The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Mitch Ginsburg, a producer at the Israel Story podcast. Ginsburg, a former military reporter for The Times of Israel, brings us a special episode from Israel's flagship podcast series, called The Hebrew Hobbit: A Passover Special. In it, Ginsburg charts the tale of a number of Israeli POWs who took upon themselves the unlikely task of translating JRR Tolkien's "The Hobbit" while imprisoned together in an Egyptian jail. In a vivid soundscape, Ginsburg brings a 360-degree account of life before, during and after their detention -- for the soldiers and those they left behind. This Passover holiday, we hear the improbable story of a group of Israeli men who formed a mini-kibbutz in the heart of an enemy country's prison and what happened after their exodus from Egypt. So this week, we ask Israel Story's Mitch Ginsburg, what matters now? What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves.  IMAGE: An undated photo of the POW group who together translated 'The Hobbit' into Hebrew prior to their release from an Egyptian prison in November 1973. (courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sue Surkes, an insightful environment reporter, steps in to unveil the fascinating world of biblical flora in Israel. She shares the extraordinary tale of Methuselah, a 1,900-year-old date palm that has been brought back to life, and vividly describes its delicious taste. The discussion also highlights the resilient Rose of Jericho, which flourishes against all odds. Surkes delves into the culturally rich significance of the Christ-thorn jujube and the endangered wild olive trees, intertwining nature with history and heritage.

Lazar Berman, a diplomatic correspondent with expertise in Israeli politics and hostage negotiations, shares critical insights on the current situation. He highlights Hamas's refusal of partial deals and the mounting pressure on Israeli leadership regarding hostages. Berman raises concerns over U.S.-Iran negotiations and their potential impact on Israel, especially with Trump's administration lacking clear demands on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. He also critiques negotiator Ron Dermer's approach amidst family and Qatari criticism, emphasizing the delicate balance of diplomacy.

Jacob Magid, the US bureau chief at The Times of Israel, joins to discuss pivotal developments in US-Iran relations. He highlights a rare direct dialogue between US and Iranian officials, examining shifting US red lines on nuclear talks. Magid also delves into the stagnant ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, revealing Hamas's rejection of Israel's disarmament requirements. Furthermore, he explains the implications of the Taylor Force Act on US aid to the Palestinian Authority, shedding light on reform attempts amid conflicting narratives.

Sharon Wrobel, the tech editor, discusses the potential effects of a paused 17% tariff on Israel and the alarming exodus of over 8,000 tech employees, driven by political instability. Rossella Tercatin, an archaeology and religions reporter, highlights fascinating research on the evolution of Hebrew accents across communities and a Sicilian farmer's dedication to harvesting manna from ash trees, emphasizing its biblical ties and culinary significance. Together, they present a captivating mix of economic insight and cultural heritage.

Emanuel Fabian, a military reporter for The Times of Israel, discusses urgent developments in Gaza and the ongoing situation with hostages, particularly Idan Alexander shown in a recent Hamas video. He outlines the rising dissent among Israeli reservists pushing for negotiations to secure hostages, leading to significant public pressure. Fabian also provides insights into the strategic encirclement of Rafah by the IDF and its implications for future military operations, while addressing the complexities of airstrikes in civilian areas.

Jessica Steinberg, Culture editor at The Times of Israel, dives into the resilience of Israeli art following the October 7 attacks. She highlights the poignant 'Heroines' exhibit at Design Museum Holon, showcasing fashion as a beacon of hope. The discussion shifts to artist Ester Schneider's 'Hoshana' at Bat Yam Museum, where themes of grief and healing emerge through innovative installations. Steinberg also touches on the emotional journey of hostage families preparing for Passover, exemplified by a mother's heartfelt children's Haggadah.

Idit Ohel, mother of hostage Alon Ohel, shares her heart-wrenching journey since her son's capture by Hamas. She reveals the severity of Alon's injuries and passionately advocates for his medical care. Ohel discusses the resilience and spirit her son maintains through music, imagining playing the piano in captivity. As she prepares for another Passover without him, she emphasizes the need for national unity in the fight for hostages' freedom, highlighting her conversations with released captives and the importance of community support.

Emanuel Fabian, a military reporter at The Times of Israel, shares his insights on the IDF's investigations into the October 7 Hamas attack. He discusses the tragic outcomes of probes into areas like Kibbutz Nirim and the Supernova music festival, where many lost their lives. The conversation reveals critical military preparedness lessons, highlighting both the heroism of Israeli forces and the vulnerabilities exposed during this horrific event. Disturbingly graphic yet necessary, Fabian's analysis sheds light on courage amidst chaos.

David Horovitz, founding editor of The Times of Israel, shares his insights on critical U.S.-Iran nuclear talks and their unexpected impact on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. He reflects on past diplomatic efforts and the potential military ramifications if negotiations falter. The tensions surrounding 59 hostages still held by Hamas take center stage, along with President Trump's nuanced engagement with freed hostages. Horovitz also discusses the backlash faced by Israeli Air Force reservists calling for prioritization of hostage release amid ongoing military campaigns.