Call Me Back - with Dan Senor

In this episode, Shari Mendes, an expert on sexual violence and conflict, discusses her observations on Israeli society and the use of sexual assault by Hamas. She shares her experiences in preparing the bodies of female IDF soldiers for burial and highlights the recent investigations by The New York Times and the UN. The podcast also covers topics such as the challenges of identifying and burying victims of war, the impact of war on Israel, and the difficulties in sharing testimonies of sexual violence.

Expert on Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas, Haviv Rettig Gur, discusses Israel's vulnerability, the divided reactions in the Arab world, and the possibility of a 'forever war'. They explore the significance of the Abraham Accords, the perception of Islam, and the impact of Israel's vulnerability on Arab public opinion. They also emphasize the need for a future without Hamas in the ongoing conflict.

Haviv Rettig Gur, journalist, discusses Israel's vulnerability in the 'Forever War'. They explore missed intelligence, advancements in military technology, and the impact on Israeli society. They also discuss the changed world view of Israeli families living in southern Israel due to the ongoing conflict with Gaza.

Nadav Eyal, journalist covering Middle East conflicts and politics, discusses recent military strikes in Yemen and Israel's defense against genocide charges at the International Court of Justice. Topics covered include the US and UK targeting the Houthis, the impact of the Houthis in the Persian Gulf, ongoing proceedings at the ICJ, misrepresentation of quotes, public opinion during wartime, and Germany's rejection of genocide allegations against Israel.

Dr. Matthew Levitt, counterterrorism expert, discusses the internal tensions and rivalries within Hamas's leadership. The podcast explores the opacity of Hamas leaders, their decision-making processes, and the growing divisions within the group. It also touches on recent developments in Israel, tensions between Hamas and Hezbollah, and the overall situation in the region.

Explore how Hamas rules Gaza like a government, assassinating Salah al-Aruri, returning to normalcy in Israel, understanding Gaza's unique operating system, hardships with tunnels and Palestinian civilian narrative, disrupting Hamas's funding scheme, and the functioning of the Palestinian Authority's security forces.

Exploring the reasons behind Palestinian radicalization, discussing Hamas weaponizing sexual violence and using children as suicide bombers. Examining the history of Palestinian radicalism, from meetings with Hitler to the targeting of Israeli citizens. Revealing efforts to hide combat service in Gaza, discovering explosive device belts for children. Delving into the historical roots of Palestinian radicalism and the perception of Jews as foreign entities. Exploring recurring themes in Palestinian political discourse and the dehumanization tactics used by radical groups.

Bret Stephens, Pulitzer Prize winning columnist for The New York Times, discusses the expanding October 7 War, the rise of proxy wars in the Middle East, comparing the war against ISIS to Israel's defense, the relevance of 'Downfall' and comparisons to Holocaust barbarism, and exploring the intersection of tech and Jewish ethics.

Journalist Haviv Rettig Gur joins the podcast to discuss the ongoing Hamas-Israel War, its implications, and the emerging third phase. They explore the complexity of Israeli society, analysis of national security views, and leaked reports of preemptive strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The conversation also delves into the concerns and speculations regarding the political environment and potential elections.

Rabbi David Wolpe, a visiting scholar at Harvard Divinity School and a member of Harvard's Antisemitism Advisory Group, shares his perspective on addressing antisemitism at Harvard. They discuss the paradox of Jewish success and prejudice, the complexities of the conflict in Israel, the misunderstandings surrounding the chant 'from the river to the sea', the global spread of violence against Jewish civilians, and the challenges in addressing antisemitism at institutions.