Day 620 - Israel rules Tehran skies. Is greater turbulence on the horizon?

16 snips

Jun 17, 2025

Lazar Berman, a diplomatic reporter, provides keen insights into the escalating Israel-Iran tensions. He discusses the tragic losses of two Israeli soldiers in Gaza and the urgent calls for negotiations on hostages and ceasefires. Berman analyzes Netanyahu's provocative stance on targeting Iran's Supreme Leader and the potential implications of such actions. The podcast also touches on the recent U.S. evacuation alerts in Tehran and their impact on regional dynamics, highlighting the complexity of international relations amidst ongoing conflict.

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ANECDOTE

Soldiers' Deaths Amid Gaza Fight

Two Israeli soldiers died in separate incidents in Gaza fighting Hamas militants.
Despite casualties, Israeli ground forces maintain control over most of Gaza amid ongoing operations.

INSIGHT

Signs of Possible Gaza Negotiations

Growing optimism exists for a negotiated deal with Hamas due to increased pressure on Iran.
Expanding humanitarian aid in Gaza may reduce civilians' desperation and ease tensions.

INSIGHT

Troop Movements Hint Northern Threats

Israeli 98th Division was withdrawn from Gaza possibly to refresh troops or prepare for northern border threats.
Northern front fears revolve around Hezbollah potentially escalating under Iranian influence.

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Welcome to The 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)

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