Isabel Kershner, a correspondent in Jerusalem for The New York Times, provides gripping insights into the recent surge of violence between Israel and Hamas. She recounts the dramatic infiltration of Israeli territory and the shocking attack on civilians during a Jewish holiday. Kershner addresses critical intelligence failures that allowed the offensive to unfold and highlights the profound divisions within Israeli society, as well as the ongoing military response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Her analysis sheds light on the broader ramifications for the Middle East.
The recent attack on Israel by Palestinian militants resulted in a significant invasion of Israeli towns and the taking of hostages, showcasing the intensity and broad impact of the conflict.
Despite Israel's sophisticated intelligence apparatus and fortified borders, the invasion took the nation by surprise, raising questions about the effectiveness of its security measures and leading to a renewed sense of unity amidst internal upheaval.
Deep dives
Attack on Gaza Border
On the border between Kibbutz Nakhalos and Gaza, a family experienced a frightening ordeal during a recent attack. As bombs fell and gunshots drew closer, the family sought refuge in their safe room for nine hours, unable to leave or communicate with the outside world. Eventually, soldiers arrived to protect them, but they witnessed the pain and fear of other families who sought shelter in their home. The intensity of the attack left the family feeling alone and disappointed, highlighting the trauma faced by many families in the region.
Coordinated Invasion of Israel
Palestinian militants launched a highly coordinated invasion of Israel, resulting in a significant attack on Israeli towns and the taking of hostages. The attack was carried out by militants from the Gaza Strip, with Hamas being the primary group involved. The invasion, reaching deep into Israeli territory, shocked the nation and is considered the broadest and biggest attack on Israeli territory in the past 50 years. The invasion started with rocket fire, followed by militants breaking through the border, resulting in chaos and terror among Israeli residents.
Surprise and Failures
The invasion took Israel by surprise, despite its sophisticated intelligence apparatus and fortified borders. The attackers easily breached the defenses and infiltrated Israeli communities. The lack of preparedness and response led to questions about the effectiveness of Israel's security measures. Additionally, the timing of the attack coincided with internal upheaval within Israel, including political crises and social unrest. However, the attack unified the country, with protests groups calling on reservists to show up and forming renewed unity amidst the national emergency.
Warning: This episode contains descriptions of violence.
Over the weekend, Palestinian militants with Hamas, the Islamic group that controls the Gaza Strip, mounted a stunning and highly coordinated invasion of Israel, rampaging through Israeli towns, killing people in their homes and on the streets, and taking hostages.
Isabel Kershner, who covers Israeli and Palestinian politics and society for The Times, talks about the attack and the all-out war that it has now prompted.
Guest: Isabel Kershner, a correspondent in Jerusalem for The New York Times.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode