Haaretz Podcast

Shira Efron, Research Director at the Israel Policy Forum and former leader of the Israel program at RAND Corporation, discusses the delicate balance of military success against Iran and the urgent need for diplomatic measures to prevent nuclear development. She reflects on the challenges in bringing Iran back to the negotiation table after perceived betrayals. Efron contrasts the quick U.S.-imposed ceasefire in the Iran conflict with the enduring quagmire in Gaza, emphasizing the human cost and the necessity for a comprehensive regional peace.

In this discussion, Danny Citrinowicz, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, examines Israel's aggressive military strategy against Iran. He warns that targeting non-military sites, like Evin Prison, could backfire and erode military successes. Citrinowicz expresses serious doubts about the lack of a clear exit strategy, suggesting it might lead to an endless conflict. He also addresses the consequences of extreme actions, like attempting to assassinate Iran's leader, potentially igniting a more profound religious dispute. Meanwhile, listeners hear poignant stories from Tel Aviv residents seeking safety amid missile threats.

Amir Tibon, a renowned Haaretz columnist and former diplomatic correspondent, shares insights on the recent military confrontations between Israel and Iran. He reveals the complex emotional landscape in Israel—where triumph and fear coexist—while emphasizing public support for the conflict. Tibon discusses the strategic implications of the U.S.-Israel relationship, describing a deliberate trap set for Iran before the strikes. Meanwhile, Professor Amit Schejter recounts his struggles as an Israeli caught abroad due to airport closures, illustrating the personal impact of the ongoing crisis.

Amos Harel, a senior security analyst at Haaretz, discusses the dire consequences of Israel’s preemptive strikes against Iran and the potential escalation of the conflict. He emphasizes the significant military capabilities Iran is developing, including an alarming increase in ballistic missiles. Judy Rowland, a Tel Aviv resident, shares her chilling account of surviving a missile attack that hit her apartment, capturing the chaos and fear that civilians experience amid such violence. Their insights reveal the grim realities and complexities of this escalating war.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Rachel Fink delves into the controversy surrounding Avner Netanyahu’s extravagant wedding amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. She explains how anti-war protesters plan to disrupt the celebration, viewing it as an insensitive act during a humanitarian crisis. While some argue against protesting personal events, fearing backlash, Fink illustrates the deep divisions in Israeli society regarding the balance between public dissent and private joy. The wedding becomes a symbol of broader societal tensions and emotional turmoil.

Nir Hasson, a journalist for Haaretz covering humanitarian issues, delves into Israel's controversial actions in Gaza. He argues that the new aid initiatives are politically motivated to help Netanyahu maintain power. Hasson reveals the dire conditions in Gaza, where evacuation warnings fail to protect civilians, and voices the growing discontent among Israelis about the ongoing violence. Their conversation uncovers the moral complexities of aid distribution and the unprecedented suffering experienced by the population.

Dahlia Scheindlin, a Haaretz columnist and public opinion expert specializing in Israeli politics, discusses the striking disconnect between the ongoing trial of Prime Minister Netanyahu and the urgent concerns of the Israeli public amidst the Gaza conflict. She highlights widespread frustration over Netanyahu's situation and the trivialization of serious issues, exemplified by courtroom antics. Additionally, Scheindlin addresses the brewing political crisis as ultra-Orthodox tensions could lead to new elections, reflecting the precarious balance of Israeli governance.

Ben Samuels, Haaretz's Washington D.C. correspondent, shares insights on the escalating fears within the American Jewish community following violent attacks in Washington and Boulder. He notes a united front among Jewish organizations focused on safety, citing the urgent need for government support. The conversation dives into the widening diplomatic rift between the U.S. and Israel, especially regarding Trump's controversial approach to Iran's nuclear negotiations, highlighting a critical moment in U.S.-Israel relations.

Brandon Kramer, a filmmaker known for his award-winning documentary "Holding Liat," and Libby Lenkinski, a producer and Vice President at the New Israel Fund, discuss the gripping story of the Beinin-Atzili family. They explore the family's diverse reactions to the trauma of kidnapping juxtaposed with their political views. Kramer highlights the complex dynamics within the family, showing how personal crises reflect broader societal debates. They also examine the ethical responsibility of filmmakers in authentically representing these deeply emotional experiences.

Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee and former U.S. Congressman, tackles pressing concerns about safety in the Jewish community following recent violence. He expresses the alarming reality of needing checkpoints and armed guards just to gather peacefully. Deutch calls for stronger political alliances and moral accountability from leaders, emphasizing that rhetoric can lead to real-world violence. He insists on the vital need for solidarity and support in combating rising antisemitism while advocating for a return to normalcy and safety.