For Heaven's Sake

The podcast discusses the possibility of a "grand bargain" between Israel, the Palestinians, and their Sunni Arab neighbors. They explore the shift in Israeli public opinion, the challenges in achieving peace, the potential role of Saudi Arabia, and alternative approaches in the war. They also discuss the importance of having credible dreams and regaining a sense of home in the Middle East.

The hosts discuss the shifting reality and unfulfilled goals of the war in Gaza. They explore Israel's evolving strategies, concerns about shifting goalposts, and the implications for military deterrence. They also reflect on the messianic spirit of Zionism, the need for non-messianic approaches, and the constant threat of war. Lastly, they emphasize the importance of a clear goal, patience, leadership, and societal support in the ongoing war against the Iranian regime.

Amidst heavy losses in Gaza, Israel faces a trial in The Hague accused of genocide. The chapter explores the emotional toll and significance of the trial. It discusses the complexities of facing trial and the burden of proof. It analyzes politicians' statements and the challenges of reckless speech. It expresses frustration with the government's response and the need for strong defenses.

On Monday, the Israeli Supreme Court struck down the reasonableness clause, a key element in the highly disputed judicial overhaul by Netanyahu’s right-wing government. Will this landmark decision reignite pre-October 7th disputes in a country that was on the verge of a constitutional crisis? Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the ongoing fight for Israel’s democracy, how the trauma and tragedy of the war have become politicized, and whether the current feeling of national unity can be maintained amid the resurging political discourse.In this episode:Talmud Yevamot on the rabbinic prohibition against the Jewish people splitting into factions. Other resources: The Reasonableness Clause - For Heaven's Sake | Podcast on Spotify JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST FOR MORE HARTMAN IDEASSponsor an upcoming episode of For Heaven’s Sake. Click here to learn more.

Israel’s domestic support for the war remains strong despite growing global calls for a ceasefire. With mounting international pressure to end defensive action, Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore why this conflicts with what many Israelis feel is the moral, political, and military reality given that the threat from Hamas extends beyond the borders of Gaza.   JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST FOR MORE HARTMAN IDEAS  Sponsor an upcoming episode of For Heaven’s Sake. Click here to learn more.     It’s Time for the U.S. to Give Israel Some Tough Love Thomas L. Friedman 

Discussion on post-war period in Israel, hopes for the future of Gaza, appeal and challenges of peace with Egypt. Acknowledging Palestinian tragedy, Israel's government dealing with Palestinians, emotional struggle and longing for stability among Israelis.

On Friday, December 15 the IDF shot and killed three Israeli hostages in Gaza while they were raising their arms in surrender and waving white flags. The soldiers misidentified these Israelis as terrorists. Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi express their sadness and heartbreak as they consider how this grave incident underscores the internal debate about saving the hostages or winning the war. They also examine what this tragic error says about IDF tactics as well as the combat strategy and terror ploys the IDF are facing.   JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST FOR MORE HARTMAN IDEAS  Sponsor an upcoming episode of For Heaven’s Sake. Click here to learn more. 

The podcast discusses the threat of Hezbollah in Israel's North and the challenges of fighting a non-conventional war. It explores the reality and limitations of living in Israel and the changing contexts of the war with Gaza. The speaker reflects on the ongoing struggle and global implications of the Northern Front.

Discussions include the contrasting perspectives on civilian casualties in Gaza between Israelis and North American Jews, emotions and mindset of Israeli writers during the war, distinguishing rage from vengeance, contrasting views on the Gaza War and the humanitarian crisis, and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals in Israel.

For Jews around the world, the nightmare of October 7th is compounded by the harsh and deafening condemnation of Israel’s military action. In this episode, Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the dynamics of Jewish power and vulnerability, the ramifications of labeling Israel’s actions as genocidal, and the question of whether antisemitism is at play.    ----  JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST FOR MORE HARTMAN IDEAS