The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

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• The Reel Schmooze on 'Tuner': The Jewiest film of the summer 17.07.2026 42мин

  Welcome to The Reel Schmooze with ToI film reviewer Jordan Hoffman and host Amanda Borschel-Dan, where we bring you all the entertainment news and film reviews a Jew can use. This week, Borschel-Dan begins the episode with her impressions of the United States after not having visited for eight years. We hear how American cottage cheese stacks up after all this time. We devote the rest of the program to "Tuner," the first narrative full-length feature by young Canadian filmmaker Daniel Roher and co-written by Robert Ramsey. Roher's 2022 film "Navalny," about the Russian political prisoner Alexei Navalny, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature Film. But "Tuner" is a huge departure for the 33-year-old filmmaker and Hoffman explains how he manages to punch high while keeping his budget low. The plot surrounds a young piano tuner played by Leo Woodall who must make a quick buck after his mentor, played by Dustin Hoffman, falls on hard times. Tuner Niki White meets a team of thuggish Israelis, headed by Uri (Lior Raz), who exploit the tuner's highly sensitive hearing for nefarious means. Let's hear who gave these this film an "oy," "meh" or the prized "not bad" this week on The Reel Schmooze. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Nicholas Carl: US and Iran are now in the Battle of Hormuz 17.07.2026 28мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. The ceasefire war between the US and Iran continues to expand. Instead of making do with a wildly favorable memorandum of understanding signed by US President Donald Trump, Iranian leaders want more -- especially recognition of their control over the vital Strait of Hormuz. Nicholas Carl, assistant director for the American Enterprise Institute's Critical Threats Project, said that the current fighting should be understood as the next stage in the US-Iran war -- namely, the Battle of Hormuz. Carl noted that the US and Israel achieved extensive military success in their campaign against Iran's ballistic missiles, nuclear program, conventional forces, defense industry, and leadership. But that military success has not been translated into enduring strategic success. "We haven't compelled the Iranians to accept a positive political outcome for us yet," said Carl. "They're still willing to fight." The Iranians came dangerously close to imposing their will on Trump, and winning the war, he argued, as the president halted the campaign and signed an MOU that came under withering criticism even from his allies. Iran is now trying to make its victory permanent, said Carl, and is working to press its advantage and end the war with its maximalist demands met. Iran is seeking to destabilize energy markets sufficiently to convince Trump that ongoing war is too costly, both economically as well as politically, and that he should accept a permanent agreement that is even more advantageous to Iran. If the war ends with Iran receiving significant financial relief and in formal control of Hormuz, he said, it will have won the war. That would certainly contribute to regime stability, but it is impossible to predict how long it will last. Something must give, argued Carl -- either the regime or the people. The regime might fall under ongoing cycles of mass protest. But it could also become even more repressive, turning into a Middle Eastern North Korea. Alternatively, it might fracture into ethnic enclaves, much like Syria. Carl said the reported Mossad plan to install former Iranian president Ahmadinejad as the leader of a new Iran is a bit far-fetched in terms of its chances for success. On the US-Israel partnership, there are certainly new forces in American politics challenging the relationship, but both countries must recognize that they're stronger together against actors like Iran. In the meantime, he said, the war between the US and Iran "is going to keep on going until one side has outlasted the other." Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• What the latest House vote says about support for Israel 16.07.2026 27мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The US House on Wednesday defeated a vote to end Israel aid. Still, with nearly 50% of Democrats backing the measure, Magid notes the significance of the measure and the vote, which he says sends the message that Israel will not have the bipartisan support it used to have if it continues its current policies toward the Palestinians. Magid reviews the recent visit of US lawmaker Ro Khanna to the West Bank, where he was briefly detained in a Palestinian village by Israeli settlers. Magid examines whether the incident was later amplified by Khanna or constitutes another case of settler violence. He touches on the venting JD Vance did during a recent podcast hosted by Joe Rogan, in which the US vice president expressed frustration over an Israeli social media campaign that criticizes the Iran deal. The latest round of Israel-Lebanon talks ended in Rome, and while the tone was positive, Magid tells us that it's unclear whether Israel will be withdrawing anytime soon from the two agreed-upon pilot zones in southern Lebanon. He opines that Israel's reluctance is probably tied to the upcoming elections and notes that the lack of progress is a sore spot for the Lebanese. The Board of Peace is progressing with plans for Gaza, with its own set of pilot zones, says Magid, but those plans are still theoretical for now. And he tells us that the Palestinian Authority has brought in an outside consultancy to vouch for progress in its reform of West Bank prisoner payments, in an attempt to prove that it is no longer incentivizing attacks on Israelis. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US House defeats amendment to end Israel aid, but nearly 50% of Democrats back measure  US lawmaker detained by settlers says lack of punishment shows Israeli complicity  ‘Go to hell’: Vance lashes out at reported Israeli-backed online campaign smearing Iran MOU  Lebanon talks in Rome wrap up without specific timeline for pledged IDF withdrawals  Board of Peace plans launch of pilot Gaza housing project, but green light elusive  PA says external audit proves payments incentivizing attacks on Israelis have ended  Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.  IMAGE: US bureau chief Jacob Magid appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Why is Iran attacking its Gulf neighbors? 15.07.2026 24мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. There are at least 19 US warships in the Arabian Sea, including two aircraft carriers and an amphibious assault ship with more than 1,000 Marines aboard. This threat -- and US President Donald Trump's renewed blockade on the Strait of Hormuz -- is not deterring the Iranians' determined chokehold on the waterway. Berman delves into the logic behind Iran's moves. Adding further nuance, we take a look at Iran's strikes on its Gulf neighbors and Jordan. What is being targeted and how is this conveying the regime's message? Next, we turn to an unexpected escalation in the Gulf: The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen said they launched missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia’s Abha International Airport on Monday in response to airstrikes they blamed on Saudi Arabia that struck Sanaa International Airport earlier in the day. What is behind this flare-up? And finally, Rome is host this week to a sixth round of talks between Israel and Lebanon. On the agenda is a pilot IDF pullout from specific locations in southern Lebanon. Berman raises the pluses and minuses of this plan. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US reimposes naval blockade as Trump threatens to ramp up strikes on Iran: ‘You better make a deal’ Iran’s strikes show its priority is flexing muscle on Hormuz, not dealing with Trump After blocking Hormuz, Iran signals it could ramp up pressure and shut Red Sea gateway, too In major escalation, Yemen’s Houthis target Saudi Arabia’s Abha airport Trump said to urge Netanyahu to pull Israeli troops from Syria, Lebanon in recent call Sixth round of Israel-Lebanon talks begins in Rome, with focus on IDF pullout ‘pilot’ Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• War on? Trump declares US 'guardians' of Hormuz 14.07.2026 27мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The US launched strikes on Iran early Tuesday, hours after President Donald Trump said Washington was “reinstating” a blockade on Iranian ports. Trump separately suggested the United States will act as "guardians" of the Strait of Hormuz and in return will charge ships for safe passage. With Iran lashing out against its Gulf neighbors and Jordan, has the war essentially restarted? The New York Times reported Monday that Israel engaged in a multiyear effort to recruit and re-install as leader Iran’s former hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. In the report, citing US officials and sources with knowledge of the failed Israeli plot, we learn of a detailed plan that fell apart on February 28, even as the US and Israel attacked Iran and picked off its top leadership. Horovitz relates what we know so far. As part of a legislative blitz ahead of its dissolution on Friday, the Knesset voted 63-52 on Monday to pass a deeply divisive Basic Law declaring Torah study a “foundational value” of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Horovitz delves into the problematic ripple effects of this law, other legislation catering to the Haredi community that is set to be passed this week, and the IDF chief of staff's rare public outcry against it. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US attacks Iran and Tehran retaliates across Middle East as both vie for control of strait Trump resumes blockade of Iran’s ports, says US ‘guardian’ of Hormuz, will charge ‘20% on all cargo’ Report: Ahmadinejad met Mossad chief under Israeli plan to install him as Iran leader Israel passes quasi-constitutional law declaring Torah study a foundational value IDF chief denounces ‘inconceivable’ bill freezing ultra-Orthodox enlistment Full text: IDF chief’s letter to Netanyahu, Katz against bill freezing Haredi enlistment Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Coalition races to pass controversial laws before Knesset dissolves 13.07.2026 19мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Ariela Karmel joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The Knesset is in the midst of a legislative blitz before parliament dissolves on July 17. Karmel notes that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing to pass controversial bills important to the ultra-Orthodox and nationalist, right-wing parties in his coalition, to solidify his alliances ahead of October 27’s general election. Karmel discusses the various bills likely to be passed into law, including a Basic Law on Torah study that would shield Haredi men from the army draft; the repeal of a kashrut reform that weakened the Orthodox rabbinate; and a bill to gut the powers of the attorney general. A bill to establish a politically appointed probe into the failures surrounding the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led invasion, which would give the coalition unilateral control over the commission to investigate its own conduct, may not be enacted due to time constraints. Much of this legislation is vulnerable to constitutional challenges, reports Karmel, but there is no certainty that the coalition, if reelected, would abide by future High Court rulings, which, in turn, raises the question of whether the current government would concede if it loses on October 27. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Election date finalized for October 27, with government set to complete full term Bill approved for final Knesset readings would freeze Haredi enlistment for at least 7 months Bill to gut attorney general’s powers approved by Knesset committee for final readings Coalition aims to pass raft of contentious bills in final week before Knesset dissolution Netanyahu said seeking Haredi loyalty after election, but party leaders noncommittal Knesset advances controversial bill for politically appointed Oct. 7 probe in 1st reading Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Political correspondent Ariela Karmel appears on today's Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• IDF on standby to rejoin Iran fight 12.07.2026 22мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. The US military said it launched another round of strikes on Iran early Sunday, the third in recent days, after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps struck a container ship traveling through the Strait of Hormuz and declared the waterway closed until further notice. Fabian speaks to what it may take for the IDF to rejoin the fight. US Democratic lawmaker Ro Khanna said he was detained by Israeli settlers armed with US-made rifles during a West Bank visit late last week. Also making headlines, four Israeli settlers were detained for allegedly attacking a CNN media crew near the West Bank town of Sinjil on Saturday. After allegations of IDF inaction, Fabian reviews the military's role in defusing similar situations. The Israel Defense Forces on Friday announced that three Hamas commanders were killed in airstrikes in Gaza, including one who raided the IDF’s Re’im base in southern Israel during the October 7, 2023, onslaught that sparked the subsequent war in the Strip. This comes amid an uptick in similar announcements of targeted killings of terrorists who participated in the massacre or held hostages in Gaza. Fabian tells us about the apparent trend. Yesterday, a US military delegation met with Lebanon’s army in Beirut to discuss the implementation of Israel’s withdrawal from a “pilot zone” in southern Lebanon. We hear where and how it may take place. And finally, to end the program, we learn about Pvt. Yaakov Zarihan, killed in action on April 20, 1948, during Israel’s War of Independence. He had been considered missing for 78 years, and last week it was announced that he was identified as buried in a mass grave in a kibbutz near Jerusalem. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran again, after IRGC attacks ship in Hormuz and declares strait closed US Democrat Ro Khanna says he was detained by armed settlers during West Bank visit 4 settlers detained for alleged attack on CNN crew in West Bank town of Sinjil Off-duty IDF soldier, two Israeli women extracted from West Bank’s Jericho IDF kills three Hamas commanders, including Oct. 7 invader, in Gaza airstrikes US military delegation visits Beirut to discuss IDF ‘pilot zone’ withdrawal IDF troops to withdraw from Lebanon pilot zones in coming days, says US official IDF says soldier missing since 1948 war determined to be buried near Jerusalem Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• What Matters Now to Dr. Deborah Gilboa: The neuroscience of resilience 10.07.2026 34мин

  Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Amanda Borschel-Dan speaking with Deborah Gilboa, MD, an expert in resilience and navigating change. The Pittsburgh-based family physician and author of "From Stressed to Resilient: The Guide to Handle More and Feel It Less" begins the program by defining what is -- and what is not -- resilience. We learn that it can be exercised and strengthened to be employed when we are presented with unexpected choices, positive or negative. Gilboa, whose son served and was injured as a lone soldier in Gaza, shares how she personally found inner fortitude following his deployment in October 2023 and was able to be the mother he needed when called upon. We also hear about Dr. G's Squirrel Hill community and its coping mechanisms in the wake of the October 27, 2018, shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue, in which 11 people were killed by a white supremacist terrorist. We learn that the community's response to US President Donald Trump's visit lines up with resilience tactics, including drawing boundaries and uniting through tragedy. Finally, Gilboa gives quick tips for how listeners may hack their own resilience muscle in times of stress. And so, this week, we ask Dr. Deborah Gilboa what matters now. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was edited by Yitzchak Ledee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Eyal Hulata: What’s next in the fight against Iran 10.07.2026 38мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. A few short weeks ago, US President Donald Trump signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran that was widely panned, especially in Israel. The bizarre agreement met none of the US or Israel war aims, extracted no concessions from Iran, and even gave it effective control over the fighting in Lebanon. Predictably, the MOU hasn't led to anything like peace. This week, Iran launched attacks on civilian ships in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to US strikes, followed by Iran launching drones and rockets at Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. Is the Trump MOU dead? If it's not, how should Israel ensure that its goals are met, even if returning to war in the short term is not possible? And what does this mean for Israel's fight against Iranian proxies on its borders? Dr. Eyal Hulata, a veteran of Israel's security services, served as National Security Adviser in the previous government under Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid. As the figure who led Israel's inter-agency effort to confront the Iranian threat, Hulata is uniquely positioned to discuss Israel's long fight against the Islamic Republic. He said that Israelis should be proud of the effectiveness and accomplishments of the two air campaigns against Iran, which pushed back the Iranian nuclear program significantly. However, said Hulata, as long as the regime controls Iran, it will be almost impossible to solve the Iranian problem. Even though the US and Iran failed to topple the regime, Hulata stressed that the country is being led by new figures, and it is too early to say whether they will be more hardline than their predecessors. Regardless of the disappointing way the campaign ended, Hulata noted, what is important now is to look toward the next phase of the struggle against the Iranian threat. Iran's military and defense industry were badly degraded, but those achievements will be temporary if they are not followed up by ongoing pressure, sanctions, and intelligence operations. Israeli intelligence must remain intensely focused on Iran's nuclear sites, he said, in order to detect any attempts to return to nuclear enrichment. Israel will have to respond to such a development, Hulata emphasized. Ballistic missiles will continue to not only be a threat to Israel, but also to Iran's Arab neighbors. Israel must ensure that Iran's missile stockpile doesn't become too large for Israeli multi-layered air defenses, said Hulata. Any deal reached between Trump and Iran, even if that is unlikely, must not give Iran anything they don't have right now, said Hulata. Iran has not been able to enrich uranium for over a year, he noted, and should not be given permission to do so in an agreement. However, Iran will not make any concessions unless they are pressured into doing so, Hulata emphasized. "We shouldn't buy into this narrative that they have won in this military conflict," said Hulata. "They've suffered unprecedented amounts of of of damage, direct losses and indirect losses. The only way that they can recover from this is through the waivers that an American president will give them in exchange for a negotiated agreement." "This is why it is important that this negotiated agreement demands substantial outcomes," he continued. "Otherwise will be just kicking the can down the road and this will not be good in the long term." Turning to Lebanon, Hulata said the agreement signed with Beirut is the right approach, though Israel should not give anything up that compromises its security. The Lebanese government understands the Hezbollah threat, he said, but lacks capacity. In order for it to succeed, Beirut needs to commit to pushing back militarily against Hezbollah, with the firm backing of international partners. At the same time, Iran's financial support for Hezbollah must be cut off. On Syria, Hulata said that while Ahmed al-Sharaa is a jihadist, he shares the Israeli interest in reducing Iran's influence in Syria. At the same time, Turkish influence there is a serious problem, and Israel needs to keep a close eye on a growing threat from Ankara. Hulata said that while Israel could have done much more to break Hamas rule in Gaza, its best move now is to stick with Trump's 20-point plan, while bringing in partners like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. "Hamas is way weaker than it was before," Hulata said. "Hamas is disconnected from external lifelines of support. There is an ability to have a civilian rule in Gaza that would take power from Hamas and push it away." That would take creating safe civilian areas in the Israeli-controlled parts of Gaza in order to create new conditions in Gaza. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht. Check out last week's Lazar Focus:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• On razor's edge: Iran and US continue strikes 09.07.2026 25мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. For the second straight day, the United States struck Iran late Wednesday and into early Thursday morning after hitting Iranian targets a day earlier in retaliation for attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Islamic Republic responded by attacking sites in Kuwait and Bahrain, but not yet Israel. Berman assesses the causes for the current flare-up and where things may go from here. Although Israel did all it could to convince the White House not to provide Turkey with advanced military hardware that would drastically improve its air force, US President Donald Trump seems keen on pushing for Turkey's rejoining the F-35 program. Berman breaks down why the country was initially ejected from the program and what Israel's objections are. During the NATO summit in Ankara on Wednesday, Trump informed his Syrian counterpart Ahmed al-Sharaa that he had decided to remove the country from the US list of designated state sponsors of terrorism. During this same meetup, Trump touted his decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and spoke to Turkey's influence in Syria. Berman puts the pieces together. Israel-Jordan relations are at a nadir as the Jewish state decided not to renew a 2021 "goodwill" agreement that would see Israel doubling its required water allotment to its parched neighbor. We learn how we got here -- and how the relationship could soon be improved. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US launches 2nd night of strikes against Iran, as Israel said bracing for war to restart NATO summit and Trump’s support for F-35s sale boost Turkey’s standing, as slumping Israel sees clout erode US to delist Syria as state sponsor of terror, in new boost to Sharaa Parched Jordan fuming at Israeli refusal to renew expired water deal – report Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Is the US-Iran ceasefire over? 08.07.2026 27мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Editor David Horovitz joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Almost three weeks into the 60-day period in which the US and Iran are tasked with negotiating a final deal to end the war, the US military unleashed a new wave of strikes against Iran on Tuesday and revoked a license allowing the country to sell oil after three tankers were hit by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz. Can this further pressure on an already fragile ceasefire spiral both sides back into war? US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he would “certainly consider” selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, as he sat alongside his "good friend" Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan ahead of a NATO summit in Ankara. We hear Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's caustic response. The Knesset voted 59-0 on Monday to pass, in the first of three readings, controversial legislation establishing a politically appointed probe into the failures surrounding Hamas’s October 7, 2023, massacre. The legislation would give the government that was in power when the attacks took place the authority to unilaterally appoint the body investigating its own conduct. This is only one of several controversial pieces of legislation being pushed through in a last-minute drive from the current coalition. Horovitz weighs in. Ahead of the Knesset’s expected dissolution next week and general elections in October, Yoaz Hendel’s Reservists party announced Tuesday it would join forces with former Blue and White MK Chili Tropper. We learn how this move -- as well as a newly announced party from longtime Likud MK Yuli Edelstein -- could shift coalition building blocks. And finally, we hear Horovitz's commentary on last night's nail-biting World Cup match between Egypt and Argentina. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran, revokes oil sanctions waiver after attacks on tankers in Hormuz Sitting alongside ‘friend’ Erdogan, Trump says he’ll ‘certainly consider’ F-35 sale to Turkey Knesset advances controversial bill for politically appointed Oct. 7 probe in 1st reading Yoaz Hendel’s Reservists teams up with ex-minister Chili Tropper ahead of election Messi leads Argentina in stunning late 3-2 comeback to oust Egypt from World Cup Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Will the Chief Rabbinate keep its monopoly on kosher certification? 07.07.2026 22мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Jewish world and real estate correspondent Zev Stub joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today’s episode. We begin our conversation by diving into the Maccabiah Games, which are being held at venues across Israel through July 13. Zev Stub explains how, after last year's Maccabiah was postponed because of Israel's June 2025 war with Iran, the opening of the two-week competition carried an added sense of symbolism and significance. We then examine Stub's reporting on the Israeli Chief Rabbinate's apparent decision on Thursday to authorize the liberal Tzohar Rabbinical Organization to issue kashrut certifications under Israeli law for the first time, following a High Court of Justice ruling last month requiring it to withdraw its refusal to recognize the group. Within hours, however, the decision was thrown into doubt, with senior officials saying the approval had not been properly authorized and therefore had no legal standing. Stub walks us through the competing claims and the possible outcomes. In the second half of our discussion, Stub delivers a real estate snapshot of current trends in Israel's housing market. We analyze how the strong shekel, fluctuating interest rates and rising antisemitism worldwide are shaping buyer behavior. To close, Stub takes us inside "Bat Sheba's Palace," a Caesarea property listed for an asking price of $210 million. With gold-plated fountains, imported stone and nearly 74,000 square feet (6,900 square meters) of interior space, the Versailles-inspired estate embodies a level of luxury once unimaginable in the Jewish state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• High Court showdown: Is Israel facing a constitutional crisis? 06.07.2026 18мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. A low-level constitutional crisis is brewing, Sharon says, as Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi and Justice Minister Yariv Levin both said they won't respect a High Court of Justice ruling regarding the Second Authority, the regulatory body for commercial broadcast media and the proposed sale of Channel 13. Sharon reports that President Isaac Herzog and opposition leaders immediately warned that when the government refuses to heed certain High Court decisions, it paves the way for other, more severe situations, such as electoral interference, and ultimately threatens Israel's democracy. Sharon reports on another recent High Court decision that could also have led to a constitutional crisis, as the deputy court president ruled that the government must redo the election for the state comptroller following a suspicion of violations of ballot secrecy in the previous round. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Government defiance of High Court paves way for future disregard of the law In first, government vows to disobey High Court ruling, setting up constitutional crisis High Court rules state comptroller election violated ballot secrecy, must be held again Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Legal correspondent Jeremy Sharon appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• IDF chief’s plea for more troops collides with Haredi anti-draft push 05.07.2026 17мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. IDF clashes with Hezbollah in south Lebanon continue, reports Fabian, but on a more limited basis following the recently signed Beirut-Jerusalem framework, in comparison to previous iterations of ceasefires with the Iranian proxy terror group. The IDF targeted and killed a Hamas chief of security in Gaza who commanded a terror cell that raided the Nahal Oz army base and kibbutz on October 7, 2023, notes Fabian. The cell seized the body of tank commander Daniel Perez and took hostage Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samar Talalka, who later escaped their captors and were accidentally killed in December 2023 by IDF troops in Gaza. Fabian discusses a statement made by IDF chief of staff Eyal Zamir at an assessment on Thursday in which, without citing it explicitly, he takes aim at the government's advancing a Basic Law that would prioritize ultra-Orthodox Torah study over the army's stated need for more personnel as it battles on several fronts. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: IDF says it killed armed Hezbollah operative after manhunt in southern Lebanon IDF shells Hezbollah sites after soldier hurt in clash with gunman in south Lebanon IDF says strike killed Hezbollah operative who emerged from tunnel in south Lebanon IDF says it killed Hamas terrorist who abducted tank officer Daniel Perez, held hostages After Basic Law exalting Torah study advances, IDF chief says soldiers must be prioritized Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Military correspondent Emanuel Fabian appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook: The Israeli food we serve tells our story 04.07.2026 49мин

  Welcome to What Matters Now, a weekly podcast exploring key issues currently shaping Israel and the Jewish World, with host Jessica Steinberg speaking with acclaimed chefs and restaurateurs Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook. Solomonov and Cook, the trailblazing chefs behind Philadelphia hospitality group CookNSolo Restaurants, are known champions of the Israeli culinary landscape, a history that began with their first restaurant, Zahav, which is considered their flagship and was established 17 years ago. The James Beard Foundation award-winning restaurateurs speak about how they met as line cooks in Philadelphia, when they ran to a tiny Middle Eastern market to stock up on freekeh, silan and spices for their developing menu. Solomonov, the son of a Bulgarian-Israeli father and American-Israeli mother, and Cook, the son of an American rabbi, speak about the Jewish and Israeli influences in their lives. They discuss how Zahav came to be, in an unlikely corner of Philadelphia, an upscale version of an Israeli grill restaurant, eventually branching into additional restaurants and cafes in the city, in New York, and in Florida. Their take on Israeli cuisine has been at the forefront of the American discovery of creamy hummus and tahini, roasted meats and fresh salads, a concept they discuss during the podcast. Cook and Solomonov review the last two and a half years since the bloody October 7 Hamas onslaught and the concurrent wave of anti-Zionist sentiment, when it became much more challenging to run a chain of Israel-influenced restaurants. With nearly 500 employees at their 18 restaurants, the pair say they feel proud to be an Israeli restaurant group, knowing that it is inspiring to some and a reason for others to express hate and vitriol. Solomonov and Cook agree that they won't apologize for their identity, for their culture or community, and will continue to prepare and develop their dishes and restaurants to represent their roots. What Matters Now podcasts are available for download on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: Celebrated restaurateurs and chefs Steve Cook (left) and Michael Solomonov (right) speak to What Matters Now host Jessica Steinberg for this week's podcast (Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Hanin Ghaddar: Lebanon turns against Hezbollah 03.07.2026 30мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. Israelis and many Americans -- not to mention Gulf Arabs -- were stunned by the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Trump administration and the Iranians last month. There was much to criticize in the MOU, but one of the most egregious elements was the inclusion of Lebanon in the ceasefire deal. Although neither Israel nor the Lebanese government were signatories to a deal between Washington and Tehran, it specifically mandated a halt to Israel's campaign against Hezbollah, Iran's most powerful proxy. Then, last Friday, a reason for some hope. As a beaming US Secretary of State Marco Rubio looked on, the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to Washington signed an agreement envisioning peace between the neighbors and the staged disarming of Hezbollah by the Lebanese army. Could this be the beginning of the end for Hezbollah, the tool of Iranian control of Lebanon? Can we expect a real peace deal that would see Israelis and Lebanese moving across the border? Or is this another half-baked Trump agreement that will lead nowhere, and will allow Israel's enemies to rebuild and keep their weapons? Hanin Ghaddar, a Shiite Lebanese scholar who grew up in southern Lebanon, says that even her community is sick of Hezbollah. The turn against the organization -- which claims to represent and protect the Shia -- began a decade ago, as they sided against anti-government protestors. With the country in a deep economic crisis and political stalemate, the organization dragged the country into war on October 8, 2023, in support of Hamas. The majority of Shiites in Lebanon, said Ghaddar, are done with Hezbollah. "The resistance is dead as a solution to everything," she posited. There's no belief in the resistance anymore. Hezbollah is still there with its arms, and people relate to it because of the factor of fear, not loyalty." Hezbollah dragged Lebanon into a war in support of Iran again this year. Lebanese citizens want Israel out, but see an agreement as the way to accomplish that goal. Ghaddar offered the possibility that the notoriously ineffective Lebanese military is actually more capable than Hezbollah after the Shiite militia was severely degraded by years of war with Israel. However, to disarm Hezbollah, she said, the Lebanese army must be willing to engage in armed conflict if necessary, with the backing of the US, Europe and Saudi Arabia. She made the point that while Israel's relationships with Arab countries are with their governments, the public continues to disdain the Jewish state. In Lebanon's case, the public wants an end to the conflict with Israel, while governments have been loath to act. "Lebanese are ready," she said. "Lebanese are definitely ready for peace." Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• When Israel becomes a US campaign issue 02.07.2026 24мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US reporter Luke Tress joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As far-left, anti-Israel candidate Melat Kiros wins in the Colorado primaries, Tress discusses the emerging pattern of far-left candidates running on Israel issues and winning, first in New York and now in Colorado. Tress also reviews last week’s New York primary winners, comparing Darialia Avila Chevalier with Kiros, both young doctoral students without legislative experience who beat long-term Democratic incumbents, creating a new model of outsiders sweeping the primaries. Along similar lines, Tress reports on a video on social media that shows Scott Weiner, a left-wing Jewish and openly gay legislator from the San Francisco area who is a longtime supporter of the transgender community, being run out of a transgender march in the city. Tress notes the wide swath of 700 rabbis who condemned New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's comments about AIPAC, when he called the lobbying group "monsters," including antisemitic tropes. Finally, Tress discusses a New York City council law meant to protect the schools from protests as part of a broader plan to combat antisemitism, but was narrowed and watered down by a Mamdani veto. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Anti-Israel candidate wins Colorado primary, says she’s aiming to ‘end genocide in Palestine’ Mamdani-backed primary sweep further cements anti-Zionist politics in NYC Over 700 rabbis denounce Mamdani’s AIPAC ‘monsters’ speech as ‘dangerous’ to Jews NYC passes law to protect schools, but not colleges, after anti-Israel protests Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: New York reporter Luke Tress appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (AP Photo/Ryan Murphy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Netanyahu answers Oct. 7 question with joke in TV interview 01.07.2026 18мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. US bureau chief Jacob Magid joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged with the Hebrew media on the pro-government Channel 14 Tuesday night, Magid reports on the Israeli leader’s messaging and his description of improvements in the region, including the elimination of Hamas leaders and wider buffer zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria. He also references the prime minister’s attempt at humor in an initial response to a question about how October 7, 2023, has changed him. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner traveled to Qatar — ostensibly for talks with Iranian officials, according to US President Donald Trump, notes Magid — but will only be meeting with Qatari mediators to discuss further implementation of the memorandum of understanding with Iran, amid ongoing issues with control of the Strait of Hormuz and Israel’s presence in Lebanon. Magid briefly discusses the full text of the Israel-Lebanon deal, which features the establishment of pilot zones from which the IDF will be expected to withdraw, based on the Lebanese Armed Forces’ success in disarming Hezbollah. The Board of Peace is further along in clarifying its plan for technocrats to take over the administration of Gaza, reports Magid, but there is still no timeline for entry. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu: Pursuit of ‘total victory’ against Iran and its proxies ‘never ends’ Asked how he changed since October 7, Netanyahu jokes that he lost weight US envoys in Qatar to meet mediators, but no direct talks with Iran set for coming days ‘Eventual IDF redeployment from Lebanon’: Full text of Israel-Lebanon deal security annex Board of Peace finalizing plans for Gaza, but implementation timeline up in the air Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht. IMAGE: US bureau chief Jacob Magid appears on the Daily Briefing podcast with host Jessica Steinberg (YouTube screenshot)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Why Netanyahu won't publicly take on Trump over Iran 30.06.2026 24мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. News editor Ben Sales joins host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. As the US-Iran deal progresses, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu knows he can’t mount the same kind of campaign he did 11 years ago against the 2015 Iran deal spearheaded by then-President Barack Obama, Sales discusses, noting that the Israeli leader can only operate behind the scenes this time around. Sales reviews the three Democratic candidates who won the New York City Congressional primaries last week, two with virulently anti-Israel politics, and notes that support for Israel was once a unifying factor, but now opposition to Israel is a unifying factor in American politics. As the 50th anniversary of the July 4, 1976 raid on Entebbe approaches, Sales reports on the release of a huge trove of archival material that relates salient details about the operation, including that it was not a foregone conclusion in the hours before it took place. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu can’t run the playbook he used to fight the 2015 Iran deal — and Trump knows it American pro-Israel activists may have just had their worst week ever ‘Zero hour is coming’: How Israel went from negotiating over hostages to the daring raid at Entebbe Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Yitzchak Ledee. IMAGE: Netanyahu speaking to Congress in 2015. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• Can anyone build a coalition without the Haredi and Arab parties? 29.06.2026 25мин

  Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Ariela Karmel joins host Gabriella Jacobs for today's episode. Karmel opens the episode with a look at what's expected to dominate the Knesset agenda this week. Lawmakers are set to hold marathon committee sessions to advance the coalition's controversial proposed Basic Law enshrining Torah study as a foundational value of the State of Israel, legislation promoted by the ultra-Orthodox parties as part of ongoing efforts to shield yeshiva students from military conscription. She also walks us through other contentious bills making their way through the Knesset, including proposed changes to the attorney general's powers and a government's communications bill, which could have broad implications for broadcast and media independence, as the coalition pushes to advance key pieces of legislation before the summer recess. In the second half of the episode, we turn to the political landscape ahead of Israel's October election. Karmel breaks down reports of a possible alliance between Benny Gantz's Blue and White party, Yoaz Hendel's Reservists party and political newcomer Dedy Simhi, explaining why significant issues between the parties remain unresolved. We close by taking stock of the broader political field, discussing the status of several key figures, including Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as parties continue to weigh alliances and position themselves for the campaign ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.