The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

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. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and archaeology reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol delves into comments made by leaders of the Knesset’s opposition parties, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of placing Israel in existential danger, after Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar alleged that the premier demanded his loyalty. Sokol notes that the opposition is exploring legal avenues against Netanyahu's actions, as political rhetoric in Israel becomes increasingly heated. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made it clear in an interview Monday morning that the hostages are not the priority of the government, which Sokol calls a clarifying statement of the coalition government, bringing tremendous criticism from hostage families and one ultra-Orthodox member of the coalition. Following the death of Pope Francis, Tercatin shares insights on the Jewish community in Rome, its relationship with the late pope and the community's deep historical connection to the Vatican. She also reports on archaeological findings related to the production of biblical purple dye, confirming an industrial-scale production of purple dye that took place in the region several thousand years ago. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Opposition leaders say Netanyahu’s conduct, as described by Bar, endangers Israel Smotrich slammed for willingness to ‘sacrifice’ hostages Smotrich says returning hostages ‘not the most important thing,’ sparking fierce backlash For Rome’s Jews, ties with ailing pope are personal. And increasingly complicated Made from snails and fit for kings: First biblical-era dye factory found on Israel’s coast 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch. IMAGE: A protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and in support of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, as a protestor carries a sign that says, 'Save the country from itself,'  at Habima Square, April 21, 2025 (Photo by Avshalom Sassoni//Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emanuel Fabian, a military reporter for The Times of Israel, shares critical insights on the aftermath of a tragic incident in Gaza where 15 medics were killed. He discusses the IDF's probe and the accountability measures taken. The conversation also touches on the Lebanese army's efforts to thwart rocket attacks, the complexities of ongoing military operations, and the IDF's challenges in dismantling Hamas's tunnel network. Fabian provides unique perspectives ahead of his embedding with the IDF, highlighting the intricate security dynamics at play.

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. Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement Saturday night detailing his refusal to negotiate a deal that ends the war to free the hostages, Horovitz discusses the anguish of the hostage families and their growing concern over the government's plans. He explores the prime minister's stance on the war with Hamas as well as Netanyahu's detailed reasoning amid the growing skepticism and dismay about Netanyahu's motivations regarding the war. As the US and Iran head into more nuclear talks on Wednesday, following another round in Italy on Saturday, Horovitz considers the implications of the talks, and the role of special envoy Steve Witkoff in the negotiations, and the concerns about Israel's security. Finally, Horovitz takes a brief look at the latest spat in Qatargate, as lawyers for the one of the main suspects goes up against a spokesperson for the prime minister, and how the entire scandal connects back to the forced resignation of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu: Won’t surrender to Hamas by ending war to get back hostages; can’t trick Hamas either Israeli soldier killed in Hamas attack, in first since collapse of Gaza ceasefire After Rome talks, Tehran says Iran and US ‘to start designing framework’ for nuclear deal In public spat, lawyers for Qatargate suspect accuse Netanyahu spokesman of ‘hysteria’ 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 and video edited by Thomas Girsch.  IMAGE: Sylvia Cunio, mother of hostages and brothers David and Ariel Cunio, at the Gaza border near Kibbutz Nir Oz calling for her sons and the other hostages to be freed in one phase. (Credit Tanya Zion-Waldoks/Israeli Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.