Daily Podcasts Video Research

Haaretz Weekly

From Haaretz – Israel's oldest daily newspaper – a weekly podcast in English on Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish World, hosted by Allison Kaplan Sommer.
17 Feb
'It's not only Musk and Kanye, there's a broad normalization of antisemitism in the U.S.'
The episode discusses the complexities of American Jewish perspectives on Trump-era policies, contrasting the gratitude of Israelis for Trump's role in the Gaza ceasefire with the majority of American Jews opposing his administration for its policies and rhetoric. The conversation with Amy Spitalnick also delves into the rising normalization of antisemitism in the U.S., pointing to figures like Kanye West and Elon Musk as symptomatic of broader societal issues.
13 Feb
Israel’s embrace of Trump’s Gaza plan is ‘atrocious, unthinkable and morally wrong’
The episode discusses the controversial acceptance of former President Trump's plan to depopulate Gaza, which has been publicized and supported by Prime Minister Netanyahu, sparking fear of ethnic cleansing. While Trump’s ultimatum concerning hostages and military action gains political traction in Israel, Netanyahu's political maneuvering remains under scrutiny as he navigates international dynamics and domestic coalition challenges.
10 Feb
'Alma was a baby on October 7. She knows her father only as a poster'
Israeli hostage advocate Moshe Lavi discusses the emotional toll and political challenges faced by families seeking the release of their loved ones held by Hamas, with a particular focus on the recent Washington visit by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Lavi criticizes Netanyahu's lack of engagement with hostage families and calls for a more expedited negotiation process to bring the remaining captives home.
5 Feb
Despite shocking Gaza plan, 'Netanyahu didn't get anything he wanted from Trump'
Haaretz columnist Alon Pinkas explains that despite the optics of the Trump-Netanyahu meeting, Netanyahu did not secure any substantial American support for actions desired by the Israeli right. Trump's unpredictable plan to "take control" of Gaza overshadowed diplomatic goals, leaving Netanyahu with little tangible progress on key issues like Iran and the Gaza cease-fire.
4 Feb
'We're beyond the point of denying that Israel has an apartheid system in the West Bank'
Israeli military operations targeting Palestinian militant groups in the West Bank, particularly in Jenin, continue to escalate, exacerbating the harsh realities for civilians caught in the conflict. The episode discusses the complexities of the situation, highlighting both the intensified Israeli military campaigns and the intricate political dynamics, including the relationship with the Palestinian Authority and internal Israeli politics.
31 Jan
From Hamas captivity to recovery: the long road ahead for Israel's freed hostages
Israeli hostages freed from prolonged captivity by Hamas face intense physical and mental health challenges, with experts like Professor Hagai Levine criticizing the Israeli government's insufficient long-term care plans. As the nation celebrates their release, systemic issues with rehabilitation, support for families, and international involvement regarding ongoing hostage situations are urgently highlighted.
28 Jan
'We're not at a Trump-Netanyahu conflict point yet, but it's not far off'
The episode explores complex geopolitical dynamics, focusing on U.S. President Donald Trump's ambiguous support for Israel and his controversial statements regarding the Palestinian situation in Gaza. It also highlights the emotional release of four Israeli soldiers held hostage by Hamas and the growing tensions both within Israel and with its neighbors.
22 Jan
'All of Israel is hugging the hostages, but the government isn't'
The episode discusses Israel and Hamas's ceasefire agreement, including the release of hostages, the initial delays in execution, and the personal impact on border communities like Nachal Oz. Reporter Amir Tibon highlights the fragile nature of the agreement, government pressures threatening its continuation, and the societal desire for the deal to succeed.
15 Jan
What could still go wrong with the Israel-Hamas cease-fire and hostage release deal?
Amos Harel analyzes the complexities surrounding the proposed Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage release, considering both Netanyahu’s political maneuvers and Trump’s influence as key factors. The episode suggests that the evolving geopolitical landscape may lead to a broader diplomatic shift in Israel’s relations with its neighbors, potentially impacting the regional balance.
13 Jan
'In war, there's also the psychological struggle of parents who can't provide safety'
The episode explores the psychological impact of the ongoing war in Gaza on Israeli families, emphasizing the challenges faced by parents unable to ensure their children's safety. Experts discuss both the toll on Israelis' mental health, highlighted by psychologist Karen Zivan, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza affecting the most vulnerable, including babies, with journalist Nagham Zbeedat.
8 Jan
'Israelis who served in the IDF will need to think twice about where they travel'
A recent incident in Brazil involving an Israeli reservist accused of war crimes highlights the risks faced by IDF soldiers traveling abroad. Pro-Palestinian groups are actively using social media to track and push for legal action against these individuals, leading to potential diplomatic issues for Israel.
3 Jan
'International organizations have a shameful record when it comes to the hostages'
Former Israeli Ambassador Daniel Shek discusses the complex negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, highlighting the political obstacles and lack of international pressure. Despite Israel's military successes, negotiating setbacks reveal the challenges in both sides' political will and the minimal role international organizations have played.
31 Dec 2024
What was it like being Jewish in 2024: Franklin Foer, Masha Gessen, Tony Kushner and more
Diaspora Jews faced surging antisemitism and a sense of vulnerability in 2024 due to the war in Israel and Gaza. Notable Jewish figures discussed the complexities of Jewish identity and the polarized responses to the conflict on both sides of the political spectrum.
29 Dec 2024
Looking back at 2024, a year very few people want to remember
Israel in 2024 was defined by ongoing conflict following the October 7th, 2023 events, with continued violence involving Hamas, Hezbollah, and intricate political discourse. This episode highlights key perspectives from diplomats, former leaders, hostage family members, and journalists, delving into the profound challenges Israel faced and potential paths forward.
25 Dec 2024
'Even if he shoots me, I'll vote for him': The machine that keeps Netanyahu in power
Benjamin Netanyahu's unyielding hold on power, despite political and security challenges, is analyzed, highlighting his narrative dominance and the instrumental use of the 'poison machine.' The episode also examines Israel's judicial overhaul and international relations in the context of recent political turbulence and alliances, such as with the prospective Trump administration.
22 Dec 2024
Alon Pinkas on challenging the idea of Netanyahu as a master strategist of the Middle East
Alon Pinkas challenges Prime Minister Netanyahu's claims of being a master strategist, arguing that the changes in the Middle East were not due to his efforts but rather circumstances beyond his control. He criticizes Netanyahu's political maneuvers and stresses that Israel's current strategic environment is more a result of external factors rather than Netanyahu's agenda.
17 Dec 2024
Is Israel squandering a rare chance in Syria?
Journalist Gregg Carlstrom argues that Israel is missing a critical opportunity by maintaining aggressive policies in Syria following the Assad regime's collapse, while German journalist Vera Weidenbach highlights the intensified debates surrounding Syrian refugees in Europe. The episode covers implications of Israel's military actions and the geopolitical aftermath in Syria, discussing broader regional consequences and refugee policies.
12 Dec 2024
The (deep) state vs. Benjamin Netanyahu: Inside the courtroom during the PM's testimony
The episode explores the complex dynamics of Benjamin Netanyahu's criminal trial, where he faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust while maintaining his role as Israel's prime minister during wartime. By examining the courtroom atmosphere, the strategies of Netanyahu's defense, and the broader implications for Israeli democracy, the discussion highlights the tension between political and judicial integrity in the country.
9 Dec 2024
'They're no Zionists': How Syria's rebels toppled Assad and what it means for Israel
The episode explores the recent toppling of Assad's regime in Syria by rebels, examining its impact on regional dynamics and Israel's potential security concerns. Analysts Hassan Hassan and Amos Harel discuss the implications of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's rise to power and its relation to Israel's intelligence and military strategies in maintaining security stability at the Syrian border.
6 Dec 2024
Settlement revival? military entrenchment? What are Israel’s long term plans for Gaza?
Israeli plans for Gaza have sparked controversy, with evidence suggesting military entrenchment in the region, while also revealing aspirations to resettle Israeli settlements dismantled in 2005. This podcast explores the conflicting narratives, featuring detailed analysis of satellite imagery and insights into settler activism led by Daniella Weiss, who has significant influence over government ministers.