Haaretz Podcast

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decisively lost his Knesset majority following the exit of the two major ultra-Orthodox parties that were pillars of his coalition, which now holds only 49 seats in the 120-member parliament.  But celebration is premature for those hoping for swift elections that could lead to the end of his rule, warns Haaretz columnist and political strategist Dr. Dahlia Scheindlin on the Haaretz Podcast.  The ultra-Orthodox may have left the government in a “very demonstrative way, but if they don't actually join a vote that would bring down the government and launch early elections, it doesn't really matter,” Scheindlin said.  As the Knesset enters its summer recess with a minority in power, only reconvening in October, “their exit from the coalition is essentially a matter of holding a political sword over the head of Netanyahu, over the government's head, saying ‘we are poised to bring down this government now and launch early elections’“ – but elections are far from a certainty.  What is becoming increasingly certain for most Israelis, Scheindlin told podcast host Allison Kaplan Sommer, is the fact that the government has “made it extremely clear that its political interests override the good of the state” by doing everything in its power to advance the law the ultra-Orthodox are pressuring them to pass, exempting Haredi men from military service at a time when the country needs manpower more desperately than ever.  Subscribe to Haaretz.com for up-to-the-minute news and analysis from Israel and the Middle East in English.  Read more from Dahlia Schiendlin in Haaretz: Bolting Parties, Baffling Polls: Are Elections in Israel Imminent? What Are Netanyahu's Chances of Winning? Netanyahu's Trial Is a Seductive Spectacle. But Dead Gazan Children Matter Far More Netanyahu Should End the Gaza War Now – for His Own Sake, if Not for Israel'sSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bar Peleg, a Haaretz reporter specializing in Benjamin Netanyahu’s legal challenges, discusses the significant interplay between the Israeli Prime Minister's ongoing criminal trials and the Gaza conflict. Peleg reveals how Netanyahu's legal troubles have influenced his policy decisions, impacting Israel's governance during crises. He also highlights the surprising direct involvement of Donald Trump in these legal matters, including calls for a pardon and the ramifications of U.S. interference on investigations like Qatargate. This situation raises questions about the influence of foreign politics on Israeli justice.

In this insightful discussion, Chuck Freilich, former deputy national security advisor and expert in Israeli security, shares his perspectives on recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria amidst evolving diplomatic channels. He highlights the surprising willingness of the new Syrian government to engage in peace talks, despite the current tensions. Freilich argues that the Israeli approach might miss a crucial chance for dialogue, particularly given Syria’s strong anti-Iranian stance, suggesting a complex interplay of interests that merits careful navigation.

Judy Maltz, Haaretz's Jewish world editor, discusses an intriguing trend of Israeli-born rabbis moving to the U.S. and Canada to address a growing clergy shortage in Reform and Conservative synagogues. She reveals that while fewer North American Jews are training for rabbinical roles, the numbers of those seeking ordination in Israel are on the rise. Maltz highlights the appeal of better salaries and societal respect abroad, contrasting it with the struggle for legitimacy these rabbis face in their home country.

Aviva Siegel, a released hostage from Kibbutz Kfar Azza, shares her harrowing experience after 51 days in captivity. She discusses the urgent need for a cease-fire deal aimed at rescuing more hostages, while expressing deep concern for those still imprisoned, like twin brothers Gali and Ziv Ber. Aviva emphasizes the emotional turmoil of families facing uncertainty and the trauma that lingers even after release. Her poignant plea captures the struggle for hope amidst fear, urging decision-makers to prioritize the safe return of every captive.

Gilad Kariv, an ordained Reform rabbi and Member of Knesset, discusses the rising tide of religious extremism within the Likud Party, warning that it’s not the same party it was decades ago. He shares a shocking personal experience of being ejected from a Knesset committee for advocating Reform Judaism. Kariv raises concerns about the integrity of upcoming elections, claiming tactics to suppress Arab voters are emerging. He calls for proactive political engagement to safeguard democracy in Israel amidst increasing intolerance and division.

Nir Hasson, a Haaretz correspondent known for his coverage of the Gaza war, shares insights from his investigative report revealing troubling orders given to IDF soldiers. The soldiers expressed moral dilemmas about using live fire against unarmed Palestinians seeking aid. Amir Tibon, a seasoned columnist and former diplomatic correspondent, discusses the political fallout and implications of these revelations on Israeli sentiments and ceasefire negotiations. Together, they highlight the profound disconnect between military actions and humanitarian values.

Hagar Shezaf, Haaretz's West Bank correspondent, sheds light on the alarming rise of violence from Israeli settlers, emboldened by far-right government support. She details recent attacks on Palestinian communities and even IDF soldiers, a shocking shift in dynamics that has drawn widespread public outrage. The discussion delves into how normalization of aggression post-October 7 has altered perceptions within Israeli society, posing critical questions about accountability and the future of the region amid ongoing conflicts.

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.