FDD Morning Brief

Ari Sacher, an engineer and rocket scientist specializing in Israeli missile defense, sheds light on critical national security issues. He discusses the impact of new officials on U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding Iran. The conversation dives into the complexities of modern warfare, highlighting advanced missile defense strategies and precision-guided munitions against entities like Hezbollah. Sacher emphasizes the importance of robust defense cooperation between the U.S. and Israel, while navigating the challenges posed by UAV technology and GPS jamming in contemporary conflicts.

In this insightful discussion, Natasha Hausdorff, an international law expert and legal director of UK Lawyers for Israel, dives into pressing issues impacting Israel's legal standing and international relations. She unpacks the recent genocide case from South Africa against Israel at the ICJ, questioning the motives behind it. Hausdorff also critiques the International Criminal Court's actions concerning Hamas and Israeli officials. The conversation highlights the evolving legal landscape and the implications of global political shifts on Israel's sovereignty.

Boris Zilberman, Director of Public Policy and Strategy at the Christians United for Israel Action Fund, discusses the recent U.S. election cycle's impact on Middle East dynamics. He delves into Israel's political instability, Iran's influence in training Gaza terrorists, and how U.S.-Saudi relations are shifting. Zilberman emphasizes the potential changes in U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding Israel and Iran, while highlighting Congress's role in navigating upcoming foreign aid requests and adjusting sanctions.

Ilan Berman, Senior Vice President of the American Foreign Policy Council and expert on Iranian opposition, delves into the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. He discusses the rising tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, highlighting military dynamics and strategic deployments. Berman elaborates on the Iranian opposition's role in potentially shaping a future post-theocratic Iran and explores U.S. strategies to support these groups while maintaining national security. The podcast also touches on Iran's nuclear ambitions and their implications for regional stability.

Nadav Eyal, an award-winning Israeli journalist from Yedioth Ahronoth and Ynetnews, joins to delve into the complex geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. He discusses Israel's military strategies in response to Hezbollah's provocations and the intricate negotiations surrounding a proposed ceasefire. Eyal highlights the political ramifications of upcoming U.S. elections on Israeli policy, as well as the significance of international positions, like Germany's response to Iran. Insights on the ongoing insurgency in Gaza and its foreign backing provide a critical context for the conflict.

Eyal Hulata, FDD Senior International Fellow and former Israeli national security advisor, dives deep into Israel's military operations against Iran. He discusses the precision of recent airstrikes and their implications for regional security. The conversation also highlights Israel’s unwavering commitment to preventing a nuclear Iran, which remains a pressing concern. Additionally, Hulata addresses the threat of disinformation from nations like Russia and China, emphasizing the need for strong U.S. countermeasures. It's a gripping look at the current geopolitical landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Dana Stroul, Research Director at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, dives into the recent military escalations in the Middle East. They address Israel's decisive strikes against Iranian military facilities and the broader implications for regional security. The conversation also touches on the shifting alliances involving Russia and Iran, and how these dynamics affect U.S. interests. Stroul's insights shed light on the complexities of military aid and the evolving geopolitical landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Casey Babb, a respected foreign policy expert with ties to major think tanks, delves into the intricate web of current geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. He analyzes Hamas's connections with Russia and the repercussions of their actions. Babb also addresses Canada's shifting foreign policy in light of rising anti-Semitism. The conversation highlights the urgent need for collaboration to combat hate and bolster diplomatic efforts, illuminating the broader implications for global peace.

Representative Mike Waltz, a Republican Congressman from Florida and a combat-decorated Green Beret, shares his insights on pressing Middle Eastern issues. He discusses the implications of leaked U.S. classified documents on Israeli operations and the critical role of Qatar in U.S. military strategy. Waltz explores leadership lessons from the Green Berets, emphasizing relationship-building in complex political terrains. He also addresses U.S. sanctions on China to mitigate Iranian influence and the importance of strategic alliances in the region.

Join Eugene Kontorovich, an Israeli legal scholar and George Mason University professor, as he discusses the heated multi-front war in the Middle East. He dives into the ramifications of recent military actions, particularly the impact of Yahya Sinwar's death on Palestinian leadership. Kontorovich highlights the complexities of the Palestinian Authority's role in the conflict, the implications of U.S. sanctions, and critiques the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping efforts. He also examines the contrasting refugee law obligations faced by Palestinians and Ukrainians.