The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Film critic Jordan Hoffman joins to explore the Jewish-themed film 'Bad Shabbos' and Mel Brooks' classic 'History of the World, Part I.' Hoffman shares his enthusiasm for the upcoming movie 'Marty Supreme' starring Timothée Chalamet and dishes on Pope Leo's favorite films, uncovering a blend of cultural significance and humor. The duo dives into the unique portrayals in 'Bad Shabbos,' discussing its dark comedy and how it resonates with Jewish audiences. They also praise standout moments from the Brooks film, highlighting its humor and performances.

Explore the intriguing concept of nation-building and its historical contexts with insights from Japan and Germany's post-war transformations. Delve into the contrasting outcomes of state-building efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq, analyzing key failures and successes. The discussion shifts to the potential implications for Gaza, raising questions about governance and security in a volatile region. Finally, the complexities of creating stabilized areas are examined, along with the significant obstacles that lie ahead in achieving meaningful progress.

David Horovitz, the founding editor of The Times of Israel, joins to dissect pressing issues in Israeli politics. He discusses the Supreme Court's push for a state inquiry into the events leading up to the October 7 Hamas attacks, arguing the government's self-serving probe will fail to deliver accountability. Horovitz also highlights a significant ruling against ultra-Orthodox draft dodgers, referencing Justice Sohlberg's critique of Haredi exemptions. The conversation reveals the legal and political complexities surrounding these critical topics.

Jacob Magid, U.S. bureau chief for The Times of Israel, provides insights on the significant implications of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's White House visit. He discusses how Trump's policies elevate Saudi Arabia's status in U.S. foreign relations, impacting Israel's hopes for normalization. The UN Security Council's vote on Gaza redevelopment and the challenges of mobilizing an International Stabilization Force are also examined. Additionally, Magid interviews Fadwa Barghouti on her husband's potential release, emphasizing its significance for Palestinian unity and peace efforts.

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. Legal and settlements correspondent Jeremy Sharon joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Justice Minister Yariv Levin of the ruling Likud party will head a ministerial panel to determine the mandate of the government’s commission of inquiry into failures surrounding the Hamas onslaught of October 7, 2023. Since the murders and atrocities, the government has resisted establishing an investigative body to thoroughly examine how such a disastrous military calamity could befall the country. We discuss first why the change of heart and ask whether the commission will be independent. Security forces and Civil Administration personnel on Monday conducted an evacuation and demolition operation against an illegal settlement outpost in the Gush Etzion region of the West Bank, in an apparent response to accusations from a local council head that there was “anarchy” in the area. Sharon delves into several reasons why this evacuation is significant, especially under the current coalition. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Levin to lead Ben Gvir, Smotrich and others in delineating government’s Oct. 7 probe Will government’s plan to set up its own Oct. 7 probe prompt top court to intervene? Several officers wounded in clash with settlers at demolition of illegal outpost Jewish extremists burn Palestinian homes and cars in West Bank; IDF searching for perps Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Pod-Waves. IMAGE: A candle bearing the portrait of 24-year-old Yulia Chaban, who was killed on the beach in Zikim during Hamas' October 7, 2023, attacks, is left inside a bomb shelter on the beach in the southern Israeli Kibbutz of Zikim, the closest Israeli beach to the Gaza Strip, on October 16, 2025. (Maya Levin / AFP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian, known for his insightful analysis of IDF operations and security developments, joins the discussion. He reveals alarming reports of Hamas stockpiling advanced weapons abroad. Fabian shares updates on the IDF's readiness to retake Gaza and confirms that Hamas fighters are trapped in tunnels. The conversation also covers recent IDF strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon and significant arrests of a Hamas network in Bethlehem. Get a deep dive into the complex dynamics currently shaping the region.

Lazar Berman, a diplomatic correspondent and expert on Israel and Gaza, dives deep into the implications of the UN Security Council's draft resolution regarding Gaza. He outlines the concept of an International Stabilization Force and its potential impact on military operations in the region. The discussion also covers the controversial sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia and its possible effect on regional dynamics. Berman sheds light on the complexities of the Israel-Lebanon border situation amid ongoing tensions and humanitarian concerns for Gaza as winter approaches.

Dive into the world of Jewish entertainment with an exciting introduction featuring Jesse Eisenberg's selfless kidney donation story. Discover how Meryl Streep and Sigourney Weaver defy Hollywood boycotts to collaborate with Israeli director Joseph Cedar. Explore insights into Natalie Portman's new film 'Arco,' a delightful 2D animated tale perfect for family viewing. Plus, enjoy a charming discussion about 'Thelma,' a scam comedy led by the dynamic June Squibb, while debating the complexities of industry boycotts. It's a cinematic journey filled with laughs and thought-provoking topics!

In this discussion, Haviv Rettig Gur, a senior analyst and political commentator, shares insights on the precarious state of British Jewish communities facing rising antisemitism. He highlights his recent observations on the BBC's bias and its role in reporting on Israel. The conversation turns to Trump's request for a presidential pardon for Netanyahu, examining its legal implications and potential motivations. Rettig Gur argues that while Netanyahu's actions raise ethical questions, a pardon could remove a divisive legal precedent and possibly benefit Israeli unity.

John Spencer, Chair of War Studies at the Madison Policy Forum, dives deep into the complexities of Hamas's extensive tunnel network. He discusses the strategic implications of the tunnels, likening them to an ant farm, and highlights the IDF's innovative tactics in neutralizing them. Spencer also explores the proposed international security force aimed at demilitarizing Hamas, emphasizing the necessity of a strong mandate. He contrasts past international efforts with potential future successes, focusing on local stabilization rather than nation-building.