Isabel Kershner, a journalist specializing in Israel and Hezbollah, discusses the escalating tensions and ceasefire negotiations, highlighting the need for Hamas's political leadership. Mark Mazzetti, an expert in intelligence and national security, delves into the challenges of capturing a crucial leader in the Gaza conflict. They also analyze changing U.S.-Mexico border migration patterns linked to new asylum restrictions and spotlight the controversy surrounding Telegram's founder's arrest, alongside an ambitious private space mission.

“Zero-click spyware” is making it easier for governments to get their hands on individuals’ personal data. New York Times investigative reporter Mark Mazzetti says that when it comes to spyware, the United States is both an arsonist and a firefighter.This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Efim Shapiro, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.Transcript at vox.com/todayexplainedSupport Today, Explained by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mark Mazzetti discusses settler violence in the West Bank, Israel's shift from democracy, and the rise of right-wing elements in politics. They explore the challenges faced by Israeli democracy and the implications of Netanyahu's influence. The podcast also delves into escalating tensions in the West Bank due to aggressive actions by Israeli settlers, highlighting the diminishing prospects for a Palestinian state.

Federal prosecutors are asking a court to throw out their own criminal case against the former national security adviser Michael Flynn. We look at what led to that decision. Guest: Mark Mazzetti, a Washington investigative correspondent for The New York Times. For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Background reading: Attorney General William Barr’s extraordinary decision to drop the criminal case against Mr. Flynn shocked legal experts, won President Trump’s praise and prompted a career prosecutor to quit the caseThe federal judge overseeing the case has appointed a hard-charging former prosecutor and judge to oppose the Justice Department’s efforts. The dropped charges against Mr. Flynn granted him another turnabout in a life filled with them. 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.

Peter Baker discusses President Trump's recent trip to Saudi Arabia, highlighting the attempts of the Saudis to please him. President Trump's speech to Muslim leaders in Saudi Arabia is analyzed, noting both positive and negative aspects. Mark Mazzetti investigates the mysterious deaths in China, revealing the intentional undermining of US spying operations by the Chinese government. The chapter also explores the impact on the US-China relationship and the state of the United States' espionage program in China.