The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Jeremy Sharon, a legal reporter for The Times of Israel, provides insight into Prime Minister Netanyahu's complicated legal battles, including the Qatargate investigation affecting his aides. Rossella Tercatin, an archaeology and religion expert, shares fascinating discoveries tied to the biblical battle of Armageddon. They also discuss a recent High Court ruling on Gaza’s humanitarian needs and the impact on Israel's international standing, alongside a violent incident involving IDF troops in Jinba that raises questions about justice and community safety.

Join David Horovitz, founding editor of The Times of Israel, and Sue Surkes, a dedicated reporter covering the Gaza envelope, as they dive into pressing Middle Eastern issues. They discuss the IDF's warning for Gazans to evacuate Rafah and the complex debate over military vs. diplomatic approaches to hostage situations. Horovitz analyzes Trump’s escalating threats to Iran regarding its nuclear ambitions, while Surkes reflects on the lingering trauma in Kibbutz Kfar Aza and a poignant memorial for attack victims.

Lazar Berman, a diplomatic reporter for The Times of Israel, shares insightful analysis on the evolving dynamics of the Israeli-Hamas conflict. He discusses Israel's intensified military actions in Gaza aimed at expanding a buffer zone and the strategic leverage it represents. Berman reveals the implications of recent protests in Gaza against Hamas and how they impact negotiations. Additionally, he highlights the deterioration of Turkish-Israeli relations amidst domestic turmoil in Turkey and the potential for a long-term truce with Hamas.

Jonathan Dekel-Chen, a Professor of Jewish History at Hebrew University and father of released hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen, shares his emotional journey of advocating for hostage families during a harrowing conflict. He reflects on the relief of his son’s release and the ongoing struggles faced by the community of Kibbutz Nir Oz. Dekel-Chen highlights feelings of abandonment from the Israeli government and the contrasting support from U.S. administrations, emphasizing the urgent need for solidarity and advocacy in such complex hostage situations.

Jacob Magid, U.S. bureau chief for The Times of Israel, and Leiser Behrman, diplomatic reporter, dive into crucial topics this week. They discuss an Egyptian proposal aimed at a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza, and skepticism surrounding Saudi normalization with Israel. Mike Huckabee's ambassadorship is also on the table, with his call for lawmakers to judge his actions rather than his stance on West Bank issues, highlighting the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations. The conversation reveals the ongoing complexities of Middle Eastern diplomacy.

David Horovitz, the founding editor of The Times of Israel, brings his expertise on the Israeli political landscape. He discusses the passage of a controversial judicial selection law, highlighting its implications for political power and public backlash. Horovitz reflects on the ongoing protests across Israel and Gaza, where citizens are voicing dissent against both the government and Hamas. The conversation delves into the effects of these protests on political dynamics and examines the broader consequences for Israeli democracy.

Haviv Rettig Gur, a senior analyst at The Times of Israel, shares his insights on the recent passage of Israel's historic 2025 budget, highlighting its impact on Netanyahu's government stability. He also discusses the unprecedented protests in Gaza against Hamas, driven by public discontent and a desire for change. Quotations from Winston Churchill resonate as they touch on the potential for a political shift in the region, suggesting that this grassroots uprising could signal a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.

Jeremy Sharon, a legal reporter with expertise in Israeli issues, discusses the government's contentious decision to fire Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and the resulting legal challenges. He analyzes the implications for law enforcement and the political landscape. Rossella Tercatin, an archaeology and religions reporter, shares fascinating insights from recent excavations under the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, revealing ancient agricultural practices and exploring a poll about sexual education in religious schools, shedding light on unexpected teen behaviors.

Emanuel Fabian, military reporter for The Times of Israel, provides expert insights on the ongoing Gaza conflict. He discusses a tragic terror attack in Yokne’am and the IDF’s intensified operations against Hamas leadership. Fabian reveals the military's new evacuation protocols aimed at civilian safety amid escalating conflict. He also touches on potential Israeli military strategies following a visit to Washington and highlights the implications of regional tensions, including Hezbollah’s actions in Lebanon.

Luke Tress, New York correspondent for The Times of Israel, dives into the heightened tensions surrounding anti-Israel activism at Columbia University. He discusses the university’s new security measures following federal scrutiny, especially regarding face masks during protests. Tress also touches on the case of detained student activist Mahmoud Khalil and the complex debates in the Jewish community about free speech vs. safety. Additionally, he highlights a rising trend among U.S. Jews exploring self-defense, including Krav Maga and investing in protection dogs.