Israel-Iran war. In a briefing with a senior Israeli official following the dinner, it was also noted that Israel anticipates the US will permit it to launch new strikes on Iran, in the event that the Islamic Republic attempts to restart its nuclear program. There was no ceasefire deal announcement, but there was drama of a different sort: Following Trump’s opening remarks to reporters before their White House dinner, Netanyahu expressed his appreciation for the American leader on behalf of Israelis as well as Jews around the world and presented Trump with a letter he sent to the Nobel Prize committee nominating the US president for the peace prize. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 5 IDF soldiers killed, 14 injured by roadside bomb in northern Gaza Witkoff to join hostage talks in Doha Tuesday as sides told Trump wants deal by week’s end Katz calls for confining all Gazans in ‘humanitarian city’ built over Rafah’s ruins US revokes terror label for Syria’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which toppled Assad Proposal outlines massive camps for Gazans in bid to advance Trump’s ‘vision’ – report Israel said to expect US backing for future strikes on Iran if it revives nuclear program Netanyahu surprises Trump with Nobel recommendation, as leaders stress coordination 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 Palestinian tent city in the Al-Mawasi area in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Strip, July 6, 2025. (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. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lands in the US, Schneider discusses the day ahead for the Israeli leader, ahead of his Monday evening meeting with US President Donald Trump in the White House, and the expectations for the announcement of a permanent ceasefire at that point.  Schneider looks at the issues that still need to be resolved, including the hostages, aid distribution in Gaza and who will manage Gaza if Hamas is no longer in power. She also discusses the continuing clashes between Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, as Smotrich and his supporters accuse Zamir of being too weak in his handling of Gaza and he has lashed back, with their arguments leaked to the media. Surkes looks at what is happening at Haifa's oil refineries after two Iranian missiles hit the plant, killing three workers and creating additional environmental concerns due to pollution from the plant, with calls to shut it down. She also reports on residents from Gaza envelope communities being told by the government to return home in the next weeks and months, although there are still the sounds of war and explosions in their communities. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Heading to DC, Netanyahu seeks Gaza deal ‘on our terms,’ vows Hamas will be destroyed Smotrich reportedly clashes with Zamir over aid distribution in Gaza: ‘You have failed enormously’ Missile that hit Haifa oil refinery brings renewed urgency to plant’s closure plan Refinery hit by Iran missiles emitting ‘100 times higher than usual’ levels of benzene State approves immediate return home of 7 of 13 worst-hit Gaza border communities 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, left, shakes hands with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as he leaves the West Wing of the White House, April 7, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/ Mark Schiefelbein)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. We record today's episode hours before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to take off on Wing of Zion for a whirlwind few days of meetings in Washington, DC. Berman, who is joining the prime minister, updates us on what we know about the ceasefire/ hostage release negotiations right now: An Israeli negotiating team was set to travel to Qatar Sunday for indirect talks with the Hamas terror group, as mediators bear down on the sides amid intensifying efforts to clinch an agreement. There are still a lot of wrinkles to iron out. Berman weighs in. The premier’s spokesman Omer Dostri announced he is stepping down just ahead of the DC trip. “The decision to terminate his employment was made in coordination between the prime minister, his chief of staff, and Dostri,” says the PMO. Berman offers a competing narrative. Early Saturday, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation reported that two American aid workers were wounded when assailants threw two hand grenades at a distribution site in southern Gaza, blaming the attack on “hostile action by Hamas.” Berman discusses other recent Hamas attacks on aid in the Strip and how international humanitarian organizations still prefer to ramp up their efforts rather than cooperate with the GHF. The head of a militia operating in an area of Gaza under Israeli military control, Yasser Abu Shabab, gave an interview to the Israeli public broadcaster’s Arabic-language radio station Makan, in which he confirmed for the first time that his forces are cooperating at some level with the IDF. Could this be a viable option elsewhere? Iranian ballistic missiles struck five Israeli military bases during the 12-day war with last month, The Telegraph reported on Saturday for the first time, citing satellite data shared by Oregon State University. We hear which bases The Telegraph pointed to and their significance. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel sends team to Qatar for hostage talks, but deems Hamas demands ‘unacceptable’ Netanyahu, US blame Hamas for grenade attack on Gaza Humanitarian Foundation workers PM fires spokesman on eve of US trip; reportedly amid spats with Sara Netanyahu Report: Iranian ballistic missiles struck five IDF bases during 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: Illustrative: Palestinian terrorist groups Islamic Jihad and Hamas arrive near the family home of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar before handing over Israeli and Thai hostage to a Red Cross team in Khan Yunis on January 30, 2025. (Eyad BABA / 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 Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur. Dozens of Jewish extremists set fire to a security installation and rioted outside a West Bank base overnight Sunday-Monday, days after an officer in the Israel Defense Forces was assaulted by settlers, who threw rocks and attempted to harm other IDF soldiers. If there’s one institution that a majority of Israelis still get behind, it’s the IDF. So this attack, to many, was a wake-up call to the bubbling issue of settler extremists. In this week's What Matters Now, Rettig Gur describes the origins of the settler movement and how there were several visions that at times competed with each other -- and overlapped. He explains how the extremists who are repeatedly attacking neighboring Palestinian villages -- and now IDF soldiers -- are disenfranchised and largely shunned by the diverse settler communities. And we learn how politicians, some of whom serve as role models for these "hilltop youth" -- are finally also waking up to the problem. But while the leaders are changing their tunes, the youth are no longer listening. And so this week, we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Illustrative: Young Jewish protesters throw rocks as Israeli police forces arrive at the illegal outpost of Amona, on February 1, 2017, on the morning of the settlement's evacuation. (Hadas Parush/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, we're joined by John Spencer, the chief of urban warfare studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, a research center dedicated to the study of war and warfare. Spencer is a retired Major in the US Army and is a leading expert in military operations in dense and subterranean urban areas. Spencer reached out to us after we released a Friday Focus podcast, "10 truths about the Gaza war, 20 months in," based on Berman's in-depth analysis, "For now, victory is still within reach: 10 truths about the Gaza war, 20 months in." Today's conversation is a meeting of the minds in which Berman and Spencer delve into the nuts and bolts of the war in Gaza so far. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: IDF forces operate in the Gaza Strip in this July 3, 2025, handout photo. (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. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As Israel is said to be hoping to finalize a comprehensive Gaza deal before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits the White House next week, Magid discusses the details and complexities of the ongoing hostage negotiations, including a framework of a two-month truce in which 10 living hostages would be returned and the bodies of 18 deceased hostages. Magid reports on the political implications of Netanyahu's upcoming visit to the White House next week, and the possibility of the two leaders celebrating the successful military campaign against Iran. He also notes that while a ceasefire is being negotiated for Gaza, Netanyahu's rhetoric still suggests an ongoing military campaign. The humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza continues to be exacerbated by the conflict and Magid discusses the Ha'aretz report of excessive IDF fire at aid distribution sites, leading to an IDF investigation into potential war crimes. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump says Israel ‘agreed to necessary conditions to finalize’ 60-day Gaza ceasefire Trump says he will be ‘very firm’ with Netanyahu on ending Gaza war Netanyahu set to visit White House July 7 as US pushes for end to Gaza war IDF confirms probe into killings near Gaza aid site, denies troops ordered to shoot civilians 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: Mothers protesting the war in Gaza call on IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir to end the war, holding posters that read: 'How do you dare to send our children to die?', 'We don't have children for a political war', 'Zamir, the soldiers are dying in vain.' (Credit Danor Aharon/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. New York reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. US President Donald Trump threatens to arrest New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani should he win the mayoral elections in November, and Tress discusses the president's repeated comments about the anti-Zionist candidate and Mamdani's proposed plan to oppose Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in New York City. Tress offers an overall look at the trajectory of Mamdani's political ascent and his surprise upset of former New York governor Andrew Cuomo during last week's New York City Democratic party mayoral primary. He discusses the likelihood of Mamdani winning the November general election in the mostly Democratic city, and how Mamdani's anti-Israel activism, a facet of his political life since his college days, will challenge New York City's Jewish dwellers, who comprise the world's largest Jewish population outside of Israel. Tress examines Mamdani's opponents, including former governor Cuomo, who leaned into the Jewish vote, and current New York City mayor Eric Adams, who kicked off his independent candidacy after Mamdani won the primary. He discusses the pro-Jewish initiatives rolled out by Adams during his mayorship and in recent months, and that Cuomo and Adams share a similar voter base in New York, an overwhelmingly Democratic city. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump threatens to arrest anti-Israel New York City mayoral candidate Mamdani Jewish political organizers grapple with fallout from Mamdani’s NYC primary victory Do Zohran Mamdani’s opponents have a path to defeating him in NYC mayoral election? After NYC primary upset, anti-Israel activist Mamdani vows not to ‘abandon my beliefs’ 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: Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani takes selfies with supporters after speaking at his primary election party, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Heather Khalifa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will embark on his third trip to to Washington early next week to meet with US President Donald Trump. This comes alongside increased pressure to end the war in Gaza and perhaps the potential of a domino-type deal between Israel and regional players. Berman speaks about reports that Israel and Syria are holding “advanced talks” on a bilateral agreement halting hostilities between the countries. Could this lead to Syria joining the Abraham Accords? And what position does this put Turkey in, even as its neighbor, Iran, just suffered a defeat at the hands of the US and Israel. Israel’s military chief has advised cabinet ministers against ordering the Israel Defense Forces to expand operations in the Gaza Strip, over fears that doing so could significantly endanger the lives of hostages still held in the Palestinian enclave, according to Hebrew media accounts Monday. Berman speaks about the terrible decision that has faced Israel's political echelons for almost 21 months -- hostages or defeating Hamas -- and how Israeli soldiers in Gaza will likely increasingly be on Hamas's radar as long as no decision is taken. At least 11 people in Gaza were killed yesterday in the area of a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid distribution center, according to local Palestinian media outlets. Also Monday, the military admitted in a statement that it has killed several civilians near aid sites in recent weeks and said it has learned lessons that will avoid similar incidents in the future. Berman recently spoke with the head of GHF, Reverend Johnnie Moore Jr. He brings us highlights from their conversation. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu set to visit White House July 7 as US pushes for end to Gaza war Israel in ‘advanced talks’ for deal to end hostilities with Syria, says senior official Israel says Hezbollah must disarm before any Lebanon peace talks can advance Dozens said killed in Gaza; IDF admits it has killed several civilians near aid sites 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, right, shakes hands with Syria's interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 14, 2025. (Bandar Aljaloud/Saudi Royal Palace via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Tal Schneider and settlements reporter Jeremy Sharon join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Israeli settlers torched a multi-million-shekel security installation used to “thwart terror attacks and maintain security” in the Ramallah area of the West Bank overnight, according to the IDF. This came after a riot by settlers outside a military base in the West Bank, where, according to the IDF, settlers attacked security forces, sprayed mace and vandalized army vehicles. Sharon and Schneider delve deeply into the issue of settler violence and how it is being fostered -- and even potentially funded -- by members of the coalition. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is now in Washington, DC, where he is expected to face pressure from the Trump administration during his meetings tomorrow in Washington to end the war in GazaIt appears from statements made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday that he, too, is on board with winding down the Gaza war. Schneider explains which ministers are against ending the Gaza war and whether this coalition crisis in the making could lead to early elections. Top security officials told judges presiding over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s trial in a closed-door meeting yesterday that Netanyahu must be released from his testimony for the week because there is an opportunity to change the face of the Middle East and for Israel to expand its circle of peace, including with Syria. Sharon discusses the mechanisms of canceling the trial for the week. Then, Schneider speaks about reports claiming that Syria would be willing to give up its claim to the Golan Heights in exchange for a peace agreement. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Settlers torch West Bank security site, riot against ‘traitor’ IDF officer; no arrests PM: Iran war opened broad regional possibilities, ‘first we need to free the hostages’ Court agrees to cancel PM’s testimony this week after briefing by security chiefs Report: Syria not demanding Golan Heights as part of deal with 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: A West Bank security installation that was torched overnight by settlers on June 30, 2025 (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Friday night, throngs of rioting Israeli settlers attacked IDF soldiers at the Palestinian village of Kafr Malik near Ramallah, after the forces arrived there to prevent them from rampaging in the village. Six Israelis were arrested following the violence. According to Hebrew media reports, the Israeli assailants beat, choked and hurled rocks at the troops. Later, on Saturday, a police outpost was vandalized by settlers in what authorities said was an apparent act of revenge for the arrest of the six suspects accused in the nighttime attack. Fabian explains the rollout of the events. This morning, UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi told CBS news that Iran likely will be able to begin to produce enriched uranium “in a matter of months,” despite damage to several nuclear facilities from US and Israeli attacks. But this is in contrast to what IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has reportedly told colleagues that Iran is no longer a nuclear threshold state following the Israeli and US strikes on its nuclear program. Fabian relays the army's assessment of the 12-day war and discusses whether the ceasefire will be similar to the November 27, 2024, ceasefire with Hezbollah. This morning, the IDF re-issued a wide evacuation warning for Palestinians in the Gaza City and Jabalia areas in the northern Gaza Strip. This comes as Zamir said Friday that the military’s latest offensive in Gaza will soon “reach the lines” defined by the government, which would see the military assert control over 75% of the territory. We hear what is happening on the ground in Gaza. Finally, one of the founders of Hamas, who was also one of the planners of its onslaught of October 7, 2023, was killed in an airstrike in Gaza City on Friday night. We learn about Hakem al-Issa, who served as chief of staff at the “combat and administrative support division” in the Palestinian terror group’s military wing. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Settlers attack IDF soldiers, try to ram them amid riot in West Bank village; 6 detained PM, defense chiefs condemn settler attack on soldiers; suspects try to torch police post IDF chief believes Iran no longer a nuclear threshold state after Israeli, US strikes 34 Gazans said killed in IDF strikes; army issues evacuation warning after rocket fire Gaza offensive will soon ‘reach the lines’ set by the government, says IDF chief Veteran Hamas operative who helped plan Oct. 7 killed in Gaza City strike, IDF says Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF soldiers operate in the northern Gaza Strip in this June 19, 2025, handout photo. (IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Jessica Steinberg speaking with Daniel Syrkin, director of the acclaimed TV series "Tehran." Recorded on Monday amid the ongoing conflict with Iran, Syrkin discusses the impact of the current geopolitical events on the storytelling of "Tehran" and the challenges of producing a series that reflects the most recent realities of life in Iran. The "Tehran" director shares insights from his background in military intelligence and how it shaped his understanding of the Iranian regime and the making of the series, created with Israel's Kan 11 and Apple TV. He also discusses the cultural authenticity of the series, the emotional responses from Iranian actors to their Israeli costars and crew, even during the last 10 days of the conflict. Syrkin notes that sometimes the only way for him to cope as an Israeli is by working on the show, and notes that whatever happens next, it will be reflected in the next season, Season 4. And so this week, we ask Daniel Syrkin, 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: 'Tehran' director Daniel Syrkin with actor Niv Sultan from 'Tehran' (Credit: Tully Chen)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. We're still sifting through the facts and figuring out the results of the 12-day Israel-Iran war. But after every earthquake, there are aftershocks. Today, we’ll look at how this war has far-reaching effects on countries such as Russia, China, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. We begin the program by looking at China, which is hosting a gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a China- and Russia-led regional security grouping. In attendance is Iran’s defense minister, Aziz Nasirzadeh. The conference is an attempt to build alternative international blocs to those backed by the United States, according to reporting on CNN. So, how does China fit in with the 12-day war? Our next stop is Russia. The world learned again that Russian military tech is no match for a first-class air force like the IDF after it failed to repel the Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. Berman weighs in on Russia's nuanced approach to the Israel-Iran war and its cautious moves to not upset the Trump administration. Reports of Iranians fleeing to bordering Turkey during the conflict were unsurprising, said Berman, since the NATO nation is a gateway to Europe. We hear how Turkey responded to the war. Looking towards Saudi Arabia, US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff reiterated Wednesday his belief that additional countries will join the Abraham Accords, which normalized ties between Israel and several Muslim nations. We learn what would have to happen for this to occur and how there may be a softening on Israel's part following the recent conflict with Iran. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: (L-R) India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Iran's Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, Kazakhstan's Defense Minister Dauren Kossanov, China's Defense Minister Dong Jun, Kyrgyzstan's Defense Minister Ruslan Mukambetov, Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Russia's Defense Minister Andrei Belousov gather for a group photo during the Defense Ministers' Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Qingdao, in eastern China's Shandong province on June 26, 2025. (Photo by Pedro PARDO / AFP) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President Donald Trump on Thursday demanded the end of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing criminal trial. Netanyahu is on trial in three corruption cases, facing charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Among other comments, Trump wrote, “It was the United States of America that saved Israel, and now it is going to be the United States of America that saves Bibi Netanyahu. THIS TRAVESTY OF ‘JUSTICE’ CAN NOT BE ALLOWED!” Magid weighs in. Yesterday, it was announced that US and Iranian officials will hold nuclear talks next week, even as Tehran insisted it will not give up its nuclear program and the US has claimed the program was "obliterated." Magid breaks down some of the conflicting information and offers insight into what kind of deal may take shape following the Israel-Iran war. Israel reportedly halted aid deliveries into Gaza after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that he ordered the military to present a plan within the next two days on how to keep Hamas from stealing humanitarian assistance. Magid tries to makes sense of what is reportedly taking place on the ground. Families of hostages held in Gaza hope the ceasefire with Iran, which went into effect on Tuesday will mark a turning point — one that could lead to a truce with Hamas and finally bring their loved ones home. “Those who are capable of reaching a ceasefire with Iran can also put an end to the war in Gaza,” the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said in a statement. “Ending the operation in Iran without using it to return all the hostages would be a grave diplomatic failure.” Magid has some optimism for more talks and explains why. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump demands end to Netanyahu’s graft trial: ‘US saved Israel, now it’s going to save Bibi’ Trump says US will meet with Iran next week, asserts nuke deal ‘no longer necessary’ Hostage families hope Iran truce yields Gaza deal: ‘Hamas is at its weakest point’ 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 shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on April 7, 2025. (SAUL LOEB / AFP)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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Over the 12 days of war, Iran’s ballistic missile attacks on Israel claimed the lives of 28 people — all but one of them civilians — and wounded over 3,000 people.
More than 9,000 people in Israel have been displaced from their homes, dozens of which were damaged or destroyed by the Iranian attacks.
We begin the program by discussing the mood in the country, even as Israelis woke to the news of seven soldiers killed in Gaza. A preliminary US intelligence assessment has determined that US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have set back Tehran’s program by only a matter of months. Rettig Gur sifts through the pieces and tries to discern, did Israel meet its goals? Was there a victor here? And if so, who? In a video statement on Tuesday summing up the war against Iran, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel “achieved a historic victory” that would “abide for generations” following the US-brokered ceasefire to end the 12-day conflict. Is this just pre-campaign-trail rhetoric? And finally, we discuss why, in this potential window of opportunity, did the people of Iran not rise up and attempt to overthrow the oppressive regime. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 7 Israeli soldiers killed when armored vehicle hit by explosive in southern Gaza American strikes only set Iran’s nuclear program back by months — US intel report Netanyahu claims ‘historic victory,’ says ‘we sent Iran’s nuclear program down the drain’ Iran says 700 arrested for wartime ties with Israel; 3 alleged Mossad agents hanged The Israel-Iran war by the numbers, after 12 days of fighting 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: Iranians chant slogans and wave national flags as they celebrate a ceasefire between Iran and Israel at Enghlab Square in the capital Tehran on June 24, 2025. (ATTA KENARE / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Hours after Iran attempted to strike a US military base in Qatar in retaliation for the US strike on its nuclear sites, US President Donald Trump announced overnight Monday-Tuesday that Israel and Iran agreed to a “complete and total ceasefire” which would bring about an end to the conflict. However, hours after both sides confirmed that the truce was taking effect, Iran shot another barrage at Israel -- the seventh of the morning. At recording time, Defense Minister Israel Katz has ordered the IDF to retaliate with force. A pre-ceasefire attack earlier Tuesday hit a Beersheba apartment building, killing four people. We delve into the Iranian missile attack on a major US airbase in Qatar on Monday evening. Qatari and US officials said no casualties or injuries were sustained in the attack, and Iran reportedly warned Doha in advance, signaling its likely intent to avoid a further escalation. Qatar said Iran fired 19 missiles at the base, one of which hit. Berman weighs in. Earlier on Monday, Israeli airstrikes targeted key assets and symbols of the Iranian regime in Tehran, including facilities belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Evin Prison for political prisoners, and the “Destruction of Israel” countdown clock. What was Israel attempting to accomplish here? As a ceasefire between Israel and Iran was coming into effect, IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said “the IDF fully met all of [the] objectives” it had set ahead of the war. But did it? The Hostage and Missing Families Forum released a statement saying that ending the military operation against Iran without taking the opportunity to secure the release of the hostages held in Gaza would be a “grave diplomatic failure.” Berman explains why linking the Iran ceasefire with a Gaza ceasefire is highly unlikely. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump says Israel and Iran agreed to ‘complete and total ceasefire,’ ending '12 Day War’ Iran fires missiles at American base in Qatar in retaliation for US strikes; none hurt In Tehran, IDF strikes IRGC sites, gate of Evin Prison, ‘Destruction of Israel’ clock 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: The remains of a ballistic missile fired from Iran into the Golan Heights, northern Israel, June 23, 2025. (Michael Giladi/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 notes that it isn't definitively clear how much damage has been wreaked on Iranian nuclear facilities by US and Israeli strikes in Iran. He refers to the term "obliteration," used by US President Donald Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, to describe the result of the American strikes on three key Iranian nuclear facilities early on Sunday, but stresses that the US military has only publicized an initial damage assessment to date. He discusses Trump's late Sunday remark about potential regime change in Iran -- issued after all his key officials stressed this was not America's goal. Horovitz also comments on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's pre-recorded press conference on Sunday evening, in which he vowed that Iran's ongoing fire on Israel would not become a war of attrition. He also looks at the prime minister's cryptic comments regarding the relative failure of Iranian drone attacks and the whereabouts of Iran's stockpiles of enriched uranium. The conversation with Horovitz also touches on geopolitical dynamics, including Russia's relationship with Iran, and the routes followed by Israeli citizens trying to return home amidst the conflict. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘MIGA!’: Trump floats Tehran regime change as Iran’s proxies said prepping to hit US bases Netanyahu: Israel very close to reaching goals in Iran, will avoid ‘war of attrition’ Iran, Russia set to hold talks as Tehran fumes at US over strikes Aryeh Deri says October 7 ‘saved the nation of Israel,’ avoiding deadlier attack and exposing Iran Despite travel warning, majority of returning Israelis do so via Jordan and Egypt 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: This handout satellite picture provided by Maxar Technologies and taken on June 22, 2025, shows Iran's Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant (FFEP), northeast of the city of Qom, after US strikes on the site. (Satellite image ©2025 Maxar Technologies / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and US bureau chief Jacob Magid join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President Donald Trump announced early Sunday that the US had carried out a “successful attack” on the Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan nuclear sites in Iran. We learn what was hit and Trump's warnings to Iran about either returning to the negotiating table, or else. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities early Sunday morning, thanking Trump for bringing “peace through strength.”  We discuss the options that are now on the table for Iran as well as the wider implications for the region as the Israel-Iran war continues. Berman speaks about the potential realignment of regional axes with a severely weakened Iran.  And finally, Magid weighs in on whether the broader US population is on board with these attacks on Iran -- and why some may hesitate. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US joins Israel’s war in Iran, bombs fortified Fordo site and other nuclear facilities Full text of Trump’s speech following US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities Netanyahu hails US strikes on Iran: ‘First comes strength, then comes peace’ What to know about the Iranian nuclear sites that were hit by US strikes 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: A B-2 Stealth Bomber flies somewhere over the state of Missouri, October 30, 2002. (TIM SLOAN / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Overnight, an Israeli airstrike in Iran killed Saeed Izadi, the head of the Palestine Corps in the IRGC Quds Force, who funded and armed Hamas ahead of the terror group’s October 7 onslaught as part of a multi-front plan to destroy Israel. Fabian describes who he was and how central he was in drafting Iran's ultimate strategy to eliminate Israel. Also hit last night was Iran’s Isfahan nuclear site for the second time since the start of the conflict, as Iran fired an overnight volley of five ballistic missiles at central Israel. The strike on the first day of the conflict destroyed several critical sections, including uranium conversion infrastructure and labs. Last night's strikes were intended to cause further damage to Iran’s nuclear program. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir told Israelis yesterday that they must prepare for a “prolonged campaign” against Iran to “eliminate a threat of this magnitude,” indicating that a quick end to the campaign was unlikely. We ask Fabian to decipher this cryptic message from the head of the IDF even as US President Donald Trump told reports that Israel appears to be "winning." Also yesterday, reporters were told that Israel is not running low on air defense interceptors amid its conflict with Iran, denying reporting that the IDF’s stockpile of interceptor missiles is being depleted. Fabian explains why this may still be the case. Iran is not only firing traditional ballistic missiles at Israel: At least one ballistic missile launched by Iran at Israel in a barrage on Thursday morning was carrying a cluster bomb warhead, marking a dangerous new development. We speak about this type of missile, as well as Iran's drips-and-drabs retaliation to the continued Israeli strikes. To close out, we review the stunning operation to eliminate Iran’s top military commanders early June 13 was code-named “Red Wedding” after the infamous scene in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” book series and “Game of Thrones” TV show, due to the almost fantastical way it was carried out. Fabian explains why. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IRGC Palestinian division chief, an architect of Oct. 7, killed in overnight strike in Iran IDF hits Isfahan nuclear site for 2nd time; Iran fires 5 missiles in overnight barrage IDF chief warns Israelis must brace for ‘prolonged campaign’ against Iran Denying reports, IDF indicates that it’s not running low on missile interceptors Iranian missile with cluster warhead scattered bombs in central Israel, IDF says Inspired by brutal TV scene, first strikes on Iran said code-named ‘Red Wedding’ 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: Israeli soldiers and first responders check the damage caused to a building from an Iranian strike in Beit She'an on June 21, 2025. (Jalaa MAREY / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Israel has experience in attempting to stop a nuclear weapons program. Twice before striking Iran on June 13, 2025, Israel attempted to thwart two neighboring nations' nascent nuclear programs. This week on the Friday Focus, we’re talking about the covert surprise 1981 Operation Opera in Iraq and the 2007 Israeli airstrike on Syria, called Operation Outside the Box or Operation Orchard. Berman fills us in on the back story of both, and weighs in on how successful they were — of course, with an eye to the current Israel-Iran war and Israel’s goal to stop Iran from reaching a nuclear bomb. We learn how Operation Opera, also known as Operation Babylon, took place under prime minister Menachem Begin on June 7, 1981, at 16:00 when 14 fighter jets departed from Etzion (Efrat) Airport in Israel. At approximately 17:30, they struck and destroyed the Osirak nuclear reactor in Iraq, and within about 90 seconds of bombing, they successfully completed their mission. Berman speaks about the resultant "Begin Doctrine," which, since 1981, guides Israel in how it reacts to imminent threats of weapons of mass destruction. We then turn to the second preemptive strike that Israel carried out to stop the bomb in 2007, under prime minister Ehud Olmert. Ten Israeli Air Force (IAF) F-15 fighter jets, along with F-16 fighters and electronic-warfare aircraft, bombed a Syrian radar site and took over Syrian air defenses, feeding them a false picture of empty skies. We discuss the overriding themes of both operations and compare them with what is currently happening in the Israel-Iran war. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: The IDF pilots who participated in the Operation Opera bombing of Saddam Hussein's nuclear reactor at Osirak in 1981. (Israel Defense Force archive)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following the early morning Iranian rocket attack that directly hit Beersheba's Soroka Medical Center and buildings in Ramat Gan and Holon, Magid discusses the likelihood of the US getting involved in the Israel-Iran conflict. He notes that the stance of US President Donald Trump regarding US involvement has shifted dramatically in recent days, moving from very unlikely to highly possible. Magid also discusses how Republican support for Israel is divided on the issue of the US intervention in the Iranian conflict, with some Republican politicians making it clear that they support the steps that Israel has taken, while others are against the US getting involved in a conflict far from US soil. As 85 trucks of humanitarian aid entered Gaza on Wednesday, Magid discusses the ongoing challenges of aid distribution being handled by the Israeli-US Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. He also talks about the latest offer for hostage negotiations, as Egypt offers to host representatives of Israel and Hamas in Sharm el-Sheikh, which is accessible for the Israeli team, given the closure of Israel's airports during the Iran conflict. Israel believes that its strikes against Iran will help in talks with Hamas to reach a ceasefire deal, says Magid. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘Nobody knows what I’m going to do’: Trump won’t say whether he’ll strike Iran Trump speaks with Netanyahu and advisers as he weighs strike on Iran Trump demands Iran’s ‘unconditional surrender,’ says US won’t kill Khamenei ‘for now’ Netanyahu says Israel won’t rule out killing Khamenei: It would ‘end the conflict’ US embassy working on plans to evacuate citizens seeking to leave Israel Egypt pushing to host hostage talks, but Israel holding off for now 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: Smoke rises from where a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit Soroka Medical Center in Be'er Sheva, June 19, 2025 (Credit: Dudu Greenspan/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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Israel-Iran war continues with fewer missile barrages from Iran even as Israel continues to use innovative ways of using its technology to destroy nuclear and military infrastructure in Iran. We begin the episode by speaking about how Israel has tweaked its aerial missile capabilities, specifically its standoff munitions, to turn them into far-flying, guided ballistic missiles. Rettig Gur speaks about the many, deep reasons why Russia did not want this Israel-Iran war to take place, including the notion that Israel has shown the lack of capabilities of Russian anti-aircraft tech as the IAF sails through Tehran airspace. We hear what else had Russian President Vladimir Putin concerned. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed words of support yesterday for Israel’s war against Iran, saying, “This is the dirty work Israel is doing for all of us. We are also victims of this regime. This mullah regime has brought death and destruction to the world. As Merz appers to be urging the United States to enter the fray, we also hear about France's support for Israel's military operations in Iran. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel will achieve goals in Iran within a week or two, including in Fordo, IDF says The US bunker-buster bomb that could destroy Iran’s Fordo nuclear facility Germany’s Merz threatens destruction of Iran’s nuclear program if it bucks talks 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: Portraits of Iranian military generals and nuclear scientists, killed in Israel's June 13 attack are displayed above a road, as a plume of heavy smoke rises from an oil refinery in southern Tehran, after it was hit in an overnight Israeli strike, on June 15, 2025. (ATTA KENARE / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Two Israeli soldiers were killed fighting in separate incidents in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis on Monday. Cpt. Tal Movshovitz, 28, from Re’ut, was killed by an explosive device planted in a building.Hours later, Staff Sgt. Naveh Leshem, 20, from Nokdim, was killed, and 10 other soldiers were wounded. Berman addresses the rumors of progress towards a negotiated deal to get the hostages out and a ceasefire in the Strip. What is happening in the war and what has changed? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday did not rule out plans to target Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Instead, he suggested that it would be a surefire way to “end the conflict” with the Islamic Republic. Berman updates us on other statements from the prime minister -- in English and Hebrew. Downtown Tehran appears to be emptying out, with many shops closed, including in the city’s ancient Grand Bazaar, perhaps in light of US President Donald Trump’s impromptu evacuation call for the entire city of Tehran Monday night, citing what he said was the country’s rejection of a deal to curb nuclear weapons development, as the conflict between Israel and the Islamic Republic appeared poised for further escalation. Berman explains what happened in the G7 and where the war could be turning. French authorities erected black partition walls around Israeli company exhibits displaying offensive weapons systems at the Paris Air Show overnight Sunday, hours before the event opened at Le Bourget Airport. Berman weighs in, explaining the nuance of the situation -- and why this is hardly the first time Israel is singled out at this show. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 2 soldiers killed in Gaza; another mass casualty incident reported near GHF aid site Netanyahu admits Gaza Humanitarian Foundation was Israeli initiative Netanyahu says Israel won’t rule out killing Khamenei: It would ‘end the conflict’ Trump urges ‘everyone’ to flee Tehran, sparking speculation of widening conflict Trump, G7 heads call for ‘de-escalation’ in Iran, but US president denies ceasefire bid Paris Air Show closes off pavilions of Israeli companies displaying ‘offensive weapons’ 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: Handout image of Israeli fighter jet lifting off to strike Iran, June 17, 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 episode. Over the past night, eight Israelis were killed and hundreds injured in Iranian barrages, with evenings and overnights now punctuated by missile strikes. Israelis have been staying close to protected spaces, and, until last night, almost every serious casualty had been outside a protected room or shelter. Horovitz talks about Israel gaining air supremacy in Iran and the declared goals of the military campaign, which include averting the ballistic missile threat and damaging the Iranian nuclear program, but do not include bringing down the Iranian regime or targeting the country's political leadership... or completely destroying the nuclear program. Rather, the overt intention is to create an environment in which the regime decides its own interests require it to abandon and dismantle the entire program. He notes that Israel has killed many Iranian commanders from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and army, and key nuclear scientists, disrupting the regime's military command structure and hampering a potential breakout to the bomb. Horovitz discusses whether the US could get involved, and notes comments by US President Donald Trump that express clear support for Israel but no intention to join the battle. He says that Israel, which has made significant progress over the last few days, never asks other countries to fight its wars, but American involvement may be crucial in disabling Iran's best-protected nuclear facilities. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 8 killed, nearly 300 injured as Iranian ballistic missiles strike central Israel, Haifa Devastation grows as Iran targets Israel’s civilian areas, despite interceptors and shelters Israel kills Iranian intel chiefs, strikes deep inside Iran, opens ‘air corridor to Tehran’ IDF reiterates safe rooms still best option against Iran’s missiles, despite 2 fatalities Trump said to veto Khamenei assassination; Netanyahu: Conflict may result in regime change Trump says ‘it’s possible’ US will get involved in Iran-Israel conflict, while urging 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: Israelis at scene where a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit and caused damage in Tel Aviv, June 16, 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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Over the past night, 10 Israelis were killed and 200 injured in Iranian barrages, in addition to three killed the previous night and dozens injured, including seven IDF soldiers. Berman fills us in on the overnight strikes. We turn to a discussion of Iran's military capabilities and what's known about its missile arsenal. And Borschel-Dan poses the to-date hypothetical question of Iran's naval fleet reaching Israel. So far, American air defense systems and a Navy destroyer have helped Israel shoot down incoming ballistic missiles that Tehran has launched in response to Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and top military leaders. We hear how the US has used both ground-based Patriot missile defense systems and Terminal High Altitude Air Defense systems that are capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. A Navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean Sea also shot down Iranian missiles heading toward Israel, one official said. Berman weighs in on whether the US may step up its efforts and join Israel in the possible scenario of a ground offensive on Iranian soil. To close out, Berman describes the daring Mossad operation in Iran that allowed Israel to launch the airstrikes. We hear that Israel spent years preparing for the operation against Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, including building a drone base inside Iran and smuggling precision weapons systems and commandos into the country. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 6 dead, including 2 children, in Iranian missile strike on Bat Yam apartment building Devastation grows as Iran targets civilian areas, despite interceptors and shelters 4 Arab women – mother, 2 daughters and a sister-in-law – killed by Iranian missile near Haifa US air defense systems, naval destroyer help down Iranian missiles fired at Israel Trump: Iran will face American might ‘at levels never seen before’ if it attacks US 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: US President Donald Trump gets out of a THAAD missile truck at the White House in Washington, DC, on July 15, 2019. (Brendan Smialowski / 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 Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur. Since 3 am on Friday morning, Israel has been at war with Iran. We begin the program with a pause to look at how each of us sees this Israeli moment. Rettig Gur weighs in on how this war with Iran was inevitable ever since Hamas's murderous onslaught on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, and began the ongoing war in Gaza. The IDF chief of staff Eyal Zamir told Israel's political leaders in the past day that the campaign in Iran is essential to ensure "the existence of the Jewish people," according to Israel's Channel 12. "The operation in Iran is an operation to defend the existence of the Jewish people. History will not forgive us if we do not act now." We discuss the tipping point of launching the operation and the international media's cynicism that it was begun in part as a ploy for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stay in power. A constant critic of Netanyahu, today, Rettig Gur applauds his courage in taking on Iran. Finally, we hear Rettig Gur's thoughts on Netanyahu's hopes that the Iranian people will use this opportunity to shake off their shackles of oppression and overturn the regime. And so this week, we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei, February 7, 2025, . (OFFICE OF THE IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian and diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Overnight, Israel launched a major offensive against the Islamic Republic of Iran, striking nuclear sites, military facilities, missile bases and senior leadership. Fabian describes how new intelligence indicated that the military assessed Iran currently has enough enriched uranium to build 15 nuclear bombs — as well as its ballistic missile factories and its military capabilities. We hear details about the "Rising Lion" mission, as well as Iran’s retaliation of 100 UAVs, as of recording time mid-morning Friday. We also learn about the behind-the-scenes cooperation between the United States and Israel and how the world is responding to this preemptive strike so far, especially the Saudia Arabia. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: After years of preparation, Israel launches major offensive against Iran and its nuclear program ‘An immediate operational necessity’: Why Israel finally attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities Explainer: The handful of facilities at the core of Iran’s nuclear program 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: An Israeli Air Force fighter jet departs for strikes in Iran, early June 13, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Magid offers the latest on the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, with recent reports of staffers killed and perhaps taken captive by Hamas terrorists, as well as the possibility of some 25 Palestinians killed at one of the aid sites. Magid reviews the latest Hamas claims and GHF responses, discussing the confusion in this ongoing initiative. As the French and Saudis host a UN conference next week advancing a two-state solution, Magid says there is speculation whether France will use it as an opportunity to declare a Palestinian state, making it the most prominent country in the West to do so, while remaining an ally of Israel. Magid says there is still much indecision about the unilateral step, which could interfere with the ongoing hostage negotiations and with concerns about how Israel would react.  Talks with Iran continue, with US President Donald Trump publicly criticizing the Iranian republic for not negotiating seriously. Magid looks at some of the serious steps being taken by the US to shield US personnel in the Middle East, possibly indicating that an attack is coming, either by the US or Israel. Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent video statement about possible progress in hostage talks, which was dismissed by others, Magid notes that the recent phone conversation between Trump and Netanyahu points to the US president's intention that the war in Gaza needs to end, despite the Israeli government's interest in contining the military pressure in Gaza. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Gaza aid group says Hamas killed at least 5 local staffers, possibly abducted others Palestinians say 25 killed near Gaza aid site; IDF says troops fired at threats MBS attendance at 2-state confab to signal that France will recognize Palestinian state US slams UN conference on Israel-Palestinian issue, warns of consequences US begins evacuating Mideast embassies, army bases as Iran nuclear talks come to a head Trump said to have told Netanyahu to end Gaza war, attacking Iran off limits for now 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: French President Emmanuel Macron, right, speaks with Saudi Arabia's Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud prior to a group photo at an EU-Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Brussels, Belgium, Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Omar Havana)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 political reporter Tal Schneider join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Defense Minister Israel Katz agreed on Israel’s response to Hamas’s counter-offer to a US proposal for a hostage-ceasefire deal at their meeting yesterday, Army Radio reports. The response has been forwarded to mediators, the report says. Officials are now awaiting the terror group’s response, but in the meantime, fighting continues on the ground in Gaza. Fabian fills us in. In a first, Israeli Navy missile boats on Tuesday morning launched strikes against infrastructure at the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeida in western Yemen. Fabian explains the pros and cons of using the naval forces instead of the air force for similar future attacks. The UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Norway said Tuesday that they would freeze assets and bar the entry of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for having “incited extremist violence” against Palestinians in the West Bank. Schneider weighs in on all the various diplomatic efforts on the table designed to pressure Israel to stop the Gaza war, including the upcoming conference in New York co-sponsored by France and Saudi Arabia on the topic of the two-state solution. Leaders of opposition parties decided this morning to submit a private bill to dissolve the Knesset, starting the process of four votes that may -- or may not -- lead to new elections. Schneider dives into the thorny topic and explains the forces pulling strings behind the scenes. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Palestinians say 20 killed near aid site; IDF says troops fired at Gazans who posed threat Israeli Navy carries out Yemen strikes for 1st time, targeting Houthi port IDF shoots down Yemen missile; multiple interceptors launched as it breaks up UK, Canada and 3 other nations sanction Ben Gvir and Smotrich over settler violence Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Illustrative: An LRAD missile is launched from the Sa’ar 6-class corvette INS Magen during a test in November 2022. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Ariela Karmel for today's episode. Berman discusses new developments in the ongoing Iran nuclear talks and daylight between US and Israeli leadership following a 40-minute phone call between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday evening, shortly after Iran announced that it would respond soon to Washington's latest proposal for a nuclear deal. Berman also describes his recent tour in Gaza with the IDF, during which he entered Hamas tunnels underneath an EU-funded hospital where Hamas command sat, including commander Muhammad Sinwar who was killed there in an Israeli airstrike in May. Hostages are believed to have also been held in the vast network of tunnels underneath the hospital, says Berman, noting that it is not clear who was held there or when but that forensic evidence pointing to the presence of hostages has been found. Finally, Berman discusses a new report detailing a series of multimillion-dollar deals approved by Netanyahu between top Israeli defense companies and Qatar. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates.   For further reading: Trump speaks with Netanyahu, stresses US wants Iran deal ‘so there’s no destruction and death’ Here, beneath an EU-funded Gaza hospital, Hamas military chief Mohammed Sinwar met his end Report: PM approved multimillion dollar deals between top Israeli defense companies and Qatar Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Troops from the IDF Golani Brigade guard the entrance to a tunnel underneath the European Hospital in Khan Younis, June 8, 2025 (Lazar Berman/The Times of Israel)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. As Shas party leader Aryeh Deri threatens to leave the coalition, Sokol discusses the pressure being placed on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by the ultra-Orthodox parties to wrangle Likud lawmaker Yuli Edelstein and the law he is writing regarding Haredi army enlistment. There is intense anger in the ultra-Orthodox world over the issue, says Sokol, who also notes an act of arson in a Shas synagogue in Sunday, as the Shas party announced its intention to leave the coalition over its anger with Netanyahu regarding the Haredi draft bill. Sokol notes that a political insider told him there's a relatively low chance of these pressures leading to new elections. Even if the current coalition is dissolved, there would still be up to five months of its ability to continue functioning and for the coalition parties to buy more time for themselves. Tercatin discusses two sets of findings, one regarding the Bible. A pioneering new algorithm looks at the layers of oral traditions and writers of the Bible and its editors. The algorithm helps discern which words are used most often and the writing style, creating new methods of analyzing ancient writings and answering questions about the history they present. She also looks at a radiocarbon dating study that was used to examine one of the Dead Sea scrolls, helping futher determine the timeframe when it was written, and whether the current scrolls are first copies or early editions. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Shas said planning to back Knesset dissolution over stymied draft-exemption bill Shas spiritual leader: Edelstein’s soul is an abomination, shame he came to Israel Haredi parties maintain pressure on PM after he claims ‘significant progress’ in talks Outrage after arson attack on Jerusalem synagogue of top Shas party rabbi Who wrote the Bible? A pioneering new algorithm may shatter scholarly certitude New study revolutionizes Dead Sea Scrolls dating, might rewrite Israel’s history 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: Shas party leader Aryeh Deri and spiritual leader Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef visit the scene of suspected arson and vandalism at a Jerusalem synagogue on June 8, 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Four more soldiers were declared dead on Friday morning after a booby trapped building exploded in the southern Gaza Strip. The slain soldiers were Sgt. First Class Tom Rotstein, Staff Sgt. Uri Yhonatan Cohen, Sgt. Maj. (res.) Chen Gross and Staff Sgt. Yoav Raver. Fabian weighs in on the challenges facing troops on the ground as Operation Gideon's Chariots continues. The leader of a small Gaza terror group responsible for the October 7, 2023, abductions and eventual murders of several hostages -- including Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir -- was killed in an Israeli strike in Gaza City on Saturday, the military said. Another senior member was killed in a separate strike in the city. Fabian explains what the Mujahideen Brigades group is and other hostages who were murdered by it. The body of slain hostage Nattapong Pinta, who Hamas-led terrorists abducted on October 7, 2023, was recovered in a joint Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet operation in the southern Gaza Strip, officials announced Saturday morning. This follows the recovery of two additional hostage bodies, Gadi Haggai and Judih Weinstein from the Khan Younis region. We learn how their whereabouts were determined. The Israeli Navy is expected to block a high-profile activist mission sailing to Gaza to challenge Israel’s blockade, should the boat near Israel’s territorial waters in the coming days. Among the 12 activists on the ship are Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, Brazilian activist Thiago Avila, Irish “Game of Thrones” actor Liam Cunningham, and Rima Hassan, a French-Palestinian European Parliament member. With the world's gaze on Israel, Fabian describes how the Navy may block the boat from reaching the Gaza shore. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF names two other soldiers killed in booby-trapped Gaza building on Friday 4 IDF soldiers killed, 5 wounded after booby-trapped south Gaza building collapses Gaza aid group says Hamas threats to staff kept distribution hubs closed on Saturday Heads of terror group that abducted and murdered Bibas family killed by IDF Body of Thai hostage Nattapong Pinta recovered by IDF from south Gaza’s Rafah Activist aid ship carrying Greta Thunberg reaches Egypt’s coast as it heads for Gaza 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: Golani troops operate in Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip in this June 3, 2025, handout image from the IDF. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with ToI editor David Horovitz. How do you cover a war when no objective, proven journalists are allowed to report independently in the war zone? And when one side of the conflict -- a terrorist regime -- floods international media with its narrative while the other side -- an attacked sovereign nation -- provides no narrative, guess which side's story makes front pages? This week on What Matters Now, Horovitz lays out the challenges of penetrating the fog of this war within the constraints of an Israeli information vacuum. "The hardest challenge for journalists, and it's certainly never been harder for us in the last 19-20 months, is to get the facts first... Getting to the facts has never been harder," said Horovitz.  And so this week, we ask ToI editor David Horovitz, 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Palestinians run following an Israeli strike in Gaza City, June 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Just back from reserve duty, Berman has written an in-depth look at the war in Gaza and the questions it raises in Israeli society. For today's episode, we take a look at Berman's op-ed, "For now, victory is still within reach: 10 truths about the Gaza war, 20 months in," and discuss each point one by one. In a free-flowing conversation, we hear Berman assess the war's successes and failures and learn about the burning existential issues that Israelis have yet to address. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: IDF troops of the Nahal Brigade operate in the Gaza Strip, in images released on June 5, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation banning travel from certain countries, citing national security concerns — and pointedly, the DIY flamethrower attack on Sunday in Boulder, Colorado. Magid explains which nations are -- and are not -- affected, and discusses the new ban on foreign students at Harvard University. For the first time since Trump took office, the United Nations Security Council discussed and voted on a substantive resolution related to the war in Gaza. The resolution, which was vetoed by the United states, called for a ceasefire, release of the hostages and surge of humanitarian aid into the Strip. Magid weighs in on the significance of the vote. Mediators are reportedly optimistic that Hamas will soon submit an updated hostage deal proposal that will be closer to what US special envoy Steve Witkoff presented last week, three sources familiar with the matter told Magid. But does this optimism have any grounds? What's changed? The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation announced that its aid distribution sites would again not open on Thursday morning to give time for the US- and Israeli-backed organization to carry out logistical work needed to accommodate larger crowds. We discuss this aid effort in the context of other, now suspended attempts, such as air drops from Jordan. Israel decided to block a Saudi-led delegation from visiting the West Bank earlier this week. It would have been the first visit by a Saudi foreign minister since Israel took over the West Bank in 1967, and had been intended to boost the legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority as a viable candidate to replace Hamas as the governing body of Gaza after the war. Magid adds nuance and context to this decision and its repercussions. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump bans travel from 12 countries, ties it to attack on Colorado Jewish rally  Trump moves to bar US entry to foreign students planning to study at Harvard US vetoes UN Security Council resolution calling for Gaza ceasefire Mediators optimistic Hamas will soon submit softened hostage deal proposal — sources GHF says Gaza aid sites won’t reopen Thursday morning as planned, after one-day shutdown Saudi official says Israel harmed normalization by blocking West Bank visit – report 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: US Ambassador to the United Nations Dorothy Shea (C) speaks during a United Nations Security Council meeting to vote on a resolution calling for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza, at UN headquarters in New York City on June 4, 2025. (Leonardo Munoz / AFP)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 and reporter Ariela Karmel join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As hostage family members met with members of the Trump administration in the White House on Tuesday, Berman discusses the latest developments in the hostage negotiations, as Hamas continues to leverage the remaining living hostages for political gain while negotiators say Hamas must accept US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff's latest proposal. He also looks at Iran's rejection of the nuclear deal proposal, after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said that the US proposal for a nuclear agreement went against the country’s national interest of continuing to enrich uranium. Berman notes that Iran wants a deal of some kind, particularly one that will protect them against future Israeli attacks, and is continuing to negotiate, with another round slated for this weekend. Berman describes one of the aid sites in Gaza that was created by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, and the complications of funneling Gazans into the space to receive their aid packages. He notes that the aid centers are closed today to fine-tune the process and prepare safe access routes after the IDF opened fire toward Palestinians who had approached troops after straying off a pre-approved path for reaching a Rafah distribution site. Berman also looks at Spain and its decision to cancel another arms deal with Israel, spiking a $325 million system that would have been developed in Spain by Pap Tecnos, a subsidiary of Israel’s Rafael Advance Defense Systems. Berman discusses that Spain is a long-time critic of Israel’s policies toward Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, and that it may be following other European countries with this step. Karmel speaks about ongoing government settlement policies that incentivize Israelis to move to the West Bank due to rising housing costs inside Israel, and how that situation has been concretized by members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government. She also relates the launch of a book by released hostage Eli Sharabi, the first book by a former hostage, and his determination to keep living despite the personal tragedies he has experienced. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Senior Israeli official: Hamas ‘must understand it has to accept the Witkoff outline’ Key US consulting firm withdraws from American- and Israeli-backed Gaza aid agency Israel punches back at UN chief for demanding probe into Gaza aid site shooting Trump insists no enrichment in Iran deal after US said to offer limited nuke activity Spain reneges on $325m purchase of anti-tank missiles from Israel’s Rafael Is the government using the housing crisis to drive the settlement movement? A book to wake up the world: Ex-hostage Eli Sharabi launches memoir of captivity and survival 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: The Al-Ansar Mosque in Gaza's Deir al-Balah after Israeli airstrikes, June 3, 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. New York reporter Luke Tress joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Twelve people were wounded Sunday in Boulder, Colorado — including at least one person in critical condition — when activists rallying for the release of the Israeli hostages in Gaza were attacked by a man shouting “end Zionists,” who fired a makeshift flamethrower and threw firebombs at them. Tress updates us with what we know so far about the suspect, Mohammed Soliman, and his motives. Tress compares Sunday's Boulder attack to the fatal shooting of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, less than two weeks ago. He reminds listeners of Jewish community leaders' warnings of potential copycat attacks on the horizon. To close, we learn about a new facility from the Community Security Service, a nonprofit that trains volunteer synagogue guards throughout the US, the first in the US dedicated to training synagogue guards as American Jews build out an array of connected security measures amid a global surge in antisemitism. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Three IDF soldiers killed by roadside bomb in north Gaza’s Jabalia With attacks in Washington and Colorado, the global intifada lands in America Colorado suspect planned attack for a year, wanted to ‘kill all Zionist people’ — FBI Trump pins Boulder attack on Biden border policy after suspect named as illegal alien After deadly shooting, US Jewish security leaders urge vigilance amid threat of copycats In first, US Jewish security outfit opens boot camp for volunteer synagogue guards 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: Law enforcement officials investigate after an attack on the Pearl Street Mall Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Boulder, Colorado. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)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. Religions reporter Rossella Tercatin joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Nearly two years after the ancient, nearly complete Codex Sassoon bible was first introduced at the Anu Museum, days before the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, the book of Torah is inaugurated at the museum, in the presence of released hostage Agam Berger, in a moving, bittersweet ceremony, tells Tercatin. Another ancient bible, the Shem Tov bible, this one only 700 years old, was also inaugurated permanently at the National Library of Israel, both in time for the Shavuot holiday. Tercatin also looks at the ongoing issues of conversion in Israel, following a meeting last week of the Knesset Aliyah Committee devoted to the topic of conversions on Tuesday, ahead of the Shavuot festival. Only about half of those who start the process to convert manage to complete the journey, and the Conversion Authority is currently formally without a director, leaving nobody can sign the official conversion certificates, complex matters that Tercatin discusses. Steinberg talks about an art exhibit currently at Kibbutz Ramat Yohanan, marking the 80th anniversary of the kibbutz's Shavuot ceremony, created by two pioneering kibbutz members in the 1940s to mark the agricultural and harvest aspects of the festival. Finally, Tercatin discusses the Messianic community in Israel, and its connection to Yaron Lischinsky, the Israel Embassy staffer who was killed alongside his soon-to-be-fiance, Sarah Milgrim, on May 21 in an antisemitic attack at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Codex Sassoon, oldest near-complete Hebrew Bible, displayed in Israel after Oct. 7 delay Ahead of Shavuot, thousands of converts remain unrecognized by state, stuck in limbo Kibbutz marks 80 years of Shavuot song and dance with pioneering artworks For Messianic Jews in Jerusalem, Yaron Lischinsky’s murder was a personal loss  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: The 'Codex Sassoon' bible is displayed at Sotheby's in New York on February 15, 2023. (Ed Jones/AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The IDF confirmed last night that an Israeli airstrike earlier this month killed top Hamas leader Muhammad Sinwar while he was in a tunnel underneath a hospital in the southern Gaza Strip. What information is the IDF basing the confirmation on? The IDF claims that Hamas’s hold is slipping, along with its stronghold on food supplies. However, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation effort is being accused of wounding and even killing Gazans who are attempting to secure aid. Fabian weighs in on this increasingly murky endeavor. A 19-year-old Defense Ministry civilian contractor, David Libi, was killed by an explosive device Thursday during Israel Defense Forces operations in the northern Gaza Strip. We learn why the IDF is employing Israeli civilians in the Strip. The IDF carried out airstrikes on Friday near the coastal Syrian city of Latakia, saying its fighter jets targeted weapon depots used to store anti-ship missiles. It was Israel’s first reported strikes in Syria in nearly a month, but the IDF is not being forthcoming as to which terror group -- or state -- was the owner of the missiles. Finally, we learned recently that the Israeli Air Force intercepted 35 drones launched by the Hezbollah terror group using a new laser interception system. The new system used during the fighting is a lower-powered version of the Iron Beam laser interceptor, which is set to be delivered to the Israel Defense Forces later this year. We hear about the IDF's beta-testing of the new system. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Following Netanyahu, IDF confirms Hamas leader Muhammad Sinwar killed in May 13 strike Israel claims Hamas losing control over Gaza civilians as GHF ramps up aid operations IDF chief said to tell communities near Gaza he will ‘not let war drag on indefinitely’ Defense Ministry civilian contractor killed during IDF operations in northern Gaza IDF says it targeted anti-ship missile depots near Syria’s Latakia; one said killed IDF reveals it used laser system to intercept dozens of Hezbollah drones last year Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: A laser interception system deployed to northern Israel, in an undated photo published by the Defense Ministry on May 28, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Hebrew University Prof. Elie Podeh. Podeh, the Bamberger and Fuld professor in the History of the Muslim Peoples, recently published a research article, "Israel’s 2005 Disengagement from Gaza: A Multilateral Move Under Unilateral Façade." In the article, we learn that while the Gaza Disengagement was a unilateral decision, it was carried out in partnership with the United States, Egypt, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority. Among other revelations in the paper, we hear about the committees formed among the partners and their work on arrangements for border control, economic transition, and security cooperation. All elements were negotiated behind the scenes, especially under the guidance of American envoys and Egyptian mediators. Podeh weighs in on prime minister Ariel Sharon's decision not to allow the PA to take credit for any part of the diplomatic cooperation and the question of whether delegitimizing the PA's authority in Gaza may have contributed to the Hamas takeover in 2007. We speak about -- today, as the IDF is poised to retake the Gaza Strip, what the reasons were for the Disengagement 20 years ago -- and, in Podeh's opinion, why the Strip shouldn't be resettled by Israel. And so this week, we ask Prof. Elie Podeh, 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Young settler prays during the disengagement in Neve Dekalim on August 18, 2005. (Nati Shohat/ Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. In this episode, American Jewish Committee head Ted Deutch fills in for Berman, who is on reserve duty. On May 21, Sarah Milgrim and her boyfriend, Yaron Lischinsky, were shot to death outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, where the victims had just attended an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee that focused in part on humanitarian aid in Gaza. Both Milgrim and Lischinsky were employees of the Israeli embassy in Washington. Their alleged killer — a far-left activist from Chicago — shouted “Free Palestine” as he was arrested. This week, the head of the AJC talks more about what type of coexistence event was held prior to the murders. We discuss the rise in antisemitic violence across the Diaspora and what, in Deutsch’s opinion, can be done to counter it. The former Florida congressman emphasizes the need for leaders around the world to condemn the surge in antisemitism and use nuanced language when speaking about the war in Gaza. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: A mourner lights a candle during a vigil for the victims of the Capital Jewish Museum shooting outside of the White House on May 22, 2025 in Washington, DC. Two Israeli Embassy staff members, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, were gunned down after an event at the museum by a man shouting slogans in support for Palestine. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images/AFP)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 military reporter Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US special envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff says he has “some very good feelings” about the chances for reaching a temporary ceasefire that leads to a long-term resolution to the conflict in Gaza. Magid explains what could be on the table and why Witkoff is expressing optimism despite long-time Israeli and Hamas intransigence. The Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation said Wednesday it had successfully opened its second aid distribution center in southern Gaza, after the launch of its first site a day earlier descended into chaos when crowds stormed the facility. International media is reporting shootings and deaths at the first aid center this week. Magid attempts to make order of the chaos. The United Arab Emirates rebuked Israel over this week’s Jerusalem Flag March, characterizing it as an “annual spectacle of unchecked violence and extremist provocation” and issuing a rare warning against Israel if Jerusalem doesn’t take “decisive steps” against the phenomenon. Magid explains why summoning of Israel's envoy -- only the second time the UAE has taken this measure -- is so significant even as several of Israel's allies are openly condemning the Jewish state. US President Donald Trump confirms that he asked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a call last week not to take military action against Iran that could disrupt Washington’s ongoing nuclear negotiations with the Islamic Republic. Magid describes the differing accounts of the phone call. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Witkoff says US to issue new Gaza terms, has ‘very good feelings’ on reaching hostage deal Gaza aid group opens 2nd distribution center, day after first site swarmed by crowds UAE issues rare warning to Israel after summoning envoy over Jerusalem Flag March Trump: I told Netanyahu striking Iran would be ‘very inappropriate,’ as deal is close Report: Netanyahu-Trump phone call on Iran was marked by heated disagreements 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: US President Donald Trump invites US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff to respond to a question in the Oval Office of the White House on May 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images/AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. On this 600th day since the Hamas onslaught on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, we do a zoomed-out update on all seven fronts of the war and where they stand today. Fabian begins the program by updating us on new humanitarian aid operations in the Gaza Strip and chaos on Tuesday as Gazans temporarily overtook a Gaza Humanitarian Foundation disbursement center near Rafah. We turn to the West Bank where Israeli forces raided foreign exchange stores in Ramallah and Nablus on Tuesday, accusing their parent company of “connections with terrorist organizations,” according to an army closure notice. Fabian delves into other -- as yet -- unrealized fears regarding the West Bank. We reported this morning that Israel and Syria are in direct contact and have, in recent weeks, held face-to-face meetings aimed at calming tensions and preventing conflict in the border region between the two longtime foes. Fabian weighs in on the evolution of the over 19 months of war there. Although there were early drones and missiles coming from Iran-backed militias in Iraq, recent news indicates negotiations to release Elizabeth Tsurkov, the Israeli-Russian researcher who was taken hostage in Iraq two years ago, are at advanced stages. For the past six months, the militias have not targeted Israel, explains Fabian. However, even as we were recording today's episode, the Israel Air Force retaliated against the Iran-backed Houthis' relentless ballistic missiles and struck the Houthi-held Sanaa airport. Again. Since November 27, 2024, there has been a negotiated ceasefire with the Lebanon-based Hezbollah terrorist army. But all is not quiet and, as Fabian explains, Israel will likely remain in fighting form along the border -- permanently. And finally, the great unknown: reports from The New York Times indicate that US officials are worried that Israel could decide to carry out strikes on Iran’s nuclear program without much warning. Fabian reviews what we know. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Gazans overrun Strip’s new aid center; operator says distribution has resumed Israel launches anti-terror raids on West Bank money changers Israel and Syria holding face-to-face meetings at border to calm tensions Reports claim deal in works to free Israeli-Russian held hostage by Iraqi militia Security cabinet approves plan for high-tech security barrier along Jordanian border US officials concerned Israel may strike Iran nuke sites without much warning – 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. Illustrative: Fighters from the Iran-backed Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah train in southern Lebanon, May 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon and health editor Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The controversy over the appointment of a Shin Bet chief continues, says Sharon, discussing the implications of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's instructions to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he continues to disregard the instructions about appointing a new Shin Bet chief. Sharon reviews the potential for a constitutional crisis as the situation comes to a head. Sharon also reviews some of the statements made by the attorney general and President of the Supreme Court Isaac Amit during Monday's Bar Association conference, as they both accused the government of quietly advancing far-reaching changes to Israel’s form of government. Bletter speaks about several Israeli medical centers and how hospitals prepared for and responded to the needs of returning hostages in the earlier stages of the war and more recently. She discusses the particular care given to children and the expectation that hospitals will care for released hostages and their families for months and years to come. The Druze community in Israel is in touch with and actively supports relatives in Syria, reports Bletter, with concerns over the future of Druze in Syria, given the new government in place. They're also questioning the strength of their own  Druze identity in Israel. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: AG tells Netanyahu that choosing Zini to head Shin Bet ‘invalid and unlawful’ AG: ‘Not a warning, but reality – under cover of war, regime change has sped up greatly’ Netanyahu’s appointment of David Zini as Shin Bet chief is fraught with obstacles Facing a hostage situation without precedent, Israeli hospitals innovate to rehabilitate ‘Maybe God put Druze in Israel to save the Druze there’: Minority fights for Syrian cousins 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 billboard showing Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, 'The judicial seamstress to the government! in Tel Aviv on December 6, 2024 (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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Currently, the IDF holds about 40% of the Gaza Strip. In a briefing yesterday, Fabian learned that the new plan is to almost double those holdings within two months. As of yet, the groundwork is still being laid ahead of a massive ground operation with over 200 airstrikes carried out in the past 48 hours. Fabian explains the procedure the IDF uses to order civilian evacuations ahead of the planned influx of IDF soldiers on the ground. The first distribution point operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation begins operations in the Strip today. This comes as its CEO Jake Wood resigned suddenly last night, saying it was “clear that it is not possible to implement this plan while also strictly adhering to the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.” We hear how the mechanism is being implemented. Israeli troops stationed at an army post near the Gaza border community of Kissufim on the morning of October 7, 2023, rushed to defend the kibbutz as Hamas terrorists began their terror onslaught. The forces, along with the kibbutz’s civil defense squad, managed to fight back against many of the terrorists, preventing them from rampaging throughout the entire community. Fabian takes us through the timeline of the battles from October 7-12, when the final terrorist was eliminated at the kibbutz. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel says Gaza aid starting distribution through controversial new mechanism IDF aims to capture 75% of Gaza Strip in 2 months in new offensive against Hamas IDF rushed to Kibbutz Kissufim as Hamas invaded, but some attackers stayed for days Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Troops of the Givati Brigade operate in the northern Gaza Strip, in a handout photo published May 26, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following reports of nine children killed from one family by an Israeli strike, Magid discusses the recent toll on Gazan children and the need to carefully weigh statements from Gaza Health Ministry, and the international headlines about this loss. Magid also reviews statements made this weekend by released hostages and families of hostage members regarding the frightening experiences of captives in Gaza during Israeli strikes, including a harrowing story of narrow escape to safety by recently released hostage Edan Alexander. The statements highlight the lack of certainty felt by hostages and their families as the IDF increases the intensity of fighting in Gaza. He also mentions recent comments made by Democrats party head Yair Golan and colleagues, and how Israelis are expressing similar feelings in polls about the ongoing war. As Israel continues to manage the distribution of aid in the Gaza Strip following the 11-week blockade meant to squeeze Hamas, Magid discusses an American program that will handle the aid distribution, including non-food items and medicines. He looks at the funding mechanisms and the distribution process, and whether this plan is close to operational. Magid looks at comments made by Israel's Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, during a PragerU podcast, in which he criticizes the Israeli opposition, and relates to the charges against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, dismissing them out of hand and relating to topics that diplomats don't generally touch. Leiter also talks about implementing President Donald Trump's plan to relocate Gazans. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Gazans say 9 children of doctor couple killed in Israeli strike; IDF looking into report IDF strikes on Hamas tunnel nearly killed Edan Alexander in his last month of captivity — report Letter shows Israel may let humanitarian groups in Gaza stay in charge of non-food aid Israeli envoy to US accuses Netanyahu’s political opponents of ‘blood libel’ 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: Protestors at Begin Road in Tel Aviv on May 24, 2025, carry a large banner, 'Save the Hostages End the War' (Credit: Dana Reany/Israeli Pro-Democracy Movement)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with ToI senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur. Last week, US President Donald Trump completed a four-day trip to the Middle East, his first official state visit of his second term. He struck economic deals in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates and, in lifting sanctions against Syria, made a bold move that could reboot the wartorn country. On May 13, Trump delivered an almost hour-long speech at the Saudi-US Investment Forum at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, that gives deep insight into his plan for the Middle East and beyond. Rettig Gur examines this speech and explains its significance. We hear how it reflects Trump's diplomacy, which in many ways harkens back to an earlier style of US policy. And we hear how, while the speech only names Israel once, it is actually a leitmotif. And so this week, we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: US President Donald Trump speaks during the Saudi-US investment forum at the King Abdul Aziz International Conference Center in Riyadh on May 13, 2025. (Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, political correspondent Sam Sokol steps in for Berman. This week, we learned that only 1,212, or five percent, of the 24,000 ultra-Orthodox men who have received initial draft notices since July 2024 have begun the enlistment process. Some 70,000-80,000 Haredi men are eligible to serve. We also learned that despite constituting 14 percent of the working-age population, the ultra-Orthodox community generated only 4% of Israeli tax revenues in 2023, costing the government billions and adding thousands of shekels to the average non-Haredi worker’s annual tax burden, according to a new study by the Israel Democracy Institute. Sokol has been rigorously covering the issue of universal conscription, also known as the Haredi or ultra-Orthodox draft, both in the halls of the Knesset and on the streets of Israel. In this episode, we learn more about the diverse Haredi society and what motivates it. We talk about the history behind the exemptions, as well as the history of Haredim joining the coalition. And finally, Sokol updates us on the slow legislative process to codify Haredi enlistment -- which may just topple the coalition. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Yeshiva students listen to a Torah lesson at the Hebron Yeshiva in Jerusalem on August 16, 2018. (Aharon Krohn/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 legal reporter Jeremy Sharon join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following the tragic shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, Schneider reviews what we know about the victims and the shooter, as well as security at public Jewish institutions in the US. Schneider also discusses the implications of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Wednesday night press conference, his first with the Israeli press in at least six months. The prime minister discussed key issues, including the government's demand that Gazans be relocated in its ongoing negotiations for the hostages. Schneider points out that the hostage families strongly criticized the prime minister for his statements regarding the talks. Netanyahu was also taken to task for his mistaken remarks about one Gaza envelope kibbutz and what happened to the community on October 7, as well as his downplaying of the Hamas terrorists who invaded Israel on October 7, remarking that they were wearing flip-flops and weren't a heavily armed force. Following Wednesday's High Court ruling that Netanyahu's firing of the Shin Bet chief was improper due to a conflict of interest, Sharon discusses the immediate implications of the ruling, commenting that the Shin Bet's independence is crucial for Israel's democratic governance and the government faces a potential constitutional crisis following the court's ruling. This conversation can be viewed here: Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Two Israeli Embassy staffers killed in shooting attack at Washington, DC, Jewish Museum Netanyahu sets implementation of Trump’s Gaza relocation plan as new condition for ending war High Court rules Shin Bet head’s dismissal ‘unlawful’, PM had ‘conflict of interest’ 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 joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Two Israeli soldiers were killed in Gaza over the past two days. Fabian describes the situations that led to the deaths of Staff Sgt. Danilo Mocanu, 20, and Sgt. Yosef Yehuda Chirak, 22. Even as Israel has begun to allow humanitarian aid trucks into the Gaza Strip, the United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher warned that 14,000 babies in Gaza could die within 48 hours. Yesterday, the United Nations received permission from Israel for 93 aid trucks to enter the Gaza Strip, but questions remain over how it will get to the Gazans who need it -- and not be usurped by Hamas. Gaza’s Hamas-run civil defense agency said IDF strikes killed at least 19 people overnight, as Israel faces mounting international pressure over its military offensive. Dozens of others have been reported dead in unverifiable numbers in the past several days since the operation ramped up on Saturday. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir warned in a video statement on Tuesday that the IDF is prepared to capture more territory in the Gaza Strip if Hamas does not agree to release the remaining hostages it is keeping in captivity. We hear what appears to be the IDF's operational strategy during Operation Gideon's Chariots. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF soldier killed in Strip; Hamas-linked agency raises day’s Gazan death toll to 91 Israel allows UN to bring 93 aid trucks into Gaza as international pressure mounts Israel will seize more of Gaza if Hamas doesn’t free hostages, IDF chief warns 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: IDF troops operate in the Gaza Strip, in a handout photo published on May 11, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada issued a joint statement Monday condemning Israel’s handling of the humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling on the Jewish state to immediately halt military action in the enclave and allow in more aid, threatening “further concrete actions in response” if Jerusalem refuses. Likewise, an additional 19 countries issued a joint statement urging Israel to “allow a full resumption of aid into Gaza immediately” after the partial lifting of its blockade on the territory. Horovitz describes what he says is a new, troubling sign in this round of global condemnations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended his decision to allow limited humanitarian aid to enter the Gaza Strip, saying that pressure on Israel had been “approaching a red line.” The step was necessary to press ahead with the expanded military offensive against Hamas, he said to his political allies, and had to begin despite the fact that IDF-secured distribution centers designed to keep the supplies out of the hands of the terror group were not yet ready. How has his coalition taken the news? In comments that have roiled Israel, Yair Golan, head of the opposition party The Democrats, issued a scathing denunciation of the government and the war in Gaza, saying that Israel was killing children in Gaza “as a hobby.” Later attempting to fend off widespread criticism over his comment, The Democrats chairman praised IDF fighters as “heroes” fighting on behalf of a “corrupt” government. Horovitz weighs in on what may have brought Golan to make these explosive statements. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: UK, France, Canada warn of ‘concrete actions’ if Israel doesn’t halt war, boost aid Five trucks of humanitarian aid enter Gaza, says Israel, ending two-month blockade Netanyahu defends Gaza aid resumption, acknowledges step stemmed from allies’ pressure ‘Insanity’: Hawkish politicians and groups pillory Netanyahu for resuming aid to Gaza Qatar PM says ‘fundamental differences’ between sides have stalled Doha ceasefire talks Outrage as opposition party leader Golan says Israel ‘killing babies as a hobby’ in Gaza 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: Leader of the Democrats party Yair Golan leads a faction meeting at the Knesset in Jerusalem, on May 19, 2025. (Oren Ben Hakoon/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 Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Dozens of airstrikes were reported overnight and IDF spokesman, Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, in a press statement from the Gaza border, says five divisions are now operating inside the Strip in the new offensive aimed at defeating Hamas. The ramped-up operation and Israel’s apparent determination have caused renewed determination to strike a deal. But the real question is which deal and whether the sides will bend at all. Magid fills us in. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the immediate resumption of “basic” humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip on Sunday evening. Israel has blocked the entry of medical, food and fuel supplies into Gaza since the start of March to try to pressure Hamas into freeing Israeli hostages. We learn about the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and when it will be up and running.  Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu orders immediate renewal of humanitarian aid to Gaza, under heavy US pressure US said pushing 2-month ceasefire deal for 9-10 hostages; Hamas denies this is agreed Witkoff told mediators US not planning to force Israel to end Gaza war, officials say New aid group: We’ll start Gaza operations by June; Israel to lift blockade in interim 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 Palestinian man stands next to a truck carrying UNICEF aid supplies outside a shopping mall in Gaza City on May 12, 2025. (Omar AL-QATTAA / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. A new round of negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal between Hamas and Israel began in Qatar on Saturday after the Israeli military launched its new expanded offensive in the Gaza Strip, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots,” that will seek to “seize strategic areas” of the Hamas-run Strip. Fabian describes the slow rollout of the operation so far and how many more troops have entered Gaza as of Sunday morning. Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis say they fired two ballistic missiles at Israel early Sunday morning. This comes after Israeli fighter jets carried out a wave of airstrikes in Yemen on Friday afternoon, targeting two Houthi-controlled ports in the west of the country, and threatened to kill the terror group’s leader. We discuss the growing realization that the terrorist group is undeterred by IAF strikes and whether Israel will take another tack soon. The Israel Defense Force said Saturday that it killed a Hezbollah commander in a drone strike in Lebanon. The operative, who was targeted on a road near Mazraat Jemjim — some 30 kilometers from the Israeli border — in the Tyre District, was the commander of Hezbollah’s forces in the Beaufort Castle area, the military said. Fabian updates us on who he was and what he was allegedly up to. To end the program, we discuss Israel's participation in last night's Eurovision final and Yuval Raphael's second-place finish. Israel's 2025 contestant, who survived the Nova festival massacre on October 7, 2023, won the popular vote, but was less warmly received by the jury. Fabian gives some reasons why. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF launches major new Gaza op, ‘seizing’ key areas; Palestinians: Dozens killed in strikes Israel, Hamas say Gaza talks renewed after IDF initiates major new offensive IDF pounds Houthi ports in Yemen, threatens to kill leader, after missile, drone attacks IDF says it killed Hezbollah commander in drone strike in southern Lebanon Israel’s Yuval Raphael tops Eurovision public vote, finishes in 2nd place as Austria wins Israel’s Yuval Raphael feels she’s ‘won at life’ after coming second at Eurovision 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 Palestinian boy looks at a house destroyed in Israeli strikes in al-Saftawi area west of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip on May 18, 2025. (Bashar TALEB / 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 Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Eurovision mega-fan Tal Dahan, straight from Basel. Dahan is a volunteer reporter with the Hebrew-language EuroMix website, which has been the number one source for Israelis about the Eurovision for decades. This year marks Israel's 47th time participating in the Eurovision, a song contest that was established 69 years ago to unite Europe through music. We are recording just after the first semi-final and ahead of Israel's participation in the second semi-final on Thursday night. It is expected that Israel's candidate, Yuval Raphael, will make it to the finals on Saturday night with her song, "New Day Will Rise." Dahan talks about the betting favorites going into Saturday's final and also discusses the politics of the competition. And so this week, we ask Tal Dahan, 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, political correspondent Tal Schneider steps in for Berman. Unforgettable images of the Caracal's female tank unit crushing Hamas terrorists infiltrating southern Israel on October 7, 2023, brought home the realization that not only are women serving in the IDF, they're as eager -- and able -- to fight as their brothers in arms. Scheider describes a recent Knesset committee that discussed the phenomenon of the IDF's growing number of women warriors, which now make up almost 21 percent of all fighting forces. We review the history of battles to have female fighters in the IDF -- including several benchmark Supreme Court cases which paved the way for the next generation. Schneider, who has spent the past several months researching the contribution these women warriors made on October 7, talks about where the army stands today -- and what is on the horizon for other fighting units being opened up to women. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Mix-gender Caracal battalion troops at the end of their basic training. (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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode. US President Donald Trump is still in the region and is visiting the United Arab Emirates today. After landmark deals in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, we discuss what may come out of the UAE trip — and the entire trip’s resonance for Israel, including Trump’s new relationship with Syria. We begin by discussing a half-hour meetup in Riyadh with Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Trump announced the US was lifting sanctions on the country the previous day and urged Syria to join the Abraham Accords normalizing relations with Israel. It was the first encounter between leaders of the countries in 25 years. We hear how Israel views this budding relationship. In Qatar, Trump signed an agreement with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani that will “generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion,” the White House said. The announcement came as negotiations kicked off in Doha over a potential hostage-ceasefire deal with the Hamas terror group. Horovitz describes how Israel was not apart of the Trump visit, yet Israeli representatives are currently in the country in a renewed US push to negotiate an end to the war. To end the program, we speak about Israel’s approaching participation in tonight’s Eurovision semifinal. Horovitz describes the antipathy already experienced by Yuval Raphael, Israel’s 2025 contestant, who survived the Nova festival massacre on October 7, 2023. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Woman en route to hospital to give birth killed in West Bank terror shooting Hailing Syria, arming Saudis, dealing with Iran and Houthis, Trump relegates Israeli concerns Trump puts an American First, and Israel rejoices Trump urges Syria’s Sharaa to join Abraham Accords, praises him as ‘attractive, tough guy’ Hostage talks kick off in Doha, but PM’s insistence on not ending war curbs optimism Trump, in Qatar, announces ‘record’ deals with Gulf State for US planes, drone tech Trump says Israel is not sidelined by his Gulf trip: ‘This is very good 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 the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: US President Donald Trump speaks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before posing for a family picture with Gulf leaders during a gathering of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Riyadh on May 14, 2025. (Brendan Smialowski / AFP)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 news editor Amy Spiro join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, the United Nations-linked Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) organization said in a “Special Snapshot” briefing that “the Gaza Strip is still confronted with a critical risk of famine,” and that “the entire population is facing high levels of acute food insecurity, with half a million people [one in five] facing starvation.” Israel has accused IPC of a “lack of transparency” with regards to the source of its data, and it said the IPC’s Special Snapshot failed to take into account “the massive volume of aid, especially food, that entered Gaza during the ceasefire.” Sharon weighs in.  Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara on Tuesday ordered the military to begin sending conscription orders to all draft-age members of the ultra-Orthodox community at the start of the next recruitment cycle in July. How much authority does she have and will anything change?  President Isaac Herzog on Monday became the first foreign leader to be hosted by new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, just six days after he took the helm of Germany’s government, with Berlin and Jerusalem marking 60 years of strong diplomatic ties. Spiro was there and reports back. Singers from 37 countries are now in Basel, Switzerland, for the annual Eurovision Song Contest this week. We learn about Israel's candidate Yuval Raphael and some of the challenges she faces. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Food security NGO warns of ‘critical’ famine risk in Gaza; Israel says study ‘flawed’ Attorney general urges conscription of all draft-age Haredim starting this summer In Berlin, Herzog lauds 60 years of German-Israel ties, even as Gaza war casts shadow Eurovision kicking off in Basel with glitz, schmaltz and little love for Israel Israel’s Yuval Raphael and her team met by protests, threat as Eurovision week kicks off After surviving Nova, Israel’s Eurovision hopeful is ready to ‘give my dreams a chance’ 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: Palestinians line up to get a ration of hot food from a charity kitchen set up at the Islamic University campus in Gaza City on May 12, 2025. (Omar AL-QATTAA / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Released hostage Edan Alexander is back in his family's embrace in Israel and is recovering from his 584 days in Hamas captivity. We hear what we know so far about Alexander's health and the conditions in which he was kept.  A few hours after the final living US-Israeli hostage was released by his Hamas captors, the IDF says that its forces carried out a “targeted attack” on “key” Hamas fighters who were operating a command center in the Nasser Hospital compound in Khan Younis. Among those reported killed is Palestinian journalist Hassan Eslaiah, who on October 7 was freelancing for the Associated Press and invaded Israel with the terrorists and photographed them entering Kibbutz Nir Oz, where dozens of civilians were massacred. Was he the target of the airstrike? Nour Bitawi, a senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad operative who Israeli authorities say was planning imminent terror attacks, was killed by troops Friday in the West Bank city of Nablus. Fabian explains who Bitawi was and how significant this mission could be.  The Mossad spy agency and the Israel Defense Forces recovered the remains of Sgt. First Class Zvi Feldman, who went missing in the First Lebanon War’s battle of Sultan Yacoub in 1982. The battle, nearly 43 years ago, claimed the lives of 21 Israeli servicemen, and more than 30 were injured during it. Feldman, a tank soldier, went missing during the battle along with Sgt. First Class Yehuda Katz and Sgt. First Class Zachary Baumel. Baumel’s remains were recovered and returned to Israel in 2019.Fabian describes how the body of Feldman was recently recovered from “the heart of Syria” in a special operation. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander freed from Hamas captivity, reunites with family IDF says it razed major tunnel in Rafah after Hamas operatives provided location IDF says terrorists near defeat in Rafah, fighting now limited to one neighborhood IDF says ‘most wanted West Bank terror operative’ killed in Nablus operation Body of soldier Zvi Feldman, missing for 43 years, recovered from Syria by Mossad, IDF 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: Released hostage soldier Staff Sgt. Edan Alexander, center, arrives at an IDF base near Re'im, May 12, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Hamas has stated that in an “act of good faith,” it will release the final living US-Israeli hostage, Edan Alexander, today as US President Donald Trump begins to make his way to his visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Magid talks about his exclusive look into how the negotiations were carried out. US envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff reportedly said during conversations with hostages' families that “Israel is prolonging the war, even though we do not see where further progress can be made.” This harsh statement came as the US made a separate peace agreement with the Iran-backed Houthis and is directly negotiating with Iran for a nuclear deal Israel is not supporting. Is Israel losing the backing of its closest ally? Trump’s meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Tuesday is also set to include Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Syria’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, Arabic media reported Sunday. Magid weighs in on how likely this meeting is to take place and what Trump is trying to accomplish in his Mideast trip. Iran and the United States wrapped up nuclear talks in Oman on Sunday with no apparent breakthrough in a standoff over uranium enrichment, but with both sides confirming plans for future negotiations. We discuss how Trump's Mideast trip may or may not influence future rounds of talks. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas set to free US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander Monday in goodwill gesture to Trump Backchannel helped secure release of American-Israeli hostage, sources tell ToI Witkoff said to tell hostage families Israel pointlessly extending war, US urging deal Trump’s meeting with Saudi ruler said set to include leaders of PA, Lebanon, Syria Tehran says 4th round of nuclear talks difficult, while US ‘encouraged’ 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: Varda Ben Baruch holds an image of her grandson, hostage Edan Alexander, in Jerusalem on October 25, 2023. (Yuri CORTEZ / AFP)  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 reporter Sam Sokol and reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Knesset came back from spring break last week and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ultra-Orthodox coalition partners have been pushing for the passage of legislation enshrining military exemptions for their community, after the High Court ruled in June last year that the dispensations, in place for decades, were illegal since they were not based in law. The legislation has long been held up in the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, whose chairman, Yuli Edelstein (Likud), has pledged that he will “only produce a real conscription law that will significantly increase the IDF’s conscription base.” Sokol unpacks this complicated situation. Surkes reports on Magen 48, an initiative to train civil defense teams at 66 localities within the Gaza border area — including the city of Sderot — and raise their skill set to that of IDF fighters. We then learn about "She-Rise," a program that teaches women in the western Negev how to leverage their skills and create change in their communities. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: ‘The final deadline’: Could the IDF conscription crisis bring down Netanyahu’s government? After October 7, IDF said to increase penalties for deserters, but not draft dodgers Edelstein urges ‘real solution’ as work set to begin on revising Haredi draft bill IDF joins forces with NGO to turn community security teams into lean fighting machines 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: Haredi Jews protest and clash with police during a protest against the drafting of ultra-Orthodox Jews to the Israeli army, Jerusalem, May 5, 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 host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Elana Kaminka, peace activist and bereaved mother. On October 7, 2023, Elana's firstborn son, Lt. Yannai Kaminka, 20, a commander in the Home Front Command, was killed battling against Hamas at the Zikim IDF training base. His efforts and those of his fellow officers there saved the lives of almost 100 recruits, as charted in a recently released IDF probe into the failures on and leading up to October 7. In a frank and open discussion about what it means to choose a path of peace after losing her first child to terrorists bent on destroying her nation, Kaminka speaks with The Times of Israel just after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu doubled down in refusing to hold a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 disasters.  Kaminka made aliya from California as a lone soldier at age 18 and later married Eyal with whom she had four children. Prior to October 7, she was already active in groups committed to fostering empathetic, respectful and nuanced dialogue. After losing her son, she redoubled her efforts to promote engagement between Israeli Jews and Palestinians -- and to protest the Netanyahu government, which she holds accountable for her son's death. She is an active member of Tag Meir and the Parents Circle Families Forum and speaks tirelessly about the need to counter extremism and develop empathy and compassion among all levels of Israeli society. While advocating for a future of dignity and security for Palestinians and Israelis alike in the Land of Israel, she is also a mother of three additional children, including her son who was conscripted to a paramedics unit a mere six weeks following his older brother's death. And so this week, we ask Elana Kaminka, 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Tens of thousands of IDF reservists are again being called up — Berman among them — and Israel appears to be standing at a crossroads in the Gaza War. In the first half of our program, we discuss Israel's strategy of conducting conflicts through a fighting force that is largely made up of reserve forces. Berman charts earlier wars and discusses the major takeaways from them. We then turn to the present war and discuss its rollout, pauses, surprises (beepers, anyone?) and successes. Berman discusses why it is imperative to end this war quickly -- for both Israelis and Palestinians. At this liminal moment, we take a look at the past, present and future of the operations in the Gaza Strip. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Undated image of IDF forces in the Gaza Strip. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. According to the Hamas health ministry, two IDF airstrikes early Wednesday hit the Karama School in Tuffah, a suburb of Gaza City, killing 15. Later in the day, an Israeli strike near a restaurant and market in the city killed at least 33 people, including women and children. Fabian reports on these two incidents and assesses where the IDF is currently heading in Gaza based on statements from IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir yesterday. A Hamas commander was killed in an Israeli airstrike in the southern coastal Lebanese city of Sidon early Wednesday morning. What was Khaled Ahmad al-Ahmad responsible for? Three Israeli soldiers were wounded in two attacks carried out by Palestinians in the northern and southern West Bank on Wednesday afternoon. Even as the fighting in Gaza is ramping up, we learn that the concentration of forces are still largely in the West Bank. As the army is searching for manpower, it apparently has no lack of woman power. Women still cannot enlist into all fighting units, but where they can, they’re showing up in record numbers. Fabian talks about this and a new rededicated unit -- where women can serve -- aimed at fighting drones along the northern border. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas-run authorities say at least 48 killed in series of IDF strikes in Gaza Hamas, Hezbollah commanders killed in IDF strikes in Lebanon 3 soldiers wounded, 2 seriously, in West Bank attacks Ultra-Orthodox incensed as IDF chief orders boost in community’s conscription IDF sees continued surge in female combat recruits amid Gaza war Revived air defense battalion to aim new weapons at drone threat in north 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: Soldiers stand near an Israeli army mobile canon at a position by Israel's border with the Gaza Strip, on May 6, 2025. (Jack GUEZ / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a US truce with the Houthis, Magid discusses Jerusalem's surprise over that turn of events, given the ongoing Houthi attacks on Israel, including the Sunday morning attack that hit near Ben Gurion International Airport. Magid explores Israel's new plan for distributing humanitarian aid in Gaza to prevent Hamas from diverting resources and getting the food into Gazans' hands. The plan includes working with humanitarian organizations and private US contractors and will allow some 60 trucks into Gaza daily through one border crossing. Food packages will be given directly to approved representatives of Palestinian families. Trump is expected in the Middle East next week but isn't including a stop in Israel. Magid examines how hostage families are viewing the trip as a possible opportunity to bring the remaining hostages home. Families have also expressed concern over recent statements from the US president, as well as Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over conflicting numbers of living hostages. Finally, Magid discusses a downgrading of US ties with the Palestinian Authority, with the elimination of the US Security Coordinator role, which helps bolster security coordination between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. It's part of the broader reorganization of the State Department by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The conversation can also be viewed here: Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump announces US truce with Houthis, who say their strikes on Israel will continue IDF planning major shift in Gaza aid delivery in bid to thwart Hamas diversion US hostage families see Trump’s May trip to region as chance for loved ones’ return US plans to eliminate security post tasked with bolstering Israel-PA security ties 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: Family members and representatives of the 59 remaining hostages stand in front of the Knesset on May 5, 2025, to state that the Israeli public agrees that victory cannot be achieved without returning the hostages (Courtesy Hostages Family Forum)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 discusses the Israeli Air Force missile attack on the Yemen port, in response to the Houthi missile that hit Israel's Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning, and the ongoing bafflement about how to handle the challenge presented by the Iran-backed Houthis, and one that isn't going to fade. He discusses the mood in the country as thousands of reservists are called up again to fight in Gaza, as polls show that two-thirds of Israelis would be prepared to stop fighting to bring the remaining hostages home. Horovitz notes that the language used by the government and army are subtle with an unclear plan in Gaza and an unpredictable US administration. Horovitz also offers a brief look at the latest regarding the cabinet decision against a state commission probing October 7, as the attorney general had suggested. He notes that there is domestic concern on the part of the public who want to be sure that a disaster of that scope will never happen again and the concern that Israel will be able to defend itself internationally with the proper scrutiny into what took place on that day. Finally, Horovitz comments on remarks made by US Mideast envoy Steve Witfkoff at an Israel Independence Day event at the US Embassy in Washington, DC, and his clear message that Israel needs to be united despite all the pressures from the outside and inside. IMAGE: An Israeli reservist kissing his wife and child goodbye as he leaves for reserve duty, in Jerusalem, May 5, 2025. (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Late last night, Israel approved a plan to significantly broaden the military offensive against the Hamas terror group in the Gaza Strip. The plan provides for the “conquering of Gaza” and retaining the territory. One voice was heard above all in warning, that of Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who reportedly warned ministers that this could endanger the hostages held there. Fabian debriefs us on what he knows about this plan and what else is happening on the ground in Gaza. Yesterday morning, a Houthi ballistic missile struck the Ben Gurion Airport compound. Fabian explains the initial conclusions about the failure and discusses Israel's anti-missile array, including a Patriot air-defense system that will be refurbished and sent to Ukraine. Finally, we learn conclusions from the IDF's probe into the October 7, 2023, battles at Zikim Beach and hear that a squad of Israeli soldiers stationed near the border with the Gaza Strip abandoned civilians sheltering on the beach as Hamas terrorists invaded the coast. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel okays ‘conquering Gaza, holding the territories,’ as IDF chief said to warn ‘we could lose’ the hostages IDF planning major shift in Gaza aid delivery in bid to thwart Hamas diversion UN humanitarian agency rejects new Israeli plan for Gaza aid deliveries Netanyahu threatens Houthis, and Iran, as cabinet convenes after missile hits airport Patriot air-defense system based in Israel to be refurbished, sent to Ukraine – NYT Most foreign airlines halt flights to Tel Aviv after Houthi missile hits airport In ‘massive failure,’ troops abandoned civilians at Zikim Beach on Oct. 7, IDF probe finds Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Troops operating in the Gaza Strip in an undated photo released for publication on May 4, 2025 (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with the coordinator of The Times of Israel's Those We Have Lost project, Amy Spiro, for this special episode in honor of Israel's Memorial Day to Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror. We explain about the genesis of our Those We Have Lost project, and how we aim to tell the stories of individuals slain in Hamas's brutal attack on October 7, 2023. The first entry was written on October 11, 2023, when the number of the murdered was still unclear and funerals were held around the clock. Today, with 1,100 individual entries covering almost every single person killed by Hamas, our Those We Have Lost project paints a picture of each of their lives and the ongoing ripple effects of their deaths. Spiro speaks to the challenges she's faced -- including the mundane issue of how to write names in Latin letters -- and where she draws her information from. The Those We Have Lost project works to ensure that despite the massive scale of the loss, no one is forgotten. On behalf of The Times of Israel, Borschel-Dan urges listeners to visit the project's home page this week and keep the fallen's memories alive. 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, we look at Israel's long history of hostage release negotiations and how the price per captive has become increasingly inflated over the decades. To begin our discussion, Berman gives a brief survey of some traditional Jewish sources dealing with the subject, including the Bible, Mishna and the Rambam's writings. We then turn to 1950s Israel and hear a survey of hostage and POW situations -- and how many prisoners Israel released to free its citizens. Finally, we discuss the deal which released Gilad Shalit -- and saw 1,027 Palestinian security prisoners again walk free, including Hamas October 7 mastermind, Yihye Sinwar. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Illustrative image of now-dead Hamas head Yachye Sinwar at a rally to mark the annual al-Quds Day (Jerusalem Day), in Gaza City, April 15, 2023. (Atia Mohammed/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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode on Israel's Independence Day. Today, we will step back in time and attempt to get into prime minister David Ben-Gurion’s state of mind as the Jewish state is declared in 1948. We speak about the divided nation -- even as it was fighting for its mere survival against enemies on all fronts.  To understand how Ben-Gurion was thinking on that fateful May 14, 1948, we turn to two newly released images of his handwritten diary, which reveal the first prime minister’s anxieties as the newly born country headed to war against invading Arab neighbors.We then discuss how a mere few weeks after the Declaration of Independence, one of the most painful episodes in Israeli history occurred -- the Altalena Affair. Rettig Gur explains this social turning point. Finally, Rettig Gur expounds on the current Israeli moment and compares it to the prescient anxiety felt by Ben-Gurion and the profound test of leadership he faced so soon after the founding of the state. Check out The Times of Israel'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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Cartoon illustrating Israelis' first election, January 25, 1948. (AP Photo/H. E. Munhall)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode on Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror. Since February, the IDF has begun releasing a series of probes into the disasters on and leading up to the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, massacre of some 1,200 and 250 hostages taken to Gaza. Today, we look at the recent reports on the battles at the Zikim IDF base -- notable for the bravery of its commanders in saving their recruits -- and two smaller communities, Nir Yitzhak and Ein Hashlosha. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak’s well-armed civil defense squad fought off dozens of Hamas-led terrorists, largely preventing them from rampaging through the community on October 7.This is in stark opposition to what happened at Ein Hashlosha, another community in the Gaza Envelope. Fabian fills us in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Commanders battled terrorists, saving 100 rookies at Zikim training base on Oct. 7 Outgunned, outnumbered Ein Hashlosha security team failed to resist Oct. 7 onslaught Nir Yitzhak security team resisted terrorists on Oct. 7, preventing murderous rampage 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. Check out yesterday’s Daily Briefing episode here: IMAGE: Cpt. Or Moses was killed on the Zikim base on October 7, 2023. (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. 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 What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Prof. Manuela Consonni, director of Hebrew University's Vidal Sassoon International Center for the Study of Antisemitism. Consonni, a leading scholar of Holocaust memory, gender, and post-war European culture, decided to mark Yom Hashoah, Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day, with an exhibition at the Mount Scopus campus called, "Faces of Women's Resistance." The exhibition looks at how women -- Jewish and non-Jewish -- resisted the Nazi regime. Like men, many were fighters, partisans and rescuers, but also the sheer survival of their family was put on the shoulders of many mothers. We discuss definitions of resistance and what means were available to women during the Nazi regime. And finally, we delve into the use of Holocaust language when discussing the hostages kept by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023. So this week, we ask Prof. Manuela Consonni, 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: Two young women who managed to survive over a year in the concentration camp at Belsen, Germany, are shown, April 30, 1945. (AP Photo)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Over the Passover holiday, some 6,315 Jews visited the Temple Mount, a 37% rise over last year. Among them, Religious Zionism MK Zvi Sukkot, where he participated in a prayer service and prostrated himself on the ground in worship — activities that are nominally prohibited for Jews at the flashpoint holy site. Sukkot hailed the “tremendous change” since he was arrested for the same act 14 years ago. Meanwhile, far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who oversees the Israel Police, which enforces law and security on the Mount, boasted that a shift in the unwritten status quo that governs the site was a result of his policies. He was up on the mount earlier in the month. In a statement, Ben Gvir said, “I’m happy to see that MK Zvi Sukkot, like many thousands, is prostrating himself and praying at the Temple Mount.. What wasn’t done for 30 years is being done on my watch, and I’m glad to have the honor, by the grace of God, to lead this huge change.” So this week, Berman delves into whether this is such a "huge change" and how we arrived at the current precarious balance. Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Jewish visitors walk protected by Israeli security forces at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, also known as the Temple Mount complex to Jews, in Jerusalem on April 9, 2023, during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan, also coinciding with the Jewish Passover holiday. (AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode. To commemorate Yom Hashoah, Israel’s Holocaust Remembrance Day, October 7 survivors, released hostages and hostage family members toured Auschwitz yesterday ahead of the start of the March of the Living today. Likewise, we hear what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog said last night at the official state ceremony at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem. During a speech at the opening of the PLO Central Council meeting last week, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas called Hamas “sons of dogs” and told the terror group to release hostages it is holding in order to eliminate what he said was Israel’s pretext to continue its war in Gaza. Magid weighs in with his view on the motivations for these statements. The father of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander on Tuesday urged the Trump administration to return its hostage envoy Adam Boehler to the negotiation effort, arguing that the latter’s direct talks with Hamas last month were the closest his son had come to being released from captivity in Gaza. Magid spoke with Adi Alexander and reports back. A man was killed in a shark attack off the coast of Hadera, police confirmed Wednesday, after human remains were positively identified by forensics experts. The victim was named as 45-year-old Barak Tzach, a father of four from the central city of Petah Tikva. Borschel-Dan explains why the sharks are gathering and urges the public not to swim with or feed them. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Hamas claims it won’t develop weapons, dig tunnels during long-term truce with Israel Abbas tells ‘sons of dogs’ Hamas to free hostages, remove Israel’s ‘excuses’ for Gaza war Father of American-Israeli hostage urges Boehler’s return to negotiating table Police confirm man killed in shark attack; victim named as Barak Tzach, 45 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: Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas speaks during the 32nd Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) Central Council session in Ramallah on April 23, 2025. (Zain JAAFAR / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke via phone on Tuesday with US President Donald Trump. Following the conversation, the American leader said that the pair “are on the same side of every issue.” So what were the issues discussed? Hamas is expected to soon propose a new ceasefire framework for Gaza as its representatives arrive in Cairo. Hamas is reportedly pushing for a five-year truce and accepting the previous Egyptian idea of a technocratic council to rule the Strip. What else may be involved? Pope Francis died on Monday, a day after making a public appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. In his final message, he included a segment about the war in Gaza, saying, “I express my closeness to the sufferings of Christians in Palestine and Israel, and to all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people. ... I appeal to the warring parties: call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace!” Berman weighs in on whether this may help ease the uncomfortable relationship Israel has had with the pope since the war in Gaza was launched by the Hamas-led massacre on October 7. Among the candidates to replace Pope Francis at the upcoming conclave, one name familiar to many Israeli officials stands out — Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.The Italian priest has lived in Israel for over three decades, and is a fluent Hebrew speaker. Berman explains how this dark horse candidate may have a chance. After presenting his letter of credence to President Isaac Herzog on Monday, Washington’s new ambassador Mike Huckabee accused Iran of seeking to destroy Israel and the United States. We hear why this may be music to official Israel's ears. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Trump after call with Netanyahu: ‘We’re on the same side of every issue’ Report: Hamas to propose new ceasefire framework including release of hostages in one phase, five-year truce  Hamas delegation heads for Cairo as Egypt takes mediation lead in hostage talks Pope Francis cared deeply about Holy Land, Jews, but left ‘sour taste’ after Oct. 7 Latin patriarch of Jerusalem among candidates to replace Pope Francis Presenting credentials to Herzog, Huckabee says Iran seeks to destroy Israel, then US 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: Pope Francis stands at Israel's West Bank security barrier on his way to a mass in Manger Square in Bethlehem, May 25, 2014. (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. 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, the Israel Defense Forces announced the dismissal of the deputy commander of the Golani Brigade’s reconnaissance unit over the March 23 incident in which 15 medics were killed after his forces opened fire on a convoy of ambulances and emergency vehicles in southern Gaza’s Rafah. Fabian explains the findings of a high-level IDF probe. The Lebanese army announced Sunday that it had foiled a planned rocket attack from Lebanon at Israel for the first time since a November ceasefire cut short a year of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. We learn about what steps the Lebanese Armed Forces are currently taking to fulfill the terms of the ceasefire. On Saturday, for the first time since the IDF resumed its offensive against Hamas in the Strip on March 18, a soldier was killed inside the Strip. The deadly incident took place during work to clear the area close to the border of Hamas infrastructure, including tunnels, as part of efforts to expand Israel’s buffer zone — which now comprises over 30 percent of the Strip. Fabian discusses the IDF's recent activities ahead of his IDF embed to the Morag Corridor today. We learn about the IDF's Bedouin tracker units and  hear about an attempt from several Israeli civilians to enter the Gaza Strip on Sunday. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Admitting ‘errors,’ IDF fires officer over killing of 15 rescue workers in Gaza’s Rafah In first since ceasefire, Lebanese army says it foiled rocket attack on Israel Israeli soldier killed in Hamas attack, in first since collapse of Gaza ceasefire 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: Mourners gather around the bodies of 8 Red Crescent emergency responders, recovered in Rafah a week after an Israeli attack, as they are transported for burial from a hospital in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, on March 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana,File)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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 What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Mitch Ginsburg, a producer at the Israel Story podcast. Ginsburg, a former military reporter for The Times of Israel, brings us a special episode from Israel's flagship podcast series, called The Hebrew Hobbit: A Passover Special. In it, Ginsburg charts the tale of a number of Israeli POWs who took upon themselves the unlikely task of translating JRR Tolkien's "The Hobbit" while imprisoned together in an Egyptian jail. In a vivid soundscape, Ginsburg brings a 360-degree account of life before, during and after their detention -- for the soldiers and those they left behind. This Passover holiday, we hear the improbable story of a group of Israeli men who formed a mini-kibbutz in the heart of an enemy country's prison and what happened after their exodus from Egypt. So this week, we ask Israel Story's Mitch Ginsburg, 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: An undated photo of the POW group who together translated 'The Hobbit' into Hebrew prior to their release from an Egyptian prison in November 1973. (courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to a bonus episode of The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. In today's episode, environment reporter Sue Surkes makes a guest appearance, stepping in for Berman. This is a week of spring holidays, and so we are dedicating the program to some of the biblical flora of the Land of Israel. In honor of Easter, which is celebrated by much of Christendom on Sunday, we begin with a date palm that was brought back from the dead and a plant that resurrects itself. In 2008, Dr. Elaine Solowey germinated a 1,900-year-old date palm seed that took the name Methuselah after the long-lived biblical character. She has since gone on to revive several more ancient seeds, including females that bear fruit. Surkes tells the story of Solowey's amazing success -- and describes how the dates taste. Next, we hear about the Rose of Jericho, which was named for the biblical city of Jericho that constantly rose from its ashes -- and still stands today. It's an extraordinary story of a plant surviving in the harshest of circumstances. We then turn to a tree that is called the Christ-thorn jujube (shezaf). Traditionally, this type of tree was used to create the thorny crown that Jesus wore on his last journey down the Via Dolorosa. Surkes then speaks about the olive tree -- both the last few remaining "wild" variety located near Atlit, and the cultivated variety. She turns to Psalm 128 to show how being acquainted with the flora of the Land of Israel gives a deeper meaning to the text. And finally, we speculate on the Garden of Eden's "forbidden fruit." Was it an apple? Or maybe a fig? Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: Dates harvested from 'Hannah,' the first female palm tree germinated from 2,000 year-old seeds discovered in the Judean desert, are displayed in Kibbutz Ketura in southern Israel, on September 27, 2021. (Emmanuel DUNAND / AFP)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. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. On Saturday, US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi “briefly spoke” together in Oman to kick off nuclear talks in what marks the first time the two nations have spoken directly to each other since the Obama administration. We learn about the US's evolving "redline" and the Trump administration's expected timeline. Hamas has reportedly turned down an Israeli offer for a six-week ceasefire in Gaza, which demanded the group to disarm. Magid weighs in on the stalled process, including what he's hearing from one of the Arab negotiators. The Palestinian Authority has formally invited the Trump administration to certify that Ramallah’s reform of its controversial welfare system viewed as incentivizing terror is being implemented, a US official and a PA official revealed to Magid on Friday. Magid explains the provisions of the Taylor Force Act, a 2018 congressional legislation that barred US economic aid that directly benefits the PA, and how the PA is attempting to comply. Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: In swift reversal, Witkoff says any nuclear deal must ‘eliminate’ Iran’s enrichment, weaponization Trump says he expects to make a decision on Iran’s nuclear program ‘very quickly’ Gaza hostage talks still stalled, official says, amid reports of incremental progress Hamas said to reject Israeli proposal that it disarm as part of 6-week ceasefire Hostage’s father to PM: How do you plan on freeing last captive without ending war? PA invites US to verify that controversial prisoner payment system no longer in place 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 handout picture released by Iran's Atomic Energy Organization on November 4, 2019, shows the atomic enrichment facilities Natanz nuclear research center, some 300 kilometres south of capital Tehran. (HO / Atomic Energy Organization of Iran / AFP)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, the family of Edan Alexander approved the publication of a Hamas propaganda video released Saturday, which showed signs of life from the US-Israeli hostage soldier who has been held by the terror group since he was kidnapped on October 7, 2023. Born in Tel Aviv, Alexander grew up in Tenafly, New Jersey. He returned to Israel to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces after graduating from high school in 2022. Fabian fills us in and we hear a segment of the video. This morning, we learned that over 1,600 former IDF paratroopers and infantry soldiers signed a letter demanding the government reach a deal to bring the hostages home, even if it means ending the war. We discuss this latest appeal, which adds to a growing wave of public pressure to end the ongoing war following similar letters from IDF reservist doctors, the Talpiot program, former 8200 intelligence unit members, ex-Mossad members, navy reservists, and reservist air force personnel. We focus on the air force letter, which has brought the most media attention, and hear what steps -- if any -- the IDF is taking to stem this tide. The Israel Defense Forces announced at noon Saturday that it had completed the capture of the Morag Corridor in the southern Gaza Strip, cutting off the city of Rafah from Khan Younis. Fabian explains how this is part of a greater plan to widen the new border buffer zone. Yesterday, the Israeli military carried out an airstrike on a hospital in Gaza City, after telling staff and patients to evacuate ahead of the overnight attack, one of a series of strikes that Israel said were targeting Hamas operational centers. No casualties were reported in the hospital strike, with Israel issuing a warning to evacuate the facility before the attack. We learn where civilians are meant to go during such airstrikes, and in general. Air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile fired at Israel by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen early on Sunday evening. The Houthis claimed to have fired two missiles in the attack, one targeting the Sdot Micha Airbase — where, according to foreign reports, Israel holds nuclear-capable Jericho missiles — and the other aimed at Ben Gurion Airport. Fabian weighs in. On Friday, the IDF confirmed that it participated in a just-completed annual aerial exercise hosted by Greece, which this year included the participation of Qatar -- along with 11 other countries. We ask Fabian how significant this joint exercise is. Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: ‘Why am I not home?’ Edan Alexander’s family okays publication of Hamas propaganda video Over 250 ex-Mossad members, 3 former chiefs urge hostage deal even if it ends war IAF to dismiss reservists who signed letter demanding prioritization of hostages over war IDF says it hit a Hamas command center embedded in Gaza City hospital IDF fully surrounds Rafah as Katz warns Gazans of ‘final moment to remove Hamas’ IDF says Houthi missile intercepted; shrapnel falls in West Bank In first, Israeli Air Force participates with Qatar in aerial exercises hosted by Greece Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves.   IMAGE: Troops of the Givati Brigade operate in Gaza, in a handout photo issued on April 9, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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 newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. In today's episode, military reporter Emanuel Fabian makes a guest appearance, stepping in for Berman. We take a deep look into the IDF probes into the failures leading up to and on October 7 by first taking a step back and discussing the goals of the investigations and their overall general findings. We then dive into a cluster of probes that were released in the past week, including the investigations into Kibbutz Nirim, the city of Sderot, Kibbutz Re'im and the Supernova open-air music festival. At the Nova festival alone, some 380 out of 3,500 people attending the party were slaughtered by Hamas and another 44 were taken hostage to Gaza. On this second Passover since the onslaught, 17 of those taken from the Nova party are still in captivity, including 11 living and six declared dead. In a very tough, at times graphic conversation, Fabian guides us through a handful of the dozens of battles on October 7, 2023. For further reading: Troops fended off 1st wave of terrorists at Nirim, but IDF left kibbutz vulnerable 1,000 troops were in Sderot on Oct. 7, when they were urgently needed elsewhere, probe finds IDF okayed Nova music festival, but didn’t inform troops deployed at border, probe finds Civil defense squad, cops battled 100 terrorists in Re’im before IDF arrived, probe finds From our archives: Camera in hand, partygoer captures escape from rave where Hamas killed 260 Israelis Thousands flee rocket and gunfire at all-night desert ‘Nature Party’; dozens missing Daily Briefing Mar. 4: Day 515 – Devastating IDF Oct. 7 probes depict years of misconceptions The Friday Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Israeli soldiers drive by the Supernova rave party site, where almost 380 were killed, near Kibbutz Re'im, close to the Gaza Strip border fence, on October 10, 2023. (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. 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 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 joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The High Court of Justice issued an interim injunction on Tuesday stating that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar must remain in office until further notice and giving the government and the attorney general until April 20 to reach a compromise over the legal dispute surrounding the unprecedented vote last month to fire him. Sharon sets the scene in -- and out -- of the courtroom yesterday. Thirty-one percent of Israelis, including 36% of Jews, believe the government should disregard the High Court of Justice if it reverses the dismissal of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, according to a poll published by the Israel Democracy Institute on Tuesday. In light of this dangerous moment, Justice Noam Sohlberg, despite his skepticism of the government’s position, was the first to suggest a compromise, proposing the government and the attorney general refer the matter to the advisory committee. Sharon explains. And finally, Sharon brings us a story about how Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Settlements and National Missions Minister Orit Strock participated in a ceremony last week in which 19 all-terrain vehicles paid for with state funds were granted to illegal settlement farming outposts in the South Hebron Hills region, for "security purposes." Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: After chaotic hearing, High Court rules Netanyahu can’t fire Shin Bet chief Bar for now Court seeks to avert constitutional crisis in Ronen Bar hearing, while upholding law Netanyahu’s office says High Court ruling on Bar ‘puzzling,’ amid calls to ignore it Poll: 31% of public says government should ignore court on Shin Bet head’s ouster Government gifts state-financed ATVs to illegal settlement outposts for security 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 protest against Supreme Court President Isaac Amit outside a court hearing on petitions against the firing of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, outside the Supreme Court in Jerusalem, April 8, 2025. (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. 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 Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump at 1 p.m. local time at the White House. The two leaders are expected to discuss the new tariffs Trump imposed on Israel, efforts to roll back Iran and its proxy network and hostage talks with Hamas. Taking each point in turn, Magid fill us in on what to look out for from this spontaneous trip and what Netanyahu hopes to accomplish. Hamas is prepared to release all of the remaining hostages at once in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, a senior Palestinian official familiar with the ongoing truce talks told Magid last week. Magid was approached by a Hamas figure who resides outside of Gaza, who wants Israelis to know that amid Israel’s longstanding rejection of this type of trade, Hamas is still prepared to release a number of hostages as part of a renewed temporary ceasefire. We hear more. The Hebrew name of a spotted orange butterfly has been changed to honor murdered hostage Ariel Bibas by the Academy of the Hebrew Language, the Bibas family announced Friday. The academy last week officially informed the family, and on Thursday hand-delivered a letter addressed to Bibas’s father, Yarden — who was also taken hostage but released in February under a ceasefire deal — of the final decision to rename Melitaea ornata (eastern knapweed fritillary). Using one of the biblical names of Jerusalem, Ariel, the name of the butterfly was replaced in Hebrew from Kitmit Yerushalayim (Orange Jerusalem) to Kitmit Ariel (Orange Ariel) in honor of the four-year-old. Borschel-Dan explains the back story behind this change. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu lands in Washington for hastily arranged talks on Trump’s tariffs, Gaza war Netanyahu to meet Trump in DC on Monday, will discuss tariffs, hostages, Iran, Turkey, ICC Dermer and Witkoff to join Netanyahu-Trump meetings in Washington Hamas ready to free all hostages at once for end to war — Palestinian official Butterfly renamed in honor of murdered hostage Ariel Bibas 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: A Palestinian man stands on debris in a heavily damaged building following an overnight Israeli airstrike on Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip on April 7, 2025. (Eyad BABA / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Saudi Al-Hadath channel reports that the US has transferred a second THAAD battery to Israel amid rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. The battery was apparently delivered yesterday.We hear what the THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System, is an advanced anti-missile system, has recently been used for. Yesterday, Hamas released a propaganda video that shows hostages Bar Kupershtein and Maxim Herkin, in the first sign of life from both of them since they were abducted by terrorists on October 7, 2023. We hear the broad-strokes contents of the video. The Israel Defense Forces has detailed the initial findings from its investigation into the killing of 14 rescue workers in southern Gaza’s Rafah on March 23, when soldiers opened fire on a convoy of ambulances after mistakenly identifying it as a threat and buried their bodies. The military said it identified six medics as Hamas operatives. Fabian explains the findings and highlights still unanswered questions. The IDF released footage from the entry of the 36th Division into the so-called Morag Corridor, located between southern Gaza’s Rafah and Khan Younis, last week. It marks the first time since the beginning of the war that ground troops are operating in the area. On Thursday, Israel Defense Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin told reporters that the IDF has entered a “new phase” in its fighting. What is this new phase that Defrin is referring to? Hassan Farhat, who had headed Hamas’s forces in the western sector of Lebanon, was killed in an airstrike on an apartment building in Sidon. Likewise, the IDF and Shin Bet on Friday said a terror operative who oversaw the kidnapping and likely was also involved in the murder of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, was killed in an airstrike in Gaza. We learn about these two Hamas terrorists and Fabian connects the Sidon strike to an earlier strike on a Hezbollah operative in Beirut. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US said to transfer 2nd THAAD missile battery to Israel as Iran nuclear tensions rise Hamas hostage video shows Maxim Herkin and Bar Kupershtein, in first signs of life IDF shares initial details from Gaza ambulance probe, says troops told UN of burial site Gazans flee expanding strikes in north, south as IDF says fighting entering ‘new stage’ Hamas says it won’t move hostages to safety, Israel responsible for their lives IDF widens ground operation in northern Gaza, kills top Hamas official in Lebanon IDF says it killed terrorist who led Bibas abduction, was likely involved in their murders 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: Bodies of Palestinian first responders who were killed March 23, 2025, in Israeli military fire on ambulances lie at Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on March 30, 2025. (AFP)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 we bring you an episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan, speaking with author and scholar Dara Horn. Horn is the author of novels and non-fiction, including “People Love Dead Jews,” “Eternal Life,” “A Guide for the Perplexed,” and now her first book for young readers, “One Little Goat.” A graphic novel, "One Little Goat," was dreamed up by a young Horn and written decades later alongside the uniquely grungy illustrations of Theo Ellsworth. The program's first half delves into the book's trippy storyline and how she arrived at it. As Horn remarks on her website, "'One Little Goat' is a quirky, dryly funny, Passover-themed graphic novel, featuring a lost matzah, a never-ending seder, and a time-traveling talking goat." In the second half of the program, we hear some about the ideas Horn proposed in her bestselling work, "People Love Dead Jews," and she speaks about her new education initiative, Mosaic Persuasion, which is bent on teaching American schoolchildren about real, living Jews, and Jewish culture. We hear about how the Hamas massacre of some 1,200 in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, has -- and has not -- shifted American discourse. And Horn points out the Jews' driving counter-culture DNA that has been passed down from generation to generation, much like the rituals of the Passover seder. And so, this week, we ask author Dara Horn, 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: Dara Horn (Michael Priest)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, which is followed a full installment of The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, the Friday Focus. Qatar on Thursday denied funding a disinformation campaign aimed at discrediting Egypt’s role in negotiations to free Israelis held hostage in Gaza, amid a swirling Israeli investigation around the Gulf state’s links to two of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s aides. Berman weighs in on why he's unconvinced. Yesterday, the courts extended the remand of Eli Feldstein and Jonatan Urich, the two aides to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who are key suspects in the ongoing Qatargate probe. The two men are suspected of having taken money from Qatar to spread pro-Qatari messaging to reporters while in the prime minister’s employ. We hear what further developments we saw yesterday in the investigation. Berman, who accompanied the prime minister to Budapest, describes the reception the Israeli delegation was met with and then speaks about Hungary's announcement that it was leaving the International Criminal Court. 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: Qatar denies paying to spread media narrative undermining Egypt’s role in hostage talks Detention of key Qatargate suspects extended till Friday, as judge criticizes media leaks Freed Jerusalem Post editor decries arrest, says he got ‘no benefits’ from Qatar trip Netanyahu, in Budapest, lauds Orban’s withdrawal from ‘corrupt, rotten’ ICC Hungary announces withdrawal from ICC as Netanyahu arrives for state visit IMAGE: An Israeli flag is raised on the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, with the Buda Castle in Budapest in the background on April 2, 2025, as preparations are under way for the visit of Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. (Attila KISBENEDEK / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The provincial government in southern Syria’s Daraa says nine civilians were killed and several were injured in Israeli bombardment following an “Israeli incursion.” Soldiers operated on the ground in what is possibly the deepest into Syria that Israeli forces have advanced thus far. Fabian weighs in. Yesterday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that advancing IDF forces were carving out a new security corridor across southern Gaza as Israel seeks to pile pressure on Hamas to free the hostages. Fabian explains the strategy behind the new “Morag Corridor,” named after an Israeli settlement that stood in the area before it was evacuated during Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza, and compares the number of forces on the ground in the Strip with that of troops at the height of the war. On Wednesday, hundreds of Palestinians rallied in Beit Lahiya, in the northern Gaza Strip, chanting “Hamas out” and “Enough death,” in renewed protests against the terror group. Residents were angered by new Israeli military evacuation orders, which the military said followed rocket salvos by terror groups from the area. We hear how the IDF is responding to the increase in rockets -- and who is claiming blame for them. Fifteen emergency and aid workers from the Red Crescent, the United Nations and the Hamas-linked Palestinian Civil Defense have been recovered from a grave in the sand in the south of the Gaza Strip, UN officials said on Monday. The IDF acknowledged Friday that it had fired on ambulances and fire engines, saying it had identified them as “suspicious vehicles.” Investigations are ongoing, but Fabian lays out what we currently understand from the IDF. Yesterday, Fabian toured an IDF post in Lebanon, on the edge of Markaba, which overlooks the Israeli border community of Margaliot. It is one of five strategic positions where the IDF has remained after a February deadline to withdraw from Lebanon, as part of an ongoing ceasefire that began in November. We learn what Fabian saw -- and what Defense Minister Israel Katz had to say about how long troops will be stationed there. 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: IDF says several gunmen ‘eliminated’ after firing on troops in southern Syria IDF strikes hit ‘remaining military capacities’ at Syrian airbases Netanyahu says IDF carving new corridor across Gaza to cut off Rafah, pressure Hamas Hamas threatens protesters, as new mass rallies against terror group held in Gaza UN says 15 Gaza medics killed by IDF found in mass grave; IDF: We targeted terrorists In Lebanon, Katz says troops to stay ‘without time limit’ to defend border communities Katz says offensive aimed at seizing ‘extensive territory,’ as IDF pounds south Gaza ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE: Israeli soldiers on the border between Syria and northern Israel, March 14, 2025. (Ayal Margolin/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. 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. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon and archaeology reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused police of holding two aides “hostage” after they were arrested over their alleged engagement in illicit ties with Qatar while working for the premier, who interrupted his ongoing corruption trial to provide testimony in the controversial Qatargate investigation. Sharon delves into the latest developments. The High Court of Justice ruled unanimously on Thursday that Israel has taken a variety of steps to provide for the humanitarian needs of Gaza’s civilian population during the current war with Hamas, and that there was no cause for the court to order the government and the army to take any additional action. We hear why this ruling is important in the context of other accusations against Israel on the international stage. The IDF issued a statement on Monday night announcing that it had disciplined several officers and troops for vandalizing Palestinian property in Jinba after an investigation it conducted into the incident. Villagers claim that troops had stood by while the settler extremists attacked residents and prevented a Red Crescent ambulance from evacuating the wounded. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir went to Jinba himself to investigate the incident on Sunday, as did Sharon. He reports back. Almost one in four US adults who were raised Jewish no longer identify as such, a new report by the prominent Pew Research Center released on Wednesday has shown. The report focuses on the phenomenon of “switching religions” around the world, and it is based on data obtained by polling almost 37,000 Americans and over 41,000 individuals in 35 other countries, including Israel. Tercatin gives highlights. For the first time, a team of Israeli archaeologists has uncovered ancient artifacts at northern Israel’s “Armageddon” site that might offer proof of an epic battle documented in the books of Kings II and Chronicles between a king of Judah and an Egyptian pharaoh. We hear how the old adage "an army marches on its stomach" may give us insight into this historical battle. 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: Netanyahu says his two aides ‘being held hostage’ in Qatargate ‘witch hunt’ High Court says petitioners ‘not even close’ to showing Israel starving Gazan civilians ‘There’s no justice’: Palestinian villagers reel after brutal settler, IDF rampage Pew Research Center survey: A quarter of US adults raised Jewish no longer identify as Jews Archaeologists find first evidence of epic biblical battle at ‘Armageddon’ IMAGE: People protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government outside the Knesset, Israel's parliament in Jerusalem, March 31, 2025. (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. 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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Israeli military said Saturday evening it had expanded its ground offensive in the southern Gaza Strip to expand a buffer zone along the borders of the Strip, the IDF said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced this morning that the security cabinet last night voted to increase pressure on Hamas. This comes as mediation efforts are stepping up. Berman explains where negotiations stand now -- and why. Last week, Gazans took to the streets in protest against the Hamas regime throughout the Gaza Strip. This morning we learned that Hamas operatives kidnapped, tortured and executed a 22-year-old Palestinian man, Oday Nasser Al Rabay, who participated in last week’s wave of protests, according to his family. This comes as we learn of a June 2023 document from the Defense Ministry unit that oversees the Gaza Strip which recommended a potential long-term truce (hudna) with Hamas. Berman delves into what this document says about Israel's "conception" of Hamas capabilities. Hundreds of thousands of anti-government demonstrators rallied in Istanbul Saturday calling for democracy to be defended after the arrest of mayor Ekrem Imamoglu which sparked Turkey’s worst street unrest in over a decade. Berman examines the Israel-Turkey relationship -- or lack thereof -- since October 7, 2023. Syria’s new transitional government was sworn in Saturday, nearly four months after the Assad family was removed from power and as the new authorities in Damascus work to bring back stability to the war-torn country. While the 23-member Cabinet is religiously and ethnically mixed, Israel sees itself as a defender of Syria's minorities, says Berman. 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: Israel confirms it received new Gaza truce proposal from mediators, made counteroffer IDF expands ground op in southern Gaza, pushing further into Rafah In disturbing Hamas video, distraught hostage Elkana Bohbot shouts and begs for release Gazan man murdered by Hamas after joining protests against terror group, family says Report: A June 2023 Defense Ministry document proposed near-sovereignty for Hamas in Gaza Hundreds of thousands, maybe millions, gather at Istanbul rally to protest against Erdogan Syria swears in new transitional government four months after ousting Assad IMAGE: Palestinians buy clothes in a shop next to a destroyed apartment building in preparation for Eid al-Fitr celebrations at Al-Rimal neighborhood in the center of Gaza City, March 28, 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. 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. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, which will be followed by a full episode of ToI's newest podcast series, the Friday Focus with Lazar Berman. An Egyptian proposal to end renewed fighting in Gaza would see five living hostages released on the first day of the restored ceasefire, with another five living hostages released every 7-10 days, two foreign diplomats with knowledge of the details told The Times of Israel on Wednesday. Magid delves into what else is being reported about this proposal, one of several on the table right now. One well-connected US analyst of the Middle East told Magid this week that the current Israeli government has all but foreclosed any chance for a normalization deal. We hear what Brian Katulis, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute (MEI) who regularly speaks to Saudi and other regional officials, has to say -- and what the Saudis are potentially planning in the meantime. US President Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, tried to present a more moderate stance on Israel and the West Bank -- or Judea and Samaria, as he calls the contested land -- and urged lawmakers at his confirmation hearing on Tuesday to judge him based on his ability to represent the new administration. Magid weighs in. In the Friday Focus, Berman illuminates the ongoing prejudice against Israel's Christians, who make up almost 2% of the country's population. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Egyptian plan would free 5 living hostages on day one, with releases every 7-10 days Playing down normalization prospects, US analyst says Saudis feel Israel ‘looking backward’ Mike Huckabee downplays pro-settler views at confirmation hearing to be envoy to 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. ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE: Then-Gov. Mike Huckabee, R-Ark., takes questions from the media, prior to laying a brick at a new housing complex in the West Bank settlement of Efrat, August 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty, File)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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 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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. The 2025 budget bill passed its final reading to become law yesterday afternoon, removing a major threat to the stability of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Lawmakers voted 66-52 in favor of the NIS 755 billion ($205 billion) spending bill -- the largest in Israeli history. We discuss which monies went where and why, plus look into the wide-sweeping political ramifications of the budget's passage. Hundreds of Palestinians protested against Hamas rule and against the war in at least three locations in Gaza on Tuesday, in a relatively rare occurrence in the Strip due to the terror group’s often violent suppression of political dissent. Summing up the seeds of optimism Israelis feel seeing this grassroots uprising, Rettig Gur, quotes a 1942 line from Winston Churchill, "Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning." Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: In major success for government, Knesset approves 2025 budget, staving off elections Hundreds in Gaza join rare protests against Hamas rule, call for an end to the war Israel intercepts 3 rockets fired from north Gaza; Islamic Jihad takes responsibility 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 slogan in Arabic reading (R): 'Enough killing and destruction' and another reading (L): 'The children of Palestine: We want to live' are displayed during a rally calling for an end to the war where hundreds chanted anti-Hamas slogans, in Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip, on March 25, 2025. (AFP)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. A 85-year-old man has been shot dead in a terror attack near the northern town of Yokne’am. Another person, later identified as a 20-year-old soldier, was seriously injured. Fabian updates us with initial accounts of the attack. A string of senior Hamas officials have been targeted by the IDF in the past week. We learn about the uptick in their assassinations and who several of these figures are. On Sunday morning, the IDF announced that it had restarted ground operations in northern Gaza’s Beit Hanoun a day earlier. With the former humanitarian zone no longer in use, the IDF said that it was enabling Palestinian civilians to evacuate the “combat zone for their safety.” We learn where the IDF is currently operating. Defense Minister Yisrael Katz said on Friday, that he instructed the IDF to seize additional areas of the Gaza Strip if Hamas refused to release hostages, stating, “As long as Hamas continues its refusal, it will lose more and more land that will be added to Israel.” Also this week, we learned that during a visit to Washington DC this week, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer will discuss with senior US officials a plan for Israeli military control over the Gaza Strip. We ask Fabian: With its current manpower shortages, is the IDF capable of controlling the Strip? Days after six rockets were fired from Lebanon at northern Israel, which drew dozens of Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah in return, the terror group has denied any involvement in the Saturday rocket attack on Metula, and called Israel’s accusations “pretexts for its continued attacks on Lebanon.” So, if not Hezbollah, who could it have been? Even as there still isn’t a governmental commission to probe the failures leading to the October 7 massacre, the new Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir on Saturday announced that he had appointed an external panel of former senior officers to evaluate the military’s probes into Hamas’s October 7, 2023, onslaught. What is the end game of this new commission? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Elderly man killed as terrorist rams bus stop, opens fire on cars in north Senior Hamas official killed in targeted strike on Gaza hospital as IDF widens offensive IDF strike in south Gaza kills senior Hamas official; ground ops restart in Beit Hanoun Israel to discuss taking full military control of Gaza with senior US officials: source IDF strike kills Hezbollah operative in Lebanon, day after rocket fire at Metula New IDF chief appoints external panel to evaluate army’s Oct. 7 probes, implement findings 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: Armored vehicles of the 36th Division are seen at a staging ground in southern Israel, in a handout photo issued by the military on March 23, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. NY correspondent Luke Tress joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Columbia University has agreed to a series of changes demanded by the Trump Administration as a precondition for restoring $400 million in federal funding the government pulled this month over the school’s handling of antisemitism on campus amid pro-Palestinian protests against Israel. Tress has been covering the anti-Israel protests that have erupted since October 7, 2023, when Hamas slaughtered 1,200 in southern Israel. We speak about new measures that Columbia is taking — especially the restriction of face masks — and discuss whether they will change the intensity of the protests. Relatedly, on Friday, detained Columbia University student activist Mahmoud Khalil appeared briefly in immigration court at a remote Louisiana detention center as his lawyers fight in multiple venues to try to free him. We discuss the continued debate within the Jewish community over immigration rights and free speech, versus the safety of Jewish students on campus. Finally, we speak about a trend among US Jews who are looking for increased self-protection through a variety of measures, including taking self-defense courses such as the Israeli martial art, Krav Maga, or, as in a piece we recently published, highly trained -- and highly expensive -- protection dogs. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Columbia agrees to Trump administration’s demands to address campus antisemitism Detained anti-Israel activist Khalil appears in Louisiana court as deportation looms Columbia University expels anti-Israel students for last year’s building takeover Another Columbia anti-Israel protester arrested, 3rd ‘self-deports’, US feds say US-Israeli company sells $125k protection dogs to Jews worried about security 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. ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE: Protesters rally in support of detained Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil outside Columbia University in New York on March 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, which is a bonus episode of our weekly What Matters Now series. Recording at noon on Thursday in ToI's Jerusalem office ahead of a planned fateful cabinet vote on the firing of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar tonight, Horovitz attempts to summarize this fraught Israeli moment. As Israel Defense Forces troops are again entering the Gaza Strip for ground operations, fears of a crumbling Israeli democracy are bringing thousands to the streets, alongside others who reject the notion of a renewed war in Gaza without a hostage deal first. Horovitz takes us through a litany of issues fueling the domestic strife and assesses how Israel again finds itself at a crossroads. "All of us want Israel to survive and to thrive and we have two things simultaneously: We have terrible threats from without and we have tremendous division from within," says Horovitz. "This is extremely dangerous for Israel." And so this week, we ask ToI editor David Horovitz, what matters now? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: For Israel, everything will not be okay 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 march in a protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his plans to dismiss the head of the Shin Bet internal security service, in Jerusalem on March 19, 2025. (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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, which will be followed by a full episode of ToI's newest series, the Friday Focus with Lazar Berman. For the first time in Israeli history, the government has fired the head of the domestic security agency. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet voted unanimously in the early hours of Friday morning to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. If no other replacement is sworn in first, Bar's final day will be April 10. Among others, Israeli opposition parties Yesh Atid, National Unity, Yisrael Beytenu, and the Democrats have petitioned the High Court of Justice to intervene in the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Berman breaks down Netanyahu's stated reasons for Bar's dismissal, Bar's responses and how Israelis feel about it all. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Cabinet fires Shin Bet chief; PM claims lack of trust in Bar, who calls move invalid 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: Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet security services, May 5, 2024. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas collapsed early this morning after roughly two months, as the Israel Defense Forces launched dozens of strikes throughout Gaza and issued evacuation orders for parts of the Strip. We work through what brought Israel to the renewal of more intensive fighting. Yesterday, US President Donald Trump declared he would hold Iran directly responsible for any future attacks by Yemen’s Tehran-backed Houthi rebels, who recently claimed to have targeted a US aircraft carrier and other foreign ships in the Red Sea. Berman weighs in on this new approach by the Trump administration, which has widely vowed to "end wars, not start them." CBS News reported on Monday that Israel and the United States are interested in resettling Gazans in Syria. The report came as Israel is working quietly to advance a controversial plan proposed by Trump, in which Gaza’s more than 2 million people would be permanently — or even temporarily — sent elsewhere. But does Israel want the Gazans sent to another volatile border nation? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump said to ‘green-light’ renewal of Gaza strikes, as world laments truce collapse Israel resumes Gaza strikes, says Hamas collapsed truce by refusing to free hostages After deadlock in Doha hostage talks, Israeli team heads to Cairo in search of results US, Israel see Syria as possible home for relocated Gazans, says report 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: An Israeli army soldier signals for the driver of a Merkava battle tank attempting to park at a position in southern Israel along the northern Gaza Strip on March 18, 2025. (Menahem Kahana / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed on Monday to have twice attacked an American aircraft carrier group within 24 hours, calling it retaliation for deadly US strikes. How is Israel preparing for any retaliation as well? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu summoned Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar for an urgent meeting in his office yesterday evening and informed him that the cabinet would vote for his dismissal later in the week. The role of Shin Bet chief is one of the most important for Israel’s security. Fabian weighs in on how the upcoming dismissal could potentially shake the country’s deterrence or security standing and we hear who may be in the running to replace Bar. The Israel Defense Forces on Sunday detailed the identities of six Palestinian terror operatives it said were killed in airstrikes in northern Gaza’s Beit Lahiya on Saturday, including a terrorist who participated in the October 7, 2023, onslaught. According to Palestinian media, the strikes killed nine, including journalists. What is the IDF saying about these allegations? Israeli soldiers shot dead two suspects who crossed into Israel from Jordan near the northern town of Beit She’an shortly after midnight between Thursday and Friday. The two suspects were part of a group of at least eight who were trying to cross into Israel together. We hear what we know about the group's intentions in entering Israel. Amid the unrest in Syria, Israeli fighter jets on Thursday struck a residential building that the military said served as a Damascus headquarters for Palestinian Islamic Jihad to plan and carry out terror activities. Fabian delves into the IDF's current approach to nipping Palestinian terror groups in the bud in tumultuous Syria. The IDF has taken a platoon of reservists out of the Gaza Strip after a video posted to social media showed the troops opening fire during the reading of the Book of Esther. Yesterday, the reservists were sentenced. Does the punishment fit the crime? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Houthis claim 2 attacks on USS Truman; US strikes said to target seized Israel-linked ship Air Force on high alert for resumption of Houthi missile, drone attacks on Israel Netanyahu says he’ll fire Shin Bet chief Bar; AG says he can’t before legal review IDF: Oct. 7 terrorist and others ‘operating under guise of journalists’ killed in Gaza IDF troops shoot dead two suspects trying to cross into Israel from Jordan IDF strikes alleged Islamic Jihad nerve center in Damascus, said to be leader’s house IDF removes reservists from Gaza over video of them shooting during Purim scroll reading Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Illustrative: Ronen Bar, chief of Israel's domestic Shin Bet security agency, attends a ceremony marking Memorial Day for fallen soldiers of Israel's wars and victims of attacks at Jerusalem's Mount Herzl military cemetery, May 13, 2024. (Gil Cohen-Magen/Pool photo via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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. Public intellectual Micah Goodman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, a bonus episode of ToI's weekly podcast series, What Matters Now. As 24 living hostages languish in Gaza, Israel finds itself at a crossroads: Will the nation sign a deal with the terrorist group the Jewish state is bent on destroying or return to war against Hamas to apply pressure for the captives' release? Goodman explains how both sides of this argument see their position as protecting the nation. We hear, however, how the twin quests for national security and solidarity may appear to be in conflict with each other -- and how to overcome that paradox. And as Goodman pushes for Israel to sign a deal to release the hostages -- living and dead -- he explains how we must trust Hamas "to give Israel 17 reasons to restart the war." He cautions it must be a war that is launched at Israel's discretion, backed by national consensus and with the determination to realize the goal of destroying Hamas. And so this week, we ask Micah Goodman, 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: Illustrative: A Palestinian boy carries a toy gun while standing with members of Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of the Hamas movement, during a rally in Gaza City on May 24, 2021. (AFP / Emmanuel DUNAND)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Children across the Diaspora came to school wearing Batman costumes in honor of the slain Bibas boys, Kfir and Ariel. And last night, thousands came to Tel Aviv's Hostages Square for the Purim eve reading of the Book of Esther. The gathering, which includes Israelis from different communities, sectors and denominations, included a call for the return of the 59 remaining hostages in one release. But that doesn’t appear to be the proposal on the table, currently. We discuss reports out of Doha, which indicate a revision to a previously suggested proposal from US envoy Steve Witkoff of 10 living hostages for 60 days of ceasefire. What is the new outline to extend the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and how are Israel -- and Hamas -- responding to it? Mahmoud Abbas may be the last Palestinian leader who believes in a two-state solution and opposes violence as a means for bringing it about, a potential successor to the PA president, Jibril Rajoub, told Magid in a recent interview. So what’s the alternative? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Jewish kids in Israel and beyond dress up as Batman for Purim to honor the Bibas boys Witkoff reportedly presents new proposal for Gaza truce extension to Israel, Hamas Boehler to continue supporting Witkoff’s efforts in Mideast amid reports of sidelining Abbas may be the last PA leader who believes in two states, warns potential successor 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 man reads a scroll in front of a clock counting the time Israeli hostages held captive in the Gaza Strip since the October 2023 attacks by Hamas terrorists have spent in captivity, during the reading of the Scrolls of Esther at the start of the feast of Purim at Hostages' Square in Tel Aviv on March 13, 2025. (Jack GUEZ / AFP)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. New York reporter Luke Tress and NY stringer Cathryn J. Prince join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. US federal authorities on Friday announced the cancellation of $400 million in grants and contracts with New York’s Columbia University due to campus antisemitism. The cuts marked the most significant action yet taken by the Trump administration in its planned crackdown on anti-Jewish discrimination at universities. We discuss the White House's new efforts to stop antisemitism on campuses. On Monday, President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social platform, “ICE proudly apprehended and detained Mahmoud Khalil, a Radical Foreign Pro-Hamas student on the campus of Columbia University…This is the first arrest of many to come.” Khalil was born and raised in Syria, however his grandparents were originally from Tiberias near the Sea of Galilee. The arrest this week of Khalil, who is one of the main faces of the pro-Palestinian protests that have at points brought Columbia to a standstill, has set off a maelstrom of responses and support -- including from high-profile Jewish leaders. According to a CNN report, a federal judge in New York has blocked any efforts by President Donald Trump’s administration to deport Mahmoud Khalil until a conference today. We learn about the allegations that led to Khalil's detention and hear how widespread the dissemination of Hamas propaganda may be at Columbia. We also speak about the past year and a half of pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protests on campuses and some of their surprising repercussions. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Deportation of anti-Israel Palestinian Columbia activist to be challenged in federal court Protesters call for campus takeovers as Columbia activist threatened with deportation Trump administration cuts $400 million to Columbia University due to antisemitism NYPD clears anti-Israel protesters at Barnard College after bomb threat Anti-Israel activists show their true face at Columbia as students mark year 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. IMAGE: Demonstrators raise a sign depicting President Donald Trump as Adolf Hitler during a protest in support of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, March 10, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Yesterday, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff said that deadlines were needed on a deal for the next phase of the hostage-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas and that “all things are on the table” if the terror group agrees to demilitarize and leaving the Gaza Strip. We discuss who is in Doha right now and the so-called Witkoff outline, a framework would see Hamas release 10 living hostages, including American-Israeli Edan Alexander, in exchange for a further 60 days of ceasefire. Israel received more clarity over US President Donald Trump’s hostage envoy Adam Boehler’s direct dealings with Hamas officials on the release of hostages in Gaza when US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said they were a “one-off situation” that as of now “hasn’t borne fruit.” We delve into what Boehler has said about the talks in many media interviews and discuss what we know about the hostage envoy. Berman recently published an analysis asking: If Trump could turn on Ukraine, not to mention close American allies like Canada, Colombia, and Jordan, then who says he won’t do the same to Israel? Berman weighs in.Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Ahead of Doha talks, Witkoff says ‘deadlines’ key for deal on ceasefire’s next phase US envoy Boehler’s Hamas meetings were a ‘one-off’ that ‘hasn’t borne fruit,’ Rubio says Trump envoy defends his direct talks with Hamas, says US ‘not an agent of Israel’ After Trump turns against Zelensky and other allies, could Israel be next in line? Meet Adam Boehler, Trump’s complacent, confused and dangerously naive hostage envoy 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. ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE: President Donald Trump listens as Adam Boehler in the Rose Garden of the White House, April 14, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Tomorrow marks day 50 of the ceasefire agreement. Fabian explains where the IDF is currently operating in the Gaza Strip and how quickly it could reassemble into war footing. A Syria war monitor reported on Saturday that over 745 civilians from the Alawite minority had been killed in recent days by security forces and their allies, as authorities clash with militants loyal to the former government of Bashar al-Assad. Coincidentally or not, the IDF said troops captured and destroyed numerous weapons during missions in southern Syria. Is this publication of the IDF's Syria mission a message to the new government there? Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jews were escorted by the military on Friday to the traditionally considered burial place of a Babylonian scholar on the Lebanon border, after weeks of illegal attempts to reach the site. Later on Friday, the IDF carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon, saying it targeted Hezbollah military sites. We learn about the IDF's current operations in Lebanon during the ceasefire. The Israel Defense Force’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, is to end his role in the coming weeks and retire from the military, the IDF announced on Friday. Many have seen this step as a de facto dismissal, as Hagari was not given a promotion for his work as IDF spokesman during the war. Fabian weighs in. Marking International Women's Day, Fabian and Borschel-Dan have a brief conversation about the role of women in IDF leadership. As women are slowly rising in the ranks in combat roles, could we see a female chief of staff in the next 20 years? Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: 745 civilians killed in clashes between Syrian regime and pro-Assad forces, says watchdog IDF says it seized, destroyed weapons in ‘targeted raids’ in southern Syria IDF says it struck terror targets in Lebanon and Gaza amid ceasefires IDF escorts hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jews to pray at tomb straddling Lebanon border IDF spokesman Hagari to retire from military, in move widely seen as dismissal 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: Israeli soldiers operating inside the northern Gaza Strip, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, on February 9, 2025. (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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, which is a bonus episode of our weekly What Matters Now podcast series. At a Cairo summit of Arab leaders on Tuesday, a consensus of states adopted an Egyptian reconstruction plan for Gaza that would cost $53 billion and avoid displacing Palestinians from the enclave -- in contrast to US President Donald Trump’s “Middle East Riviera” vision. The over 100-page “Early Recovery, Reconstruction, Development of Gaza” plan envisions a Gaza Administration Committee, made up of independent technocrats, to manage an initial six-month transitional phase. It also urges elections in all Palestinian areas within a year, if conditions support such a move. The rub? The plan doesn’t explicitly tackle the issue of Hamas and how the terror group will be disarmed -- if at all. It also pushes for a Palestinian state before addressing any of the armed Palestinian factions. Rettig Gur dissects elements of the plan and weighs in on its seriousness. 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: In this photo provided by Egypt's presidency media office, Arab leaders pose during the emergency Arab summit at Egypt's New Administrative Capital, just outside Cairo, March 4, 2025. (Egyptian Presidency Media Office via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, which is followed by a full episode of The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus with Lazar Berman. Magid focuses on some of the major developments in the hostage release-ceasefire negotiations, including Wednesday's revelation that the US has been conducting direct talks with Hamas to get hostages out. The US designated Hamas as a terrorist organization in 1997. Does speaking directly with Hamas contravene some kind of protocol for dealing with terrorist entities? US envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff is pressing Hamas for an act of "goodwill" to release the final living US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander. How has Israel reacted to this? We learn how Magid believes the new direct negotiations with Hamas will reshape the contours of the mediated ceasefire deal and whether they will help them transition into phase two. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump defends direct US-Hamas talks as Israel seethes, attempts to sabotage them US talks with Hamas said to hit snag after media leak; PM unhappy they’re taking place Analysts: Direct US-Hamas talks reflect ‘dysfunction’ in ceasefire negotiations 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 poses for photos with family members of Edan Alexander, a hostage held by Hamas, after visiting the gravesite of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, October 7, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)  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 joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s Daily Briefing. Justice Minister Yariv Levin initiated proceedings to remove Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara from office. He has accused her of having politicized her office to thwart the will of the government and has long threatened to take action against her. We learn what steps were taken. A law dramatically changing how the state ombudsman for judges is chosen passed its third and final reading in the Knesset plenum early on Tuesday morning, following a full night of debate. We hear why this is such a potential game-changer. A new report by the Palestinian human rights organization Physicians for Human Rights Israel has alleged that Gazan medical personnel detained by Israeli forces and held in Israeli detention facilities during the war with Hamas were subjected to widespread and severe abuse, including beatings, various forms of torture, psychological abuse, medical neglect and the provision of insufficient rations. Sharon weighs in on how credible the report is. The UK Lawyers for Israel organization recently reviewed the allegations against Israel regarding widespread famine in the Gaza Strip during the war. In a report published last week, the group found that there was no famine in Gaza during the war, as defined by IPC standards — a UN-developed scale — and that even levels of acute malnutrition were only marginally higher than prewar figures.  Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Levin initiates process of firing AG; opposition says he’s destroying democracy, unity Coalition passes judicial overhaul law taking over appointment of judges’ ombudsman Gazan medical worker detainees ‘subjected to torture, beatings, medical neglect’ – report New study: There was no famine in Gaza… according to famine review groups’ own data 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: Israeli Attorney-General Gali Baharav Miara and Justice Minister Yariv Levin at a farewell ceremony for retiring acting Supreme Court President Uzi Vogelman, at the Supreme Court in Jerusalem on October 1, 2024. (Oren Ben Hakoon/POOL)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Israel carried out an airstrike in Syria on Monday evening, targeting a military facility near the city of Tartous, in the country’s northwestern coastal region. And today, the Defense Ministry says it is carrying out activities to clear explosives from an area of the Golan Heights near the Syrian border. Fabian updates on IDF activities inside Syria. We spend the rest of the episode on the series of IDF probes into the failures on October 7, 2023. We learn about the immediate failures, including that the attack was a surprise with no intelligence warning. Hamas had numerous forces and was attacking several areas simultaneously. And the IDF had far fewer forces and minimal capabilities available: When the attack began, involving over 5,000 terrorists, just 767 IDF troops were stationed on the border. And then we turn to specific investigations into the air force, the navy and the intelligence wing, and we learn about the series of disasters that led to the tragedies at the Nahal Oz IDF base and Kibbutz Kfar Aza. And finally, we zoom into one of the many tales of heroism that were highlighted in the reports, the story of Kfar Aza resident Brig. Gen. Yisrael Shomer, who fought off terrorists with a kitchen knife before securing a weapon and eventually killing 20. Please see today's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Israel attacks military site in northwestern Syria; no casualties reported Entire Gaza Division was overrun for hours, and IDF didn’t know it; 767 troops faced 5,000 terrorists IDF identified but ignored 5 warning signs of Hamas attack on eve of Oct. 7, its probe shows The intel on Hamas attack plan was there, but IDF simply refused to believe it, probe finds Before Oct. 7, IDF probe shows, Hamas duped Israel into thinking it did not pose a major threat IDF’s Oct. 7 probes show it misread Hamas for years, left southern Israel utterly vulnerable Terrorists took Kfar Aza in an hour. Recapturing it took the IDF days, probe finds ‘Systemic failure’: How Nahal Oz base, 850 meters from Gaza yet utterly vulnerable, fell to Hamas 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: Members of Zaka walk through the destruction caused by Hamas terrorists in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, as they collect the dead bodies, near the Israeli-Gaza border, in southern Israel, October 15, 2023. (Edi Israel/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. 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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Late last night, following a four-hour security consultation with top officials, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declared that it was endorsing what it described as a proposal by US President Donald Trump’s special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, which would see the ceasefire with Hamas extended through Passover, which ends on April 19. What is this plan and how is it being received? Israel is not allowing any more goods to enter Gaza, says the Prime Minister’s Office, citing Hamas’s refusal to accept what it says is an American proposal to extend phase one of the ceasefire through Passover and Ramadan alongside more hostage releases. Berman explains what else Israel is currently withholding, which is counter to the mediated phase one deal. Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the Israel Defense Forces on Saturday to “prepare to defend” the Druze-majority city of Jaramana on the outskirts of Damascus in Syria. We hear why Israel sees itself as a defender of Druze and other minorities -- and what type of defense this may be. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said yesterday that he had signed a declaration to expedite the delivery of approximately $4 billion in military assistance to Israel after the Trump administration approved nearly $12 billion in major foreign military sales to the Jewish state. But after seeing the “good television” of a brush-up between Trump and Zelensky this weekend, should Israel be wary of such promises? Please see today's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: As truce enters limbo, Israel agrees to extend talks with Hamas before resuming war Netanyahu and Katz direct IDF to ‘prepare to defend’ Syrian Druze suburb of Damascus US moves to expedite delivery of $4 billion in military aid to Israel After shouting match, Zelensky says Trump’s support for Ukraine still ‘crucial’ Trump berates Zelensky in shocking Oval Office scene: ‘Either make a deal or we’re out’ 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. Illustrative: Palestinian Hamas fighters and people gather in Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip, as preparations take place for the release of three Israeli hostages as part of the seventh hostage-prisoner swap on February 22, 2025. (Bashar Taleb / AFP)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. Film critic Jordan Hoffman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing, a bonus episode of our weekly What Matters Now podcast series.  Ahead of the 2025 Academy Awards on Sunday night, The Times of Israel’s film critic gives his predictions on which of the five films related to Israel or the Jews will have any chance of taking home a statue. We hear about how the ongoing war in Gaza is creating off-screen drama for a film, “September 5,” that has nothing to do with the current conflict but dares to show Israel as a victim after the country’s athletes were massacred in the 1972 Munich Olympics. Hoffman weighs in on the merits of “A Real Pain” and pronounces it an excellent addition to the pantheon of Jewish film. About “The Brutalist,” he has some reservations, although he applauds the film overall. We learn how the Bob Dylan biopic may not have anything really overtly Jewish about it, but that it’s not a slam to Members of the Tribe. And finally, Hoffman discusses the Palestinian/Jewish Israeli co-production that is hardly a coexistence project, but rather a “From the River to the Sea” production. And so this week, we ask Jordan Hoffman what matters now. 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. IMAGE: Adrien Brody, left, and Guy Pearce in a scene from 'The Brutalist.' (Lol Crawley/A24 via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing updates, followed by the weekly Friday Focus, The Times of Israel's newest podcast series. Each Friday, catch Berman and Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. A Palestinian man steered his car into a crowd of people waiting at a bus stop in northern Israel in what is considered a terror spree that left 13 people injured, including a 17-year-old girl who is fighting for her life. We learn what we know about the perpetrator so far. Last night, the Israel Defense Forces presented its top-level investigations into the military’s failures during the lead-up to the Hamas terror group’s October 7, 2023, onslaught, and on the day itself. Berman shares quick takeaways and whether the IDF has begun a course correction already. Yesterday, an Israeli delegation arrived in Cairo for “intensive” talks on the next stages of the Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal, joining mediators from the US and Qatar. Berman weighs in on the disparate goals of all bodies involved. In today’s in-depth Friday Focus conversation, we are reminded that the most effective way to get out as many hostages as possible has been through a pair of negotiated hostage release-ceasefire deals. Among the questions asked and answered are: Who are the major players behind these negotiations? What have been the obstacles? Is paying ransom a Jewish value? Finally, we hear which of Israel’s allies does not traditionally negotiate with terrorists. 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: Teen in critical condition after terror suspect plows car into bus stop, injuring 13 IDF’s Oct. 7 probes show it misread Hamas for years, left southern Israel utterly vulnerable Israel sends delegation to Cairo for Gaza talks as ceasefire’s future put in doubt IMAGE: Demonstrators raise placards and chant slogans during a protest calling for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza since the October 7, 2023, attack by Palestinian terrorists, in front of the Israeli Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv on February 22, 2025. (Jack Guez / AFP)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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman, political reporter Tal Schneider and reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Hamas and Israel reportedly reached an agreement for the release of four Israeli hostages’ bodies and 602 Palestinian security prisoners, the terror group and an Israeli official said late Tuesday, which would an end to an impasse that risked collapsing the multiphase ceasefire agreement before its first stage was even completed. Berman weighs in whether this means that talks are now on track for phase two. Speaking in Washington DC, yesterday Opposition Leader Yair Lapid presented a “day after” plan for Gaza, envisioning an extended Egyptian guardianship of the war-torn Strip. The plan would have Egypt take responsibility for managing Gaza for eight years, with the option to extend it to 15 years. Schneider describes some of the potential obstacles. The budget is meant to pass by the end of March, but this morning we’re hearing threats from the head of United Torah Judaism that he'll hold it up until haredi young men are fully exempt from military conscription. But is this a real threat? Family, friends and the president on Tuesday eulogized Oded Lifshitz, the 83-year-old peace activist who was taken hostage on October 7, 2023, from Kibbutz Nir Oz and slain in captivity, with his wife lamenting that he was killed by those he sought to help. Today, Israel accompanies Shiri Bibas and her sons Ariel and Kfir on their way to burial. We describe the mood in the country. In a heart-rending address during a rally of relocated Kibbutz Nir Oz residents held in Kiryat Gat on Saturday, the mother of Yoav Avital, a friend of murdered hostage Ariel Bibas, described his loss from the perspective of her 5-year-old son. Surkes describes his ineffable pain. An interim report issued Monday by the State Comptroller on the rehabilitation of Gaza border communities following the October 7, 2023, Hamas invasion found that communities badly hit on that day but located more than 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the Gaza border — thus making them ineligible for special state support — were suffering and in need of aid. Surkes reports how these include the southern city of Ofakim, where 53 people were murdered. 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: Hamas: Deal reached for ‘simultaneous’ release of 4 slain hostages, Palestinian prisoners Lapid presents Gaza ‘day after’ plan in DC, urges extended Egyptian takeover ‘We fought for peace, were attacked by those we helped’: Yocheved Lifshitz parts from Oded Bibas family tells Netanyahu to ‘shut up,’ as he details the murders of Shiri, Ariel and Kfir ‘He isn’t dead, he’s in his room’: Ariel Bibas’s 5-year-old friend struggles with his loss State comptroller urges PM to finish review of southern communities eligible for aid IMAGE: A makeshift memorial in front of portraits of murdered Israeli hostages Shiri (L), Ariel (CL), and Kfir (CR) Bibas, as well as Oded Lifshitz (R) at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on February 25, 2025. (Jack Guez / AFP)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 reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. The White House says that it supports Israel’s decision to delay releasing 600 Palestinian prisoners, citing the “barbaric treatment” of Israeli hostages by Hamas. At the same time, we’re hearing for the first time from US President Donald Trump’s Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff that he will come to the region this week to try and negotiate an extension of the first phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas, which is supposed to conclude at the end of the week with the return of four additional bodies of hostages. Berman updates us on the current status of the talks. Yesterday, Israeli tanks deployed to the West Bank for the first time in over 20 years and Defense Minister Israel Katz said he had instructed the IDF to stay for at least the next year in West Bank refugee camps that have been cleared of terror operatives and civilians, and not allow some 40,000 displaced Palestinians to return. Does the IDF have the manpower for such an operation? Tens of thousands of black-clad mourners vowed support for the Hezbollah terror group Sunday at the Beirut funeral of slain leader Hassan Nasrallah, after the group was dealt major blows in its last round of hostilities with Israel. As the funeral began at the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium, Lebanon’s biggest sports arena, Israeli warplanes flew at a low altitude over Beirut. What was Israel's message with this fly over? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a “warm conversation” last night with Friedrich Merz, the presumptive German chancellor after his CDU/CSU came first in the German elections yesterday. But the standout saga from these elections is the surge in support for far-right anti-immigration party AfD, which took a historic second place among the electorate. Berman weighs in. On the eve of the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has faced fierce criticism from the new US administration, leading Zelensky to offer to quit his post if it would mean that Ukraine could join NATO. Publicity stunt or authentic plea? 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 In visit to Tulkarem, Netanyahu calls to expand West Bank counterterror operation Holding up photo of Bibas family, PM says Israel must ‘remember what we’re fighting for’ IDF deploys tanks in West Bank for first time since 2002, sending 3 to Jenin as it expands op Tens of thousands shout ‘Death to Israel’ at Nasrallah funeral, as Israeli jets fly overhead Germany’s rising far-right AfD is split over Israel. Jews call party ‘a danger’ either way Responding to Trump, Zelensky says he’d resign if it meant Ukraine could join NATO IMAGE: An Israeli tank drives towards the Jenin camp in the West Bank, February 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Majdi Mohammed)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Six Israelis held hostage by Hamas were released yesterday -- four whom were taken on October 7, 2023, and two who were in the Strip for about a decade. Horovitz relates what we're beginning to learn about the horrific conditions of their captivities. Hamas published a video Saturday showing Israeli hostages Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa Dalal being forced to watch as other captives were freed and begging to be saved as well. Also with this in mind, Israel said early Sunday that it was delaying the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners who had been slated to go free Saturday until Jerusalem receives assurances regarding the end of “humiliating ceremonies” staged by Hamas when hostages are handed over. Hamas claims this is a pretext. Is it? Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer reportedly met US Mideast special envoy Steve Witkoff in Washington on Thursday to kick off talks on phase two of the hostage release and ceasefire deal with Hamas, as mixed messaging emerges on the likelihood of a next stage. Horovitz delves into the uncertainty of the negotiations, even as Israel has apparent US backing for whatever decision it makes about a second phase or a return to war. Tens of thousands gathered in Beirut for the funeral of Hezbollah’s former leader Hassan Nasrallah, nearly five months after he was killed in an Israeli airstrike on a southern suburb of the Lebanese capital. We discuss who may be in attendance and what this funeral aims to accomplish. 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: Hostages were chained, starved, kept in pitch black; some return almost unresponsive Hamas propaganda clip shows hostages forced to watch as others are freed Israel halts release of Palestinian prisoners over ‘humiliating’ hostage handovers Dermer in US to meet Witkoff on ‘difficult’ phase two of hostage-ceasefire deal Trump: I really am fine with any decision Israel makes — continue truce or resume war Iran’s parliament speaker, foreign minister to attend funeral of Hezbollah’s Nasrallah IMAGE: Freed hostage Hisham al-Sayed arrives at Sourasky Medical Center in Tel Aviv, after being released by Hamas following 10 years in Gaza captivity, February 22, 2025. (Maayan Toaf/GPO)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing. Kibbutz Nir Oz said early Saturday morning that resident Shiri Bibas was murdered while held captive in Gaza, after Hamas handed over her body overnight and it was brought to Israel for identification. Fabian updates us on what we know of her and her children's fate. Hostages Tal Shoham, Omer Shem Tov, Omer Wenkert, Eliya Cohen, Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed were released from captivity and returned to Israel today, as part of the ongoing ceasefire-hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. The terror group paraded five of the six freed hostages on stages in propaganda-filled handover ceremonies in two locations in Gaza, handing them over to the Red Cross, while al-Sayed was released separately to the Red Cross later in the day, without a ceremony. We hear a little about each man's current status and how he arrived in Gaza. Israel Police and the Shin Bet security agency reportedly detained two Jewish Israelis and a Palestinian in connection with explosions on three buses in central Israel Thursday night, as the IDF bolstered operations in the West Bank following what is thought to have been a narrowly averted large-scale terror attack. There is a gag order on this case, so Fabian updates us on what we are allowed to report. 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 Adina Karpuj. For further reading: Shiri Bibas’s body returned to Israel; officials assess she was ‘brutally’ murdered with sons in Gaza IDF: Captors murdered children Ariel and Kfir Bibas ‘in cold blood’ with ‘their bare hands’ These are the six living hostages set to be released Saturday These are the 4 hostages set to be released on Thursday; all are believed to be dead 2 Jewish Israelis, Palestinian said arrested in connection with botched bus bombings IMAGE: Israelis in Hostages Square, Tel Aviv, watch a big screen showing the releases of hostages Avera Mengistu and Tal Shoham from Hamas captivity in Gaza, February 22, 2025. (Roya Lavi / Hostages Families Forum)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing updates, followed by the weekly Friday Focus, The Times of Israel's newest podcast series. Each Friday, catch Berman and Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Slain hostages Oded Lifshitz, and brothers Ariel and Kfir Bibas, were identified after their remains were returned to Israel by Hamas on Thursday but the military said another body sent by the terror group was not the young boys’ mother Shiri Silberman Bibas. We learn more about the fates of the young boys and what have been official Israel’s reactions so far. Three empty buses exploded in quick succession in parking lots in the Tel Aviv suburbs of Bat Yam and Holon on Thursday night in what police said was a suspected terror attack. There were no injuries reported in the incidents. Police said they neutralized two other unexploded devices on buses nearby. Berman fills us in with what we know about who may be the perpetrators. On the Friday Focus, ahead of the three-year mark of the ongoing Ukraine war, Berman assesses how the potential winding down of the conflict is stirring up all sorts of other battles on the international stage. We discuss the origins of the current Russo-Ukraine war and the competing narratives surrounding it, even as Israel attempts to trod on semi-neutral ground. Finally, we hear how US President Donald Trump views the conflict that is occurring far from his borders, and his country's "obligation" to fund it. 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: Remains ID’d of Oded Lifshitz, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, but other body isn’t the boys’ mom Shiri 3 buses explode in Bat Yam, Holon in suspected strategically planned terror attack IMAGE: This combination of pictures created on February 20, 2025 shows posters bearing the portraits of Israeli hostages Shiri Bibas (C) and her two children Ariel (L) and Kfir (R), held in the Gaza Strip since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, set up on a square outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, on January 21, 2025 (AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Coffins holding what are believed to be the bodies of four slain hostages were driven across the border from the Gaza Strip back into Israel this morning, 503 days after they were abducted alive by Hamas-led terrorists. The four were named by Israel and by their terrorist captors as Shiri Bibas, Ariel Bibas, Kfir Bibas, and Oded Lifshitz, all kidnapped from their homes in Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023. In today's episode, we hear about two ceremonies conducted this morning: one, a cynically staged Hamas propaganda fest in Gaza; the other held by the IDF in the Gaza Strip led by IDF Chief Rabbi Brig. Gen. Eyal Karim. We learn what the Bibas family and Oded Lifshitz represent to Israeli society and how their families are reacting to the apparent return of their bodies. We also preview Saturday's planned release of six living male hostages, including how they were likely chosen, and discuss a Hamas offer to release all remaining hostages in one go in a potential phase two of the ongoing ceasefire-hostage release deal. 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: The worst news of all Bodies believed to be of 4 slain hostages brought to Israel, 503 days after they were taken alive Bibas and Lifshitz hostage families cling to hope, say they’ll await final identification of bodies These are the six living hostages set to be released Saturday IMAGE: Palestinian terrorists carry one of the coffins said to carry the bodies of four slain Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis in the Gaza on February 20, 2025. (Eyad BABA / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. In a surprise move, six living hostages will be released on Saturday, including Israelis Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, who have been held by Hamas since entering the Strip on their own in 2014 and 2015, respectively. The other four — Tal Shoham, Omer Shem-Tov, Omer Wenkert, and Eliya Cohen — were kidnapped during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel. Why are six being released versus the agreed-upon three, and why is Hamas offering a much more generous phase 2 deal? Former White House Mideast czar Brett McGurk last week penned his first op-ed since leaving government, taking the opportunity to defend the Biden administration’s handling of the hostage negotiations and insisting that Hamas was consistently the obstacle to an agreement. We hear Magid's thoughts on McGurk's statements, as well as the timing of them. Israel’s envoy to the United States has accused Egypt’s President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi of violating the US-brokered peace deal between Jerusalem and Cairo, profiting from the desperation of Palestinians seeking to flee the Gaza Strip and duplicitously operating to benefit Hamas. This comes as Egypt is working with Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to formulate a day-after plan for Gaza. Magid weighs in.  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: These are the six living hostages set to be released Saturday 6 hostages to be freed Sat.; Hamas says bodies of Bibas mom, kids set for Thurs. return News of Bibas family’s tragic fate met with confusion, mourning and rage Biden’s Mideast czar says Trump ‘right to stand firmly by Israel’ on hostage deal Arab plan for Gaza could involve up to $20 billion regional contribution Israel’s US envoy: Egypt’s Sissi is breaking peace deal, ‘playing both sides’ with Hamas IMAGE: Palestinian Hamas terrorist fighters in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on February 15, 2025. (Eyad BABA / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Today as the extended deadline for IDF withdrawal from Lebanon under the US-brokered ceasefire expires, Defense Minister Israel Katz said, “Starting today, the IDF will remain in a buffer zone in Lebanon in five strategic outposts and will continue to enforce forcefully and without compromise against any violation by Hezbollah.” Fabian explains why these five points and whether there is now a "buffer zone" on the border. Israel is expecting to receive the bodies of four hostages from Hamas on Thursday under the provisions of the first stage of an ongoing ceasefire deal with the Palestinian terror group. We hear how the IDF is preparing to receive the bodies and how the families will eventually be informed of their identities. Even as Egypt is working towards a proposal for rebuilding Gaza, Defense Minister Katz has called for a new directorate in the Defense Ministry tasked with enabling Palestinians to “voluntarily” leave the Gaza Strip, as per US President Donald Trump’s stated plans. Fabian weighs in. The Israel Defense Forces said it carried out a pair of drone strikes in the Gaza Strip on Sunday — one targeting a group of gunmen who were approaching Israeli forces in one area and the other as a warning when a car drove near soldiers in another. We hear how all is not calm on the ground in Gaza. The Israeli military announced on Sunday that it had completed its investigations into its failures during the lead-up to the Hamas terror group’s October 7, 2023, onslaught, and would begin to present its findings next Tuesday. We learn what the investigations should -- or should not -- unveil. 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: Lebanese army says it’s deploying in southern border villages as IDF withdraws IDF to remain in five strategic posts in south Lebanon after Tuesday withdrawal Israel says it is preparing for Hamas to return bodies of four hostages on Thursday Egypt developing plan to rebuild Gaza as counter to Trump’s call to depopulate area Katz announces new panel tasked with advancing ‘voluntary’ emigration of Gazans Hamas said to agree to cede Gaza governance to PA; Netanyahu: ‘Not going to happen’ IDF drone strike hits gunmen in southern Gaza; three Hamas cops reportedly killed IDF completes all October 7 probes, will start presenting them next week IMAGE: A map showing the locations of five IDF posts in southern Lebanon that troops will remain deployed to after a February 18, 2025, deadline. (Times of Israel; OpenStreetMap)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Released hostages Sagui Dekel-Chen, Sasha Troufanov and Iair Horn crossed back into Israel this morning after being paraded on a stage in southern Gaza in a propaganda-filled release ceremony by the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror groups after 498 days in captivity. Fabian fills us in on the ceremony and their health status. We learn about how the IDF has handled the heightened tensions in the Gaza Strip this past week and its readiness to return to war-footing. In a meeting on Friday morning, Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi apologized to four recently released hostage soldiers for their warnings not being treated seriously before the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, as well as for their long captivity. Halevi met with Agam Berger, Liri Albag, Naama Levy and Karina Ariev, who were released from Hamas captivity after some 15 months. We learn what else was leaked from the meeting. The outgoing deputy commander of UNIFIL was injured Friday, the international peacekeeping force said, after a convoy taking troops to the Beirut airport was attacked amid pro-Hezbollah demonstrations in the area. This occurred as the IDF is reluctantly readying a drawdown from Lebanon on February 18 -- which may or may not be its final withdrawal of troops, reports Fabian. Finally, we hear updates on the ongoing counter-terrorism operation in the West Bank and learn how much security cooperation there is with the Palestinian Authority for it. 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: Released hostages Dekel-Chen, Troufanov and Horn in Israel after 498 days in captivity Hamas made surveillance troops watch torture videos of male hostages, says mother IDF chief apologizes to freed surveillance soldiers for failing them on and before Oct. 7 ‘I was starved and tortured’: Keith Siegel urges Trump to ensure all hostages freed Two weeks after his release, former hostage Ofer Calderon hospitalized with pneumonia UNIFIL’s outgoing deputy chief wounded as convoy attacked by pro-Hezbollah rioters IDF strikes Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, citing ‘direct threat’ to Israel Lebanon tells Iranian flight it can’t land, after IDF’s Hezbollah smuggling claim Troops neutralize bomb-laden car, Palestinian shot dead near IDF base, in West Bank IMAGE: A woman holds pictures of three released Israeli hostages in Tel Aviv on February 15, 2025 in the city's Hostages Square. (Jack GUEZ / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode, part of The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join Berman and Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. This week, Berman assesses how the current Trump administration's foreign policy seems to be shaping up. From the US president's bombshell February 4, 2025, proposal to transfer Gaza's population from the Strip to reset the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, to efforts to end the Ukraine War, Trump's gaze appears to be as global as it is domestic. So how does that square with his promise to "Make America Great Again"? Berman zooms out and in 30 minutes illustrates how the president appears to be adopting a new motto: "Speak brashly and carry a big stick." 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: Israel said readying for three hostages to be freed Saturday, still pushing for more IMAGE: US President Donald Trump takes questions during a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds / AFP)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Eli Sharabi, 52, Or Levy, 34, and Ohad Ben Ami, 56, are back home in Israel after 491 days of captivity. Sharabi was kidnapped from Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas terrorists rampaged through southern Israel on October 7, 2023. His wife and daughters were murdered in their home’s safe room and he and his brother Yossi were taken captive. Brother Yossi has since been confirmed dead and Hamas is holding his body. Or Levy, 34, was kidnapped from the Supernova rave near Kibbutz Re’im on October 7. His wife Eynav was killed, and their now three-year-old son Almog has been staying with his grandparents since. Ohad Ben Ami, was kidnapped from Be’eri. His wife Raz Ben Ami was also abducted, and released as part of a week-long ceasefire in November 2023. We learn about initial health assessments and hear about the ceremony this morning, in which Hamas forced the men to speak onstage in Dir El Balak and thank the terror organization for their "good treatment." We discuss how the IDF is still operating in parts of the Gaza Strip and what is meant to happen in the next two weeks of phase 1 of the already mediated deal, even as phase 2 is still in process. Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi on Friday to reprimand the head of the Military Intelligence Directorate, Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder, after he reportedly warned during a military assessment meeting about potential security risks relating to US President Donald Trump’s plan to take over the Gaza Strip and displace its population. Fabian weighs in on this incident and what it may signify. We discusses what is happening on the ground in the West Bank as the IDF continues its almost three-week ongoing intensive counter-terrorism operation there. The Israeli Air Force carried out strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon on Thursday night, targeting weapons storage sites in the Nabatieh area and the Beqaa Valley. Fabian updates us on the extended truce in Lebanon and expected next steps ahead of the February 18 deadline.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: Gaunt and frail, hostages Eli Sharabi, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami freed after 16 months Poll: 70% of Israelis support second phase of hostage-ceasefire deal Katz reprimands IDF intel chief for warning discourse on Trump’s Gaza plan could prompt violence IDF fighter jets hit Hezbollah weapons depots that Israel says violated ceasefire IMAGE: Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi, who has been held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, is paraded by Hamas gunmen before being handed over to the Red Cross in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, February 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)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 variety of reactions from Knesset members to the remarks made by US President Donald Trump suggesting the relocation of Gazans from the Strip during the expected long reconstruction period. He looks at the predictably pleased statements from the far-right flank of the government, including former national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and the more guarded comments of 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 Jewish 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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Eight were wounded, two critically, in the shooting attack at an army checkpoint near the northern West Bank village of Tayasir this morning. Horovitz updates on what we knew about the attack at recording time. Sadly, two soldiers' deaths were subsequently announced. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington, DC, and set to meet with US President Donald Trump today. Yesterday, reporters were given mixed signals surrounding the president's willingness to see Israel annex the West Bank. Horovitz explains. Amid mounting talk of a peace deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, posters of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman shaking hands with Trump against the backdrop of an Israeli flag were unveiled in Jerusalem and other cities across Israel with the message, “Israel is Ready.” Is it? Amid the expected restart of negotiations for the second phase of the hostage release-ceasefire deal, Netanyahu appears to be heading toward some personnel changes on his team. Who may be in -- and who is out? Finally, Justice Minister Yariv Levin declined Monday to sign the official announcement of the appointment of Justice Isaac Amit as the new president of the Supreme Court in the state gazette. While one may call this "petty politics," Horovitz warns that there are very serious repercussions for this type of behavior. 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: 2 soldiers killed, 8 hurt in shooting attack at IDF checkpoint in northern West Bank Asked about West Bank annexation, Trump says Israel ‘a small country, in terms of land’ Billboard campaign proclaims ‘Israel is ready’ for Saudi normalization Levin declines to sign official announcement of new Supreme Court president IMAGE: President Donald Trump speaks during a ceremony with the Florida Panthers NHL hockey team to celebrate their 2024 Stanley Cup victory in the East Room of the White House, February 3, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)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 editor Biranit Goren joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew to Washington, DC, yesterday and is set to meet with US President Donald Trump tomorrow. In the meantime, he will meet and potentially start up talks about the second phase of the hostage release deal with US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff. Who is Witkoff and is he the key to Trump's idea of depopulating the Gaza Strip? We discuss what we're learning about the treatment meted out to the three men freed on Saturday: Yarden Bibas, Ofer Calderon and Keith Siegel. In an interview that aired on Israel’s Uvda investigative program on Tuesday evening, released hostage Amir Soussana said she owes one of the recently released female surveillance soldiers, Liri Albag her life. Goren recounts portions of Soussana's chilling interview. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: As Netanyahu arrives in Washington, Trump says talks on Middle East ‘progressing’ Witkoff to freed IDF soldiers: We have a common goal to bring everybody home Hamas captors said to have tormented Yarden Bibas with incessant talk of wife, kids Cages, starvation and fasting on Yom Kippur: More testimonies from freed hostages emerge Keith Siegel forced to write thank-you letter to Hamas captors ahead of release Ex-hostage says Liri Albag saved her life as Hamas captors tortured, threatened her 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 protest for the release of Israelis held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza, in Tel Aviv on February 1, 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Israeli military on Saturday carried out three drone strikes on terror operatives in the northern West Bank. The strikes came as the Israel Defense Forces expanded an ongoing counterterrorism operation in the northern West Bank, now in its 13th day. What has been the scope of the operation so far? On Friday, IDF troops operating in a buffer zone in southern Syria came under fire in the first such incident since Israeli forces deployed to the buffer zone on the border between Israel and Syria. The IDF said soldiers returned fire toward the source of the shooting. Who was shooting at the IDF soldiers? Maj. Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir, the Defense Ministry director general, was tapped by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz on Saturday to become the next chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces. We learn about a previous case in which a reserves officer is pulled back into the army to head it and what Zamir may bring to the role. The Israel-Egypt border has been largely peaceful since the two countries signed a peace agreement in 1979, Israel’s first with an Arab state. Increasingly in addition to drug smuggling, the IDF border forces are attempting to prevent weapons smuggling as well. Fabian was there a few weeks ago and reports back. Defense Minister Israel Katz on Saturday threatened the released Palestinian prisoner and former terror chief Zakaria Zubeidi, two days after Zubeidi was freed as part of the hostage-ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Why was this terrorist mastermind singled out? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF carries out 3 drone strikes in Jenin area; Palestinians say 4 dead, including teen IDF troops operating in Syria buffer zone come under fire in 1st such incident Eyal Zamir named next IDF chief, set to take over from Herzi Halevi in March On Egypt border, senior IDF officer warns quietest ‘front’ has potential to erupt Defense minister warns freed terrorist Zubeidi: ‘One mistake and you’ll meet old friends’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF troops operate in the West Bank city of Jenin on January 31, 2025, in this handout photo. (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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Three Israeli hostages were freed from Hamas captivity today and returned to their families in Israel: Yarden Bibas, Ofer Calderon and Keith Siegel. Horovitz compares today's two release "ceremonies" with the bedlam experienced on Thursday. We also learn how Hamas symbolically reminded onlookers of the horrors of October 7, 2023. As we are increasingly hearing details of how those who are now released were treated in captivity, the mother of freed hostage Emily Damari revealed Friday that her daughter was held by Hamas at UNRWA facilities in the Gaza Strip, and that her captors refused to give her access to medical treatment. Horovitz weighs in on how seriously the world will listen to the freed hostages. Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday, shortly after three Israeli hostages taken by Hamas on October 7 were released by the terror group in the Gaza Strip. According to Palestinian authorities, 18 of the prisoners were serving life sentences. Alongside the return of their brothers in arms, what else are Hamas's aims in the release of these terror masterminds? Twelve more living hostages are meant to be freed in the coming weeks of phase one. Later this week, negotiations are supposed to begin in earnest on phase two of the accord. How does Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trip to Washington, DC, further Israel's goals? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hostages Yarden Bibas, Keith Siegel, Ofer Calderon freed after 484 days in Hamas captivity Tears, cheers and tight embraces as 3 released hostages reunited with relatives As Yarden Bibas is released, relief, dread, and evidence that Hamas is reviving Emily Damari’s mom: My daughter was held in UNRWA facilities, denied medical treatment Hostages’ stories: Gadi Mozes paced 7km a day in tiny cell, soldiers rationed grains of rice 183 Palestinian security prisoners released after Hamas sets free 3 civilian hostages 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: Yarden Bibas is seen on an IDF helicopter on his way to a hospital in central Israel on February 1, 2025 (Israel Defense Force)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. This morning, 8 hostages — 3 Israeli and 5 Thai — returned to Israel from Gaza where they were taken by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad on October 7, 2023. Agam Berger, 20, the final surveillance officer among seven young women taken hostage on October 7 was released from the northern Gaza Strip in a staged ceremony this morning. Fabian debriefs us on what we know about her health and describes the situation in the northern part of the Strip as the IDF allows residents to return there. Just before 1 pm, two other Israeli civilians were released from within a seething mob in Khan Younis: 29-year-old Arbel Yehoud, who was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz, and her fellow kibbutznik Gadi Moshe Mozes, who is 80. Fabian describes the utter chaos of their releases, along with five Thai nations who were freed in a separately mediated deal. We look ahead to Saturday's release of three further hostages and who may -- or may not -- be on the list, as well as future pullbacks by the IDF. And finally, we hear about what is happening along Israel's northern borders with Lebanon and Syria. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, 5 Thais, freed amid mayhem in Khan Younis; Agam Berger released IDF reveals it killed Hamas terrorist seen dragging Naama Levy to captivity on 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. IMAGE: Gadi Moses, 80, center right, who has been held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, is escorted by Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters as he is handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, January 30, 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. 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. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Sharon was in court yesterday as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resumed his testimony in his corruption trial. We hear whether the premier seems in good health following his prostate surgery even as his hearing was canceled today and tomorrow over a judge's illness. We learn that an angry Netanyahu alleged that key aspects of the case against him rested on testimony that had been illegitimately obtained from witnesses such as former aides Nir Hefetz, Ari Harrow, and Shlomo Filber and that aspects of the indictment against him are factually inaccurate. After an unprecedented 16 months without a permanent Supreme Court president and in the face of unrelenting opposition from Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Justice Isaac Amit was elected head of Israel’s top court on Sunday night in a court-forced vote by the Judicial Selection Committee. Sharon delves into the tricky situation in which Levin, together with the other coalition representatives in the committee, Settlements Minister Orit Strock and Otzma Yehudit MK Yitzhak Kroizer, boycotted the hearing in protest of the decision by the Supreme Court — sitting as the High Court of Justice — to order him to hold a vote in the committee. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Netanyahu aiming to meet Trump at White House next week in first visit by foreign leader Netanyahu accuses police of extorting ‘false testimony’ from state witnesses Isaac Amit finally elected Supreme Court president; Levin pledges to boycott him Israel finally gets a permanent Supreme Court president; what does he stand for? 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: Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin attends a plenum session at the assembly hall of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem, December 4, 2024. )Chaim Goldbergl/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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian and reporter Amy Spiro joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, the four female soldiers held hostage in Gaza for 477 days — Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag — were reunited with their loved ones, embracing them with smiles and tears after their release from captivity. Today, we concentrate on the Hamas violation of the ceasefire deal due to the failure to free civilian hostage Arbel Yehud and Israel’s consequent decision to pause its pulling out from part of the Netzarim Corridor — even as thousands of Palestinians gather on the coastal road in central Gaza, waiting to return to the Strip’s north. US President Donald Trump said Saturday he’d like to see Jordan, Egypt and other Arab nations accept more Palestinian refugees from the Gaza Strip — potentially moving out enough of the population to “just clean out” the war-torn area and create a virtual clean slate. We discuss the feasibility of this idea, as well as the Palestinian security prisoners who were deported to Egypt yesterday. The initial 60-day truce in Lebanon has run out this morning and the Lebanese army is calling on its civilians to “exercise self-restraint” and follow instructions as people attempt to return to villages in south Lebanon, despite the IDF presence there. We learn which parts of southern Lebanon the IDF still holds and what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s declared intentions are, and hear updates about the IDF’s presence in the Syrian buffer zone. And finally, we end with the bittersweet win of Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the Hamas attack on the Nova music festival, who was voted in last week as Israel’s contestant at the 2025 Eurovision in Switzerland in May. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: ‘Unfazed’: Freed hostages say they knew they had to project strength at Hamas handover Israel bars Palestinians from returning to north Gaza in row over hostage Arbel Yehud Trump proposes Jordan, Egypt take in Gazans so decimated Strip can be ‘cleaned out’ IDF warns Lebanese against return to border villages as it prepares to extend stay Israel won’t complete full withdrawal from Lebanon by Sunday deadline, PM says Yuval Raphael, survivor of Nova massacre, to represent Israel at 2025 Eurovision 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: Lebanese women hold portraits of of slain Hezbollah leader Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah, as they check the destruction in their village Aita al-Shaab, a Lebanese border village with Israel, south Lebanon, January 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's special update. This morning, four female soldiers held hostage by Hamas for 477 days — Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag — were released by the terror group after being paraded through a Gaza City square and made to participate in a demeaning ceremony before being handed over to the Red Cross. Hamas "gift bags" in hand, the four young women returned to Israel and were reunited with their families at the IDF base near Re'im, mere kilometers from the Gaza border.  Fabian reminds listeners of Hamas's murderous October 7, 2023, takeover of the Nahal Oz IDF base that saw 66 soldiers murdered and seven female surveillance officers taken prisoner.  We hear what we currently know about the physical health of the four released today and details from the handover. Fabian also updates us on Israel's response to Hamas's overt violation of the ceasefire-hostage release deal which should have seen female civilian Arbel Yehud -- and any other living female civilian and children -- released ahead of the female soldiers.For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: 4 female soldier hostages freed by Hamas, paraded on Gaza stage, returned to Israel Israel blocks Palestinians from returning to north Gaza after Hamas breaks truce terms Bibas family: ‘World came crashing down’ when Shiri, kids weren’t slated for release 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 Palestinian woman throws confetti as Hamas fighters prepare to hand over four Israeli hostages to a Red Cross team from a stage at a square in Gaza City on January 25, 2025. (Omar AL-QATTAA / AFP)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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode, a special Friday Focus on the painful issue of the release of Palestinian security prisoners as part of the hostage release-ceasefire deal. Tomorrow, another four hostages are set to be released from Gaza -- presumably women and presumably alive. Alongside the Israelis' release, however, up to 200 Palestinian prisoners could also be released, according to the current formula of 30 Palestinian prisoners for every civilian and 50 for every female soldier. Rettig Gur takes on this complicated and emotional subject through looking at the history of terrorist hostage-taking and previous so-called exchanges of the abductees and Palestinian prisoners -- including those who were serving multiple life sentences. We speak about the most memorable exchange of prisoners, which came in 2011 when captured soldier Gilad Shalit was released from Gaza as 1,027 security prisoners were freed from Israeli prisons. However, Rettig Gur postulates that the blueprint for that abduction came much earlier. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Convicted terrorists to be released are ‘an open wound’ for victims’ families 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: Palestinians celebrate the release of some 90 prisoners set free by Israel in the early hours of January 20, 2025 upon their arrival aboard a Red Cross bus in the Palestinian West Bank town of Beitunia, on the outskirts of Ramallah. (Zain JAAFAR / AFP)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian and settlements reporter Jeremy Sharon join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Four people were wounded yesterday evening by a terrorist who went on a stabbing spree in a trendy Tel Aviv neighborhood, emergency services and Israel Police said, before he was shot dead. An off-duty IDF tank officer who had lost a hand during fighting in the Gaza Strip was among those who attempted to neutralize the terrorist. Fabian tells us more. Yesterday, Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi and the head of the IDF Southern Command Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman both announced their resignations, 15 months into the war sparked by Hamas’s attack and two days after a ceasefire and hostage release deal with the terror group in the Gaza Strip went into effect. Why now and who is in the running to replace the pair? Yesterday, the Israel Defense Forces launched a major counterterrorism operation in the northern West Bank city of Jenin on Tuesday afternoon, which military sources said was expected to last several days. We learn about the aims of the operation and the coordination with the Palestinian Authority. Dozens of extremist settlers conducted an attack on two West Bank Palestinian villages on Monday night in which IDF troops also came under attack. Sharon explains that this is just one of a series of attacks and delves into who these extremist Israelis are. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Off-duty officer who lost hand in Gaza helped chase down terrorist in Tel Aviv attack US green card holder, a Moroccan national, wounds 4 in Tel Aviv terror stabbing spree IDF reservist killed, senior officer seriously hurt by roadside bomb in West Bank Taking responsibility for Oct. 7 failures, IDF chief and head of Southern Command resign IDF launches major counterterror raid in West Bank’s Jenin, expected to last days IDF: Dozens of settler extremists involved in Monday night riots, troops also attacked Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF soldiers stand guard as Israeli Jewish settlers tour the old market in the city of Hebron in the West Bank on December 28, 2024. (HAZEM BADER / AFP)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian and political reporter Tal Schneider join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday evening, three Hamas hostages were returned to Israeli soil as part of the hostage release-ceasefire agreement that went into effect at 11:15 yesterday morning. We learn how Romi Gonen, 24, Emily Damari, 28, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, were released, what we know currently of their conditions and how they were received in Israel. Israel released 90 Palestinian security prisoners early Monday morning, hours after Hamas released the three civilian hostages on the first day of a ceasefire with the terror group in the Gaza Strip. These inmates included terror convicts but reportedly none convicted of murder. Where were they taken and how were they greeted? We hear a quick update on the status of the truce that is still holding in southern Lebanon -- and that is meant to expire on Sunday. Former national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir’s far-right Otzma Yehudit party quit the coalition on Sunday morning, following through on its threat to exit if the government agreed to a ceasefire agreement with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Schneider discusses the new alignment of power in the coalition and goes through several potential scenarios. At the inauguration of US President Donald Trump in Washington, DC, today, part of the festivities will be led by Yeshiva University head Rabbi Ari Berman, who will deliver a benediction. We hear what else Israeli or Jewish may be in store. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hostages Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, Doron Steinbrecher return to Israel after 471 days Beaming, laughing, weeping, 3 freed hostages finally reunite with loved ones Israel frees 90 Palestinian security prisoners, who are welcomed with Hamas flags Otzma Yehudit exits coalition over Gaza deal, blasting it as ‘victory for terrorism’ 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: Relatives and friends of people killed and abducted by Hamas and taken into Gaza, react to the news of the hostages' release, as they gather in Tel Aviv, Israel on January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The ceasefire between Israel and the terror groups led by Hamas in the Gaza Strip came into effect at 11:15 am after Hamas finally submitted the names of the three hostages set to be released this evening, Romi Gonen, Emily Damari and Doron Steinbrecher. Fabian discusses what preparations are being made to receive the women. The body of soldier Staff Sgt. Oron Shaul, who was killed and captured by Hamas in 2014, was returned to Israel recently. We hear what we know about the military operation that finally closed one family’s saga, even as Israelis await dozens more hostages. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hours before Gaza ceasefire set to start, PM stresses right to resume war after ‘pause’ With doctors and therapists: Army completes preparations to receive hostages High Court rejects bereaved families’ petition against release of terrorists Body of soldier Oron Shaul, killed and captured by Hamas in 2014, recovered from Gaza 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: Armed Hamas operatives parade in southern Gaza's Rafah after the ceasefire was supposed to take effect on January 19, 2025 (Screen grab/Al-Jazeera)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The Prime Minister’s Office issued a brief statement after 1 a.m. Saturday morning confirming the government approved the hostage release-ceasefire deal after meeting for more than seven hours. Twenty-four ministers voted in favor of the deal and eight opposed. The deal should enter into force on Sunday at 8:30 am and the first three Israeli hostages are to be freed at 4 pm. In sum, 33 hostages are to be freed in the first, 42-day phase of the deal. Horovitz speaks about the political dramas and what we know about the implementation of the deal and who is on the first-phase list. Israel is set to release up to 1,904 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including several serving multiple life sentences for deadly terror attacks and murder. The Justice Ministry has, as of Saturday, published the names of 735 Palestinian prisoners to allow petitions against their release to be submitted to the High Court. We hear some of the complexities around the prisoner-release portion of the truce deal and who is not currently going to be freed. We speak about the mood of the country after the deal was finally ratified. How are families whose loved ones were killed in battle in Gaza feeling as Hamas and Hezbollah cry victory and vow to ramp up their "resistance" to Israel in the near future. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israeli government approves hostage-ceasefire agreement with Hamas Israel to free up to 1,904 Palestinians in 1st stage of hostage deal, including killers These are the 33 hostages set to be returned in phase one of the Gaza ceasefire Guidelines for hospitals set to receive hostages include STD checks, pregnancy tests IDF intercepts missile from Yemen in 4th Houthi attack this week, no injuries 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 woman pauses near posters of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, in Tel Aviv, Israel, as Israel's security cabinet convened to decide whether to approve a deal that would release dozens of hostages held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza and pause the 15-month-war, January 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode, the weekly Friday Focus. As US President Joe Biden prepares to leave office, we take a look at the relationship between the president and the Jewish state, starting with his famous meeting with prime minister Golda Meir in which he understood the importance of being a Zionist. We hear how, after Biden's initial embrace of Netanyahu and the Israeli people following the murderous Hamas onslaught on southern Israel, the complex relationship between the president and his shifting Democratic party may have colored some of his later statements and led to micro-managing the war in Gaza. Magid postulates that the traditionally special relationship between the US and its ally has also led to sanctions on settler extremists in an attempt to course-correct the Jewish state. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: On a deadline: How Biden and Trump brokered hostage deal before ‘all hell’ broke loose Biden: US-backed pressure on Iranian axis helped secure hostage deal, end of Gaza 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: US President Joe Biden, right, hugs Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after arriving at Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, October 18, 2023. (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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Last night, the prime minister of Qatar as well as both US President Joe Biden and US President-elect Donald Trump announced that a deal had been reached. Hamas leadership quickly declared victory over Israel, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has continued to insist that the final deal has not been inked and some outstanding details remain. At recording time on Thursday noon, the deal was still not finalized. Horovitz describes what we understand are the main specifics of the agreement. According to a recent Israel Democracy Institute survey, more than two-thirds of the public support a deal for the release of all or some of the hostages. On the other hand, around a quarter support continuing the military pressure on Hamas, which they believe will lead to a more favorable deal for Israel in the future. Horovitz explains the stances of some of the right-wing protesters who demonstrated Wednesday night and are currently demonstrating at the Knesset against a deal. We hear about the drama also taking place inside the Knesset as government members wrestle with their consciences to decide which way to cast their votes -- and whether to dissolve the coalition. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Get them all home After 15 months of war, Israel and Hamas agree to a ceasefire-hostage release deal Biden: US-backed pressure on Iranian axis helped secure hostage deal, end of Gaza war On a deadline: How Biden and Trump brokered hostage deal before ‘all hell’ broke loose Hamas leader touts ceasefire as a defeat for Israel while hailing Oct. 7 atrocities Right-wing groups, including bereaved families, protest pending hostage release deal Hostage families on ‘roller coaster’ as they celebrate deal, worry for loved ones’ fate 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: Israeli protesters carry mock coffins draped in the national flag of Israel during a protest against the ceasefire with Hamas outside the Supreme Court in Jerusalem on January 16, 2025. (John Wessels / AFP)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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. This morning, a “final round” of Gaza truce talks was due to start in Qatar. According to AFP, today’s meetings “are aimed at finalizing the remaining details of the deal,” with the heads of Israel’s intelligence agencies, the Middle East envoys for the incoming and outgoing US administrations, and Qatar’s prime minister present. Mediators are to meet separately with Hamas officials, the source says. Fabian explains what he knows so far about security arrangements that may be put in place in Gaza in the event of a ceasefire. Five Israel Defense Forces soldiers were killed and 10 were wounded in an explosion in northern Gaza on Monday, the military said, raising Israel’s toll in over 15 months of fighting in the Strip to 407. The slain troops were all serving with the Nahal Brigade’s Reconnaissance Unit. On Saturday, four soldiers were killed and six were wounded during fighting, also in the northern Gaza Strip. We hear initial findings about these two terrible incidents. The IDF said Monday it had struck several Hezbollah sites in Lebanon overnight, saying the targets violated the terms of the ceasefire agreement. It said it did so after the international ceasefire monitoring mechanism failed to address them, despite being advised on the matter. This is not the first time -- and it's likely not the last, says Fabian. Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels launched ballistic missiles within hours of each other on Monday evening and early Tuesday morning, triggering sirens that sent hundreds of thousands of Israelis rushing into shelters. This comes after a Friday night retaliatory attack by the Israeli Air Force against Houthi targets in Yemen. Fabian shares why the Houthis may not yet be deterred. IDF Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Amir Baram on Friday notified his commander, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, that he would leave his role as planned at the end of February. Is it because he wants Halevi's job instead? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israeli officials: Deal will see 33 hostages freed in 1st stage, most of them alive Five soldiers killed, 10 wounded in explosion in northern Gaza, IDF says IDF announces 4 soldiers killed, 6 wounded during fighting in northern Gaza IDF says it hit Hezbollah sites after ceasefire monitors failed to address threats For second time in hours, Houthi missile at Israel triggers cross-country sirens Couple, out for walk after overnight sirens, find chunk of Houthi missile on their roof 20 Israeli jets attack two ports and a power plant used by Houthis in Yemen IDF deputy chief of staff requests to step down, indicates he hopes to succeed Halevi 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: Pictures in Jerusalem of Israelis held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza, January 13, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Late last week, almost two years exactly to the unveiling of the initial judicial overhaul legislative package, Justice Minister Yariv Levin and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar unveiled a far-reaching package of changes to Israel’s judicial system which would increase political power over judicial appointments and curb the High Court’s ability to strike down legislation. The new package would stop short of some measures that sparked massive anti-government protests in 2023, but are potentially just a beginning. We unravel the new initiative and try to understand its implications. The High Court of Justice on Friday gave the state until the end of January to explain what steps it was taking to maximize Haredi enlistment to the Israel Defense Forces and to penalize draft dodgers.The instruction came in response to several petitions calling for the immediate conscription of all previously exempt ultra-Orthodox men. We learn about the court's impatience with the government's lack of action on this flashpoint issue. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Overhaul redux: Levin’s ‘compromise’ proposal would again radically constrain the judiciary Levin, Sa’ar unveil new judicial overhaul plan; wary opposition heads hold off response High Court orders state to clarify plans to draft Haredim, penalize dodgers 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: Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar (left) with Justice Minister Yariv Levin at the Knesset on November 6, 2024. (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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for a bonus episode of our weekly What Matters Now series. This week, a committee appointed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to examine defense spending and IDF military force design for the future announced that the election of Donald Trump as US president offers an unprecedented opportunity to remove the threat Israel faces from Iran. Trump’s return to the White House, said the Nagel Committee on Monday, “creates, for the first time, the potential for a fundamental change, and the removal or meaningful reduction of the Iranian threat.” Likewise this week, incoming US envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff announced that he would travel to Doha, saying a hostage deal being mediated by Qatar is on the verge of completion, as Trump again warned “all hell will break loose” in the region if an agreement between Israel and Hamas is not reached by his January 20 inauguration. We all know that Trump is one to talk tough, but the question is -- how much of this rhetoric will translate into action? And will he aid Israel in its effort to prevent a nuclear Iran? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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 (left) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, May 23, 2017. (AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for a special Friday Focus episode, part two of last week's discussion, "Why the IDF abandoned the offensive and ended up with Oct. 7." When Israel's founding prime minister David Ben Gurion envisioned the country's defense forces, he proposed a small standing army and a large reservist force. In the first part of our conversation, we discussed how this model served the state, alongside a doctrine of deterrence, intelligence, and battlefield victory. However, as the state evolved, the standing army was increasingly shrunk alongside an outsized confidence in Israel's air array. How did this lead up to the complete failure of the army to prevent -- and spur -- the Hamas onslaught on October 7, 2023? This week, we speak about how Israel's army continues to evolve by learning from our current enemies -- non-state actors who don't fight by the rules. We discuss how this generation of IDF soldiers grew up in the shadow of the Disengagement -- and without much ground-operation experience. Finally, we hear lessons the IDF has learned from October 7 and how it is already attempting to implement them. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod Waves. IMAGE: IDF forces operation in the Gaza Strip in a handout photo issued by the Israeli military on January 9, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. 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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara filed the state’s response to High Court petitions on Haredi military enlistment, stating that there is no limit on the numbers of ultra-Orthodox men recruited into the Israel Defense Forces from mid-2026. This comes as coalition members have often insisted that the IDF is not capable of absorbing the estimated 70,000 Haredi young men currently eligible for service. We dive into the divisive issue and why the army needs more soldiers. The IDF said that this past week, 338 members of the ultra-Orthodox community enlisted in the military for mandatory service — 211 combat soldiers and 127 combat support. We hear the breakdown of numbers and also how the army said it had completed sending out a wave of 7,000 draft orders to members of the ultra-Orthodox community, after 3,000 were sent out over the summer. What have been the results so far? We learn about the ongoing manhunt in the West Bank after the fatal shooting on Monday near the Jewish settlement of Kedumim. The shooting attack, which targeted a bus and two cars, occurred inside the Palestinian village of al-Funduq, which straddles a major artery used by thousands of Israelis and Palestinian drivers daily. And finally we discuss the deployment of the IDF in the Gaza Strip and in southern Lebanon, among efforts by US envoy Amos Hochstein to lengthen the 60-day truce with Hezbollah. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Survey: Public support for conscripting ultra-Orthodox has surged throughout war First 50 ultra-Orthodox soldiers drafted to IDF’s new Haredi brigade Soldier killed fighting in Gaza as IDF withdraws brigade from northern Strip 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: Israeli soldiers and ultra-Orthodox Jews at the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest prayer site in the Old City of Jerusalem, July 10, 2024. (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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today’s show. Israeli and regional media is rife with headlines about an imminent potential Gaza hostage release deal. However, after a Saudi outlet published a list it received from Hamas of 34 hostages the terror organization says would be freed in the first phase of a potential hostage-ceasefire deal, the Prime Minister’s Office puts out a statement stressing that the document is merely an Israeli list that was given to the mediating countries in July 2024. Berman updates us on what is going on. US special envoy Amos Hochstein has just landed in Beirut. This comes a day after Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel will be “forced to act” if Hezbollah does not pull back from southern Lebanon as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. What is happening with the temporary truce agreement? As Syria’s new government strives to gain international legitimacy after overthrowing the Bashar al-Assad regime, Western countries seem open to giving a chance to the government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group. Berman explains how Israel is sounding the alarm. An Israel Defense Forces soldier who survived Hamas’s attack at the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, hurriedly ended his vacation in Brazil on Sunday morning after the country’s Federal Court ordered police to open a war crimes investigation into him, according to Brazilian media. Another 11 soldiers across the globe were warned by the Foreign Ministry. Berman weighs in. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Leaked list names 34 hostages to be freed in 1st stage of Gaza deal; Israel denies progress Hamas said to okay list of 34 hostages to be freed, but refuses to detail who’s alive Katz warns ceasefire in jeopardy if Hezbollah doesn’t withdraw from south Lebanon As European and Arab leaders rush to meet Syria’s new leader, Israel calls for caution IDF soldier who survived Nova massacre escapes war crimes investigation in Brazil 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: A protester with her hands bound and mouth taped shut holds a placard during a demonstration calling for the release of hostages held captive in Gaza by Hamas terrorists since the October 7 attacks, outside the Defense Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv on January 4, 2025. (Jack Guez / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show. The Hamas terror group released a propaganda video on Saturday showing signs of life from 19-year-old hostage Liri Albag, the latest in a series of clips it has released of Israeli captives taken in the October 7, 2023, attack. What were the contents of the three-and-a-half-minute-long video, which Hamas released as a form of psychological torture? The Israeli military said Saturday that its troops had in recent days demolished an entire residential complex in northern Gaza, close to Beit Hanoun, which had been used as a hideout and command center by senior Hamas commanders. The complex overlooks the Israeli community of Netiv Ha’asara and was considered a threat to the rail line to Sderot, which hasn’t operated since Oct. 7, 2023. We learn more about this operation and where else the IDF is actively fighting, as well as continued rocket fire from the Strip. A ballistic missile fired toward Israel from the Yemenite Houthis was intercepted early Sunday morning, the military said, with air raid sirens largely remaining silent despite the threat. Fabian updates on the shrapnel that fell and why sirens didn't sound. Lebanese army officials have received “serious signals” that Israel could extend its presence in Lebanon for an additional 30 days beyond the 60-day withdrawal period stipulated in its ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, a newspaper aligned with the terror group reported on Saturday. We hear how Hezbollah and the Lebanese Army aren't holding up their ends of the truce and what may be the results. The Israeli Air Force on Thursday revealed details and footage from one of its most daring and complex commando operations ever, in which 120 members of special forces units raided and destroyed an underground Iranian missile manufacturing plant deep in Syria in September. Some of the details of the September 8 operation previously reported by foreign media outlets — including the name of the raid — are now known to have been wrong, or slightly incorrect. Fabian fills us in. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hamas releases video of hostage Liri Albag, 19. Parents: ‘This is not the Liri we know’ Gaza rocket lands near Nir Am, missile fired at chopper, as IAF pounds Hamas targets IDF destroys Hamas terror compound overlooking Israel; rocket hits aid crossing Late-night Houthi ballistic missile attack thwarted by IDF, without widespread sirens Reports: IDF may extend south Lebanon presence for 30 more days as Hezbollah regroups Israel said to hit defense facility, scientific research center near Syria’s Aleppo 120 commandos deep inside Syria: IDF reveals daring raid on Iranian missile factory 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: Members of the IAF's Shaldag unit in Israel following a raid against an Iranian missile factory in Syria, September 8, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Founding editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show, a bonus episode from our weekly What Matters Now podcast. Five years ago this week, The Times of Israel launched its Daily Briefing podcast to keep listeners updated on the latest news out of Israel and the region, from Sunday through Thursday. Starting from October 7, 2023, the podcast has moved to seven days a week in an effort to broadcast fair and accurate news and analysis from Israel every day during wartime. We discuss the locations of some of the podcast's more unexpected listenership. Horovitz then delves into ongoing efforts on the part of the government to limit the freedom of the press, from the banning of Al Jazeera to halting government ads in a left-wing daily to trying to close down the irritating state broadcaster. He explains the "gentleman's agreement" that is the basis of the relationship of the Israeli press with the military censor -- and how frustrating it can be. We also hear about the inescapable blindsides in reporting a war in which often unverifiable narratives pour out of Gaza and are widely presented as solid truths. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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: Newspapers and magazines for sale at a shop in the center of Jerusalem. November 10, 2013. (Nati Shohat/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 reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show. In today's special longer Friday episode, Berman charts the evolving essential purpose of the IDF, starting with its origins. He speaks of the push-pull of a fledgling organization as both a defensive and offensive body. We learn how the fight for Israel's independence crystallized the need for an easily maneuverable fighting machine that would not hinder the Jewish state's need for a stable economy. Berman explains how first prime minister David Ben-Gurion's solutions worked well -- until with the shifting tides of warfare, they really didn't. In this podcast, the first installment of a two-part conversation, we hear how after a series of wars and political decisions, the stage was set for the IDF's catastrophic failure on October 7. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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 detachment of Haganah soldiers overlooking Acre relaxes on May 21, 1948, after the three-day fight for the city, which surrendered on May 18. 1948. (AP Photo/FN)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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is recovering after a successful prostate removal surgery at the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem on Sunday. The premier was moved to an underground, fortified recovery ward where he is expected to spend several days under observation amid fears he could be targeted by rocket or missile fire during the ongoing war. What do we know about Netanyahu's health moving forward? Netanyahu held a high-level meeting during which he told those present that Israel will resume fighting after a hostage deal, if one comes about, according to a Channel 12 report. Horovitz discusses the fraught ongoing hostage talks and reports that Hamas has changed the number of hostages that will be released in any potential first phase. Jimmy Carter, the longest-lived American president, died on Sunday at the age of 100. We hear how Carter is remembered in Israel and how the issue that toppled his presidency -- Iran -- is increasingly resonant for the United States. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Netanyahu stays in the hospital Monday night after prostate surgery Report: Alarming hostage negotiators, PM says Israel should be upfront about plan to resume war after deal Hamas said willing to free only 22 of 34 living hostages demanded by Israel in deal PM on Carter’s death: Israel-Egypt peace treaty ‘offers hope for future generations’ ‘He will rot in hell’: Iranians remember Jimmy Carter as ‘architect of sanctions’ 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: Former US president Jimmy Carter holds a copy of his book, 'Palestine: Peace, Not Apartheid,' at a book signing in Tempe, Arizona, December 12, 2006. (AP Photo/Paul Connors)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 reporter Gianluca Pacchiani and reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show. Syria’s de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke on Al Arabiya and gave a glimpse of his plans for the country, including divulging that holding elections in Syria could take up to four years and that drafting a new constitution could take up to three years. Pacchiani weighs in. For the past week and more, swaths of Israelis from many parts of the country have found themselves seeking shelter in the middle of the night as the Houthis continue their campaign of projectiles, vowing to continue their attacks on Israel “until the aggression on Gaza stops and the siege is lifted.” We hear when they rose to power — and how? Sweden-based Yemeni activist Luai Ahmed, 31, has become something of a celebrity in Israel and he comes by it genetically, it seems: After fleeing Sanaa in 2014, Ahmed, who is openly gay, received refugee status in Sweden and later acquired Swedish citizenship. But his family still lives between Yemen and Egypt, and his mother, Amal Basha, is one of the most prominent women’s rights advocates in Yemen. We hear about Ahmed. Surkes has done a deep dive into Israeli international aid organizations and has discovered that their funding has dried up for two main reasons: antisemitism -- people don't want to give to a Zionist body -- and patriotism -- funders prefer to donate to a group doing work inside Israel proper. She explains why. The Energy Ministry has identified geological formations capable of holding 10 million tons of carbon dioxide a year and kickstarting a carbon storage industry worth an annual estimated NIS 1 billion ($275 million). Surkes is cautiously optimistic. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Syrian leader: New elections could take up to 4 years, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham will be dissolved ‘Houthis are simply insane’: In Tel Aviv, Yemeni activist explains current conflict Energy Ministry: Geological formations could store 10 million tons of CO₂ annually 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: Syria's new leader and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) chief Ahmed al-Sharaa (R) receives Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha (Andriy Sybiga) in Damascus on December 30, 2024. (Bakr Alkasem / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show. Some 240 suspected terror operatives were detained during the operation against Hamas at northern Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital, including the medical center’s director and 15 terrorists who participated in the October 7, 2023, onslaught on southern Israel. Fabian sheds light on the operation, which involved the Navy’s Shayetet 13 commando unit. Israeli air defenses on Saturday intercepted two rockets fired from Gaza’s Beit Hanoun toward the Jerusalem area, an increasingly rare occurrence after nearly 15 months of war. The IDF said both rockets were successfully intercepted, with no injuries or damage reported. Overnight, Israeli fighter jets struck the launchers used by the Palestinian terrorists. We hear what surprised Fabian about this rocket attack. Air defenses intercepted a missile fired from Yemen that triggered sirens in the Jerusalem, southern West Bank and Dead Sea areas early Saturday morning, the military said, in the sixth such overnight attack on the center of the country in less than two weeks. Along with Israel's defense array, the Thaad system was used for the second time, after its use early Friday morning. Fabian explains how it complements Israel's air defense systems. Fabian was deep in the Gaza Strip last week and writes that everything the Israel Defense Forces has established in the Netzarim Corridor is reportedly temporary, "But the reality on the ground in this zone bisecting the Gaza Strip indicates that the IDF will remain here for the foreseeable future." In the second half of the program, we discuss the massive zone and the more than a dozen small military outposts stationed there. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF completes raid on north Gaza hospital, says some 240 terror suspects arrested IDF intercepts rare 2 long-range rockets fired from Gaza at Jerusalem area IDF downs missile from Yemen as sirens blare in Jerusalem, Dead Sea area In Gaza’s Netzarim Corridor, IDF establishes temporary bases for an indefinite stay 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: Inside an IDF forward operating base in the Netzarim Corridor in the central Gaza Strip, December 26, 2024. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel)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. Stand-up comedian Yochay Sponder joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's show, a bonus episode from our weekly What Matters Now podcast. After the 2012 Gaza war, comedian Sponder began using his talent to make people laugh as a tool for pro-Israel advocacy in his heavily Hebrew-flavored English. This work has only ramped up since the October 7, 2023, murderous Hamas onslaught, where thousands of terrorists infiltrated southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage to Gaza. Initially after the attack, Sponder, whose soldier cousin fell in battle on October 7, thought it may be inappropriate to take to the stage and make people laugh. Today, he considers it his reserve duty and Sponder uses his brand of truth-telling to remind the world who started this ongoing war and that Israelis still hope for peace. With a personal genetic background that would put a Benetton poster to shame, Sponder uses a brusque uber-Israeli persona to counter politically correct norms and spotlight hypocrisy. Sponder has toured his English-language show, "Self-Loving Jew," extensively this year. In our conversation, he discusses a performance in the United States in which a group of pro-Palestine activists showed up. The result was not what he expected. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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: Stand-up comedian/Israel advocate Yochay Sponder. (Limor Azran Garfinkle)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. In the past several months, Ireland has formally recognized the State of Palestine, it said that it would execute an arrest warrant on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and it also backed South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. So in response to all of this, last week it was announced that for first time, Israel would close an embassy of an EU member state. Ireland is often considered the most pro-Palestinian country in the EU and public opinion deeply identifies with the Palestinians, which they view as an occupied people. We talk about how Ireland came to this ideology and delve into a period in which the nationalist aspirations of Irish and pre-state Israelis coincided. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: ‘Antisemitic liar’: FM blasts Irish president’s claim Israel wants to settle Egypt Israel to close its embassy in Dublin due to Ireland’s ‘extreme anti-Israel policy’ 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: Ireland's Prime Minister Simon Harris awaits the arrival of Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati at Government Buildings, Tithe an Rialtais, in Dublin, on October 25, 2024. (Paul Faith / AFP)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.

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 Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Recently, attempts are being made to restart the controversial judicial overhaul legislation and last week, Sokol spoke with one of its architects, MK Simcha Rothman. We hear about Rothman’s perspective on why it is needed and in fact protects Israel's democracy. The Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee will soon begin holding hearings on a proposed bill applying a Basic Law requiring a public referendum for land-for-peace deals to the West Bank and Israeli territorial waters, the Knesset’s right-wing Land of Israel Caucus announced on Wednesday. What is this bill and why do those who proposed it believe it will be passed at this time. Bletter went to the northern coastal city of Nahariya yesterday to witness how during the ceasefire, hospitals are moving from war footing and out of their bunkers. She brings tales from the maternity ward. Last week, Bletter visited Haifa to see how residents are -- once again -- celebrating the annual Holiday of Holidays that honors the mixed city's three major religions. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: MK threatens that judges ‘playing hardball’ will lead to resumption of judicial overhaul MKs push bill to block West Bank territorial concessions, prevent Palestinian state After months of Hezbollah rocket attacks, Haifa’s Christians get ready for Christmas 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: An Israeli protests against the government's plans to overhaul the judicial system outside a branch of the United States Embassy in Jerusalem, September 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. A ballistic missile launched by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen impacted a playground in south Tel Aviv early Saturday, lightly injuring some 16 in the area. This came days after the Israel Defense Forces carried out intense airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen early Thursday in which 14 fighter jets took part in the operation — along with dozens of support aircraft — dropping some 60 munitions. Fabian unwinds what has gotten through the IDF's defense net and speaks about the successful air operation. Israeli troops wounded one person after opening fire Friday on demonstrators in southern Syria, with the military saying the soldiers did so to remove “a threat.” We hear where the IDF is currently deployed in and along the Syrian border. The IDF said its Kfir Brigade has wrapped up an operation against Hamas in northern Gaza’s Beit Lahiya, and the infantry troops have advanced and are now operating in areas west of Beit Hanoun. Fabian updates us on what is happening in the Strip even has international headlines continue to circulate pointing to an imminent ceasefire deal. The Israel Defense Forces supports strengthening the Palestinian Authority so it can more effectively combat terrorism in the West Bank, military officials said on Thursday, as the PA appears to step up efforts against Hamas and Islamic Jihad. We learn what steps the PA is currently taking, in a departure from previous years, that could point to how it may potentially operate in the Gaza Strip following the war. Four Israeli civilians were arrested after illegally entering Lebanon on Thursday, reportedly to visit a shrine, as Israeli troops continuing to operate across the border destroyed Hezbollah weapons and rocket launchers, officials said.
The sentence for such a crime could be up to four years in jail. Fabian describes this and similar breaches that we've recently seen. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Several interceptors failed to knock down Houthi missile that hit Tel Aviv — IDF probe Missile fired from Yemen explodes in south Tel Aviv, lightly injuring 16 US strikes Houthi targets in Yemen, takes down drones over Red Sea After Yemen strikes, Netanyahu says Israel hitting Houthis on behalf of ‘entire world’ Fighter pilots laud precision of operation to strike Yemen: ‘An incredible feeling’ One hurt after IDF opens fire at group protesting Israeli presence in south Syria IDF orders evacuations in central Gaza amid reports of imminent hostage deal IDF says it supports bolstering PA forces to combat West Bank terror Four Israelis detained after entering Lebanon, reportedly to visit rabbi’s tomb 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: Houthi fighters march during a rally of support for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and against the US strikes on Yemen outside Sanaa on January 22, 2024. (AP Photo)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, we bring you a bonus episode of Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Andrew Fox. Fox, a research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, served in the British Army from 2005 to 2021, completing three tours in Afghanistan, including one attached to the US Army Special Forces. At the transatlantic think tank, he specializes in Defense, the Middle East, and disinformation. He holds degrees in Law and Politics, Modern War Studies and Psychology. This week, Fox and a team of researchers published a report that made international headlines titled, "Questionable Counting: Analysing the Death Toll from the Hamas-Run Ministry of Health in Gaza." According to the report, the Palestinian death toll for the Gaza war appears to include thousands of people who died of natural causes as well as incorrect figures — partly in an effort to inflate the toll of women and children. Worse, international media outlets are too quick to accept the figures from terror group Hamas -- usually without the scrutiny and rigor that are applied when reporting numbers supplied by Israel. The Hamas-run Health Ministry's figures, the report claims, are being manipulated for propaganda needs. [caption id="attachment_3442530" align="alignright" width="300"] Andrew Fox, a research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, on a research trip in the Gaza Strip, summer 2024. (courtesy)[/caption] The Gaza health ministry, under Hamas, “has systematically inflated the death toll by failing to distinguish between civilian and combatant deaths, over-reporting fatalities among women and children and even including individuals who died before the conflict began,” the report said. We discuss the report and hear Fox's assessment of how the IDF's operations in Gaza have played out, as well as the one arena Israel has neglected -- the fight for world opinion. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: UK think tank: Gaza death toll inflated to defame Israel for targeting civilians 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: The IDF operates in the southern Gaza Strip's Rafah in this hand out image from December 16, 2024. (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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's extended Friday episode. As Israel continues to contend with a war on seven fronts -- primarily through Iran-backed militia proxies -- Berman floats a hypothesis that Israel should turn to its natural allies in the region as well. We hear about how history has shown that Israeli proxies don't always have the same goals as the Jewish state. We learn about the case of the South Lebanon Army and how things entirely fell apart. And Berman explains how the Kurds -- and potentially the Druze -- could be a long-term strategic answer for Israel's isolated position in the region. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: After Yemen strikes, Netanyahu says Israel hitting Houthis on behalf of ‘entire world’ 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: Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Shamir, during his visit to Lebanese General Antoine Lahat (right) leader of the South Lebanese Army on January 26, 1989 in Marjayoun, Lebonon. (AP Photo/Max Nash)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 speaks about the ongoing hostage negotiations and intense speculation in the media. He notes that any agreed-upon ceasefire would be longer and less fragile than the week-long pause in fighting that took place in November 2023. He also discusses the unusual cooperation taking place between the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration in the ceasefire negotiations. Magid discusses a reckoning by Biden officials following the Israeli attack on Hezbollah and the panic initially felt among US intelligence officials and the Israeli government beforehand, as the concerns were that an Israeli strike on Hezbollah could lead to an all-out war with Lebanon. He also reviews the Biden administration's decision not to sanction Netanyahu coalition partners, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, after months of considering such a move because of their roles in increasing settler violence and destabilizing the West Bank. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Netanyahu said set to huddle with top brass Thursday to discuss Gaza deal latest Hamas fears Trump will allow Israel to resume Gaza war after 1st phase of hostage deal US intel wrongly envisioned catastrophic outcome if IDF escalated against Hezbollah US won’t sanction Smotrich and Ben Gvir before end of Biden’s term — officials 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 Joe Biden meets with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Arab affairs reporter Luca Pacchiani and archaeology reporter Gavriel Fiske join host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. CIA Director Bill Burns is set to meet the Qatari Prime Minister in Doha today, in an effort to bridge the remaining gaps between Israel and Hamas on a Gaza deal. Pacchiani updates us on what he is reading about the hostage-release talks in neighboring nations' Arabic media this morning. Recently, the Palestinian Authority seems to be flexing its peace-keeping muscles in the West Bank, perhaps signally that it is ready to take on the challenge of Gaza. We hear about a possible Hamas-Fatah alliance -- and whether Israel would sign on to it. Syrian Christians currently make up less than 2% of the population and the new HTS rebels regime has repeatedly reassured Syrians and the international community that it will protect all minorities and women. Pacchiani reports on what he is hearing from Syrian Christians. Likewise,
Alawites, a sect that splintered from Shiite Islam in the ninth century, constitute around 10% of Syria’s predominantly Sunni population. While uncertainty prevails among all of Syria’s religious minorities today, the Alawite community – from which deposed President Assad originates – arguably has the most to fear. Pacchiani weighs in. In late November, speaking at an academic conference in Boston, veteran archaeologist Prof. Glenn Schwartz of Johns Hopkins University made a startling claim: Four tiny clay cylinder-shaped seals, which had been excavated 20 years ago from an intact Bronze Age tomb in Syria, were engraved with what he asserted was the earliest known examples of alphabetic writing — albeit as yet undeciphered. We talk about why this find is in the news again -- and what it appears to be. Researchers have deciphered a tiny third-century Christian silver scroll that was found rolled up inside an amulet, at a Roman burial site in Frankfurt, Germany. Could this be “the oldest Christian testimony found north of the Alps,” as the announcement claims? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: With a show of force in Jenin, the PA tries to prove it can rule Gaza. But can it? Can Syria’s dwindling Christian community survive under jihadi rebel rule? A claim that the earliest alphabet was found in Syria sparks a media maelstrom – finally Amulet found in Germany said to be ‘oldest Christian testimony north of the Alps’ 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: Palestinians carry UN-donated flour in Khan Younis, central Gaza Strip, Saturday December 14, 2024.(AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)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 speaks about recent comments made by Defense Minister Israel Katz about the IDF remaining in Gaza, as a way of reiterating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's positioning in the current ceasefire negotiations. He also looks at what's being said about a possible hostage deal and a sense of progress on some kind of three-phase deal, no longer conditioned by Hamas on Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, given a clear softening of Hamas' position. Horovitz discusses the latest in Netanyahu's government coalition, which was able to pass budget legislation even when Otzma Yehudit's leader, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir voted against parts of the budget legislation as a show of defiance and disagreement over the judicial overhaul and his desire to fire Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. He also reviews what's being said by Syrian rebel leader Abu Muhammad al-Julani, and the need to be wary about al-Julani's statements, as a known fighter with a US bounty on his head, even though he speaks about his desire to build a better country. Syria is an unknowable quantity at the moment, says Horovitz. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Katz said to tell MKs hostage-truce deal ‘closer than ever,’ echoing Hamas optimism Trump says he’s ‘trying to help very strongly’ to bring hostages home Otzma Yehudit votes against state budget, as coalition splits over bid to fire AG Syrian Islamist leader says rebel groups to be disbanded, minority rights protected 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: Hostage family members and supporters protest outside the Likud headquarters in Tel Aviv, December 17, 2024. (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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, Berman visited Lebanon, crossing through Fatima Gate with 91st Division commander Brig. Gen. Shai Klepper to examine what Lebanon’s border villages look like after two months of fighting, and how the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel is holding up. We hear his most immediate impression and learn what Druze IDF officers told him. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that he discussed with US President-elect Donald Trump ongoing efforts to bring back the hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza, as Israeli officials indicated that a deal could be reached in less than two weeks despite sticking points in negotiations. On Monday, mediators cited by Lebanese outlet al-Akhbar reported that there are unprecedented levels of readiness for a hostage deal in Gaza from both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas. Berman fills us in. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced on Sunday that Israel will be shutting its embassy in Ireland, citing the “extreme anti-Israel policy of the Irish government.” Berman dives into the problematic Ireland-Israel relationship and what this step signifies. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Heavy Israeli airstrikes reported on Syrian military sites in coastal Tartus region As northern Israel comes back to life, Hezbollah strongholds over the border lie in ruins PM discusses hostages with Trump as Israeli officials say deal could be clinched in days Israel to close its embassy in Dublin due to Ireland’s ‘extreme anti-Israel policy’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Troops of the IDF's 91st Division operate in southern Lebanon, in a handout photo issued on December 15, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Rockets were fired by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad from Gaza at southern Israel Friday night. These aren’t the only rockets from the Strip in the past week or so. We hear what this uptick represents. On Wednesday, the IDF confirmed that it had withdrawn its troops from the town of Khiam in southern Lebanon in accordance with the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. What kind of presence remains in southern Lebanon? Exactly a week ago, the first IDF tanks and troops pushed into southern Syria, seizing control of the former Syrian army posts located within a buffer zone that has existed between the countries since 1974, after a rebel uprising took place there by a coalition of various Druze tribes and opposition groups going by the name of Southern Operations Room. We hear what little is known about their leadership and ideology and Fabian reports on what he saw at an IDF's forward defense post, just beyond the buffer zone. On Thursday, the IAF said that after over a decade of evading air defenses over the skies of Syria during a campaign against Iran’s supply of weapons to Hezbollah, it had achieved total air superiority in the area and therefore, there is an opportunity to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities. Fabian weighs in. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF says rockets fired at south on Friday were launched from aid warehouse area IDF confirms withdrawal from southern Lebanon’s Khiam in accordance with ceasefire Katz says IDF troops will stay atop Syrian side of Mount Hermon during winter months We don’t know how the rebels will act, IDF commander tells ToI inside southern Syria New Israeli strikes said to target Syrian military sites, underground missile bunkers IDF sees chance for strikes on Iran nuke sites after knocking out Syria air defenses 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 convoy of IDF vehicles approach a United Nations position on the border between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights on  December 11, 2024. The Syrian Army Tel Kwdana post can be seen in the background. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel) 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 we're bringing you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Middle East expert Ksenia Svetlova. As the rebel factions in Syria continue to fight to wrest control -- from the fallen Assad regime as well as from each other -- one of the ways to measure how the country will emerge is to look at the factions' treatment of women: On Tuesday, for example, the Biden administration said it will recognize and support a new Syrian government that renounces terrorism, destroys chemical weapons stocks and protects the rights of minorities and women. In 2020, Svetlova published a Hebrew-language book, "On Heels in the Middle East," depicting her travels throughout the Middle East as a female (and sometimes overtly Jewish) journalist. Born in Moscow, Svetlova immigrated to Israel at the age of 14. She is a journalist and analyst and was a member of the 20th Knesset for the Zionist Union party. Today she is the executive director of ROPES, which works to connect "forward-thinking Israeli and Palestinian emerging leaders with like-minded peers from across the Middle East and North Africa." In our conversation, she draws on her experiences reporting from inside the region's Islamic countries to evaluate and rank their women's rights and freedoms. We discuss which country most supports women's rights -- Tunisia -- and the many countries that vie for the least free. Later, we hear Svetlova's thoughts on future Russian influence in Syria and the region. So this week, as all eyes are on Syria and the rebels that hope to rule it, we ask Ksenia Svetlova, what matters now. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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 woman holding a rifle borrowed from a Syrian opposition fighter poses for a picture, next to a government forces tank that was left on a street, at the Umayyad Square in Damascus, Syria, December 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing podcast from the Jerusalem office. We are continuing a new Friday tradition that we instituted last week and giving a deeper look into one aspect of the news. Today, we’re going to delve into Israel’s ever-evolving relationship and strategy with Syria. We turn back the clock to the foundation of Syria and take a look at each decade of Israel’s existence vis a vis its neighbor to the north. We see how this background plays into Israel currently filling the vacuum in the buffer zone between the two countries after rebel forces decimated the Asad regime’s forces in the past week. We learn that following a series of wars, Syria discovered that it would not win back the Golan Heights through force. Berman speaks about the decades-long peace talks between the two countries -- and what foiled them For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israel rejects French call to withdraw from Syria buffer: ‘Necessary for defense’ France calls on Israel to exit Syria buffer zone as Spain, Germany urge restraint IDF building along UN-patrolled demilitarized zone in Syria, satellite images show Pro-Assad troops take over Golan UN post in demilitarized area on Israeli border UN calls for armed groups to leave Golan area separating Israel-Syria forces 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: Israeli soldiers stand guard on a security fence gate near the so-called Alpha Line that separates the Golan Heights from Syria, in the town of Majdal Shams, December 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)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 and political correspondent Tal Schneider join host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing podcast. Magid and Schneider speak about the cautious optimism of some Israeli government officials regarding renewed hostage talks, amid the arrival of US National security adviser Jake Sullivan to the region. Magid also looks at the request of Trump advisors who asked for the return of Hamas leaders to Qatar as they view the Gulf country's mediation efforts as vital to the hostage negotiations, and want the entire situation completed by the January 20 inauguration. Magid and Schneider discuss the latest in the Golan Heights and IDF activity in the buffer zone with Syria following the rebel group takeover.  Several European countries asked for Israel's restraint as no one wants Israel and the rebel groups to set off on an antagonistic relationship. Finally, Schneider looks at the latest in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's criminal trial, as the prime minister claims he was never favored by any of the Israeli media that he attempted to influence, but rather received hostile coverage. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Sullivan heads to Israel for Biden administration’s likely final hostage deal push 1st hostage to return from Gaza meets Trump, urges him to do all he can to free captives Security chiefs discuss hostage deal in Cairo as Israel sees growing chances Trump aides asked Qatar to recall ousted Hamas chiefs in bid to revive hostage talks Netanyahu argues ‘hostile’ Walla coverage, telecoms reforms prove bribery claims ‘absurd’ 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: Hostage family members speak to the media after meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Prime Minister's office in Jerusalem, December 8, 2024. (Photo by Noam Revkin Fenton/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. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon and reporter Diana Bletter join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing podcast. Part of Israel’s strategy to deter the Syrian rebel forces from expanding into Israel is the decision to fill the vacuum in the buffer zone between Israel and Syria with IDF forces. Bletter reports back from a trip to a Druze town within shouting distance of Syria -- Majdal Shamas, which saw 12 youths killed in July when a Hezbollah bomb struck a soccer pitch. We hear how the residents, many who have relatives living on the other side of the border, view the fall of the Assad regime. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finally took to the witness stand on Tuesday in his criminal trial on corruption charges, the first time in Israeli history that a serving prime minister has appeared in court to testify as a defendant. Sharon was there and discusses the festive circus-like atmosphere in the courtroom as well as some choice Netanyahu anecdotes. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: In war-struck Majdal Shams, Assad’s fall sparks hope for Israel’s Druze In historic campaign across Syria, IDF says it destroyed 80% of Assad regime’s military Netanyahu, 1st PM to testify as criminal defendant, ridicules charges, denies illicit media ties Netanyahu regales court with story of John Kerry’s invitation to visit Afghanistan Coalition MKs, ministers line up at court to back Netanyahu as trial testimony kicks off 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: Residents in the Israeli Druze village of Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights celebrate on December 9, 2024, after Islamist-led rebels declared that they had taken the Syrian capital in a lightning offensive, sending President Bashar al-Assad fleeing and ending five decades of Baath rule in Syria. (Menahem Kahana / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing podcast. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the defendant in three corruption cases, took the stand today for the first time and presented long-anticipated testimony. Horovitz reminds us what are the key allegations against the prime minister and what Netanyahu said last night at a press conference that gives insight into his goals in testifying. Last night, the Israeli Navy carried out a large-scale operation to destroy the former Assad regime’s navy fleet in Syria to prevent the Syrian navy capabilities and weaponry from falling into the hands of hostile forces, following the collapse of the Assad regime. Likewise, the Israeli Air Force, meanwhile, has carried out some 300 airstrikes in Syria since the collapse of the regime, destroying advanced weapons. Yesterday, the United Nations accused Israel on Monday of having violated the 1974 Disengagement Agreement with Syria after Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon explained Israel’s reasons for entering the demilitarized buffer zone. Horovitz speaks about Israel's goals. During a press conference last night, Netanyahu repeated his previous assertion that Assad’s fall was the “direct result of the heavy blows we landed on Hamas, on Hezbollah, and on Iran,” and said that ever since the October 7 attacks, Israel has been working in a “systematic, measured and orderly fashion” to dismantle the Iranian axis. Horovitz weighs in. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: The State of Israel vs. Benjamin Netanyahu: PM finally set to take the witness stand On eve of court testimony, Netanyahu pans legal system, media in heated press conference Coalition MKs, ministers line up at court to back Netanyahu as trial testimony kicks off After fall of Assad, PM says Israel is ‘transforming the face of the Middle East’ Israel pounds Syrian military sites; regional sources claim ‘nothing left’ of army assets UN slams ‘violation’ of 1974 Syria disengagement deal as Israel acts in buffer zone 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, center, arrives to attend a hearing at the district court for his long-running corruption trial, in Tel Aviv, December 10, 2024. (Menahem Kahana / POOL / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's Daily Briefing podcast. Israeli Air Force fighter jets on Sunday struck dozens of targets across Syria, taking out weaponry that Israel feared could fall into the hands of hostile forces in light of the dramatic fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime some two weeks into a lightning offensive by rebel groups. Also on Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces seized control of a buffer zone between the Israel-Syria border in the Golan Heights, in what it described as a temporary defensive measure. We discuss why we have a buffer zone with Syria, when it was established and the legal standing of the Golan Heights. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday claimed credit for starting the chain of events that led to the sudden fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, hailing it as an “historic day.” According to Berman, "Seeing that Hezbollah and Iran were exhausted and that Russia was stretched to the limit in Ukraine, Syrian rebels poured out of their statelet in the northwest, driving south until they took the capital." He explains some of the scenarios of what may happen next. On Sunday night, Netanyahu told the family members of hostages held in Gaza that the regime change in Syria could help advance a deal, while US President-elect Donald Trump said he did not believe there were many captives left alive. This morning, it was reported that mediated negotiations between Israel and Palestinian terror group Hamas to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip have advanced to the point where the sides are discussing lists of those who would be released. Berman updates. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Sinwar’s ‘Al-Aqsa Flood’ washed Iran’s axis away, but new groups could reach Israel As Assad falls, Israeli jets destroy his deadly arsenals before they fall to rebels Netanyahu claims credit for starting ‘historic’ process that led to fall of Assad regime Netanyahu tells hostage families fall of Assad regime could advance negotiations Israel and Hamas exchange lists of names for release as talks advance – report Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Troops of the elite Shaldag unit are seen on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, December 8, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Arab Affairs correspondent Gianluca Pacchiani and Jewish World reporter Zev Stub join host Jessica Steinberg for today's Daily Briefing podcast. Pacchiani reviews the latest in the stunning takeover in Syria by rebel forces followed by celebrations in the streets of Damascus as the Assad family appears to have fled the country. He discusses the Russian, Kurdish and Turkish strongholds in the country, the Islamic tone of the rebel forces and what that could mean in the country's new political reality. Stub discusses the details of the early Friday morning arson attack on a Melbourne synagogue, the reactions within the Jewish community and the eventual designation of the fire as a terrorist attack by the Australian government. Steinberg briefly discusses the latest in the Hamas hostages and the release of a video of hostage Matan Zangauker on Saturday. Zangauker's mother, Einav Zangauker, has emerged as one of the most vocal anti-government voices in the ongoing hostage situation. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Rebels declare Damascus captured in stunning end to Assad family rule in Syria Syria rebels take areas near Israel border; IDF warns them not to ‘turn in our direction’ Syrian rebel commander urges Israel to support uprising, strike Iran-backed forces Who are the rebels battering Syria’s regime, and do they pose a risk to Israel? Australia rebuffs Netanyahu’s claim synagogue arson due to ‘anti-Israel’ government Police hunt 2 suspects in devastating arson attack on Melbourne’s Addas Israel synagogue Hamas video shows Gaza hostage Zangauker for first time as thousands rally for 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: Israeli soldiers near the Israeli border with Syria on December 8, 2024 (Photo by David Cohen/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. In today's episode, ToI senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for a special bonus episode of our weekly What Matters Now podcast. Former Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, an Iranian career diplomat who participated in the previous round of nuclear talks, has been Iran's vice president for strategic affairs since August. In that role, he wrote an op-ed in the bimonthly Foreign Affairs journal. The century-old magazine focuses on international relations and policy and can serve as a platform to float ideas and hear reasoned responses. In Zarif's article, "How Iran Sees the Path to Peace," among the arguments raised was the idea of a "referendum" voting on the governance of the territory that largely includes the Jewish state. "Iran can continue to play a constructive role in ending the current humanitarian nightmare in Gaza and work with the international community to pursue a lasting and democratic solution to the conflict," writes Zarif. "Iran will agree to any solution acceptable to Palestinians, but our government believes that the best way out of this century-long ordeal would be a referendum in which everyone living between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea — Muslims, Christians, and Jews — and Palestinians driven to diaspora in the twentieth century (along with their descendants) would be able to determine a viable future system of governance. This is in line with international law and would build on the success of South Africa, where an apartheid system was transformed into a viable democratic state." To Rettig Gur, Zarif's op-ed -- filled with posturing and warnings to the Western world -- is a sign of Iran's faltering regime and he explains why. So this week, we discuss this new era of Iranian potential weakness and how the West needs to handle it wisely, as Haviv Rettig Gur weighs in on what matters now. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IAEA chief: Iran poised to ‘dramatically’ increase stockpile of near weapons-grade uranium US deepens sanctions on Iranian oil as smuggling said to rake in billions for Tehran 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: Masoud Pezeshkian, center, flashes a victory sign after casting his vote in Iran's presidential election as he is accompanied by former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, left, at a polling station in Shahr-e-Qods near Tehran, Iran, July 5, 2024. (AP/Vahid Salemi)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode, recorded in our Jerusalem offices. We’re doing something different today and Berman and Borschel-Dan have an informal conversation about a mid-November report that Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israel’s attacks in Gaza constitute genocide. These remarks were included in a new book celebrating the pontiff’s jubilee year and they marked the first time that Francis has openly urged for an investigation of genocide allegations over Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip. The revolution in ties between the Catholic Church and Jews began with a brief document -- Nostra Aetate -- issued on October 28, 1965, by more than 1700 Catholic bishops gathered in Rome for the Second Vatican Council. We speak about what this document states and what it represents. We learn about the relationship between the Catholic Church and Israel -- and the Jewish people writ large -- and how it has evolved from accusations of Jews as Christ-killers to a relatively Golden Age. Lately, however, observers wonder if remarks made by Pope Francis and others could mark a turning point.For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Pope calls for probe into whether Israel is committing ‘genocide’ in Gaza 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: Pope Francis waves as he arrives for his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, December 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday threatened those holding hostages in the Middle East with unprecedented American firepower if they are not released by the time he enters office on January 20.The latest warning was posted on Truth Social came two days after Hamas released a propaganda video showing American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander pleading with the president-elect to secure his release and hours after the IDF revealed that another American-Israeli hostage — Omer Neutra — was killed during Hamas’s October 7 onslaught and that his body is being held in Gaza. We discuss what efforts have not yet been brought to the table and how Neutra's death was covered in US media. Israel’s Channel 12 reported yesterday that an Israeli delegation will travel to Cairo early next week after Egypt has put together a new multi-stage hostage deal proposal. Also, earlier in the week, we heard that the Palestinian terror group Hamas and the Palestinian Authority’s Fatah party have agreed to create a committee to jointly administer postwar Gaza. Magid weighs in whether this new alliance could be enough to give Hamas the lifeline it needs to claim post-war victory. US President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday announced the appointment of his Lebanese-American in-law Massad Boulos to be his senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. Boulos will likely work alongside Steve Witkoff, who Trump last month appointed as his special envoy for the Middle East to work on expanding the Abraham Accords that he brokered at the end of his first term. Are these the right men for the job? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Trump warns there will be ‘all hell to pay’ if hostages aren’t released by Jan. 20 Slain Israeli-American hostage remembered as ‘hero of Israel’ at NY memorial service Fatah, Hamas agree to form committee to run postwar Gaza Trump says Lebanese-American in-law will be senior aide on Arab and Mideast affairs 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: Campaigning for a second term, former US President Donald Trump speaks before prominent Jewish donors at an event titled 'Fighting Antisemitism in America' at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill, Washington DC, September 19, 2024. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images via JTA)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 environmental reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Pacchiani reviews the reactions from Lebanese Shiites following the temporary ceasefire with Hezbollah, and how the Iran-backed terrorist organization will presumably lay low after being battered during the last months of the war with the IDF. He also looks at rebel groups in northwestern Syria fighting the weakened regime of the Bashar Al Assad regime. The rebel forces, who are against Hezbollah, hope that Israel will strike Iranian convoys and Hezbollah forces inside Syria, aiding their cause. Surkes discusses the weak climate bill that's being pushed through the Knesset, a piece of legislation that lacks targets, has no budget and won't serve as a tool in petitioning the government on climate targets. She also looks at a Greenpeace Israel project that tracked used clothing by using AirTags, and found that the used textiles ended up mostly in the West Bank and Africa, where they were primarily dumped or turned into rags. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Lebanon’s Shiites increasingly reject role of scapegoat in Hezbollah’s war on Israel Who are the rebels battering Syria’s regime, and do they pose a risk to Israel? Most used clothes deposited in textile recycling bins end up in Africa — report 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: Children take part in recycling and environmental activities in southern Tel Aviv, November 28, 2024 (Photo by Dor Pazuelo/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode. The Israeli military launched a wave of airstrikes in Lebanon on Monday evening after Hezbollah fired two mortars at the Mount Dov area for the first time since the ceasefire went into effect last week. Fabian will tells us what’s happening on the ground as well as efforts to stop Iranian weapons shipments bound for Hezbollah — including the Israel Air Force making a plane turn back to Tehran. Fourteen months after Hamas’s terror onslaught on October 7, 2023, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed that Cpt. Omer Maxim Neutra, 21, was killed during the attack and his body was being held hostage in the Gaza Strip. We hear of a new kind of evidence may have allowed the IDF to draw this conclusion. The Defense Ministry’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) says that some 780 aid trucks are awaiting pickup on the Gazan side of the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and the Gaza Strip, after just 43 were collected yesterday by international organizations. We hear what the current holdup is — and what may be a solution. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF launches wave of strikes in Lebanon after Hezbollah mortar attack Israeli jets block Iranian plane suspected of ferrying arms to Hezbollah over Syria IDF says US-Israeli hostage Cpt. Omer Neutra killed on Oct. 7 and his body held in Gaza Fatah, Hamas agree to form committee to run postwar Gaza 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 view of south Lebanon from a destroyed home in Kibbutz Manara, November 27, 2024. (Eli Katzoff)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 health editor Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Schneider discusses the latest in the hostage talks as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems to be showing a growing interest in connecting with hostage families and discussing negotiations, possibly as a result of incoming President-elect Donald Trump. She also looks at the visit of Housing and Construction Minister Yitzchak Goldknopf to sites in the Gaza Strip where he says he wants to reestablish Jewish settlements, and why an ultra-Orthodox Knesset minister would involve himself in that political storm. Bletter speaks about her visits in the last week to several northern communities and cities that were devastated by the last 14 months of war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, and what residents who were visiting their homes or stayed in the north have to say about the temporary ceasefire. Bletter also looks at Tel Aviv University research that could be promising in terms of treatment for aspects of a certain type of autism. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Netanyahu convenes discussion on hostage negotiations with new ceasefire push Top Likud minister said to support ousting Netanyahu in talk with hostage relatives Touring Gaza border region, senior Haredi minister calls to resettle the Strip In northern border town of Shlomi, a wary trickle home in the shadow of a fragile ceasefire Northern evacuees question whether a ceasefire deal is enough to see them home Israeli study finds gene mutation that may cause some autism, possibly enabling treatment 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: Minister of Construction and Housing Yitzchak Goldknopf at the Knesset on November 11, 2024 (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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. As the fragile ceasefire in Lebanon continues to basically hold, this morning, Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi said he will leave Tehran for Damascus to deliver a message of support for Syria’s government and armed forces after a lightning advance by rebels. Berman breaks down the Syrian rebellion, part two, and the potential spillover ramifications for Israel. Iran sees the days-old ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah as a chance to rebuild the Lebanon-based terror organization, as well as its welfare and political wings. Berman weighs in. The Hamas terror group on Saturday released a propaganda video showing signs of life from hostage Edan Alexander, 20, in the first video of its kind in months. Also yesterday, Hamas said it was open to discussing “all ideas and proposals,” a senior official from the Palestinian terror group told AFP, as representatives arrived in Cairo on Saturday for talks with Egyptian negotiators on a possible hostage-ceasefire deal in Gaza. We hear about other remarks of this nature and what they may signify. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Syrian military says dozens of soldiers killed in major Islamist attack on Aleppo Iran ‘firmly supports’ Assad as top envoy travels to Damascus after rebel attacks Iran sees ceasefire as a chance to take stock and rebuild Hezbollah – report Hamas says open to ‘all ideas and proposals’ ahead of hostage-truce talks in Cairo In Hamas propaganda video, hostage Edan Alexander pleads with Trump to push for 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: Anti-government fighters pose for a picture on a tank on the road leading to Maaret al-Numan in Syria's northwestern Idlib province on November 30, 2024. (Muhammad Haj Kadour / AFP)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 blogger Tuvia Book joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's bonus What Matters Now episode. Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World with host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan. Tuvia Book was honorably discharged as a combat medic in the Israel Defense Forces following the 2006 Second Lebanon War. Like most Israeli reservists, however, he stashed a uniform in his basement, "just in case." That emergency occurred on October 7, 2023, when Book, learning of the Hamas murderous onslaught on southern Israel, pulled out that uniform and, hearing a rumor that some units based in the south were lacking combat medics, packed his car and drove. He arrived, without enlistment papers and no longer registered in the draconian IDF bureaucracy. He was accepted into the Palmar Asaf Medical Extraction Unit and fought his way back into the IDF system. Book, who in "real life" is a Times of Israel blogger, a tour guide, author and Jewish educator," has served in the reserves for the past 12 out of 14 months of war. At the end of November, the Medical Corps reported that some 5,300 wounded soldiers had been treated amid the ground offensive in the Gaza Strip and another 700 in Lebanon. Book describes his unique reservists unit, and how a combination of speed, professionalism and technology is resulting in a vastly lower case fatality rate — the proportion of wounded who end up dying -- than in any previous war. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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: Reservist Tuvia Book, a combat medic in the Palmar Asaf Medical Extraction Unit, on a Gazan beach, 2024. (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. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. As of this morning, Lebanese residents are still prohibited from moving south to a line of villages and their surroundings until further notice. We talk about what Israeli soldiers are currently doing in Lebanon to enforce the fragile ceasefire. A series of Israeli strikes on border crossings between Lebanon and Syria just before a ceasefire with Hezbollah took effect Wednesday morning were intended to set back the terror group’s smuggling efforts, while driving home as a stark warning to Damascus that Israel will take severe action to prevent attempts to rearm Hezbollah with Iranian weapons via Syrian territory. Fabian discusses the large-scale smuggling efforts. The IDF published a summary of its activities against Hezbollah in the past 14 months, including the capture of some 12,000 explosive devices and drones; 13,000 rockets, launchers, and anti-tank and anti-aircraft missile systems; and 121,000 pieces of communications equipment and computers. How degraded is Hezbollah as a fighting force? The Shin Bet recently foiled an attempt by Iran to smuggle large amounts of advanced weapons, including rockets, to terror operatives in the West Bank for use in attacks on Israeli targets, the security agency revealed Wednesday. Fabian updates us on this foiled attempt and how widespread such efforts may be. According to a report in The New York Times, Hamas is displaying increased flexibility in long-stalled talks for an elusive ceasefire and hostage deal in the Gaza Strip, and may agree to the Israel Defense Forces temporarily remaining on the enclave’s border with Egypt. Fabian explains how strategic this position is, especially to prevent any rearmament of Hamas. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: As fresh truce holds, IDF says over 12,500 Hezbollah targets hit in 14 months of war PM threatens ‘intensive war’ if truce breached, as restrictions end in much of Israel IDF strikes Hezbollah rocket depot, launch sites after identifying truce violations Israel warns Syria of ‘direct price’ to pay if it helps Hezbollah rearm Israel says it nabbed large trove of Iranian arms destined for West Bank attack Increasingly flexible Hamas said open to temporary IDF presence at Gaza-Egypt border 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 Lebanese returning to their homes inspect the damage in the southern Lebanese village of Tair Debba on November 28, 2024. (Mahmoud Zayyat / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Yesterday, as the fragile ceasefire began IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari clarified the IDF’s role in its implementation in a press conference and said any Hezbollah violation of the ceasefire agreement “will be answered with fire.” At the same time, many in Israel wonder why a permanent buffer zone wasn't included in the deal, something US envoy Amos Hochstein called a “fantasy.” Magid tells us more. A US official confirmed to Magid yesterday that the Biden administration is advancing a $680 million weapon package to Israel. Could the package be tied to the claim by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the US has been delaying weapon shipments to Israel? US President Joe Biden is launching a renewed drive for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal now that Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to a truce in Lebanon, national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Wednesday, saying, “President Biden intends to begin that work today by having his envoys engage with Turkey, Qatar, Egypt and other actors in the region.” We discuss the new inclusion of Turkey in the list of potential negotiators.For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: US envoy dismisses ‘fantasy’ of deal that would include IDF buffer zone in Lebanon IDF warns Lebanon truce violations ‘will be answered with fire’; troops shoot at suspects US confirms $680m arms sale to Israel, but says it was in works pre-Lebanon deal Arab mediators: Netanyahu stalling, wrongly thinks Trump will deliver better Gaza 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: Pro-Palestinian demonstrators take part in a rally to condemn the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, at Hagia Sophia Square in Istanbul, on August 3, 2024. (Kemal Aslan/ AFP)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The ceasefire agreement took effect at 4 am local time and IDF troops are still positioned in some areas of southern Lebanon. The militaries in Israel and Lebanon have warned Lebanese civilians against returning to villages where soldiers are still deployed for now. We discuss how fragile this calm is. Horovitz outlines what was included in the agreement and what was left out, including a buffer zone, which residents of the north consider crucial. We compare and contrast how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden spoke about the ceasefire when announcing it to the world yesterday. A snap television poll on Tuesday evening found Israelis divided over the framework for a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Among supporters of Netanyahu’s governing coalition, just 20% said they supported the ceasefire deal, while 45% said they opposed it and 35% said they didn’t know. We hear potential reasons why Netanyahu pushed for the ceasefire at this time. Israeli, Palestinian and American sources and officials believe the loss of Hezbollah support may push the Gazan terror group to soften its demands, breaking a prolonged deadlock in the negotiations. What could change? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire comes into effect, halting nearly 14 months of fighting ‘Peace is possible’: Announcing Lebanon truce, US insists this time will be different 20% of coalition voters back Lebanon truce, vs. 50% of opposition voters, poll finds Officials hope Lebanon truce will isolate Hamas, pave way to deal in Gaza 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 driver holds up portraits of Hezbollah's slain leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine as people return to Beirut’s southern suburbs on November 27, 2024, after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect. (Ibrahim Amro/ AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

IMAGE: An Israeli soldier stands guard behind sandbags in Kibbutz Hanita near Israel's border with Lebanon, November 24, 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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. After initial approval of the US-backed ceasefire proposal with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is now working on how to present it to the public. Berman discusses the reported contours of the deal -- and whether Iran will be on board. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid has presented a plan for a regional commission in Riyadh to, among other goals, end the fighting in Lebanon and Gaza. Part of his plan involves the release of the hostages and a six-month truce, during which an Emirati-Egyptian-Moroccan-PA force would enter Gaza and take over the distribution of humanitarian aid and rebuilding. What are the chances of its success? A new Channel 12 investigation claims Netanyahu received detailed intelligence in 2014 about Hamas’s plans to invade Israel and on a number of occasions rejected proposals to preemptively assassinate Hamas leaders. Berman weighs in. Rabbi Zvi Kogan, 28, vanished in Dubai on Thursday, where he ran a kosher grocery store, and his body was discovered yesterday. We hear updates. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israel said to agree in principle to Lebanon ceasefire offer, though some issues remain Lapid presents wide-ranging peace initiative starting with truces in Gaza and Lebanon Netanyahu for years declined to kill terror chiefs, downplayed Hamas threat — report United Arab Emirates arrests three suspects in murder of Chabad rabbi Zvi Kogan 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: View of a house hit from missiles fired by Hezbollah from Lebanon into Metula, on the Israeli border with Lebanon, November 20, 2024. (David Cohen/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Fabian was in Lebanon last week, where troops have pushed into the “second line of villages,” about 4-5 miles from the border. He describes what he saw and speaks about a briefing he had with a senior Israeli defense official, who told reporters Thursday that there is a substantial chance of Israel reaching a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon. Five Hamas terrorists who participated in the October 7 onslaught were killed in a recent airstrike in the northern Gaza Strip, the Israel Defense Forces announced on Friday, noting that two were commanders who led the massacre and kidnapping of civilians from the Mefalsim area during the brutal attack. Fabian updates us on what is going on inside Gaza right now, even as winter rains are approaching. This morning, Defense Minister Israel Katz said he will not approve the promotion of two officers from the IDF Southern Command until their role in the failures of October 7 are investigated. This comes after IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi announced a new round of senior appointments in the military, including 11 new brigadier generals and four new colonels, as well as six brigadier generals and 19 colonels who are moving to new positions at the same rank. We discuss several of the new appointments and some of the pressures on Katz. Emirati authorities have found the body of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, an emissary to Abu Dhabi’s Chabad chapter missing since Thursday, the Prime Minister’s Office and Foreign Ministry said in a joint statement Sunday. This is a developing story, but Fabian describes what we know so far. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Aiming to enable return of displaced Israelis, IDF pushes deeper into south Lebanon Woman lightly wounded as Hezbollah fires rockets and drones at center, north Defense official says major chance for Lebanon truce after US envoy visits for talks IDF says it killed five Hamas terrorists who led Mefalsim area massacres on Oct. 7 Body of slain Chabad rabbi found in UAE; Israel condemns ‘antisemitic act of terror’ 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: Lt. Col. Roi Katz, a battalion commander in the 188th Armored Brigade in southern Lebanon, November 20, 2024. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. In a speech today in Istanbul, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan praised the “courageous decision” of the International Criminal Court to seek the arrest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. The ICC issued the warrants against the Israeli leaders and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif on Thursday on charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes in the Gaza conflict. We discuss how this as a new line in the sand for Israel-supporting countries. Yesterday, new Defense Minister Israel Katz announced an end to administrative detention orders for West Bank settlers. Almost on the heels of this announcement, several dozen Jewish extremists in Hebron for an annual pilgrimage tried to attack the head of the IDF Central Command Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth. Five were arrested. Horovitz weighs in on this announcement and other unsettling news regarding settlers this week. In a highly unusual move, the State Prosecutor’s Office on Friday published a rebuttal to allegations that it has been selectively enforcing the law concerning leaked intelligence information with the grave charges it has brought against Eli Feldstein, a spokesman for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and an unnamed IDF reservist, in relation to the leak of a stolen, classified document to German newspaper Bild. A second PMO spokesman, Jonathan Urich, was questioned by the Israel Police’s Lahav 433 major crimes unit for a second time on Wednesday as part of the probe. Horovitz discusses the prosecutor's unusual move to publish a Q&A on the case and raises other outstanding questions surrounding it. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: UK indicates it could arrest Netanyahu on ICC warrant, as Hungary invites him to visit Analysts warn ICC arrest warrants could pave way to future arms embargoes on Israel Defense minister declares end to administrative detention against West Bank settlers Several dozen Jewish extremists in Hebron try to attack IDF’s top West Bank commander Troops smuggled settler leader into Gaza to survey settlement options – report State prosecution posts rare rebuttal of ‘misinformation’ relating to PMO intel leak case Report: Netanyahu adviser Urich questioned for second time in document leak case 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: Undated photo of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, the Netherlands. (Oliver de la Haye/iStock)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 first discusses the legal bombshell of the International Criminal Court's decision Thursday to issue arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The prime minister has stated that he won't comply, but Magid points out that there are countries abroad that would comply and whose recognition matters to Israel. Magid also looks at the recent Senate vote, in which more Democrats supported efforts to withhold aid against Israel, and he points out that several Democrats who are not usually part of that progressive camp also voted for it. He talks about the UN Security Council measure calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the US veto because the measure did not couple the truce with the immediate release of all remaining hostages. Finally, Magid turns to Netanyahu aide Eli Feldstein who may face a life term for allegedly transferring information to the German Bild newspaper, to skew the public debate over the hostage negotiations at a time when the public was turning against Netanyahu and his government. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: US ‘fundamentally rejects’ ICC warrants, says it’s working with Israel on next steps World split over Netanyahu, Gallant arrest warrants, as some in EU vow to uphold them Israel breathes small sigh of relief after most US Senate Democrats back arms transfers Senate motions blocking arms sales to Israel fail, but pick up Democrat support US vetoes Gaza ceasefire resolution at UN as it didn’t condition truce on hostages’ release Netanyahu aide charged with harming state security in leaked document case, could face life term 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 in the Knesset on November 13, 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. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon and environment reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Last night, some 150 right-wing activists rally outside the Tel Aviv home of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara to demand her ouster. These protesters arrived after roughly twice as many people began protesting in support of the attorney general. Baharav-Miara has frequently clashed with members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government, and disagreements have increased amid ongoing investigations into the premier’s staff. Sharon explains what the most recent controversies include. Surkes returned earlier this week from Baku, Azerbaijan, where she attended a large chunk of the annual United Nations COP (Conference of the Parties) confab — better known as COP29. It kicked off on November 11 and will end on Friday. We discuss what the conference is meant to accomplish versus the cognitive dissonance she found on the ground. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Ministers rage at ‘anarchist’ AG, with one implying she’s trying to ‘kill’ Netanyahu Cabinet okays forced retirement for government legal advisers, ignoring AG criticism Labor minister agrees to court-proposed compromise on Haredi daycare subsidies At the third UN climate confab to be held in a petrostate, fact and fantasy collide 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: Activists participate in a demonstration for transforming food systems at the COP29 UN Climate Summit, November 19, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The UN Security Council is slated to vote on a resolution demanding “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” in Gaza. This time, there is also the demand for the “immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.” Rettig Gur weighs in on what the chances are of its passage — and whether it is of any significance. After a meeting with Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, an ally of Hezbollah, Special Envoy Amos Hochstein said, “I came back [to Lebanon] because we have a real opportunity to bring this conflict to an end,” adding that gaps between the sides had been “significantly narrowed” in the talks Tuesday. Berri said the “situation is good in principle,” though some unresolved technical details remain. Why aren't we hearing such optimism from Israel? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited an Israeli military position in the Gaza Strip and reiterated an offer to lavishly pay Gazans who turn over Israeli hostages, upping the reward to $5 million for each captive, after previously suggesting Israel would pay “several million” for their recovery. Rettig Gur dives into what else the premier was setting out to accomplish. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: UNSC to vote on resolution demanding immediate Gaza ceasefire, freeing of hostages US envoy says Lebanon ceasefire ‘within grasp’ as soldier killed in drone strike Touring Gaza, PM vows Hamas won’t return to power, offers $5 million for hostages 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 visits the Netzarim Corridor in the central Gaza Strip on November 19, 2024. (Maayan Toaf/GPO)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 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's critical comments about US President Joe Biden that he made during a Knesset speech on Monday. The prime minister sometimes strayed from his prepared remarks and commented more widely on Israel's retaliative attacks against Iran and the ongoing war against Hezbollah in Lebanon. He also discusses Netanyahu's remarks about the leaks from his office over the course of the last year of the war and refers to the prime minister's fury over being probed for illegal activities. Finally, Horovitz talks about Netanyahu's comments regarding the remaining hostages and the fraught aspects of the internal negotiations, on a day when hostage family members and supporters were kicked out of the Knesset gallery. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Lebanese official says Hezbollah agrees to US ceasefire proposal with ‘comments’ Netanyahu says Biden’s counsel throughout the war was repeatedly off-mark Eli Feldstein, Netanyahu aide jailed in leaks case, placed under suicide watch Hostage families barred from showing videos of loved ones in Knesset committee meeting 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: Hostage families hold up photos of their loved ones in the gallery of the Knesset on November 18, 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. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US envoy Amos Hochstein will travel to the Lebanese capital Beirut tomorrow for talks on a ceasefire between the Hezbollah terror group and Israel. We’ll hear Berman's assessment of the chances of success in these talks. Last night, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hosted an emergency meeting on efforts to free hostages held in Gaza with a select group of ministers and the top security brass, who had reportedly planned to tell the forum that agreeing to end the war with Hamas was the only way to reach a deal to free the captives. Berman describes a few "wild card" ideas that could potentially force some movement in the negotiations. Even as senior members of Hamas’s leadership abroad left Qatar last week for Turkey, President Isaac Herzog reportedly canceled his planned visit to the United Nations COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, because Turkey refused to allow the Israeli state airplane, Wing of Zion, to fly though its airspace. We speak about how unusual it is for Turkey to deny passage to a figure of Herzog's stature. Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israel’s attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released Sunday from an upcoming new book ahead of the pontiff’s jubilee year. It’s the first time that Francis has openly urged an investigation of genocide allegations over Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip. How seriously should Israel take these comments in light of the some 1.3 billion baptized Catholics around the world? Senator John Thune said Sunday that the US must pass legislation threatening the International Criminal Court with sanctions if it seeks arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or other Israeli officials, noting that the House has already passed sanctions legislation on a bipartisan basis. With the clock ticking at the ICC, could these efforts have an effect? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hezbollah media chief killed in IDF strike on central Beirut Stance on ending war must soften for hostage deal, security chiefs said to tell PM Hamas officials booted by Qatar last week, now hosted in Turkey, diplomat says Herzog canceled trip to climate confab because Turkey barred him from airspace — report Pope calls for probe into whether Israel is committing ‘genocide’ in Gaza Incoming Senate majority leader threatens ICC with sanctions over case against Israelis 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: Pope Francis delivers the Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, November 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. A barrage of some 20 rockets was launched from Lebanon at the Western Galilee and Haifa Bay area just ahead of this conversation. Yesterday also saw some 80 rockets fired at the same areas. At the same time, the IDF has reportedly removed roadblocks on the northern border which were to prevent civilians from driving on roads that were exposed to anti-tank missile fire from Lebanon. Is this a sign that northern residents may soon return home? This morning, the IDF has issued additional evacuation orders for four more buildings in Beirut’s southern suburbs ahead of a second wave of airstrikes on Hezbollah assets. We hear what is happening with this increased daytime strikes and learn about how Hezbollah fights differently from Hamas on the ground. In recent weeks, the turnout rate in the reservist units currently fighting in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip has varied between 75% and 85%, according to defense sources. But today, some 7,000 enlistment orders to ultra-Orthodox Israelis will begin to be delivered and, as Fabian reported last week, we’ve already seen some signs that this year already represents a larger turnout than years past. Fabian weighs in. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF said to remove roadblocks near northern border ahead of possible return of displaced residents Soldier killed in Lebanon as IDF pounds Hezbollah; rocket hits Haifa synagogue Reservist killed in northern Gaza Strip; hostage holders said incommunicado Sharp drop seen in reservist response rate due to burnout amid long war Angering coalition ally, new Defense Minister Katz okays 7,000 more Haredi draft orders IDF sees increase in draft of Haredi troops, but is still far off from goals 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: Damage caused to vehicles and buildings from a missile fired from Lebanon on November 16, 2024, in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, photographed on November 17, 2024. (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. Today, we bring you a special conversation held this week between three women bearing the name Rachel in honor of the traditional annual observance of the death of the biblical Rachel: ToI blogger Rachel Sharansky Danziger, war widow Rachel Goldberg and bereaved mother Rachel Goldberg-Polin. Rachel Goldberg and Rachel Goldberg-Polin share a name, a neighborhood, and a history. Rachel Goldberg’s father was Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s teacher at one time, and her husband, Rav Avi Goldberg, taught Rachel’s son Hersh. Tragically, they now share the intolerable pain of loss. Rachel’s son, Hersh Goldberg Polin, was kidnapped on October 7, 2023, from the Nova music festival. Rachel and her husband Jon advocated relentlessly for his release and continue to ask the world to push for the release of the remaining 101 hostages in Gaza. Hersh was murdered in Gaza in late August with five other hostages. Rachel’s husband, Rav Avi Goldberg, served in the reserves for over 250 days since October 7, before falling in battle in Lebanon three weeks ago. As part of the ongoing efforts to continue Rav Avi’s legacy and efforts (including his dream of building a shul for his community, Beorcha), Rabbi David Ansbacher, Rav Avi’s brother-in-law, invited Rachel and Rachel to come together in honor of the anniversary of the death of Rachel the matriarch and share their experiences and insights. This conversation was facilitated by a third Rachel – Beorcha member and Times of Israel blogger Rachel Sharansky Danziger. The conversation, titled "Rachel weeping for her children," is available on video online and is now generously shared by Beorcha here in podcast form. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Rachel Goldberg-Polin -- Limping toward the light: A letter from me in this moment Rachel Sharansky Danziger -- Rabbi Avi Goldberg: A man who lit up the world 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: L-R: Bereaved mother Rachel Goldberg Polin and war widow Rachel Goldberg. (Youtube screenshot)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Arab affairs correspondent Gianluca Pacchiani and reporter Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Pacchiani offers a brief update regarding the latest in the US-brokered ceasefire proposal to Hezbollah in Lebanon, as Bletter speaks about the randomness of rockets that kill and cause damage in the north, including Jewish and Arab towns and villages. Pacchiani discusses the latest lineup of Hamas leadership in Gaza, with most of the leaders located out of the country and one possibly still in Gaza, and how they control the ongoing war from afar. He also looks at reactions from European leaders regarding Palestinian educational textbooks that radicalize younger generations. Finally, Bletter talks about scientific research from Tel Aviv University that could help in fighting cancerous tumors. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Though ham-handed, report on Gazan anger at Hamas appears to reflect waning support As calls to deradicalize Palestinian textbooks get louder, some urge a broader focus ‘History repeats itself’ as South Lebanon Army veteran, Israeli killed side-by-side In Arab town where 2 were killed by Hezbollah rockets, leaders demand shelters Annual festival includes an oud ode to a Jewish Tunisian diva Israeli researchers identify protein that stops immune cells from attacking tumors 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: In Kiryat Ata, northern Israel, where a missile fired from Lebanon hit and caused damage on November 11, 2024 (Photo by 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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Six Israeli soldiers were killed in a clash with Hezbollah forces, the IDF announced Wednesday, as Israeli troops pushed deeper into southern Lebanon amid an intensification of violence, even as officials expressed cautious optimism on ceasefire talks. It was one of the heaviest single-day losses in the operation that began in late September against Hezbollah. Horovitz updates on efforts to reach a ceasefire in the north and the key player not included in the talks. Tzachi Braverman, who serves as chief of staff to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is being questioned under caution today by the police’s Lahav 443 serious crimes unit. We hear more about the two -- or three -- issues under investigation with links to the Prime Minister's Office. Authorities in Paris announced that more than 4,000 police officers and 1,600 stadium staff would be deployed for the game and only French and Israeli flags will be allowed inside the stadium. Horovitz weighs in to why accusations that what happened in Amsterdam was mere soccer hooliganism just missed the mark. On Wednesday, the Jerusalem District Court rejected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request for a 10-week delay to the start of his testimony in his criminal trial, saying that he already had five months to prepare. And finally, we discuss Israeli media's complicated relationship with the military censor and the censor's sometimes baffling rulings. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: 6 Israeli soldiers killed in fighting with Hezbollah as IDF pushes deeper into Lebanon Court extends by one day remand of key suspect in PMO secret documents leak case Paris protesters target pro-Israel, far-right linked gala ahead of tense soccer match Court rejects Netanyahu’s request to delay testimony in criminal trial The ultra-divisive Netanyahu and the consequences for an Israel fighting for survival 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 man flashes a portrait of slain Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah in front of the rubble of a building at the site of an Israeli airstrike in Beirut's southern suburbs, on November 12, 2024, amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hezbollah. (AFP)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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel acknowledged during a press briefing on Tuesday that Israel implemented some — but not all — of the steps demanded by the US in an October 13 letter giving Jerusalem a month to act or risk being deemed out of compliance with US law, which bars offensive weapons from being transferred to countries that block aid from reaching civilians. We hear what Israel did accomplish and why the US may have overlooked some shortcomings. In a flurry of announcements, President-elect Donald Trump said he had chosen former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel, and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align US foreign policy more closely with Israel’s interests as it wages wars against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. We hear what Rettig Gur sees taking shape in terms of Trump's predicted approach to Israel. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich paid a visit to Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the Israeli communities hit the worst in Hamas’s onslaught of October 7, 2023, and met families of local hostages as well as former captives. It is Smotrich’s first visit to Nir Oz, more than 13 months after Palestinian terrorists rampaged there, killing or kidnapping 117 out of its 400 residents. There are still 29 hostages from Nir Oz held captive in Gaza. Why now? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: US says it won’t withhold weapons to Israel, as deadline to address aid crisis passes Trump taps Fox News host who said US must ‘stand by strong ally’ Israel to head Pentagon US slams Smotrich’s vow to annex parts of West Bank following Trump’s win In first, Smotrich visits Oct. 7-ravaged Nir Oz, says he feels ‘responsibility, guilt’ 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 handout picture released by the official Jordanian news agency Petra shows an airdrop of humanitarian and relief aid to the southern Gaza Strip carried out by members of the Jordanian army on November 12, 2024. (PETRA News Agency / AFP)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 looks at why it was announced following the US election that Qatar is leaving its negotiating role in the Israel-Hamas hostage talks, the back-and-forth of its decision-making process and whether the US or Qatar were making this decision. Magid discusses the positive report from a phone call between President-elect Donald Trump and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, and the help Trump has received from his daughter's father-in-law, Lebanese billionaire, Massad Boulos, with regard to Arab voters in the US. Magid looks at recent messaging from Trump aides warning giddy right-wing Israeli ministers that their hopes to annex West Bank settlements during a Trump administration would only be under the right conditions and may never happen. Magid reviews some of the names bandied about for Trump's cabinet, the battle between the more isolationist members and neo-Conservatives, the ousting of former US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who both served during the previous Trump administration. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Diplomat says Qatar quitting Gaza mediation role, Hamas to be booted from country At US behest, Qatar has ordered Hamas to leave Doha — Biden officials PA says Trump, in phone call with Abbas, vowed he ‘will work to stop the war’ Ex-Trump aides warn Israeli ministers not to assume he’ll back annexation in 2nd term IMAGE: An IDF soldier passes by a sign that displays a photo of US President-elect Donald Trump that reads "Congratulations! Trump, make Israel great!" two days after the US election, in Jerusalem, Thursday, Nov. 7, 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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. President-elect Donald Trump has told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he wants the war in Lebanon to end before his inauguration and has also signaled to the Biden administration that it needs to step up efforts to shut down the Gaza front. How could ceasefire negotiations be affected now that Qatar has stepped away from the negotiator role? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President-elect Donald Trump see “eye-to-eye” on the Iranian threat, the premier said in a video statement on Sunday, also revealing that he and Trump had spoken three times since the latter’s American presidential election triumph last week. Berman weighs in. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer secretly visited Russia last week, Army Radio reported Sunday, in what appeared to be part of Israel’s efforts to reach a ceasefire in Lebanon where it is battling the terror group Hezbollah. Why Russia? Dutch police arrested dozens of anti-Israel demonstrators on Sunday, after they defied a temporary ban on protests, imposed after mass violence against Israeli tourists following a Thursday night soccer game in Amsterdam. On Thursday, Israeli officials said 10 people were injured in the overnight violence by local Arab and Muslim gangs against Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer fans. Hundreds more Israelis huddled in their hotels for hours, fearing they could be attacked. Berman describes what he sees is Israel's responsibility in such situations. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Diplomat says Qatar quitting Gaza mediation role, Hamas to be booted from country Trump looms over Saudi-hosted meeting of Arab, Muslim leaders on Mideast war Netanyahu says he and Trump see ‘eye to eye’ on Iran after holding 3 calls within days Top Netanyahu confidant visited Russia last week amid Lebanon ceasefire efforts — report Dutch police arrest dozens who defy protest ban after antisemitic riots in Amsterdam Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF troops operating in southern Lebanon in this picture released for publication on November 11, 2024 (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. As the war continues on the ground in Gaza and in Lebanon, we learn how the IDF is overtly taking credit for strikes inside Syria -- and why. US president-elect Donald Trump has informed the Biden administration that he expects to see progress in the efforts to obtain a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and his advisors claim he would like the Gaza war wrapped up by the time he takes office in January. Fabian weighs in on whether the IDF is in a position to pull back right now -- without Hamas or Hezbollah simply filling the vacuum. New Defense Minister Israel Katz spoke with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Friday, who conveyed a “sharp” message to his new Israeli counterpart during their first phone conversation, to the effect that Israel risks jeopardizing the ongoing provision of US weaponry for the Gaza war if it does not credibly show that it has improved the supply and distribution of aid to Gazan noncombatants. We hear about new IDF efforts to introduce more aid into the Strip and discuss Katz's challenges in taking on his new role. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hezbollah fires dozens of rockets at Israel as IDF pounds Lebanon, Syria targets US warplanes hit Houthis’ advanced weapons storage facilities in Yemen strikes Israel rejects ‘biased’ warning of famine in Gaza, says aid trucks enter war-torn towns 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: People inspect a bridge allegedly damaged in an Israeli strike near the Syrian village of Tall al-Nabi Mando, in the countryside of Qusayr on October 28, 2024. (Louai Beshara / AFP)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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World. This week, we hand the mic over to Yossi Klein Halevi, a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute and an author, thinker and writer for The Times of Israel and many other outlets. Recently, Klein Halevi shared with us his longtime interest in interviewing Rabbi Irving Yitz Greenberg, whom he called one of this generation's most important Jewish theologians. Greenberg has been a central figure in the creation of a post-Holocaust Jewish identity and in establishing Holocaust commemoration projects like the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC. He is a leader in inter-denominational Jewish pluralism and in Jewish-Christian interfaith dialogue. Now, at age 91, Greenberg has published his magnum opus, “The Triumph of Life,” which, according to Klein Halevi, offers a brilliant and original argument for a new understanding of Judaism. So this week, we ask both Yossi Klein Halevi and Rabbi Yitz Greenberg, what matters now. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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: Left to right: Author Yossi Klein Halevi. (Shalom Hartman Institute); Rabbi Irving (Yitz) Greenberg. (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. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol discusses this week's surprise dismissal of former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, it's effect on the Likud party and the government coalition as well as the prime minister's continued efforts to appease his ultra-Orthodox coalition partners, regarding the draft evasion bill. Surkes talks about her visit down south to several Gaza border communities that are trying to rebuild their homes and structures and replace equipment but are hampered by the holdup in compensation funds from the government. Sokol looks at a series of government bills aimed at fighting terror, including deporting terrorists' relatives, cutting welfare benefits for convicted terrorists and firing teachers who identify with terror. Surkes talks about climate confab COP29 beginning next week with the Israeli delegation attending under heightened security efforts. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Likud clamps down on dissent over Haredi draft bills after Gallant pushed out In new coalition deal with Likud, Sa’ar relinquishes right to oppose Haredi draft bills MKs push bill to create new intelligence oversight body under Netanyahu Despite constitutional concerns, Knesset passes law on deporting terrorists’ relatives Lawmakers advance bills cutting welfare benefits for convicted terrorists Knesset passes law allowing government to fire teachers it asserts identify with terror Buzzed but never drunk: Research shows Oriental hornets defy alcohol’s effects 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 plenum session on the appointment of Israel Katz as Defense Minister and Gideon Sa'ar as Foreign Minister at the assembly hall of the Knesset  on November 8, 2024. (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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today’s episode. In the wake of Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election on Tuesday, two settler leaders called for Israel to annex the West Bank, describing the development as a new opportunity to expand Israeli sovereignty to the disputed territory. The demand was also backed by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. We discuss Israeli perceptions of a new Trump term in comparison to his actions during his previous presidency. In light of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s ouster on Tuesday evening, Horovitz discusses the new constellation of Israel Katz as defense minister and Gideon Sa’ar as foreign minister and what this means for the increasingly strong push to conscript Haredi men. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Two very different comebacks 79% of US Jews voted for Harris, according to largest preliminary exit poll GOP spokesperson says Trump wants Israel’s wars to end soon, with decisive victory Two settlement leaders, Ben Gvir call to annex West Bank after Trump victory In new coalition deal with Likud, Sa’ar relinquishes right to oppose Haredi draft bills 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 billboard that displays a photo of US President-elect Donald Trump and reads 'Congratulations! Trump, make Israel great' is projected a day after the US election, in Tel Aviv, Israel, November 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)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 and political correspondent Tal Schneider join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Schneider discusses Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's unexpected Tuesday evening dismissal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, during the US elections. She examines the presumed political reasons for the dismissal, given Gallant's support for an ultra-Orthodox draft, the issue that has shaken the current government coalition. Magid looks at the US administration's reactions to the dismissal, which came as a surprise. The initial US reaction was measured, while Magid's follow-up interview with a US official conveyed the administration's dismay and the belief that the prime minister is looking out for his own political survival. Schneider talks about her conversations with Jewish voters in Philadelphia prior to Election Day, most of them Democrats, while Magid reports from Dearborn, Michigan, where many Arab voters appeared to be voting for Trump because of their disappointment with US President Joe Biden regarding the war in Gaza. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Netanyahu fires Gallant, says disagreements, lack of mutual trust helped the enemy Gallant, after he’s fired, warns Israel is abandoning captives, risks ‘mark of Cain’ US caught off guard, ‘concerned’ by defense minister’s ouster on Election Day Jewish regent at U of Michigan says Trump not the answer to anti-Israel campus unrest IMAGE: 'Gallant Night 2' (referring to the intense demonstrations when Gallant was first fired in March 2023) protests at Tel Aviv's Begin Gate on November 5, 2024 (Credit: Roni Shapiro)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Today is election day in the United States and yesterday, the Israel Democracy Institute released a poll of some 750 Israelis — Jews and Arabs — and asked, “In terms of Israel’s interests, which of the two candidates for the US presidency would be better?” Horovitz weighs in on the response and some of the factors that went into the responses. The IDF will be sending out another 7,000 draft orders to members of the ultra-Orthodox community next week and as of this morning, we are hearing that the coalition may have lost the votes it needs to pass the controversial so-called Daycare Law being pushed by the ultra-Orthodox United Torah Judaism party to preserve subsidies for Haredi draft-evaders. We hear which politicians are dissenting and what this symbolizes. Investigators suspect that the theft of classified intelligence documents from Israel Defense Forces databases and the transfer of those files to people in the Prime Minister’s Office was “systematic,” and the publication of one such document in foreign media is a source of “ongoing” danger to the lives of both soldiers and hostages in Gaza. Horovitz updates us on new details of the continuing investigation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly ordered that a “solution” be found for Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara’s “adversarial” relationship with his government, as ministers railed against her office and called for her ouster Monday. We learn how this comment was somewhat pulled back by the prime minister and why. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Poll: Some 65% of Israelis believe Trump victory would be best for Israel Senior Likud MK says he won’t back daycare subsidies bill for Haredi draft-evaders Theft of sensitive IDF intel, transfer to ‘people at PMO’ was ‘systematic’ – report Netanyahu demands ‘solution’ to ‘adversarial’ AG as ministers call for her ouster 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: A Haredi man looks at Israeli soldiers gathered at the Western Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem, March 14, 2024. (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. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. This morning, the Foreign Ministry officially informed the United Nations that Israel is withdrawing from the 1967 agreement recognizing the Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA after the Knesset passed legislation to severely limit the operations of the agency in Israel and in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. We hear about practical implications. A round of talks between Hamas and Fatah officials in Cairo ended with an agreement to establish a technocratic committee composed of independent Palestinian figures to manage the Gaza Strip, according to an unnamed Hamas source quoted by the Qatari-owned paper Al-Araby al-Jadeed. Berman weighs in on the chances of this agreement coming to fruition. Eli Feldstein, a spokesperson working with the Prime Minister’s Office, is accused of divulging top-secret information with national security implications to European media outlets, according to a ruling published Sunday evening by Rishon Lezion Magistrate Court head Menahem Mizrahi. The names of three other suspects remain gagged by the court, but it confirmed that they were connected to the defense establishment. Berman examines what we know about the case and how serious the charges are. Touring the northern border on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that whether via a negotiated settlement or military force, Israel will achieve the conditions it needs to restore security to the area and keep the Hezbollah terror group at bay. Relatedly, we’re hearing that Iran’s president said a potential ceasefire between Israel and its allies Hamas and Hezbollah “could affect the intensity” of Tehran’s threatened attack. Could this added pressure see a ceasefire agreement solidify?For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israel informs UN that 1967 agreement recognizing UNRWA is void PM spokesman Eli Feldstein suspected of leaking intel that may have hurt hostage efforts Visiting border, PM vows to restore security in north ‘with or without an agreement’ Iran said planning to use more powerful weapons in next attack 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 the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Illustrative: Released hostages and their family members seen after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, outside the Prime Minister's office in Jerusalem, August 23, 2024. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Top Hamas official Izz al-Din Kassab was killed Friday in an airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip, the IDF and Shin Bet announced. Kasab was one of the last remaining members of Hamas’s political bureau, where he served as head of national relations. Fabian weighs in on how functional Hamas is as an entity in the Gaza Strip right now. Attack drones have emerged as one of the most potent threats to Israel’s home front since the beginning of the year. Yesterday, an Israel Air Force attack helicopter was filmed intercepting a Hezbollah drone in the Binyamina area, south of Haifa, after the drone set off sirens in area communities. Fabian speaks about how the IDF is adjusting how it takes down drones as the war progresses. Israeli naval commandos captured a Hezbollah official in a raid in northern Lebanon late Friday, the military confirmed on Saturday night, marking an unusual operation both in its nature and location deep inside the country. We hear about the daring mission and what its goals were. A reprisal attack from Iran is still on the horizon. We hear what preparations the IDF is taking.For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Three soldiers killed in north Gaza; IDF says 900 terror operatives dead in Jabalia op IDF says it killed one of the last remaining Hamas politburo members still in Gaza 130 rockets, 10 drones fired at Israel Saturday; helicopter downs drone south of Haifa Israeli commandos nab top Hezbollah naval operative in north Lebanon raid Khamenei threatens Israel and US with ‘a crushing response’ to Israel’s airstrikes US said to warn Iran it won’t be able to restrain Israel if Tehran attacks 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: A building, left, in Batroun, northern Lebanon, November 2, 2024, where a Hezbollah ship captain was taken away by IDF commandos who landed on a coast north of Beirut. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World. This episode features host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with ToI senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur. The United States is electing its next president on November 5 and according to a poll published this week, Israelis massively favor Republican Donald Trump over Democrat Kamala Harris. So ahead of next week’s results, we take a closer look at exactly how Israelis are polling, which candidate they favor — and some reasons why. We also learn how the current polling matches previous surveys of Israelis ahead of past US elections and who was actually elected in the end. We also hear from Rettig Gur, who has been touring Jewish communities over the past week, what concerns he’s gathered about both candidates from the American Jews he’s spoken with. And finally, we look at the recently published AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey of Americans which, among other things, drills down into the US population’s partisan divide on all things Israel and the Middle East. So this week, we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Poll shows Israelis massively favor Trump over Harris in US election Poll: Democrats, Republicans split on Israel’s responsibility for war’s escalation 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: This combination of pictures shows US Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (L) speaking during a Get Out the Vote rally in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on October 30, 2024; and former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaking at a campaign rally at the PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on October 29, 2024. (Angela Weiss/AFP)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 latest ceasefire negotiations and the US administration's decision to first pursue calm in Lebanon, given the signals received from Hezbollah and the hope that a ceasefire could then spread to Gaza. He also offers an update on the ceasefire and hostage negotiations regarding Gaza, and the complications resulting from Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's death, which has left a gap in the terrorist group's leadership. Magid talks about statements made by former US president Donald Trump regarding Gaza if he wins next week's election and comments made by Trump running mate JD Vance regarding US interests vis a vis Iran. Finally, Magid discusses the deadly IDF strike in Gaza that reportedly killed more than 90 people, including 20 children, and what that could mean regarding the US 30-day deadline for Israel about aid and continued American security assistance. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Inverting its approach, US pursues calm in Lebanon that will then spread to Gaza In warning, Qatar and Egypt tell US hostage talks complicated by killing of Sinwar Trump told Netanyahu he wants Gaza war over by time he enters office — sources Vance: US and Israeli interests won’t always overlap; we don’t want war with Iran US presses Israel to explain ‘horrific’ Gaza strike in which over 20 kids said killed 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: U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein leaves after attending a news conference in Beirut, Lebanon, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Yesterday, Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said he was striving for a ceasefire between Israel and the Hezbollah terror group within the coming days, after a hopeful conversation with US special envoy Amos Hochstein and as reports emerged with details of a US-backed ceasefire proposal. We discuss a leaked draft of the deal and also Berman relays a sense of the Lebanese Armed Forces and their ability to control Hezbollah. The IDF said yesterday that it is launching a new eastern regional division, a decision made following an examination of the military’s “operational needs and defense capabilities in the area, in accordance with the planning of the IDF’s force build-up." We hear what would be the new division’s purview and how ultra-Orthodox soldiers could be a strategic bolstering force. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Lebanese PM says hoping for ceasefire in coming days; US-drafted truce deal leaks US mediators jet to Israel for talks on 60-day truce with Hezbollah New Hezbollah chief threatens Netanyahu, but opens door for ceasefire in first speech IDF announces formation of new division to defend Israel’s border with Jordan 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 protest in Tel Aviv, calling for equal military service, March 14, 2024. (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. Political correspondent Sam Sokol joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Sokol discusses the fiery start of the Knesset fall session this week, as young women dressed to resemble hostage Naama Levy and her bloodstained clothing and hands when she was taken captive on October 7, were in attendance at the Knesset Committee on the Status of Women and Gender Equality, along with many members of hostage families. He reports on the fierce arguments in the Knesset plenum, as opposition leader Yair Lapid took Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to task, and a screaming match between several lawmakers before a vote on a bill that would allow the government to deport the family members of terrorists who are Israeli citizens.  Sokol also reviews the Knesset vote on the UNRWA bill that would bar the UN agency supporting Palestinian refugees and their descendants from operating in Israel, and a bill barring new foreign consulates in Jerusalem, also aimed at preventing consular offices that serve Palestinians. Finally, Sokol turns to the draft law, and how one ultra-Orthodox party backed down from its threat to overthrow the budget over the IDF exemption bill. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: With blood-red hands, Gaza hostage supporters make their mark on the opening of Knesset Following stormy debate, lawmakers advance measure to deport terrorists’ relatives Knesset approves laws barring UNRWA from Israel, limiting it in Gaza and West Bank Knesset passes law banning establishment of new foreign consulates in Jerusalem Ministers back bill denying the PA a path to petition the High Court of Justice Ultra-Orthodox party backs down from threat to tank budget over IDF exemption bill Netanyahu says Israel’s strikes on Iran destroyed ‘industrial factories of death’ 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: Shira Albag, mother of hostage Liri Albag, far left, with other hostage family members and supporters sit on floor of Knesset on October 28, 2024 holding signs that read, 'This is how they urinate in the tunnels,' referring to the bottles full of urine found in the Gaza tunnels (Courtesy Hostages and Missing Families Forum)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Two bills overwhelmingly passed through final votes last night, which ban UNRWA from operating in Israeli territory and bar Israeli authorities from any contact with the agency. We discuss how Israel or the international community will fill the vacuum this would leave in Gaza even as condemnations pour in. Senior Israeli officials told Ynet this morning that there is progress on an agreement to end the fighting in Lebanon. Berman explains what appears to be on the table, including enforcement of the resolution, with Hezbollah prevented from having a presence near the border. We’re hearing various reports of varied hostage release deals. But yesterday Mossad chief David Barnea returned to Israel on Monday from a 24-hour trip to Qatar to discuss proposals for a hostage and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu projected pessimism over the restarted negotiations. Berman weighs in. Finally, we were told yesterday by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during a fiery address at the opening of the Knesset winter legislative session that Israel hit key Iranian sites hard in its airstrikes on Saturday. We hear Berman's thoughts. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Knesset approves laws barring UNRWA from Israel, limiting it in Gaza and West Bank US urges Israel to rethink anti-UNRWA laws, warning millions at risk of ‘catastrophe’ PM ‘not certain’ negotiations can progress as Mossad chief returns from Qatar talks Netanyahu says Israel’s strikes on Iran destroyed ‘industrial factories of death’ 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 Palestinian woman walks past a damaged wall bearing the UNRWA logo at a camp for internally displaced people in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on May 28, 2024. (Eyad Baba / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today’s episode. The United Nations Security Council is expected to meet today to debate Israel’s strikes on Iran. Horovitz discusses how Saturday’s strikes were received by Israel’s international supporters — and detractors. Almost immediately following reports of Israel’s strikes on Iran, Israeli politicians began criticizing their limited nature. Horovitz weighs in on the thin tightrope Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu walks to appease his international and coalition partners. Due to “security concerns,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet will not meet in the Prime Minister’s Office or IDF headquarters. We hear what may have motivated this decision and how it was received. Yesterday, official Israel marked the Hebrew date to commemorate the Hamas onslaught on southern Israel and the massacre of 1,200 people, which sparked the ongoing war. Horovitz was at the site of the Nova outdoor music festival on Simhat Torah and shared his observations. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Israel’s strike on Iran was ‘historic,’ but it’s not ‘the end’ of anything Iran says it had advance notice of IDF strikes; UN Security Council to meet Monday IDF chief on Israel’s attack in Iran: ‘We have the ability to do much more’ Gallant said to tell Netanyahu management of war directionless, goals need updating Afula’s largest high school marks official day of mourning with somber yet hopeful ceremony 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: Commuters drive past a billboard bearing pictures of Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Joe Biden in Vali-Asr Square in Tehran on October 27, 2024. (Atta Kenare / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. This morning, according to initial reports of a truck-ramming incident being classified as a suspected terror attack near the Glilot Army Base, 35 victims have been taken to hospitals, including six in serious condition, five in moderate condition, 20 who are lightly hurt, and another four suffering acute anxiety, according to Magen David Adom. Fabian updates us on what we know so far. We speak about new information being gleaned about Israel's strikes on Iran, following our in-depth conversation yesterday for the Daily Briefing. Israel has suffered heavy losses in or on the border with southern Lebanon over the past several days, with 13 soldiers and two civilians being killed. Fabian brings us perspective from the over year-long campaign. Yesterday, much of northern Israel received an earthquake alert after the IDF blew up a tunnel complex that included a full-on Hezbollah base in southern Lebanon. Fabian visited the site last week in the dead of night and gives us a full report. We turn to Gaza, where three Israel Defense Forces soldiers were killed Friday during fighting in the northern Gaza Strip’s Jabaliya as the military pushed ahead with an offensive in the neighborhood, including taking control of the area’s last functioning hospital in pursuit of Hamas operatives. We discuss what we know about the humanitarian zone and whether it is likely in the near future that Gazans may be able to return to the Strip's cities.For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Iran said ‘alarmed’ as IDF cripples its missile production, disables key air defenses Four IDF reservists killed, 14 wounded in battle with Hezbollah in south Lebanon 2 killed, 7 hurt as Hezbollah rocket hits minimarket in northern town of Majd al-Krum Hezbollah bombards north with rockets and drones as IDF targets launchers in Lebanon Under a Lebanese border village, IDF finds huge Hezbollah base primed for invasion 3 soldiers killed in north Gaza as troops raid hospital in pursuit of Hamas operatives IDF says it struck Hamas command center in Gaza City, expands ‘humanitarian zone’ 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: Soldiers are seen in a Hezbollah tunnel in southern Lebanon, late October 21, 2024. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Early this morning, Israel launched Days of Repentance, its long-awaited retaliatory strike against Iran, almost a month after the Islamic Republic’s October 1 massive barrage of some 200 ballistic missiles. Fabian explains the timeline and goals of the Israeli Air Force’s targeting of strategic military sites near Teheran and other parts of Iran in several waves of operations. The Iranian Air Force reportedly has only a few dozen working strike aircraft, including Russian jets and aging US models acquired before the country’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. We hear about Iran’s aerial defense and offense capabilities ahead of a potential escalation between Iran and Israel. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF launches strikes on military sites throughout Iran, weeks after missile attack What Iran and Israel would wield in any long-range air 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: Illustrative: An Israeli Air Force F-15 Eagle fighter aircraft flies over Haifa on September 24, 2024. (Jack Guez / AFP)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 Jessica Steinberg for today's podcast. Magid discusses Mossad chief David Barnea heading to Doha again for hostage negotiations, as well as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahyu's recent meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The negotiations are the first in two months, and follow the death last week of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He also talks about the effects of a possible Donald Trump win in the upcoming US election, a victory that would offer Netanyahu more leeway in maintaining his hardline government and in the ongoing war in Gaza, but there is also a possible clash as Trump keeps saying, "End the war very quickly." Magid reviews the latest proposal for getting aid into Gaza through an Israeli-American businessman who hopes his company will be chosen for the subcontracting job, with a plan for constructing gated communities in Gaza run by outside security forces. Magid reviews the October 31 deadline for renewing the bank agreement between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, a process that involves Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Mossad chief heads to Qatar Sunday to try to restart Gaza talks; Hamas team in Cairo Blinken pushes Israel to publicly say it’s not aiming to besiege north Gaza; PM demurs If Trump wins, Israeli officials fear clash over inability to quickly end Gaza war As Israel weighs subcontracting Gaza aid delivery, a philanthropist makes his pitch US official: PA has met Israeli requirements for Smotrich to extend banking 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: Demonstrators calling for the release of Israeli hostages outside the home of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on October 24, 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. In this special Simhat Torah holiday episode, host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaks with Rabbi Avi Poupko, who is currently serving in reserve duty as part of the IDF rabbinate along the northern border. Simhat Torah is an annual celebration of the completion -- and restarting -- of the Shabbat Torah-reading cycle. Usually a day of joyous prayer, singing and dancing, the observance of this holiday is forever intertwined with last year's Hamas massacre of 1,200 and the hostage-taking of another 251 to Gaza. Poupko talks about observing the Sukkot holiday while listening to rocket fire overhead and gives historical context to how Jews have always adapted to tragedy and carried on "doing Jewish." For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: How Israeli Jews face the Simhat Torah holiday, forever marred by Oct. 7 massacre 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. Illustrative image: A Jewish man carries a Torah scroll during Simhat Torah celebrations at Rabin Square, Tel Aviv, on October 21, 2019. (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. Reporters Sue Surkes and Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Surkes discusses the funerals of Druze commander Ehsan Daqsa, one of the most senior officers killed in Gaza, and Elishai Young, 19, a combat soldier from the Hebrew Israelites community in Dimona, both members of minority populations in Israel that grapple with societal acceptance yet gave their lives to Israel. Bletter speaks about recent scientific research that looks at the effects of alcohol intake as opposed to psychedelics on Nova survivors suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder from the rave massacre on October 7. She also talks about a visit to Klil, a northern hippie hamlet that isn't connected to the country's electricity grid, and therefore doesn't hear sirens warning of incoming rocket attacks. Surkes reviews her report on planned budget cuts to the Agriculture Ministry, even as the ministry had plans to invest in Israel's food security, as war has exposed need for food independence without reliance on imports. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Druze IDF colonel Ehsan Daqsa, slain in Gaza, remembered as a ‘natural leader’ Death of soldier reopens debate about citizenship for non-Jewish Hebrew Israelites Study: Nova survivors who drank alcohol before Hamas attack more likely to suffer PTSD An off-the-grid hippie hamlet in Israel’s north struggles for survival under rocket fire Plans to ensure food security threatened by Treasury bid to slash agriculture funds 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: The funeral of Colonel Ehsan Daqsa in Druze community Daliyat al-Karmel on October 21, 2024 (Photo by Michael Giladi/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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan in ToI's Jerusalem office for today's episode. Yesterday, prosecutors announced that seven Israeli citizens were arrested last month on suspicion of spying for Iran for as long as two years, carrying out hundreds of tasks at the behest of the Islamic Republic. This morning, another Iranian espionage case was announced in which seven East Jerusalem residents have been arrested on suspicion of planning attacks in Israel, including the assassination of an Israeli nuclear scientist and a mayor in central Israel. Horovitz discusses these incidents and other similar Iranian efforts. The IDFs on Monday declassified intelligence on the Hezbollah terror group’s finance hub, including a bunker hidden underneath a hospital in south Beirut that it said contains hundreds of millions of dollars in cash and gold. We observe the way this cynical use of a hospital played out in international media. The Israel Aviation Authority briefly halted and then resumed takeoffs at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport yesterday around the time in which the IDF said that helicopters and fighter jets intercepted and shot down five drones over the Mediterranean Sea, before they entered Israeli airspace. Horovitz speaks about Israel's increased isolation during this time of war. Almost a week after the elimination of Hamas head Yahya Sinwar, Horovitz weighs in on leaders' predictions that this is a turning point in the war. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Seven Jewish Israelis arrested for spying for Iran on security figures, IDF bases Air Force pounds Hezbollah’s Beirut stronghold after civilians told to evacuate area IDF: Hezbollah hiding $500 million in gold, cash in bunker under Beirut hospital Ben Gurion briefly halts takeoffs as drones downed over sea; rocket lands near Tel Aviv British Airways suspends all Israel flights until March 2025 amid escalation fears 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. Illustrative image: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei listens to a speaker in a meeting in Tehran, Iran, October 2, 2024. (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan in ToI's Jerusalem office for today's episode. The commander of the Israel Defense Force’s 401st Armored Brigade, Col. Ehsan Daqsa, was killed during fighting in the northern Gaza Strip on Sunday. We hear about Daqsa, 41, from the Druze town of Daliyat al-Karmel, who was one of the most senior officers to have been killed in the fighting in Gaza. Yesterday, Fabian spent several hours in Rafah, where he was debriefed by Col. Sivan Bloch -- the head of Bislamach, the School for Infantry Corps Professions and Squad Commanders -- who stressed that the elimination of Yahya Sinwar by a patrol under his command was “not a stroke of luck.” We hear why. The IDF said jets hit dozens of sites overnight that are linked to an organization that funds the Hezbollah terror group in Beirut and south Lebanon. We learn about the strikes' targets: branches of an unlicensed gray-market bank seen as one of the group’s main sources of cash. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Commander of IDF’s 401st Armored Brigade killed in battle in northern Gaza At site of Sinwar’s slaying, IDF commander says incident was ‘not a fluke’ Blasts rock Beirut as Israeli sorties target financial group helping fund Hezbollah 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: The house where Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed by troops, in southern Gaza’s Rafah, October 20, 2024. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan in ToI's Jerusalem office for today's episode. The elimination of Hamas’s most dominant figure could open a small window of opportunity to achieve Israel’s elusive war aims, none of which have yet been secured, believe senior world figures, however, on Friday, Hamas released a statement saying the 101 hostages still held in Gaza would not be freed until the war ends and Israel fully withdraws from the enclave. Berman discusses this weighty moment. In mid-March, US officials told the Politico news site that US President Joe Biden would consider limiting future military aid to Israel if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu went ahead with an offensive against Hamas in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, which eventually occurred in May. Does this vindication of the Rafah operation affect the diplomatic balance between the US and Israel in any way? Israel’s military chief said Friday that at least 1,500 Hezbollah operatives are believed to have been killed in Lebanon since the start of the conflict there. According to IDF chief Herzi Halevi, Hezbollah forces are often surrendering. Berman describes Iran's role in an attempt at diplomacy, as well as the differences between the Hamas and Hezbollah fighting forces. Two gunmen claimed by the Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan breached the border from Jordan into Israel Friday morning, south of the Dead Sea. They were killed shortly after crossing the border by troops who scrambled to intercept them, in a clash that also injured two soldiers. Should we expect more attacks from this direction now? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: PM sees opportunity in Sinwar’s death. Does that mean escalation in fighting or a deal? Confirming Sinwar’s death, Hamas insists hostages won’t be freed unless war ends After Sinwar killing, Netanyahu sees vindication in his Rafah approach IDF says Hezbollah toll at 1,500; Lebanese PM: A lesson to stay out of regional conflicts IDF troops kill two gunmen who breached Jordanian border; 2 soldiers injured Keen to avoid all-out war after attacking Israel, Iran tries both diplomacy and threats 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: A woman holds a Palestinian flag, with the image of the Dome of Rock on it, during an anti-Israel protest to honor Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza on Wednesday, in Istanbul, Turkey, Octember 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World hosted by deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan. This week we speak with the editors of a new prayerbook -- "Az Nashir - We Will Sing Again: Women’s Prayers for Our Time of Need" --  written by women, for women, in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas onslaught on southern Israel. The anthology was compiled and edited by Shira Lankin Sheps, Anne Gordon and Rachel Sharansky Danziger, and it was published by The Layers Press, an imprint of The SHVILLI Center. The three editors join Borschel-Dan in The Times of Israel's Jerusalem office this week and explain their impetus to tackle such an ambitious project and the decisions they made while putting it together, such as the inclusion of "visual prayer" -- 30 colorful illustrations by female artists. According to the editors, the Hebrew-English tome is a prayer book companion that emulates a long tradition of Jewish women writing prayers, supplications and liturgical poems in their own mother tongues. So this week, we ask Shira Lankin Sheps, Anne Gordon and Rachel Sharansky Danziger what matters now. 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: The editors of 'Az Nashir - We Will Sing Again: Women’s Prayers for Our Time of Need,' (from left to right): Anne Gordon, Rachel Sharansky Danziger and Shira Lankin Sheps. (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 on today's podcast. Magid discusses the different methods used to identify Sinwar's body and what can be seen about Sinwar in the drone footage taken at the scene just prior to the strike that killed him. He reviews some of the reactions from the Biden administration, including calls made to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and various leaders in Qatar and Egypt in the hopes that Sinwar's death can shift the dynamic in the stalled hostage negotiations. Magid talks about who could be the new Hamas leader with Sinwar gone and how extreme or hardline some of those successors could be compared to the Hamas leader killed in Gaza by IDF troops on Wednesday. Magid also discusses the possibility of a more dialed-back response to the Iran attack on Israel on October 1, and looks at Israel letting aid into northern Gaza, with shipments from Jordan and other crossings reopened to allow aid to flow in more easily, after threats from the US administration to withhold arms deliveries. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: World leaders welcome Sinwar’s death, hope it will precipitate hostage deal, end to war Oct. 17: Footage shows Sinwar hurling stick at IDF drone moments before he was killed Israel lets 50 aid trucks into northern Gaza after US threat to curb arms deliveries US gives Israel 30 days to address Gaza aid crisis, threatens to curb weapons supply Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF soldiers carry the body of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar from the building where he was killed in Rafah, Gaza on October 17, 2024. (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. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's special report. Tonight, Israel announced that IDF troops had killed Hamas terror chief Yahya Sinwar in Gaza on Wednesday in a firefight in Rafah, in southern Gaza. Sinwar, the architect of the October 7 Hamas invasion and slaughter in southern Israel, was shot dead along with two other terrorists by a force from the 828th Bislamach Brigade. The terror chief became leader of Hamas after the killing of Ismail Haniyeh in a Tehran blast in July, when he was selected by Hamas’s 50-strong Shura Council, a consultative body composed of officials elected by Hamas members in four chapters: Gaza, the West Bank, the diaspora and security prisoners in Israeli jails. Horovitz describes what we currently know about Sinwar's killing and the identification of his remains. We learn how Israeli top leadership is responding to Sinwar's death and whether this could be a turning point in the war with Hamas. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hamas leader and Oct. 7 mastermind Yahya Sinwar killed by IDF troops in Gaza Yahya Sinwar: Radical Islamist ideologue utterly committed to Israel’s destruction Full text of Netanyahu’s address after killing of Hamas terror chief Yahya Sinwar 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: Yahya Sinwar, Hamas's leader in Gaza, gestures on stage during a rally in Gaza City, on May 24, 2021. (Mahmud Hams/ AFP/ File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Today, for the Sukkot holiday, we are bringing you a special extended episode from our partner podcast, Israel Story. Israel Story writes: This is an episode we never wanted to air. One that marks a year of war and a year of pain. A year since a day of ghastly violence, which led us into a nightmare that still has no end in sight. A year has passed, but the trauma is still fresh. With all that has gone on since October 7, 2023, we haven’t really had time, or opportunity, to pause. So our commemorative episode today is an attempt to step back and reflect. It’s not a news hour, and doesn’t follow the roller-coaster of events we’ve experienced since October 7th. Instead, it’s a collage of the dozens and dozens of people we’ve heard from throughout the year, alongside others whose episodes haven't aired yet. It will, we hope, offer an emotional journey, and paint a picture of what it has been like to be here this year. May the year ahead be a quieter and calmer one. A year with less pain and suffering and more peace and hope. May the hostages return home, and may we all know better days to come. Amen. The end song is B'Shana Haba'ah ("In the Next Year") by Shiri Maimon. (Licensed by Israel Story through Acum.) Produced in partnership with The Times of Israel. Subscribe to Israel Story on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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.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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. In a letter to Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, obtained by our US bureau chief Jacob Magid on Tuesday, the White House warned Israel it has one month to implement significant improvements to the humanitarian situation in Gaza or jeopardize the continued supply of US weapons, noting that humanitarian assistance entering the Strip has plummeted in recent months. Rettig Gur weighs in on how serious the US is on its demands and how this jibes with the announcement this week that it is deploying the THAAD missile defense system, along with some 100 US soldiers, to Israeli soil. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: US gives Israel 30 days to address Gaza aid crisis, threatens to curb weapons supply Israel faces potential shortage of interceptor missiles — report 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: Children sift through waste at a landfill in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on October 15, 2024. (Bashar Taleb / AFP)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 Arab Affairs reporter Gianluca Pacchiani join host Jessica Steinberg in today's episode. Sokol discusses the government decision to set another memorial day for October 7 by Transportation Minister Miri Regev, held a few days after the holiday of Simhat Torah, the Hebrew date for October 7. Regev went ahead with a plan to memorialize fallen soldiers and civilians killed, in two separate events and will not have any bereaved family members at the events. He also looks at the plans laid out by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to raise taxes, cut ministries and tax certain savings funds in order to continue funding the ongoing war. Pacchiani looks at UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon since 1978, but lacking any real ability to stave off Hezbollah in the region. He also talks about IDF efforts to dismantle Iranian weapons labs in Syria, including a daring mission in September, but one that needs to be happen more broadly in order to curb Hezbollah. Finally, Pacchiani talks about his ongoing conversations with an Iranian dissident, and Iranian concerns over the impending Israeli attack, in response to the October 1 launch of missiles from Iran. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: No representative of Oct. 7 bereaved families asked to speak at 2nd government ceremony Government sets second national day of mourning for October 7 Treasury proposes tax hikes for lowest earners, benefit cuts to fund war The force that isn’t keeping the peace in Lebanon: 4 scenarios for the future of UNIFIL A dissident in Iran awaits Israeli reprisal: ‘There’s a very real fear of all-out 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: Transportation Minister Miri Regev attends ceremony marking the one-year anniversary of the October 7 massacre, at Ben Gurion International Airport, October 7, 2024. (Photo by 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. Zman Yisrael editor Biranit Goren and reporter Sue Surkes join host Amanda Borschel-Dan in today's episode. Four IDF soldiers were killed and 58 others were wounded by a Hezbollah drone strike on a military base near Binyamina in north-central Israel last night. Forty-one soldiers of the 58 soldiers wounded in a Hezbollah drone strike on an army training base last night remain hospitalized, with eight in serious or critical condition, medical officials said this morning. Goren takes us through what happened in the strike and why it was so deadly. The Pentagon on Sunday confirmed that Washington will send an advanced air defense battery to Israel to protect the country in case of an Iranian reaction to an expected Israeli reprisal attack, along with American soldiers to operate it, as Tehran appeared to threaten the US troops to be stationed in the region. Goren takes us through the brief history of US deployment in Israel and what makes this American bear hug so unique. The Tekuma Authority, tasked with rehabilitating the Gaza border communities overrun by Hamas terrorists a year ago, will spend NIS 6.4 billion ($1.7 billion) during 2024, equivalent to 90 percent of the budget approved by the government, according to its first six-month report, covering April to September. While the budget is large, Surkes explains that parts are already being held up. Ahead of Rosh Hashana, a holiday associated with eating honey, Surkes visited Kibbutz Yad Mordechai, some 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) south of Ashkelon, where the majority of Israel's honey is produced. She reports back. To end with, we hear about an 18-month pilot project to test the effectiveness and popularity of eco-toilets at the IDF’s Nitzanim training base in southern Israel. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Four soldiers killed, seven seriously hurt in Hezbollah drone strike on military base US confirms it’s sending missile defense battery, 100 troops to operate it, to Israel Tekuma Administration reports spending NIS 6.4b on Gaza border reconstruction this year Despite the war, no shortage of honey for Jewish New Year Army cleans up its act with eco-toilets Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi talks to soldiers at a Golani base in northern Israel after a deadly Hezbollah drone attack on October 14, 2024 (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Hezbollah rocket fire continues to rain on Israel’s north as the IDF warns southern Lebanon residents not to return to their homes among ongoing air strikes and ground operations. In the last 24 hours, the Israeli Air Force has struck around 200 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and deeper into the country. We speak about weapons caches that were presumably stashed for an October 7-like invasion and other news from the conflict on the north. There are reports IDF tanks have reached the outskirts of Gaza City among a renewed IDF push in the northern Gaza Strip. Over the past day in the Gaza Strip, the 162nd Division continued fighting in Jabaliya in northern Gaza. Berman explains the current fighting and puts it into a larger context. There are reports that the US is considering sending Israel an advanced anti-ballistic missile defense system operated by American troops to protect the country in case of an Iranian reaction to an expected Israeli reprisal attack. Berman discusses how the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) air defense batteries would beef up Israel’s ability to fend off ballistic missiles and what it would mean to have US soldiers stationed in Israel at this time. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant accused Hezbollah of using UNIFIL posts as cover in his conversation last night with his American counterpart Lloyd Austin, according to the Israeli readout, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu releasing similar statements today. Who makes up the forces of UNIFIL?  On Thursday, the IDF for the first time brought Israeli journalists into a village in southern Lebanon. Berman suggests this is a clear indication that it feels it has asserted operational control over the area. We hear about his time in Lebanon. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Security chiefs: Israel will stop terror groups reestablishing presence near Lebanon border US may send Israel THAAD missile defense, as Iran seeks to ward off Israeli retaliation 40 countries contributing to UN’s Lebanon peacekeeping force condemn ‘attacks’ Finally on the offensive, IDF’s 91st Division slices through Hezbollah’s front lines 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: Destroyed buildings at a commercial street that was hit October 12, 2024, by Israeli airstrikes, are seen in Nabatiyeh town, south Lebanon, October 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World hosted by deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan. Shortly after October 7, when the murderous Hamas onslaught on southern Israel sparked the war in Gaza, Israel was pulled into defending itself and fighting Iran or its proxies on seven fronts: Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, the West Bank and, of course, Iran. But there is an eighth front that has emerged and is no less pernicious: the battle for public opinion and legitimacy. Since war broke out, Israel advocate Aviva Klompas has used her robust social media platforms to provide a counter to the onslaught of anti-Israel hate. As co-founder and CEO of Boundless, Aviva says she aims to reshape Israel education and confront antisemitism head-on. This war is affording her a great opportunity. We speak about this advocacy work and her new book, “Stand-Up Nation.” So this week we ask Aviva Klompas, what matters now. 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: Author and Israel advocate Aviva Klompas. (Zev Fisher)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. It’s been one year since October 7, 2023. To honor this day, we’ve produced "October’s Wake," a podcast mini-series, exclusively for ToI Community members. In this first episode, host Amanda Borschel-Dan brings together editor David Horovitz, senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur and diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman to answer your questions on the major issues from all fronts of the war — both in Israel and abroad. We zoom out and discuss how Israelis live with the knowledge that their homeland was invaded, and whether rallies in support of hostage families have helped torpedo a release deal. We hear whether Israel has a grand vision and possible ways to end the cycle of Iranian proxy warfare. And finally, we learn, what, if anything, gives these journalists hope. To hear the other two episodes, "October’s Wake: The waging of war" and "October’s Wake: The political quagmire" please join The Times of Israel Community. As a member of the ToI Community, you will have access to "October’s Wake" and other exclusive content that enable critical discussions about the future of Israel and its people. Your support helps us continue delivering quality journalism and insightful content. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Zev Levi.  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 reviews the nearly one-hour-long call held between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden on Wednesday, about Israel's plans to attack Iran, although that was only discussed briefly. He discusses the US "walking away" from its initial push for a 21-day ceasefire with Hezbollah, and US support of IDF raids into Lebanon. Magid looks at the clear frustrations the US administration has with Netanyahu, the continuing lack of a ceasefire and negotiations, and the blame game with the Israeli leader as well as Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He also discusses comments made by former Biden aide Andrew Miller about how Israel approaches military actions in civilian areas, how the US administration had to change its approach in influencing Israel and the ongoing war, and the need to plan for the day after in Gaza. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: One year since Oct. 7, US resigned to limits of its influence over Netanyahu US official: Sinwar likely alive in Gaza tunnel ‘with hostages in his vicinity’ Ex-Biden aide claims Israel has more tolerance for causing civilian casualties than US Biden and Netanyahu hold ‘direct and productive’ call in wake of Iranian attack 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: This combination image shows, from left; President Joe Biden, on March 12, 2020, in Wilmington, Del., and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Oct. 28, 2023, in Tel Aviv, Israel. (AP Photo, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. According to a Channel 12 news report on Tuesday night, the United States and Arab states have launched covert talks with Iran for a comprehensive ceasefire aimed at calming all war fronts at once. Berman discusses what influence Iran may still have with its proxies. Ahead of the planned phone call between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today, the apparently unease between the two leaders was writ large in headlines about an upcoming book by US journalist Bob Woodward. They haven’t spoken for over 50 days and last night the Defense Ministry on Tuesday informed the Pentagon that it is postponing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s planned trip to the United States -- reportedly because the two leaders have not yet spoken. Berman weighs in. Netanyahu seemed to confirm on Tuesday evening that Israel had successfully assassinated projected new Hezbollah leader Hashem Safieddine, who was targeted in an airstrike in Beirut last Thursday, and claimed Israel has also killed the next in line for the job, however the IDF’s follow up statement was much less conclusive. Berman parses this out. During a press conference in Jerusalem on Monday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot doubled down on French President Emmanuel Macron’s call last week for a partial arms embargo on Israel. Berman gives context and historical background to this new statement. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hezbollah rains rockets on Haifa as deputy leader claims capabilities intact US and Arab states reportedly in talks with Iran for ceasefire on all war fronts Netanyahu and Biden expected to hold call on Iran Wednesday after weeks of silence Biden said to call Netanyahu ‘a f**king liar’ after Israeli troops entered Rafah Netanyahu: Israel killed ‘Nasrallah’s replacement, and his replacement’s replacement’ Gallant’s trip to US delayed, reportedly after Netanyahu sets last-minute obstacles French FM backs Macron’s calls for arms ban, argues it’s for Israel’s security Macron speaks with Netanyahu, but doesn’t retract his call for arms embargo Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yoel Sigel. IMAGE: IDF forces on the ground in southern Lebanon, October 9, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz and culture editor Jessica Steinberg join host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. The UN special coordinator for Lebanon and the head of the peacekeeping force deployed along the border with Israel said this morning that a negotiated solution is the only way to restore stability. They added that Hezbollah’s attacks starting on October 8, 2023, were in violation of the UN Security Council resolution that ended the 34-day Israel-Hezbollah war in 2006. Horovitz weighs in on whether Israel currently believes the path of diplomacy is still viable. This morning, former prime minister Naftali Bennett called for Israel to strike the Iranian nuclear program which, he said, “casts a dark shadow over our futures,” amid reports military or intelligence targets could be hit in response to Tehran’s ballistic missile attack last week. Horovitz explores Bennett's motivations and discusses the current window of opportunity.  Steinberg reports on yesterday's commemoration ceremonies and discusses what the "alternative" and "official" productions show about Israeli society and its healing process.  For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: On anniversary of start of Hezbollah attacks on Israel, UN officials call for diplomatic solution Bennett urges Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear program: ‘A one-time window of opportunity’ At separate memorials, families demand accountability as PM touts Israeli ‘strength’ ‘We will rise from the ruins’: A bereaved audience pays homage on Oct. 7 anniversary Still under fire, Israel remembers Oct. 7 victims while grappling with ongoing nightmare Paramedic Amit Mann, 22: Sacrificed herself to protect patients Guy Illouz, 26: Soundman for Hayehudim with ‘a huge heart’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yoel Sigel. IMAGE: Kibbutz Beeri residents take part in a march and a ceremony marking one year since Hamas's October 7 massacre in Kibbutz Beeri and other locations in southern Israel, October 7, 2024. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Incoming rocket sirens sounded in central Israel following rocket fire from the Gaza Strip. The alerts are activated in some areas of Tel Aviv, as well as Holon, Rishon Lezion, Bat Yam, and other central towns. At the same time, the IDF said it thwarted a large barrage of rockets Hamas planned to launch at Israel this morning on the anniversary of the October 7 massacre. We hear what came out of the Strip this morning. Yesterday, the Israel Defense Forces said that troops had encircled Jabaliya amid a new ground operation targeting efforts by Hamas to reestablish itself in northern Gaza. Fabian speaks of other new developments in the Strip. Five people were wounded in Haifa on Sunday when Israel’s air defenses failed to intercept a barrage of five rockets launched from Lebanon, allowing at least one rocket to strike a busy urban area. What do we know about the air defense failure? The IDF announced that its 91st “Galilee” Regional Division began ground operations last night in southern Lebanon, joining two other divisions already operating there against Hezbollah. We hear about the ground operation and the airstrikes being conducted in tandem. A Border Police officer was killed and at least 10 others were wounded when a terrorist opened fire in the Beersheba bus station on Sunday afternoon. The victim was identified as Sgt. Shira Suslik, 19, a Border Police officer from Beersheba. Fabian talks about the site of the attack and its history. As the country marked one year since the onset of the war on October 7, 2023, the Israel Defense Forces on Monday published new data on its operations in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and Lebanon, from the number of rockets fired at Israel to the number of sites struck by the Israeli Air Force. Fabian brings highlights. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF launches new ground op in north Gaza’s Jabaliya to foil Hamas efforts to regroup IDF preparing for possible long-range rocket attacks from Gaza on Oct. 7 anniversary Five injured in Haifa after air defenses fail to intercept Hezbollah rocket barrage Border cop killed, 10 wounded in terror shooting attack at Beersheba central bus station IDF says hostage Idan Shtivi was declared dead based on new intelligence A year of war: IDF data shows 728 troops killed, over 26,000 rockets fired at 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 Ben Wallick. IMAGE: Israelis hold hands at Dizengoff Square in Tel Aviv, next to photographs of Israelis killed in the October 7 massacre, on the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attack, October 7, 2024. (Tomer Neubergi/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 legal affairs reporter Jeremy Sharon join host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Sokol discusses the latest brouhaha with Transportation Minister Miri Regev, as reservists called up for duty over the holiday lacked public transportation during the Rosh Hashanah holiday, a year into the ongoing war. Sokol also reviews the first week at work for Minister without Portfolio Gideon Sa'ar, once the prime minister's foe on the right, now part of his inner circle. Sharon looks at the latest with Justice Minister Yariv Levin, as he endeavors to drag out the appointment of a left-leaning Supreme Court president by imposing candidacies on all standing justices. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Shutdown of public transport hampers reservists called up over long holiday weekend Israel seeks to reverse EU’s advice to avoid its skies as foreign carriers nix flights As he officially rejoins government, Sa’ar blasts opposition for ‘living in Oct. 6’ Vogelman retires as Supreme Court president in shadow of severe judiciary-gov’t clash Judiciary adviser: Levin’s tactic to delay Supreme Court president vote ‘ridiculous’ 10 Supreme Court justices seek to retract their imposed candidacies for president Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yoel Siegal. IMAGE: Israeli soldiers near Israel's northern border with Lebanon on October 2, 2024 (Photo by Ayal Margolin/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. Those We Have Lost project coordinator Amy Spiro joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Today, we’re dedicating the daily podcast’s time to stories of civilians and soldiers who have fallen since October 7. We’ve each chosen 9 individuals to focus on and we’ll explain why they moved us. We also hear updates from Spiro on how many of the over 1,600 individuals who were killed on or after October 7 during this war with Hamas and Hezbollah that we have been able to write memorials for. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Cpt. Alina Pravosudova, 23: ‘Gingit’ loved ballet, volunteered for MDA Staff Sgt. Omri Peretz, 20: Squad commander ‘surrounded by friends’ Sujith Nissanka, 48: Dedicated Sri Lankan carer slain with his patient Mayana and Noah Hershkovitz, 65 & 68: Couple shared a love of art Sivan Shaarbany, 21: Curly-haired partygoer who loved salt & pepper Alon Toledano, 54: Sensitive man who aimed to help others Ilan Fiorentino, 38: Kibbutz security chief who was a ‘200% dad’ Ronen Daichman, 49: Physics teacher was ‘the coolest guy in the school’ Chief Supt. Martin Kyzmickas, 46: Cop who had ‘warrior blood’ 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: Family and friends of Israeli soldier Captain Eitan Itzhak Oster attend his funeral at the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem on October 2, 2024. (Oren Ben Hakoon/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. The IDF is calling on Lebanese civilians in 37 villages and towns in southern Lebanon to evacuate immediately, and head north of the Awali River. The overnight heavy airstrikes in Beirut targeted Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters, according to the IDF. We begin with the tragic incidents in which 6 members of the elite Egoz unit, two Golani soldiers and one paratrooper were killed inside Lebanon. As rocket sirens continue to sound all along Israel’s north, some 100 Hezbollah operatives have been killed during Israeli operations in southern Lebanon in the past day, according to IDF assessments. Fabian fills us in about the potential targeting of former Hezbollah head Hassan Nasrallah’s successor and other operations in the north. The head of a Hamas terror network in Tulkarem, along with several other operatives, were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the West Bank this evening. According to the military, the airstrike carried out by a fighter jet in Tulkarem targeted Zahi Yaser Abd al-Razeq Oufi, a top Hamas commander in Tulkarem who was planning a terror attack “in the immediate time frame.” Fabian weighs in. Senior Hamas official Rawhi Mushtaha, the de facto prime minister of the Gaza Strip, was killed in an Israeli strike several months ago, as well as two other high ranking Hamas operatives, the IDF and Shin Bet said Thursday. Likewise, the security forces said in a statement Thursday that they had killed Aziz Salha, a Palestinian man infamous for his role in the lynching of two Israeli soldiers in Ramallah in 2000, in an airstrike in Gaza. Fabian explains who these men were and how significant. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Nasrallah’s presumed successor said to be target of heavy Israeli strike in Beirut Officer killed in Lebanon; strike hits Hezbollah commander behind rocket attack on kids In first fatalities of Lebanon ground op, 8 IDF soldiers killed in battles with Hezbollah At least 18 said killed in Tulkarem airstrike on head of local Hamas terror network IDF says it killed Hamas de facto PM – Sinwar’s right-hand man – in strike 3 months ago Palestinian infamous for 2000 lynching of soldiers in Ramallah killed in Gaza strike Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Adina Karpuj. IMAGE: Troops of the 188th Armored Brigade are seen operating in southern Lebanon, in handout image published October 4, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. For nearly a year, Israel has been forced to fight a war on seven fronts: against Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza; Hezbollah in Lebanon; the Houthis in Yemen; various Iran-backed militias in Iraq, and also in Syria; against Iranian efforts to arm Palestinian militants in the West Bank; and against Iran itself, which first attacked Israel in April and then again on Tuesday night. Rettig Gur examines how Israel has moved to a more offensive position this week, and how far it may go before the United States's bear hug becomes a restraint. And to close out this holiday episode, Rettig Gur speaks about what makes the Jewish New Year different from every other major holiday. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Biden: US opposes Israel hitting Iran nuclear sites, response should be ‘proportional’ A nervous Iran wanted to restore old regional order, but Israel is on the offensive Iranian regime’s missile assault underlines that Israel, with US, must expedite its demise 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 Podwaves. IMAGE: Israelis stand on top of the remains of an Iranian missile in the Negev desert near Arad, on October 2, 2024, in the aftermath of an Iranian missile attack on Israel. (Menahem KAHANA / AFP)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, US bureau chief Jacob Magid and military correspondent Emanuel Fabian join host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Horovitz, Magid and Fabian discuss Tuesday evening's Iranian attack on Israel, as Iran launched 181 missiles at Israel, sending millions of Israelis into sealed rooms and bomb shelters on the eve of the three-day Rosh Hashanah holiday. Israel's Air Force, along with the US and Jordan, intercepted most of the projectiles, showing close coordination and alliance, said Magid. The US also vowed severe consequences for Iran, stressing the US-Israel coordination, without efforts to hold back Israel. Fabian updates the latest in the front with Lebanon, including Tuesday's discovery that the IDF has been conducting small raids into Lebanon since last October, with special forces operating for a day or three to four days at a time, uncovering Hezbollah sites and tunnels, weapons depots, thwarting Hezbollah intentions to conduct another kind of October 7 attack. Fabian comments that now the IDF has an entire division operating in Lebanon for a much larger scale operation but with similar goals, including the army's intention to demolish Hezbollah tunnels. Horovitz remarks that Iran insisted on portraying the Tuesday night missile attack as a great success. He notes that Israel has changed course dramatically in the last two and a half weeks, beginning with the pager attack not yet officially claimed by Israel, and the elimination of Hezbollah leader Nasrallah and other leadership, all showing a different course by Israel and the expectation that Israel will hit back hard at Iran, with US support. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Iran fires 181 missiles at Israel; PM: They made a ‘big mistake’ and ‘will pay for it’ Shrapnel from Iranian missile kills Palestinian man near Jericho US: We will help Israel exact ‘severe consequences’ from Iran for missile attack Seven people killed in shooting, stabbing terror attack in Jaffa IDF: Hezbollah was ready to invade en masse after Oct. 7; we covertly raided 1,000 sites IDF says strike kills head of Hezbollah unit charged with smuggling arms from Iran 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 Podwaves. IMAGE: Israelis take cover inside a bomb shelter at Ben Gurion airport as a siren alert is sounded in Tel Aviv, October 1, 2024 (Photo by Dor Pazuelo/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 reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode from the Jerusalem office. The IDF announced the launch of limited raids into southern Lebanon late on Monday night against Hezbollah forces and infrastructure positioned along Israel’s northern border. We discuss the strategy here and whether this is a formal declaration of war even as the IDF’s 98th Division, an elite formation of paratrooper and commando units, conducted an overnight ground operation. Yesterday, Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said the Lebanese government is ready to fully implement a UN resolution that had aimed to end Hezbollah’s armed presence south of the Litani River. We ask, what does it mean for Israel to have a weak state on its border and is it time for the west to bolster it? The Biden administration appears to express its support for the raids that the IDF began conducting late Monday night during a call between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Berman weighs in. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF announces launch of limited ground raids on Hezbollah sites across Lebanon border Israel says ‘next phase’ beginning in Lebanon, amid global pleas against a ground op Lebanese PM says willing to deploy army south of Litani River, fully implement UN resolution Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yoel Sigel. IMAGE: Israeli soldiers work on tanks in a staging area in northern Israel near the Israel-Lebanon border, October 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Baz Ratner)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode from the Jerusalem office. Yesterday, the Israeli Air Force launched airstrikes Sunday against infrastructure in western Yemen that the military said was used by the Houthis, in a response to recent ballistic missile attacks on the Jewish state carried out by the Iran-backed group. Fabian explains how logistically complicated this mission is, what was struck and the messaging top Israeli officials released following the strikes. At least three terror operatives were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a Beirut apartment building after midnight on Monday, the first such raid in the heart of the Lebanese capital since the outbreak of the war in Gaza last year. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) said three of its fighters were killed in the strike. Likewise, the Palestinian terror group Hamas said that its leader in Lebanon, Fateh Sherif Abu el-Amin, was killed in an Israeli strike in the south of the country. We hear about these strikes, as well as the Saturday strike that killed senior Hezbollah official Nabil Qaouk. The body of Hezbollah terror chief Hassan Nasrallah was recovered from the site of an Israeli airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs on Sunday, alongside some 20 other top Hezbollah operatives. Fabian names those who have been identified and explains how resonant this strike was to the terror group's organizational structure. The Israel Defense Forces may have begun or is about to begin small operations across the Lebanon border to take out nearby Hezbollah positions, according to two US reports. This is not yet the approved ground incursion, says Fabian, which is not off the table. And finally, we learn about targeted airstrikes on two former schools in the Gaza Strip, as well as a kilometer-long tunnel that was discovered and destroyed. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Dozens of Israeli planes strike port, power plants in Yemen after Houthi missile attacks IDF intercepts ballistic missile that Houthis claim aimed at PM’s plane at Ben Gurion Hamas leader, PFLP fighters killed in strikes on southern Lebanon, central Beirut IDF kills another senior Hezbollah official in Beirut; fresh barrages target north Nasrallah’s body retrieved from ruins as IDF names 20 more terrorists killed in blast IDF may have already begun small raids on Hezbollah in south Lebanon – reports Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yoel Sigel. IMAGE: A large fire and plume of smoke is visible in the port city of Hodeida, Yemen, September 29, 2024, after Israeli strikes on the Houthi-controlled city. (AP Photo)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode from the Jerusalem office. Last night, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made his first public comments since a massive Israeli airstrike killed Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah in his southern Beirut headquarters on Friday. We hear about how the Israeli leader framed the decision and his view of its repercussions. We compare those remarks to Netanyahu's statements at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, just prior to the strike. We discuss how Nasrallah was in many ways became the "archetypical" enemy of Israel. Is it possible that his assassination could reshape the balance of power in the region? Finally, we hear if this strike could shift Israelis' perceptions of their own army's competence as the country prepares to mark the first anniversary of the October 7 Hamas massacre of 1,200 and abduction of 251 hostages to the Gaza Strip. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Touting Nasrallah killing, Netanyahu warns Iran: Israel can reach anywhere In blistering UN speech, Netanyahu says Israel seeks peace but will fight until victory Israel knew of Nasrallah’s location for months, some ministers opposed hit — reports Killing of Nasrallah shows the IDF reasserting primacy, gradually restoring public trust Nasrallah’s elimination is a direct blow to Iran, and a revival of Israeli deterrence Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yoel Sigel. IMAGE: A portrait of Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah hangs on a street in Baghdad on September 29, 2024, after Iraq officially declared a three-day national mourning period following Israel's killing of the Lebanese leader. (Ahmad Al-Rubaye / AFP)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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World. This episode features host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with best-selling author Dr. Micah Goodman in a conversation recorded on September 25, 2024, ahead of the IDF's targetted assassination of Hezbollah head Hassan Nasrallah.  Best-selling author Goodman revisits a theory he discussed with Borschel-Dan on October 9, mere days after Hamas infiltrated Israel’s south and slaughtered 1,200 people and abducted 251 hostages to Gaza. We hear about Goodman’s idea of the “zero-sum game” that Israel must play to restore deterrence and maintain legitimacy and its results so far. Now, a year into this ongoing war, we learn how the Israeli narrative of the war is shifting away from perceiving it through the prism of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Today, two other narratives are increasingly gaining steam: One states that October 7 was the opening salvo to a regional war and the other zooms out even further and places it in the context of a realignment of the global axis. We hear how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was “right” in warning against Iran, but his coalition just may obstruct efforts to solve the conflict once and for all. “We need new politics in order to defeat Iran,” said Goodman. So this week, we ask Dr. Micah Goodman, 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: Philosopher and public intellectual Dr. Micah Goodman. (Yonit Schiller)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. The Israeli Air Force carried out massive targeted airstrikes in the Lebanese capital of Beirut on Friday evening, with the military saying it had struck Hezbollah’s main headquarters. This morning, the IDF confirmed Nasrallah’s death and later Hezbollah also announced the targeted assassination of its leader. We hear about the timeline of the strike, as well as others who may have been killed alongside Nasrallah. Since the strike on Friday, rockets have continued to be shot from Lebanon over the border. Fabian speaks about their inefficient guidance systems and what this may indicate. On Thursday, the chief of the Israeli Air Force, Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar said that preventing all weapon transfers from Iran to Hezbollah is now a top priority. We hear about the efforts to prevent Hezbollah's rearmament as well as the potential for a ground incursion into Lebanon. The Israel Defense Forces assessed on Friday that Hamas has been largely defeated militarily in the entire Gaza Strip, and it is now effectively a guerrilla terror group that will take some more time to dismantle. Fabian breaks this down. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: IDF says Hezbollah terror chief Nasrallah, other top commanders killed in Beirut strike Israel targets Nasrallah in bombing of Hezbollah HQ; increasingly believes it killed him Hassan Nasrallah: Terror chief made Hezbollah a regional force, ignored Israeli warnings Official: With strike on Nasrallah, Israel hopes to avoid ground-op in Lebanon IAF chief: Preventing all weapon transfers from Iran to Hezbollah now a top priority IDF assesses Hamas defeated militarily in all of Gaza, is now a guerrilla terror group Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Adina Karpuj. IMAGE: Hassan Nasrallah, leader of Hezbollah, speaks during a ceremony in Beirut on July 24, 1994. (AP Photo/Ahmed Azakir, File)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Magid reviews the breakdown of the proposed 21-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in the air, flying to the US to speak at the UN General Assembly after his far-right government partners threatened to bolt the coalition. He also discusses the speech given by US President Joe Biden at the UN General Assembly earlier in the week, specifically his comments about the Middle East and the need to work on global alliances, as well as an emphasis on the October 7 atrocities, making a point of the horrors of that day and of the continuing war. Magid also relates to Biden's possible plans during his lame duck period following the November elections and before the January inauguration and the steps his administration wants to take regarding a two-state solution. US, frustrated, says ceasefire plan rejected by Netanyahu had been coordinated with him At UNGA, Biden describes horrors of Oct. 7 and Gaza war, urging sides to accept deal US officials weighing steps Biden could take to preserve two-states after election Abbas, in UN speech, blasts Israeli ‘genocide’ in Gaza, sets out 12-point ‘day after’ plan For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: 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: Palestinian supporters march with a cutout depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu near the United Nations headquarters, Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. The United States, France, and some of their allies called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah while also expressing support for a truce in Gaza, according to a joint statement of the countries released by the White House Wednesday following an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Lebanon. We begin by speaking about the apparent IDF achievements of the stepped-up airstrikes over the past week and then turn to the truce proposal and reactions to it. Alongside the massacre of 1,200 and abduction of 251 hostages on October 7, Hamas head Yihya Sinwar attempted to launch a regional war. As such a war appears increasingly realistic, Borschel-Dan asks Horovitz if Israel is playing into Sinwar's hands. We end today's episode by discussing this past year of journalism and how complicated responsible reporting is in this region. Horovitz explains some of the challenges facing news outlets and how some respected news sources are not rising to them. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: A fateful, devastating year; a little about ToI’s work; a thank you to ToI Community US, France lead joint call for immediate 21-day truce between Israel and Hezbollah Drone from Iraq hits Eilat port, causing damage and lightly injuring two 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: Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati speaks during a meeting of the Security Council, September 25, 2024, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Hezbollah took responsibility for the missile attack on central Israel this morning, claiming to have targeted the Mossad headquarters near Tel Aviv with a “Qader 1” ballistic missile in response to the pager and walkie-talkie explosions and the assassinations of top commanders in the terror group. Fabian analyzes the relatively restrained Hezbollah response even as Israel continues to target Hezbollah leadership and infrastructure. Hezbollah confirmed that Ibrahim Qubaisi, the commander of the terror group’s rocket and missile division, was killed in an Israeli strike yesterday in Beirut. Who was he and how important of a target is he? This morning, the IDF issued a message in Arabic to Lebanese civilians who have evacuated their homes due to the presence of Hezbollah weapons, warning them it is not yet safe to go back. And on Monday, Israel published what it said was evidence of these Hezbollah munitions being placed in homes. What was this proof the IDF published? Several drones launched from Iraq overnight struck open areas in the northern Golan Heights and the Arava, according to the IDF. The Iran-backed Islamic Resistance in Iraq took responsibility. Fabian weighs in on when the IDF may respond more forcefully to these increasing attacks. We close the program with a brief update on what is happening on the ground in Gaza as the war against Hamas continues. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: In first, Hezbollah fires missile at Tel Aviv area; no injuries as IDF intercepts it IDF strike in Beirut kills Hezbollah missile chief, as rockets pummel Israel Missile in the attic: IDF releases photos of Hezbollah munitions in Lebanese homes 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: Hezbollah members march during a funeral procession in the southern suburb of Beirut, September 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)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 health reporter Diana Bletter join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol discusses latest with MK Gideon Sa'ar, who officially announced he would not consider replacing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant given the escalating situation in the north. Sokol also looks at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consideration of an IDF plan to lay siege in northern Gaza, and comments made by opposition members of the government regarding the current war situation in the north. Bletter talks about how residents of the north have been handling the ongoing war, speaking with a regional council head, hospital directors and residents about the escalating rocket attacks, and how they're dealing with the daily realities. She also discusses a therapeutic visit by Israeli alternative care practitioners to the Druze village of Majdal Shams, where a Hezbollah rocket attack recently wiped out 12 of their children and teens. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Sa’ar abandons pursuit of defense minister role as Lebanon fighting escalates PM says weighing plan for siege on Hamas in north Gaza; believes half of hostages alive North under siege: Rockets cause hospitals to nix procedures, schools and beaches to close Fear and uncertainty: As war escalates, northern residents feel there’s nowhere to go A northern kibbutz on the edge of the evacuated zone is Israel’s new de facto border Women travel to Majdal Shams to help mothers of children killed in Hezbollah attack 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: Smoke rises after an Israeli air strike in southern Lebanon, as seen from Israel, September 23, 2024 (Photo by David Cohen/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 reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Since this morning, the Israeli Air Force has struck more than 300 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Berman discusses Hezbollah's strategies and capabilities to threaten the IDF on land, air and sea. As it increasingly appears that Israel is on the brink of another war in Lebanon, Lazar gives insight into how the IDF has changed since the 2006 war and how this could shift the balance toward Israel's favor in another ground operation. A drone launched at Israel by an Iran-backed militia in Iraq in the early hours of Monday morning was shot down by Israeli fighter jets, the sixth attack from Iraq within 24 hours. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq took responsibility for the incident, saying on Monday morning that the group had targeted an Israeli observation base in northern Israel with drones. What is the Islamic Resistance in Iraq? Biden Administration officials in the past few days sent the draft text of a new hostage release-ceasefire proposal to Israel and, via Qatari and Egyptian mediators, to Hamas. What are the current proposals on the table and what are we hearing from Hamas? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: String of IDF successes might cause Nasrallah to back down, but won’t lead to victory IDF launches over 300 strikes on Hezbollah after stark warnings to Lebanese civilians Army says drone launched at Israel by Iran-backed militia in Iraq shot down by jets Reports: Hamas chief incommunicado, Israel checking longshot possibility he’s dead Israel offers to end war, let Sinwar leave if all hostages freed at once, Gaza disarmed PM says weighing plan for siege on Hamas in north Gaza; believes half of hostages alive 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: Hezbollah fighters raise their fists and shout slogans during the funeral of their senior commander Ali Dibs who was killed by an Israeli airstrike in Nabatiyeh town, south Lebanon, February 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. After a series of sharp escalations in the almost year-long tit-for-tat conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, some 2 million Israelis are in areas that are currently affected by Hezbollah rocket fire. This deeper Hezbollah retaliation comes after the IDF assassination of some dozen top commanders of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force in the Friday strike in Beirut that killed Ibrahim Aqil, the head of Hezbollah’s military operations. We begin the program by hearing how significant was Aqil and how much of a blow this mass assassination was. We hear about the scope of Hezbollah's fighting force and learn about a new kind of missile being used in the deeper attacks today. Is the IDF prepping the ground for an incursion? The IDF carried out an airstrike this morning and on Saturday against a group of Hamas operatives at command rooms embedded within former school in Gaza. With most of Gaza under IDF control, when will it move into the small pockets in central Gaza that have not yet been touched. Two terrorists who likely murdered six Israeli hostages in a tunnel in the southern Gaza Strip last month were killed by Israeli troops, IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Saturday. How did the IDF tie the terrorists to the hostages? A Jewish Israeli civilian was arrested last month after he was allegedly recruited by Iran to advance an assassination plot of Israel’s prime minister, defense minister, or the head of the Shin Bet, authorities announced on Thursday. The suspect, named as 73-year-old Moti Maman from the southern city of Ashkelon, was indicted on Thursday, after which the Shin Bet revealed details of the investigation. What do we know? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Hezbollah fires 100 rockets at north, wounding 3; teen killed in crash during siren IDF confirms eliminating multiple top Hezbollah commanders in Friday’s Beirut strike IDF says it struck Hamas operatives at inactive Gaza school; 21 reported killed Army says it killed 2 Hamas terrorists who likely murdered 6 Israeli hostages in tunnel Israeli Jew recruited by Iran in plot to kill Netanyahu, Gallant or Shin Bet head Bar 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: Smoke billows from the site of an Israeli strike that targeted the outskirts of the southern Lebanese village of Zibqin on September 22, 2024. (Kawnat Haju / AFP)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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World. This episode features host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with ToI senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur. Last week, three women were arrested after distributing flyers with six hostages’ faces in MK Yuli Edelstein’s synagogue in Herzliya, including a picture of him as a Prisoner of Zion alongside and the famous “Let My People Go” slogan used to support the refuseniks in the Soviet Union before being allowed to emigrate to Israel in 1987. After a week of backlash to their arrests and his apparent support for them, Edelstein clarified that while he understands the hostage families’ protests, he does “not forgive people who turn the hostages into currency to promote goals that have nothing to do with them.” At the same time, there already are efforts inside most — if not all — synagogues throughout Israel to release the hostages: the longstanding prayer for the release of hostages that is found in most standard prayerbooks. Rettig Gur and Borschel-Dan discuss the two sides’ stances and question whether they are all that far apart on the issue of the hostages. The two then turn to the question of whether or not Israel is basically experiencing an undeclared, low-burn regional war after a week in which a ballistic missile from the Yemenite Houthis reached Tel Aviv, a drone from Iraq was downed over the Sea of Galilee, along with the “usual” rockets from Gaza and Lebanon. Rettig Gur argues that even if Israel isn’t currently in a regional war, it’s time for one, but with one specific target. And so this week we ask Haviv Rettig Gur, what matters now? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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: Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, center, meets with Iraqi community members during his visit to Basra, Iraq, September 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Nabil al-Jourani)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 latest US administration comments regarding the uptick in Israeli strikes against Hezbollah, noting the carefully couched understanding of the escalation, given the continual Hezbollah missile attacks against Israel over the last year. He also reviews comments made by US officials to the Wall Street Journal about the lack of a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal, and expectations that none would be forthcoming before the end of the Biden administration. Magid then talks about two talks given by former President Donald Trump to two Jewish groups in the US, and Trump's stance that he is the only candidate who can save Israel from the destruction that he says would take place under a Kamala Harris administration. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Blinken warns against ‘escalatory actions’ in Mideast, cites risk to Gaza deal US: ‘Additional military ops’ not the best way to prevent Israel-Hezbollah escalation US says it wasn’t involved in or tipped off about Hezbollah pager detonations Senior US officials think Gaza ceasefire unlikely by end of Biden’s term — report Trump: If I lose election, Jewish people will ‘have a lot to do with’ 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 the Pod Waves. IMAGE; US Secretary of State Antony Blinken exits a vehicle as he departs Egypt, taking off from Cairo, Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, for meetings in Paris, France. (Evelyn Hockstein/Pool Photo via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Horovitz discusses the latest escalation in the north, following two waves of Hezbollah device explosions this week, and the decision by the government and IDF to send more troops to the northern border. He also describes the Shin Bet arrest of an older Israeli man, discovered to have traveled to Iran in a plot to kill the prime minister, defense minister or the head of the Shin Bet. Horovitz reviews the Wednesday night Channel 12 report alleging that the prime minister had been working since December to torpedo a possible hostage deal for political reasons, and also delves into the collapse of the end-of-November hostage deal. He also discusses why Netanyahu would want to swap his current defense minister, Yoav Gallant, during a war, for another political foe, MK Gideon Sa'ar, who has no specific defense background. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Gallant says IDF diverting resources to northern border in ‘new phase’ of war 20 killed, 450 wounded as Lebanon hit by 2nd wave of Hezbollah device explosions Hungary: Exploding pagers weren’t made here, linked firm acted as trade intermediary Will the pager operation deter Hezbollah and Iran, and is Israel prepared for war if not? Israeli recruited by Iran in plot to kill Netanyahu, Gallant or Shin Bet head Bar Ex-defense minister Ya’alon was target of Hezbollah bomb attack in Tel Aviv last year Report: Nov. truce collapsed because Hamas falsely claimed women set for release were dead Netanyahu, don’t fire Gallant again: The first was a tragedy, the second could be worse Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod Waves. IMAGE: IDF evacuates civilians injured by missile fired from Lebanon, in the Ramim Cliff area on September 19, 2024 (Photo by Ayal Margolin/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today’s episode. Four IDF soldiers fell in the Gaza Strip yesterday: Cpt. Daniel Mimon Toaff, 23; Staff Sgt. Agam Naim, 20; Staff Sgt. Amit Bakri, 21; and Staff Sgt. Dotan Shimon, 21. We discuss how the death of Naim, a paramedic, marks the first female soldier to be killed in the ground offensive. A massive attack against Hezbollah operatives that is being attributed to Israel saw the explosion of thousands of pagers yesterday a few hours after Israel announced an additional official war goal: getting displaced residents of the north back to their homes. Fabian fills us in on what we’re hearing from foreign reports and the possibility of retaliation. The Shin Bet foiled a recent attempt by Hezbollah to assassinate a former senior Israeli security official using a remotely detonated explosive device, the security agency announced on Tuesday. Fabian explains how Hezbollah likely has recruits in Israel to carry out such attacks. The Israeli military clarified on Sunday that there was no evacuation recommendation given for civilians in southern Lebanon, and that flyers dropped in the southern village of Wazzani calling on residents to leave had been distributed by a brigade commander without permission. How could this have happened? For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: 4 IDF troops killed, several hurt during fighting in southern Gaza’s Rafah 9 killed, almost 3,000 injured as vast wave of pager explosions strikes Hezbollah Analysts say Mossad likely hid explosives in pagers before they reached Hezbollah IDF urges vigilance as defense chiefs meet amid Hezbollah retaliation threat Shin Bet says it foiled Hezbollah attempt to kill former top Israeli security official After unauthorized flyers dropped, IDF says there’s no south Lebanon evacuation order 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: Lebanese first responders carry a man who was wounded after his handheld pager exploded in an attack blamed on Israel targeting Hezbollah, in the southern port city of Sidon, Lebanon, September 17, 2024. (AP Photo)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. The security cabinet updated its official goals for the ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza to include the objective of allowing residents of the north to return safely to their homes after being displaced by attacks by the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah, the Prime Minister’s Office announced this morning. Does this change anything? There are reports circulating right now about an emerging deal between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and New Hope chairman Gideon Sa’ar. Sa’ar is reportedly expected to be appointed defense minister if Netanyahu fires current defense chief Yoav Gallant and other reports say the two have agreed to jointly choose a new IDF chief of staff. Could it be detrimental to the war to switch leadership now? Four years ago, the Bahraini and Emirati foreign ministers stood on either side of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump to sign the Abraham Accords. Since then, the accords were slightly expanded to include Morocco. We hear how the war has affected the participating countries and whether the accords could be expanded again soon. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Return of displaced northern residents to their homes becomes an official war goal In deal to join cabinet, Sa’ar may get veto over judicial overhaul, choice of IDF chief Four years on, Abraham Accords are strained by Gaza war — but prove resilient 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: The scene where a Hezbollah missile fired from Lebanon hit a home in the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona, September 4, 2024. (Ayal Margolin/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 reporter Tal Schneider and reporter Gavriel Fiske join host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. In a phone conversation overnight, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin the time for a diplomatic solution to clashes with Hezbollah on the northern border is passing. At the same time, US special envoy Amos Hochstein is set to meet with Israel’s leadership today in an attempt to avoid further escalation between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group in Lebanon. Schneider describes what could be on the table. Three women who on Thursday distributed flyers on behalf of the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza at the Ohel Moshe synagogue in Herzliya were arrested a day later for alleged breaking and entering. The flyers distributed last week featured the images of six hostages believed to be held captive in Gaza as well as an image of a young Likud MK Yuli Edelstein — who was a refusenik and prisoner of Zion before being allowed to emigrate to Israel in 1987 — with the words “Let my people go” across the top. Schneider puts the contentious arrests into perspective and describes Edelstein's response. As the new school year approached, the Israel Democracy Institute's Education Policy Program, in collaboration with the IDI's Viterbi Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research, conducted an online survey from August 21 to 27, 2024. Fiske delves into the poll, which looks at how Israelis think the war should be taught in schools. Recent research by a team of Tel Aviv University archaeologists may upend the Masada legend by asserting that the Roman siege on the mountain fortress likely lasted just a few weeks and not years. We hear highlights of Fiske's conversation with the lead researcher, Dr. Guy Stiebel, a senior lecturer in Tel Aviv University’s Department of Archaeology and Near Eastern Cultures. The Hecht Museum in Haifa officially returned a repaired 3,500-year-old ceramic jug to its accustomed place next to the museum entrance on Wednesday, after it had been accidentally shattered last month by a curious four-year-old visitor in a viral incident that made headlines all over the world. Fiske visited the museum last week. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Months after bodies recovered, IDF says 3 hostages were killed as ‘byproduct’ of strike Gallant tells US counterpart time passing for deal with Hezbollah, ‘direction is clear’ Edelstein’s synagogue denies calling police on women who distributed hostage flyers Masada legend upended: ‘The Romans came, saw and conquered, quickly and brutally’ 3,500-year-old jug smashed by 4-year-old is back on display — still not behind a barrier Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod Waves. IMAGE: Troops of the Yiftah Brigade carry out a drill in northern Israel, in a handout photo published September 6, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military reporter Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. A surface-to-surface missile launched from Yemen set off sirens across central Israel this morning. Fabian gives us an update. A barrage of some 40 rockets was fired from Lebanon at the Galilee Panhandle and Golan Heights this morning. We hear how these rockets are wreaking damage and how they compare to the missile shot by Yemen this morning. On Saturday, the IDF called on Palestinians in parts of the northern Gaza city of Beit Lahiya to evacuate, after two rockets were fired from the area aimed at the southern coastal city of Ashkelon. The IDF in recent months has repeatedly issued evacuation orders for areas from which terrorists launched rockets at Israel, but that wasn’t always the case. What changed? Fabian reports back from Rafah where he learned last week that the Hamas terror group’s Rafah Brigade has been decimated, at least 2,308 of its operatives have been killed by the Israel Defense Forces and over 13 kilometers (8 miles) worth of tunnels have been destroyed. What did he see on the ground? According to a number of unconfirmed foreign reports last week, Israeli special forces carried out a raid on an Iranian weapons facility in Syria. The reports claim Israeli troops operated on the ground at Masyaf, which lies about 200 kilometers (124 miles) north of Israel, only about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Syria’s western coastline. The IDF has not confirmed these reports, but Fabian describes what we are hearing. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Ballistic missile fired from Yemen triggers sirens across central Israel IDF orders evacuations in northern Gaza’s Beit Lahiya after rocket attack on Israel IDF declares Hamas’s Rafah Brigade defeated; no active cross-border tunnels found Reports: Israeli troops raided IRGC weapons facility in Syria, took equipment, documents 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: Police near the remains of a ballistic missile fired by the Iran-backed Houthis from Yemen, near Moshav Kfar Daniel, September 15, 2024. (Yossi Aloni/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, we bring you a bonus episode of What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring one key issue currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World. This episode features host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove. Cosgrove is a leading voice in Conservative Judaism, who has served as head rabbi of New York’s Park Avenue Synagogue since 2008. We speak about his soon-to-be-published book, "For Such a Time as This: On Being Jewish Today" (Harper Collins), which was written after the October 7 Hamas massacre of 1,200 and abduction of 251. The book is a blend of memoir, Torah study and reflection on what it means to be a Jew in the Diaspora today even as Israel continues its war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Using the October 7 onslaught as a touchstone, the book is roughly divided into past, present and future and examines the connection between American Jewry and Israel throughout the decades. Cosgrove addresses concerns such as a new generation of young Jewish Americans who are proud of their religious heritage, but repudiate the nationalism exhibited by the Jewish state. So this week, we ask Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove, what matters now. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. 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: Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove, head rabbi of New York’s Park Avenue Synagogue, holding his new book, 'For Such a Time as This: On Being Jewish Today,' September 11, 2024. (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. Senior analyst Haviv Rettig Gur joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan on today's episode. Yesterday, Rettig Gur and Borschel-Dan attended a joint press conference for the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research and Tel Aviv University, where they heard the findings of the latest Palestine-Israel Pulse survey. They heard eye-opening perspectives of massive distrust in the other and how that influences any kind of vision of the future. They also learned that there is one sector -- Arab Israelis -- that is still optimistic and still thinks that peace can be achieved. The survey was conducted by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PSR) in Ramallah and the International Program in Conflict Resolution and Mediation at Tel Aviv University with funding from the Netherlands Representative Office in Ramallah and the Representative Office of Japan to Palestine through UNDP/PAPP. The lead authors were Dr. Dahlia Scheindlin, Dr. Khalil Shikaki and Dr. Nimrod Rosler. It polled 1200± Palestinians — over 800 from the West Bank and over 400 from Gaza in person — and 900 Israeli adults online, in the last half of July. Among other things, its findings addressed the impact of October 7 and the ongoing war on support for the two-state solution and support for various alternatives to the two-state solution, including one democratic state, one undemocratic state, a two-state confederation.We hear about attitudes toward the war and massive distrust of the other, extreme perceptions of the other and each side’s sense of victimization. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Palestinian-Israeli Pulse: A Joint Poll 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 live in shelter tents in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, September 12, 2024. (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. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon and Arab Affairs correspondent Gianluca Pacchiani join host Jessica Steinberg on today's episode. Sharon discusses the latest attempt by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu through Israel's Attorney General to stave off the International Criminal Court from issuing arrest warrants for him and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. He also reviews what Justice Minister Yariv Levin may do to circumvent the court order he was given this week to finally appoint a new president of Israel's Supreme Court. Pacchiani talks about the insights offered by an exiled Egyptian analyst regarding Gaza's Philadelphi Corridor, and Egypt's longstanding involvement with that stretch of land. Sharon looks at what is happening with a Hebron Hills Palestinian enclave whose residents could finally return to their homes following Jewish settler violence, only to be told by Israel's civil administration that they may have to leave again. Pacchiani discusses a Middle East confab in Baku, Azerbaijan where academics and high-tech types came together to discuss cooperation in the region. For news updates, please check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Netanyahu said to ask AG to probe him and Gallant in bid to avert ICC arrest warrant High Court orders Levin to appoint new court president; he calls its ruling undemocratic Egypt is embarrassed to admit failure to control Philadelphi, says exiled analyst Israel warns Palestinian village will be demolished if residents refuse to relocate In Baku, emerging Israeli and Arab leaders prepare for a post-conflict Middle East 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 large billboard depicting an image of Benjamin Netanyhau with the words 'You're the head, you're guilty' in Tel Aviv, February 14, 2024 (Photo by Miriam Alster/FLASH90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.