The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Jessica Steinberg, the Culture editor at The Times of Israel, shares insightful narratives from her on-the-ground reporting about Israeli food culture. She reveals her visit to Kibbutz Be'eri, highlighting baker Yaki Sagi's efforts in rebuilding his community with delicious honey cakes. Steinberg also discusses the Single Be’eri whiskey, a project supporting local recovery while enhancing culinary experiences. Additionally, she introduces the Asif Culinary Institute's tours aimed at revitalizing Northern restaurants still reeling from past conflicts.

Emanuel Fabian, Military correspondent for The Times of Israel, offers an on-the-ground look at the current military operations in Gaza and the West Bank. He discusses the significant evacuation of civilians from Gaza City as IDF troops advance. Humanitarian challenges arise as frustrations grow over Hamas obstructing aid distribution, prompting questions about the IDF's potential role in delivering assistance. Fabian also covers the recent drone strike in southern Lebanon, detailing the casualties and the IDF’s investigations into the incident.

David Horovitz, Editor of The Times of Israel and a seasoned journalist, shares his surreal 48-hour adventure in Damascus. He recounts his circuitous journey involving three flights and describes his initial impressions of the city amid signs of recent conflict. A highlight of his trip was the Dura-Europos synagogue, with its extraordinary ancient wall paintings. Horovitz also discusses meetings with Syrian officials about Israel relations and the amusing quest for kosher hummus in the heart of Damascus.

Daniel Gordis, an insightful author, scholar, and rabbi, dives into the complexities of modern Zionism and Jewish identity. He shares the origins of his Substack, 'Israel from the Inside', championing a more nuanced pro-Israel stance in a challenging global climate. Gordis discusses the loneliness faced by Israelis during the High Holidays and critiques the oversimplified narratives that alienate diaspora Jews. He urges a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles in Israel, all while emphasizing that honest critique is rooted in love.

Lazar Berman, a diplomatic correspondent for The Times of Israel, dives into the intriguing possibility of a security pact between Israel and Syria. He discusses the historical context of Israel-Syria relations, from military negotiations since 1948 to current strategies amid the Syrian civil war. Berman highlights Israel's concerns about the Druze community and its territorial demands, including control over strategic heights. He also examines how a stable or fragmented Syrian state impacts Israeli security interests.

Jacob Magid, the U.S. bureau chief for The Times of Israel, unveils a Tony Blair-backed proposal for post-war Gaza that avoids displacing its residents. He highlights ongoing discussions between Israel and Syria, hinting at imminent developments. The Palestinian Authority's controversial 'pay-to-slay' program has been replaced with a need-based initiative, though payments are currently stalled due to cash shortages. Magid also addresses US Senator Bernie Sanders' use of the term 'genocide' in the context of the Gaza war, adding to the political debate surrounding the conflict.

Emanuel Fabian, a military correspondent, joins to discuss the current status of the IDF's ground offensive in Gaza City. He reveals that over 600,000 Gazans remain in the city as the operation begins, and it could stretch for months amid complex challenges. Fabian highlights IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir's crucial role in balancing troop safety, hostage situations, and strategic communication. The IDF's operations also extend to striking Houthi positions, showcasing the interconnectedness of regional conflicts.

Biranit Goren, the Zman Yisrael editor, joins the discussion on the IDF's expanded ground operations in Gaza City against Hamas. They dive into the humanitarian concerns affecting families of Israeli hostages, some believed to be alive. Goren sheds light on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Qatar, where a key defense cooperation agreement is nearing completion. The geopolitical implications, including the U.S.-Israel-Hamas dynamics and Prime Minister Netanyahu's stance on military self-reliance, are also explored.

Lazar Berman, diplomatic correspondent for The Times of Israel, shares insights on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's recent visit to Israel. He discusses Rubio's commitment to Israeli security and the broader implications for US-Arab relations. The guest delves into Qatar's accusations of state terrorism against Israel and its role as a mediator in ongoing conflicts. Additionally, Berman highlights Israel's new aid distribution efforts in Gaza amidst a complex humanitarian situation, raising questions about balancing military actions with humanitarian needs.

Emanuel Fabian, a military correspondent, shares his insights on the IDF's latest operations, focusing on airstrikes against Hamas leaders in Qatar and the destruction of strategic buildings in Gaza City. He details how the IDF targets Hamas infrastructure while managing civilian evacuations. Fabian also discusses the Houthis' evolving drone tactics and recent incidents of violence in the West Bank, highlighting the complexities of military strategy and civilian safety in a volatile region.