9 Jul
Pariah Nation
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the intense global condemnation Israel faces due to its actions in Gaza, emphasizing the need for Israel to address moral criticisms while ensuring security. They argue that Israel must balance being a warrior nation with aspirations for peace to restore its moral credibility and international standing.
8 Jul
Micah Goodman: 'I don't want Gaza to become our Vietnam' (18 Questions, 40 Israeli Thinkers)
Public intellectual Micah Goodman discusses the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the need for practical solutions over idealistic peace. He advocates for a Jewish democracy that balances innovation with tradition and sees this hybrid approach as a path forward for Israel and the Jewish people.
8 Jul
Trump the Neocon?
Commentary on the strategic alignment between Donald Trump and Israel, emphasizing his supportive relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu. The discussion explores Trump's evolving stance on Ukraine, highlighting his current advocacy for providing arms, which marks a departure from his previous administration's policies.
8 Jul
Patron Exclusive: Syria at a Crossroads
Gilad Halpern hosts Dr. Ido Yahel to discuss the pivotal transition in Syria's leadership from Bashar al-Assad to Ahmad al-Shahra, known as al-Julani, and the implications of this shift. The conversation explores the surprising and rapid collapse of Assad's rule amidst various internal and external pressures and the reorganization of factions within Syria.
7 Jul
Can Mamdani Be Defeated?
Discussing the highly controversial figure Mamdani and possibilities for defeating him in the New York mayoral race, the hosts analyze political strategies amidst rising anti-Israel sentiments. They explore related topics, including Elon Musk's political party ambitions, recent political and natural disasters, and the broader implications for Zionism and American politics.
7 Jul
Micah Goodman: 'I don't want Gaza to become our Vietnam'
Micah Goodman discusses the complexities and improbabilities of achieving Israeli-Palestinian peace in the foreseeable future, suggesting that expectations for Palestinian concessions on issues of religion and self-determination are unrealistic. He also emphasizes the hybrid nature of Israeli identity, combining Jewish tradition with democratic values, as a unique strength and possible model for the world.
7 Jul
'Hope is a political choice': MK Gilad Kariv on the fight for democracy and Reform Judaism in Netanyahu’s wartime Israel
In the episode, MK Gilad Kariv discusses the growing influence of religious extremism in Israel's Likud party and the broader threat this poses to democracy. He criticizes Prime Minister Netanyahu for prioritizing political survival over principles and emphasizes the significant role of public protests in maintaining democratic checks against the government's agenda.
7 Jul
Meet the Canadian fighting France for $30 million in unpaid embassy rent in Iraq
Philip Khazzam is fighting for the restitution of his family's mansion in Baghdad, Iraq, which was illegally rented out to the French government for decades without compensation. This case highlights the historical and ongoing struggles of Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews seeking justice for properties lost due to forced expulsions in Arab countries.
4 Jul
Canada’s Russian-speaking Jewish community considering appealing the results of the World Zionist Congress vote
Rabbi Marat Ressin discusses the challenges faced by Canada's Russian-speaking Jewish community in the World Zionist Congress elections, highlighting barriers in the online voting process due to language limitations and technological accessibility issues. Despite the low turnout and concerns about the election's cost-effectiveness, Ressin acknowledges the democratic process has strengthened community ties to Israel.
3 Jul
Journalist Matti Friedman Exposes Media Bias Against Israel
Journalist Matti Friedman critiques media coverage of Israel, highlighting biased narratives and activist journalism, particularly regarding Palestinian conflict reporting. He laments the decline of traditional journalism standards and emphasizes a need for new institutions focused on truth and comprehensive Jewish education to counter antisemitism.
3 Jul
The Hostage Crisis: Alana Zeitchik’s Fight for Her Family
Israeli-American advocate Alana Zeitchik discusses the personal and communal challenges of advocating for her kidnapped relatives, David and Ariel Cunio, amid the ongoing hostage crisis in Gaza. She highlights the disconnect between hostage families and the broader American Jewish community, and stresses the need for a coordinated advocacy effort to pressure both Israeli and U.S. governments for resolution.
3 Jul
One Big Beautiful America
The Commentary Magazine Podcast discusses the implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill and its alignment with conservative values, alongside the political opportunity presented by the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States' founding. The conversation delves into the balancing act between ideological purity and pragmatic governance while also highlighting the significance of this milestone for American identity and political dynamics.
3 Jul
The “Let My Bibi Go!” Edition
The episode discusses former U.S. President Donald Trump's public demand for the cancellation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial, which Trump describes as a 'witch hunt,' and the reaction from Israeli political figures. It also explores a controversial Haaretz article alleging the IDF's use of excessive lethal force near Gaza humanitarian aid centers, provoking a heated debate on Israel's military ethics.
3 Jul
Behind the scenes of the explosive Haaretz 'killing field' Gaza expose that Netanyahu called a 'blood libel'
An explosive report from Haaretz, based on testimonies from IDF soldiers, alleges that orders were given to use live fire against unarmed Palestinians at aid distribution points in Gaza, drawing heavy criticism from Israeli leaders. Journalist Nir Hasson and columnist Amir Tibon discuss the findings and the broader context of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its implications for Israeli security policy.
2 Jul
After Iran: What Now?
The episode discusses the aftermath of a successful yet speculative Israel-Iran conflict, examining the strategic and political consequences for Israel and the broader Middle East. Key topics include Israel's future military and diplomatic actions, potential Middle East peace deals, and Netanyahu's political maneuvers amidst ongoing regional tensions.
2 Jul
Gaza Ceasefire and Supreme Courtapalooza
The episode discusses recent developments in the proposal for a Gaza ceasefire, the extent of anti-Semitism in American academia, and significant Supreme Court decisions on religious liberty in schools and nationwide injunctions. Experts analyze the implications of these cases for US governance and individual liberties, marking a shift in judicial perspectives on executive orders and educational content restrictions.
2 Jul
Gaza: The End?
Donald Trump's involvement in Israeli politics is pressuring Prime Minister Netanyahu to end the Gaza war and prioritize the return of hostages. The episode explores the complex moral dilemmas facing Israel, including the empowerment of Hamas and the challenges of international legitimacy in the ongoing conflict.
1 Jul
What Matters Now to Haviv Rettig Gur: When Israeli extremists go to war - against Israel
Haviv Rettig Gur discusses the complex origins and evolution of the settler movement in Israel, emphasizing the recent extremist actions against the IDF by certain radical settler groups. He delves into the diverse motivations within the settler community and the political dynamics influencing how Israeli society is addressing these extremist elements.
1 Jul
Democrats Are Not Proud to Be American
Gallup's recent report shows that a mere 36% of Democrats express pride in being American, a number that fluctuates based on political power dynamics, contrasting sharply with 92% of consistently proud Republicans. The podcast hosts delve into the implications of these findings, speculating on the potential impact on political identity and patriotism in the US.
30 Jun
Mamdani, the Dems, and the Gaza Endgame
The panel delves into the recent Senate passage of the extensive budget known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill" and discusses its implications for national politics, including President Trump's latest political victories. They also examine the polarizing figure of Zoran Mamdani in New York politics, scrutinizing the broader impact of his controversial views on the Democratic Party and national politics.
30 Jun
Why 'emboldened' Jewish settlers are now attacking Israeli soldiers in the West Bank
Israeli settlers in the West Bank, emboldened by far-right government figures, have violently clashed with both Palestinians and IDF soldiers, prompting public condemnation from Israeli leaders. This episode explores the growing normalization of settler violence and the political dynamics contributing to this escalation of tensions.
30 Jun
Jonathan Rosenblum: 'Would you want to live in a country run by Haredim?'
Jonathan Rosenblum, a prominent Haredi journalist, discusses the complexities and diverse perspectives within the Haredi community, particularly in relation to the Israeli army draft and the broader socio-political landscape in Israel. Rosenblum challenges oversimplifications of the Haredi community and articulates nuanced views on Israel's geopolitical challenges, anti-Zionism, and the integration of Haredim into Israeli society.
30 Jun
‘This flag has power’: Wartime Canadian flag recovered from Europe after 80 years
Michael Levenston, the son of Canadian Jewish WWII hero Gerald Levenston, recounts the touching story of retrieving a long-lost Canadian flag gifted by his father to his wartime Dutch girlfriend, Ada Hugenholtz, from her family. This artifact, a symbol of Canada’s wartime effort and patriotic spirit, arrives just in time for Canada Day 2025, providing an opportunity for reflection on the enduring connections formed during the war and the ongoing challenges to democracy.
27 Jun
Why Are Liberals So Unhappy?
The episode delves into the candidacy of Zohran Mamdani, noting his anti-capitalist and anti-Zionist stance, and reflects on the challenges he faces in New York's mayoral race. Additionally, it explores why studies indicate liberals report being unhappier than conservatives, highlighting philosophical and societal perspectives on personal fulfillment.
27 Jun
What the War Reveals about Providence and Jewish History with Meir Soloveichik
Amidst a backdrop of escalating conflict between America and Iran, Rabbi Meir Soloveichik reflects on the interplay between providence and action in Jewish history, drawing parallels with historic events like the Six-Day War. He discusses how recent operations echo Menachem Begin's doctrine, which intertwines Jewish self-defense and divine providence, emphasizing the enduring significance of Israel's survival and presence in world affairs.
26 Jun
Mamdani Bests the Pro-Israel Machine
Zohran Mamdani's victory in the Democratic primary for New York City's mayoral race is seen as a landmark moment for progressive politics, particularly regarding his pro-Palestine stance which challenged the traditional pro-Israel establishment. This podcast episode unpacks the reactions of the Jewish community in NYC and the potential shifts in US electoral politics relating to Israel.
26 Jun
John Spencer’s Key Takeaways After the 12-Day War: Air Supremacy, Intelligence, and Deterrence
John Spencer analyzes Israel's successful air campaign against Iran, which dismantled Iran's nuclear infrastructure and decapitated its military leadership without sparking a wider regional conflict. He discusses the strategic impact of Israel's actions and the implications for future Israeli and U.S. military doctrines.
26 Jun
The Iran Raid Was Awesome
The podcast discusses the implications of a reported successful Israeli-led raid on Iran's nuclear sites, suggesting it's a significant geopolitical event despite mainstream media skepticism. The conversation delves into the strategic and political ramifications of the raid, emphasizing bipartisan support within Israel and potential global impacts.
26 Jun
The “Things We See & Things We Don’t” Edition
Miriam Herschlag and Noah Efron explore Israel's recent 12-Day War with Iran, assessing its impact and implications amidst other important yet overshadowed topics. They also highlight inspiring stories of unity in response to crisis, music soothing the city's angst, and the interplay between the divine and mundane in life's chaotic moments.
26 Jun
Trump forced an end to the Iran war. Is Israel's war in Gaza next?
Shira Efron, research director of the Israel Policy Forum, discusses the precarious state of Israel-Iran relations post-Trump-imposed Iranian ceasefire and its implications on the ongoing war in Gaza. Efron urges a diplomatic resolution alongside military actions to prevent Iran's nuclear development while highlighting the complexity of achieving a similar resolution in Gaza due to unclear objectives.
26 Jun
USA Iran War
Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein delves into the geopolitical implications of recent U.S. actions against Iranian nuclear facilities, while exploring how such events resonate differently inside and outside Israel. Additionally, he discusses the broader theological and historical dimensions of Jewish-Muslim relations, emphasizing bitachon (trust in God) as a means to navigate these uncertainties.
26 Jun
What Do We Know?
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the complexities and uncertainties surrounding Israel's recent 12-day military campaign against Iran, particularly whether the campaign successfully neutralized any nuclear threat. They analyze the political ramifications of the operation on both Israel and Iran, and evaluate the American involvement in the conflict.
25 Jun
The 12-Day War
Neri Zilber and Amos Harel analyze the recent 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, exploring the ceasefire's impact and broader geopolitical implications. The discussion delves into Iran's underperformance, the heightened diplomatic landscape, and potential ramifications for Israel's ongoing conflict with Gaza.
25 Jun
The Mamdani Nightmare
Chris Stirewalt joins the Commentary Magazine Podcast to analyze the repercussions of Zohran Mamdani's surprising win in New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, raising concerns about the Democratic Party's shift towards leftist ideologies. This discussion highlights the potential impact of Mamdani's victory on Jewish-American political alignment and city governance.
24 Jun
What Matters Now to director Daniel Syrkin: How 'Tehran' season 4 reflects Israel-Iran war
Daniel Syrkin, director of the TV series 'Tehran', discusses the show's connection to Israel-Iran tensions amidst ongoing geopolitical conflicts. He shares insights into the challenges of producing content that mirrors current events and the emotional impacts on Iranian actors involved in the project.
24 Jun
Trump's Ceasefire and Its Discontents
Eli Lake joins the Commentary Magazine Podcast to discuss the recent U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Iran, and how Donald Trump's reaction to its immediate breach signifies a complex geopolitical moment. The conversation delves into the broader implications of the ceasefire's failure, Trump’s influence on Israeli decisions, and the ongoing ideological battles within American politics, particularly in the context of the upcoming New York mayoral elections.
23 Jun
Israel's attack on Iran has 'no strategy, no exit plan, but lots of euphoria'
Israel's recent military actions targeting regime sites in Iran, described as lacking clear strategy and possibly resulting in prolonged conflict, are critiqued by Iran expert Danny Citrinowicz. Meanwhile, Tel Aviv residents find makeshift shelters in parking lots amid ongoing missile strikes, highlighting the impact on daily life in Israel.
23 Jun
Destroying Nuclear Sites Is Good, Not Bad
The podcast discusses the seemingly paradoxical stance of some arms control advocates who oppose efforts to dismantle Iran's nuclear program, arguing it undermines formal agreements to limit nuclear arms. It also touches on Trump's controversial perceived benefits to the Jewish community and the potential implications of the NYC mayoral primary election.
23 Jun
'The head of the snake': 8 Israeli Thinkers on the threat of Iran
Israeli thinkers assert that Iran poses the primary existential threat to Israel, overshadowing the conflict with Hamas. While Iran's pursuit of nuclear capabilities remains critical, Israel's strategic approach to addressing it, including military interventions and international alliances, is debated extensively among thought leaders.
23 Jun
Exodus by way of Egypt: Hear how Canadians fled Israel after war broke out with Iran
Canadians stranded in Israel during the recent outbreak of war with Iran recount gripping stories of their evacuation routes through various Middle Eastern countries, navigating tense atmospheres and hiding their Jewish and LGBTQ identities. Interviews with Leonard Temes and Philip Lerner reveal their experiences of escaping under challenging situations, including boarding a cruise ship dubbed 'The Jew Cruise' and a covert journey through Jordan.
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by Matt Sienkiewicz
by Matt Sienkiewicz
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