Unholy: Two Jews on the News

A captivating blend of reflection and conversation highlights six memorable moments, from Rachel Maddow's insights on fascism to Van Jones' views on social justice. The emotional weight of Passover Seders is explored, juxtaposed with tales of hope amidst turmoil. Delve into the complexities of Black-Jewish alliances and personal stories of love in the face of captivity. This poignant dialogue weaves together identity, community, and resilience, shining a light on contemporary challenges while celebrating shared humanity.

Oren Setter, a retired Brigadier General and former lead negotiator for the Israeli Hostage Task Force, shares insights from his three-decade career in the IDF. He candidly discusses the emotional and moral dilemmas of hostage negotiations, particularly in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The conversation also touches on the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, especially in light of recent political tensions. Plus, Setter highlights the critical balance between military action and diplomacy while ensuring the safety of hostages in fraught situations.

Matti Friedman, an award-winning journalist known for his keen insights on Israeli society, joins distinguished lawyer Anthony Julius, who has represented Princess Diana and explores themes of anti-Semitism. They dissect the recent tumult surrounding Netanyahu's leadership and its implications for Israel's democracy. The conversation also sheds light on the complex character of Abraham from Julius's latest book, unraveling themes of identity and faith, while reflecting on the broader struggles within Israeli society today.

Tensions in Israel are escalating with political drama and judicial changes shaking the foundation of democracy. The hosts dive into the fallout from the Signal-gate incident where a journalist accidentally stumbled into a secret discussion, revealing deeper issues in media practices. They explore the political turmoil following recent conflicts, highlighting protests against Netanyahu's government. Additionally, a gripping tale of resilience emerges as a survivor recounts his harrowing experience in captivity, emphasizing the humanitarian crises at play.

In the space of a week, Israel is once again at war in Gaza, Ben Gvir is back in government, and Netanyahu is moving to oust the head of Israel’s domestic intelligence agency, the Shin Bet. Meanwhile, the U.S. strikes the Houthis, the Houthis strike Israel, and rockets from Gaza target central Israel. With tensions escalating on multiple fronts, Yonit and Jonathan turn to Haaretz military analyst Amos Harel to make sense of the renewed fighting and the wider political-military turmoil.Plus: A Mensch award for the record-breaking Israeli tech giant Wiz, and a Chutzpah winner for the podcaster who crossed the line. Join our Patreon community and get access to exclusive content and moreSocial links, Unholy store and more Amos Harel is a prominent Israeli journalist specializing in military and defense affairs. Since 2000, he has served as the military correspondent and defense analyst for Haaretz, one of Israel’s leading newspapers. Throughout his career, he has provided in-depth coverage of Israel’s security challenges, including conflicts and military operations. Harel co-authored two notable books with Avi Issacharoff: The Seventh War: How We Won and Why We Lost the War with the Palestinians (2004), analyzing the Second Intifada, and 34 Days: Israel, Hezbollah, and the War in Lebanon (2008), examining the 2006 Lebanon War. Unholy is going live in London!Join Yonit Levi and Jonathan Freedland for a special night of news and surprises—live on stage, June 8th 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to see the podcast come to life, now’s your chance. Reserve your seat now via the link—space is limited, and we’d love to see you there! https://bit.ly/UnholyLondonLive

Yonit and Jonathan break down today's major news: the ceasefire is over. As Israeli airstrikes resume in Gaza leaving hundreds dead and fears grow for the remaining hostages, this short update tackles the most urgent question—what explains what just happened? Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes (like Saturday Night Live), live zoom calls with Yonit and Jonathan, and more: https://www.patreon.com/unholypod  Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod Unholy is going live in London!Join Yonit Levi and Jonathan Freedland for a special night of news and surprises—live on stage, June 8th 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to see the podcast come to life, now’s your chance. Reserve your seat now via the link—space is limited, and we’d love to see you there! https://bit.ly/UnholyLondonLive

Yonit and Jonathan unpack the latest drama in Israel which many are calling a moment of truth for the country’s democracy: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans to remove Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet. What’s behind the move, what does it mean for Israel’s security, and how do the US and Qatar fit into the picture? Join our Patreon community (promo code for Purim weekend: PURIM25) to get access to bonus episodes (like Saturday Night Live), live zoom calls with Yonit and Jonathan, and more: Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod  Unholy is going live in London!Join Yonit Levi and Jonathan Freedland for a special night of news and surprises—live on stage, June 8th 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to see the podcast come to life, now’s your chance. Reserve your seat now via the link—space is limited, and we’d love to see you there! https://bit.ly/UnholyLondonLive

Award-winning stand-up comedian Alex Edelman, known for his acclaimed solo show "Just for Us," brings his sharp wit to the discussion. He delves into the unique world of Jewish comedy, touching on the balance of humor during political turmoil and cultural identity. Edelman shares insights on the evolving significance of Purim costumes and the challenges of addressing sensitive topics with humor. His anecdotes reveal the complexity of navigating comedy amidst conflict while celebrating Jewish identity and traditions.

This week – New Yorker editor David Remnick partners up with Yonit as guest co-host. As Trump reshapes the global order—strengthening ties with Putin, unsettling NATO, and proposing a radical reimagining of Gaza—Hamas expert Michael Milshtein joins us to break down the latest developments in the region. Meanwhile, the Israeli government officially launches the plan to oust the attorney general , we talk about The New Yorker's centenary, Jeff Bezos’ influence on The Washington Post, and the Oscar-winning documentary ״No Other Land״ sparks debate. Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes (like Saturday Night Live), live zoom calls with Yonit and Jonathan, and more: https://www.patreon.com/unholypod Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/aBB-yKk32PsFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod ---- David Remnick is an award-winning journalist, author, and the editor of The New Yorker since 1998. Michael Milshtein is a leading expert on Hamas and Palestinian affairs, with extensive experience in Israel’s security and intelligence sectors. A former senior analyst in the Israeli military’s intelligence division, he specializes in Palestinian society, politics, and regional dynamics. Unholy is going live in London!Join Yonit Levi and Jonathan Freedland for a special night of news and surprises—live on stage, June 8th 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to see the podcast come to life, now’s your chance. Reserve your seat now via the link—space is limited, and we’d love to see you there! https://bit.ly/UnholyLondonLive

Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council and Middle East expert, shares profound insights on Gaza and the complexities surrounding the conflict. He reveals the widespread disillusionment among Gazans towards Hamas and critiques the narratives shaping perceptions in major cities like Tel Aviv and New York. The conversation also tackles the dire humanitarian needs in Gaza and the urgent call for authentic empowerment instead of victimization. Alkhatib’s personal tragedy adds weight to the discussion, making it both heart-wrenching and enlightening.