State of Tel Aviv, Israel Podcast

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stateoftelaviv.comAmbassador Michael Oren brings decades of deep experience as an historian, diplomat, and politician to bear on this critical moment in Mid-East volatility. Asked at the outset of our discussion what’s at stake, he did not hesitate for a second. “Everything.” We discuss the always wobbly status quo in the region and the sweeping change that has gone down…

PM Benjamin Netanyahu is keeping up the pressure, sending a letter a few days ago to President Herzog, requesting a pardon for the crimes he’s been charged with and facing a trial. At this critical time, he wrote to Herzog, it is essential that he be free to focus all his time on managing the country in a state of never-ending crisis. Surprisingly (to me), STLV regular guest sees merit in granting Netanyahu a pardon and he explains why. This issue is so complex, and we will be speaking with people in the coming weeks about how this should be handled.But first, we dig into the announcement this morning from the Prime Minister’s Office of his new pick for the head of Mossad, Israel’s storied spy agency. Current chief, David Barnea, ends his term in June, 2026 and Netanyahu has decided to replace him with a career army man who had has very little exposure to the business of Mossad. Since the announcement this morning, the pundit class has been less than enthusiastic about Bibi’s pick, if only because he lacks experience in spycraft and so much is at stake. Mossad is a much larger and more complex organization than it was even five years ago. Following a string of successes under Barnea’s leadership, the decision to snub internal promotions (favored by Barnea) will likely not be well-received in the ranks. Ya’akov is of the view that there is a less than noble reason for Netanyahu to bring someone in from outside the agency. The machinations never stop…Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes:“Crisply written... draws on excellent sources within Israel’s military and intelligence services.” —The Wall Street JournalA powerful indictment of the political and military decisions that led to October 7While Israel Slept tells the gripping inside story of how Hamas, Israel’s weakest enemy, succeeded in launching a surprise attack on one of the world’s most powerful militaries. Through a detailed examination of the events leading up to October 7, 2023, the book exposes the intelligence and strategic failures that enabled this devastating invasion. It takes readers back in time, showing how years of complacency, mistaken intelligence analysis, and a misguided policy of containment enabled Hamas to prepare for an assault that Israel did not believe was possible and that would change the Middle East.The book unveils the dramatic events of the night before the attack, highlighting the cracks in Israel’s military and political leadership. It provides unprecedented details on how key warnings were missed, and how Israel ignored the growing threat from Hamas, believing that the group was weak and deterred. By exposing these failures, While Israel Slept offers a stark, sobering account of how overconfidence and complacency paved the way for disaster, while underscoring the critical lessons Israel must embrace to safeguard its future.Yaakov Katz is an Israeli-American author and journalist. Between 2016 and 2023, Yaakov was editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post where he continues to write a popular weekly column.He is the author of three books: “Shadow Strike – Inside Israel’s Secret Mission to Eliminate Syrian Nuclear Power”, “Weapon Wizards—How Israel Became a High-Tech Military Superpower” and “Israel vs. Iran: The Shadow War.”Prior to taking up the role of editor-in-chief, Yaakov served for two years as a senior policy adviser to Naftali Bennett during his tenure as Israel’s Minister of Economy and Minister of Diaspora Affairs.In 2013, Yaakov was one of 12 international fellows to spend a year at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University.Originally from Chicago, Yaakov has a law degree from Bar Ilan University. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife Chaya and their four children.Find Yaakov Katz on X. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Last Thursday Negar Mojtahedi of Iran International spoke with State of Tel Aviv and Beyond about the horrific testimonies seeping through the digital and telephone blackout in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Today, we bring you a special report on Mojtahedi’s interview with one man who had been visiting family in Iran when the uprising began. He managed to leave last week. Mojtahedi’s interview with him - which we show here - is a rare first-hand account of the horror unfolding in Iran. We thought it more important to share this footage as quickly as possible, which is why there are no English subtitles. (AI cannot handle heavily accented English - yet.) The gentleman interviewed speaks English well….you will just have to focus and listen, carefully. This interview is the most detailed, lengthy and compelling testimony that I have come across since this crisis began. Extraordinary work by Negar Mojtahedi and Iran International. After the interview, we provide some brief commentary and context for the current state of affairs: Will the U.S. intervene? Please check the time stamps below if you wish to skip ahead. This episode is available to all subscribers. Tomorrow we bring you a special in-depth interview with Ambassador Michael Oren, where we dive into the history and present positions of key middle eastern countries and how they are posturing as this crisis intensifies. That podcast will be available for premium, subscribers only. (A short preview will be available to all.)Introduction: 00:00-2:49Interview with man in Tehran: 2:50-24:12Context and conclusion: 24:13-29:15Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivState of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

As I write this short note, we are waiting for President Trump to begin a live press conference any minute. It is 10:20 pm in Israel and you can feel it in the air. Bristling tension. Airlines have cancelled flights to and from Israel and there is a pace of information flowing that is beyond frenetic. Whatever happens - or doesn’t - the conversation I had earlier today with Negar Mojtahedi- will be as relevant tomorrow as it is at the moment, no matter what transpires.Mojtahedi is a Canadian journalist of Iranian descent who is fluent in Farsi. Based in Vancouver, Canada, she is a journalist with Iran International, the premiere media voice for the Iranian diaspora and opposition to the Islamic Republic regime.In this podcast we discuss the brutal slaughter that has been unleashed on the Iranian people since December 28 by Iranian police and others. This podcast is direct and nothing is sugar coated. Mojtahedi is in constant contact with experts globally as well as sources within Iran. Her plea - which you will hear - reflects desperate concern.The U.S. must do something. Now. Before it’s too late.We discuss the brutality of the Basij and other police - opening fire with military grade weapons on masses of unarmed civilians. This is a quick update and includes very informative clips that you may have missed. The Basij police - a force of at least 2 million of a population of 90-million - are singled out for particular attention, as they have been in Israel as well. This low-level militia force is likely doing much of the killing - and Iranians have begun to dox them with red paint and threats on their homes. Tune in for this and more.Follow Negar on X @NegarMojtahedi / Instagram @negarmojtahedi State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.stateoftelaviv.comOur first episode of Season 4 (FOUR!!!) kicks off with a tour de force featuring State of Tel Aviv and Beyond regular contributor , Lt. Col. (Res.) Jonathan Conricus. We spoke longer than usual because there is so much going on, and we just went with a relaxed New Year’s Day vibe. This episode is divided into three sections: Part 1 deals with the entren…

From all of us at State of Tel Aviv and Beyond, to you and your loved ones, best wishes for a Happy New Year! This short video message is my first foray into actually using AI……give it a look. Short. Kinda cute. And meaningful. All packed into two-ish minutes. For those of you who haven’t yet signed up as premium subscribers….we have extended the special subscription deal one day. Ends January 1, 2026. 🍾🎉🥳. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

It’s that time of year, when we reflect on what has gone down for the last 12 months and dare to look at ahead at what may be in store. State of Tel Aviv and Beyond regular commentator, Ya’akov Katz, joins me to attempt the impossible; try to understand what had happened in Israel and what may be coming at us. We focus on the big picture; in particular, why Israelis are so divided and what may address these rifts going forward. A crisis of trust and values afflicts this country. But the difference with Israel from most other countries is that we exist on a knife edge. In a flash, on October 7, 2023, we went from being a strong, regional power to a nation attacked by a terrorist group that had become a well-oiled, armed, and disciplined military force. Since then Israel has regained its military footing, somewhat, but is a country more deeply divided than ever. And the vested political interests seem to be determined to keep it that way. We discuss some of the more spectacular political scandals and the increasingly illiberal conduct by members of the coalition government. This is an election year in Israel. Ya’akov and I agree that the future of Israel will turn on the outcome of this election….that is….if it even happens.Reminder: Until midnight on December 31 (EST), our subscription special offer of $45 for one year is in place. On January 1, subscription rates go up and most of our content will be available to premium subscribers only. Please consider supporting our work. State of Tel Aviv is an independent enterprise. We depend on subscriber support to operate.Happy new year to all.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes* Podcast on State of Tel Aviv and Beyond, discussing issues raised in this discussion with Ya’akov Katz.* Column by Ya’akov Katz published in Jerusalem Post, Friday, December 26, 2025.Blurred loyalties in PMO are a danger Israel cannot ignoreAfter watching the three-part interview with Eli Feldstein, one of the central figures in the leak of classified intelligence documents to BILD and the broader Qatargate affair, a few things become clear.First, Feldstein is a deeply problematic character. Second, these interviews were clearly intended to rehabilitate his image ahead of a looming court case. And third, his central argument is simple: he portrays himself as a pawn, knowingly or unknowingly manipulated by more powerful figures operating in the prime minister’s inner circle - including Prime Minister’s Office adviser Jonathan Urich, former Likud campaign strategist Srulik Einhorn, and ultimately allegedly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself.Some of what Feldstein says is hard to swallow. His attempt to cast himself as a passive bystander in one of the most serious national security scandals in years is not easy to believe. And yet, it is equally impossible to simply dismiss everything he says out of hand. That tension alone should set off alarm bells.Because when allegations are this severe, and when they touch the very nerve center of Israeli decision-making, silence is not an option. Shrugging it off as spin by a defendant trying to save himself is simply reckless.This leads to one unavoidable conclusion: Israel must conduct a serious, deep, and independent investigation into what happened here. Not only into the leaks themselves, but into how three people operating at the heart of the Prime Minister’s Office ended up working - whether knowingly or not - in the service of Qatar.This is not a marginal scandal. It hits at the core of our national security and the public's trust in its government. If foreign interests penetrated the PMO, even indirectly, the implications are staggering. And if they did not, then the public deserves to know that as well. Either way, the truth must be reached.There is also a broader lesson that cannot be ignored. Israel urgently needs clear rules and hard red lines. An adviser to the prime minister cannot be allowed to simultaneously serve other clients. The notion that someone can advise Israel’s most powerful decision-maker while also consulting for foreign governments, multinational corporations, or even tech companies is dangerous.This principle must apply to the current prime minister and to anyone else who aspires to the job. Public service at this level cannot coexist with private interests. National security does not allow for blurred lines.Without accountability, there can be no leadershipAccountability is famously a word in English that does not have a direct translation into Hebrew. There are phrases that attempt to approximate it, but none that fully capture its meaning – an obligation to accept responsibility, to answer for decisions that are made, and to face their consequences.That absence of the word is not merely linguistic. It reflects something deeper about Israeli political culture and what has become a constant in the country: Try to avoid responsibility, deflect blame, and do everything to remain in power.That deficiency helps explain more than the current debate over a commission of inquiry. It also explains something no less disturbing: how, despite the scale of the failures of October 7 and the war that followed, Israeli politics are almost exactly the same as they were before.The same figures are once again vying for power ahead of the elections that will be held in the second half of 2026. The same names are in the polls, from the politicians currently in the Knesset to those who were there just a couple of years ago.It would have been natural to think that, in the aftermath of the greatest disaster in our national history, new leadership would have already emerged. Someone – or even multiple people – would be electrifying the country, showing that things can be done differently and that there are alternatives to the current cadre leading us now or vying to lead us in the future.But there aren’t, and this is striking. Israel is a country known for its innovation, creativity, and courage. It produces world-class entrepreneurs, military commanders, scientists, and civil-society leaders. Yet when it comes to politics, the system seems stuck.Even the party that claims to represent the reservists who fought in Gaza and Lebanon over the last two years – a movement that should carry one of the most morally compelling voices today – is being led by a former failed politician. Not a new figure, but by someone from the same old political class.The reason this is the case, I believe, is because systems that avoid accountability also suppress renewal. When failure carries no real consequences and leaders do not step aside, those watching from the outside are taught a clear lesson: Politics is not a path to service, but rather a place where staying on the wheel and in the game come first. It is less about what you do and more about how long you can be there.It is through this lens that the Knesset vote on Wednesday must be understood. The legislation advanced this week, aimed at giving the government the ability to establish a commission of inquiry and appoint its members, stands in stark contrast to a state commission of inquiry – Israel’s highest investigative authority – whose composition is determined independently by the judiciary.Both options are flawed and will be rejected by about half of the people. If the state commission is appointed, the half that does not trust the Supreme Court will not believe a word that the commission writes. If the government-appointed committee moves ahead, the same will happen, just from the other side. Either way, to some extent, Israel is stuck – there is no perfect option.But beyond the numbers of who supports what, something even more basic is at stake and should be the determining factor.Anyone detained by the police does not get to choose the detectives handling the case. When citizens appear before a zoning or planning commission, they do not get to select the panel that will hear their appeal. When people go to court, they do not get to decide who the judges will be.In every functioning system, this principle is non-negotiable. The moment a suspect chooses the investigator, the investigation ceases to be credible.Yet in this case, we are being told that the same ministers who failed in the years leading up to October 7 – and on October 7 itself – should determine who will investigate those failures. In what world does this make sense? And in what reality does this lead to accountability? It doesn’t. With such a commission, there is only one result – evading responsibility.Israelis deserve to know what went wrong before and on October 7. Not for political gain, and not for revenge, but to ensure that such a catastrophe never happens again. Accountability is not about settling scores. It is about learning, correcting, and preventing.And we already have a clear indication of how a politically appointed commission would function.All one had to do was listen to the first meeting of the committee tasked with appointing it. Instead of focusing on decisions taken in the years leading up to the war, the discussion immediately drifted backwards – to the Oslo Accords, to the disengagement from Gaza. Other MKs spoke of the need to investigate the judiciary and the attorney general.Was there any serious discussion of the policy of containment crafted by the prime minister and adopted by successive governments? Any real reckoning with the Qatari cash transferred to Gaza with the approval of all prime ministers over the last seven years? Any willingness to examine decisions made at the highest political level within this government?Of course not.And that brings us back to the absence of renewal. When accountability is avoided, truth is delayed. When truth is delayed, leaders cling to power. And when leaders never step aside, new leadership cannot emerge.The choice facing Israel, therefore, is not just technical and about what model of inquiry we should adopt. It is between t

Another day, another attack. This urgent podcast was pulled together today, to draw attention to the parallels between the extreme antisemitism that flourishes in Australia and Canada - with a focus, of course, on the recent Bondi Beach massacre in Sydney. The similarities between the tolerance for Islamist and left-wing Jew hatred in Australia and Canada - by law enforcement and political leadership - are longstanding, horrifying and very, very real. In both countries, if Jews voice about the surge in open antisemitism, they are treated with contempt. Told that they are being “Islamophobic.” Well. After two years of official indulgence of extreme Islamism in both countries it seems that the threats to Globalize the Intifada are being realized.Diversity is actually not our strength, as it turns out.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivState of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Joining State of Tel Aviv and Beyond today is Professor Suzie Navot, one of Israel’s foremost constitutional law experts currently serving as Vice President of the Israel Democracy Institute.For six years now Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been on trial for multiple corruption charges. He does not hide his contempt for the judicial system which he considers to be rotten to the core. A consistent theme of his leadership for the last decade has been to relentlessly attack the judiciary and law enforcement institutions for being an elitist, self-serving clique that is also left leaning and determined to sabotage the policies of his successive government coalitions. Most recently, Netanyahu has enlisted the support of U.S. President Trump to publicly pressure President Isaac Herzog to grant him a pardon; to make the charges and the trial just go away. Two months ago, in signature Trump larger-than-life theatrics, the American president implored his Israeli counterpart to just give Bibi a pardon already. Raucous applause filled the Knesset hall - where Trump was speaking - but the din has since died down. Pardoning Netanyahu is no simple matter - legally, politically or in terms of social mores. But Netanyahu is not relenting. In the last two weeks, Bibi and his lawyer sent written documents to President Herzog setting out what they state is the legal rationale for granting a pardon. Interestingly, they present Netanyahu as the man who is needed to heal the country and manage the security and diplomatic challenges free from distractions - like the trial. But, as Prof. Navot notes - Benjamin Netanyahu is charged personally with corruption-related offenses. He is not the state. And he is not above the law. With clarity and precision, Prof. Navot explains why the Netanyahu pardon request does not meet Israeli legal requirements and this request places President Herzog in a very difficult spot.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast NotesProfessor Suzie Navot is a Professor of Constitutional Law. She holds an LL. B degree from Tel-Aviv University, an MA in Public Policy from Tel-Aviv University and a LL.D from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Her doctoral thesis studied the parliamentary immunity of the Knesset members.Prof. Navot’s areas of research include constitutional law, law of institutions, parliamentary law and comparative constitutional law.Prior to her appointment to IDI. she served on the faculty of the Striks Faculty of Law, College of Management. For over ten years, she served as a visiting Professor at the National Security College, and from 2009 until 2015, as a visiting Professor at the University of Paris (Sorbonne).Navot has served as the Chairperson of the Israeli Association of Public Law (2014-2017), currently serves on the executive council of the Israeli Association of Legislation and is a member of the Executive Council of the International Association of Constitutional Law (IACL).She is active in a wide range of public activities. A small selection of these activities includes her service on public commissions dealing with such issues as an Ethics Code for the Israeli Parliament, the Presidential volunteers’ award; the preparation of a new law on election propaganda (appointed by the Israeli President and the Chair of the Central Elections Committee), and was appointed by the Prime Minster to the board of directors for the Civil Service education program. Since 2021, Prof. Navot serves as a member of the commission tasked with preparing a draft of the Basic Law: The Legislature, presided by the Minister of Justice.Navot has published widely in several languages. She has prepared written opinions for Knesset committees and for the President of Israel on constitutional questions. She received a special award from the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, the prestigious Zeltner prize for a special contribution to Israeli society in the field of law, and the “Ometz” award for a special contribution to the battle against corruption.In recognition of her extraordinary teaching skills, Navot was the recipient of the teaching excellence nomination, for almost 30 consecutive years, and the Inspiring Lecturer award, by the National Students Union.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

On Wednesday, November 5, IDF reservist Jonathan Karten planned to speak with a small group of Jewish students from Toronto Metropolitan University about the reality of the war in Gaza. Within moments of his arrival at the secret location for this meeting, he was attacked violently and injured. The students were terrified, taking cover under tables. What began as a small group of masked “protesters” yelling anti-Israel and antisemitic threats grew to dozens. In the first episode of this two-part series, we dive into the detail of what happened and how Toronto police handled the crisis. One week after the confrontation, STLV sat down with Jonathan Karten in Tel Aviv to discuss what went down that day. But we also place the antisemitic violence - that has become normalized in Toronto in the last two years - into a broader context. Home to the fourth largest Jewish community in the world - after Israel, the U.S. and France - Canada’s 360,000 Jews are often overlooked. No longer. Toronto has established itself as an Islamist’s paradise. Police have taken to telling Jews that their mere presence is a “provocation,” The Police Chief, Myron Demkiw, says he is just trying to “keep the peace.” His tactics are highly questionable. In this episode, we speak with Jonathan Karten and his friend who attended the November 5 event with him. We rely extensively in this documentary report upon video footage taken that day, much of which went viral globally.In Part II, coming later this week, we get into arrests made in this case, and the very laissez fair approach of law enforcement in Toronto to what has become chronic incitement of hatred and violence targeting Jews in the city.This episode has been generously sponsored by Andrea Marcus, a Toronto resident and artist who shares our profound concern over what has become of the once vibrant city, known for tolerance and family-friendly living.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivWatch on YoutubeState of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

It’s wonderful to have Ya’akov Katz, our regular podcast guest and military/political expert - to help us untangle the the latest knots. Almost two months after the ceasefire brokered by America between Israel and Hamas was finalized, some key issues are “stuck”, as Ya’akov puts it. The terror organization continues to hold power in about 50% of the Strip and has stated repeatedly that it will neither lay down arms nor relinquish control. These are two primary terms of the 20-point Trump Peace Plan. They still hold the bodies of two hostages murdered on October 7, in spite of another threshold term: that all hostages - living and dead - be returned. These conditions must be satisfied before the more ambitious aspects of the plan are undertaken in any serious way; like rebuilding the enclave and restoring a semblance of normal life to the 2.1-million Palestinians living there. Ya’akov and I get into why things are bogged down and if and how new momentum will set in.And, we discuss the open tension between Israel’s Minister of Defense, Yisrael Katz, and the IDF Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir. Katz is interfering with all manner of decisions that Zamir believes are within his purview, solely, as Chief of Staff. At a certain point, a meddlesome minister risks politicizing the IDF and alienating its leadership. Israel is in a never-ending crisis and a significant part of that stems from the lack of readiness on the part of both the government and the IDF on October 7. Restoring confidence in the ranks requires a Chief of Staff who is respected by the political echelon. We discuss how, where and why Minister Katz is overstepping - in the view of the IDF Chief - and how critical it is that this tension be resolved. ASAP.Happy Thanksgiving to our American friends. Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes:“Crisply written... draws on excellent sources within Israel’s military and intelligence services.” —The Wall Street JournalA powerful indictment of the political and military decisions that led to October 7While Israel Slept tells the gripping inside story of how Hamas, Israel’s weakest enemy, succeeded in launching a surprise attack on one of the world’s most powerful militaries. Through a detailed examination of the events leading up to October 7, 2023, the book exposes the intelligence and strategic failures that enabled this devastating invasion. It takes readers back in time, showing how years of complacency, mistaken intelligence analysis, and a misguided policy of containment enabled Hamas to prepare for an assault that Israel did not believe was possible and that would change the Middle East.The book unveils the dramatic events of the night before the attack, highlighting the cracks in Israel’s military and political leadership. It provides unprecedented details on how key warnings were missed, and how Israel ignored the growing threat from Hamas, believing that the group was weak and deterred. By exposing these failures, While Israel Slept offers a stark, sobering account of how overconfidence and complacency paved the way for disaster, while underscoring the critical lessons Israel must embrace to safeguard its future.Yaakov Katz is an Israeli-American author and journalist. Between 2016 and 2023, Yaakov was editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post where he continues to write a popular weekly column.He is the author of three books: “Shadow Strike – Inside Israel’s Secret Mission to Eliminate Syrian Nuclear Power”, “Weapon Wizards—How Israel Became a High-Tech Military Superpower” and “Israel vs. Iran: The Shadow War.”Prior to taking up the role of editor-in-chief, Yaakov served for two years as a senior policy adviser to Naftali Bennett during his tenure as Israel’s Minister of Economy and Minister of Diaspora Affairs.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In 2013, Yaakov was one of 12 international fellows to spend a year at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University.Originally from Chicago, Yaakov has a law degree from Bar Ilan University. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife Chaya and their four children.Find Yaakov Katz on X. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Just when it seemed that we might enjoy a lull with the ceasefire, a fresh scandal overtakes the public sphere in Israel. This one is a homegrown domestic mess but it could lead to far reaching, international consequences. In July, 2024, allegations of prisoner abuse at Sde Teiman prison in southern Israel began to surface. This is the prison where detainees captured in the Gaza Strip were held. Then a video - purporting to show physical abuse by IDF soldiers in the prison - was released. The video, in fact, is very grainy and does not show what has been suggested. Nevertheless, when it was leaked an international uproar ensued. Several IDF soldiers were indicted on serious criminal charges but it is unclear exactly what they pertain to.The indictments of IDF reservists sparked serious riots in Israel, when civilians broke into two IDF bases. A series of probes within the legal system were conducted, and we didn’t hear much more - until Wednesday, October 29. On that day, the top lawyer in the IDF - Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi - was put on leave. Two days later she resigned and admitted, in writing, that she had leaked the video. So now we have a leak and cover up at the highest levels. During the last week there has been high drama in this case. Yerushalmi disappeared for a few hours - causing major alarm. Her phone disappeared and was found five days later in the sea. Incredibly, it still worked. She was held in custody for five days and then released to house arrest. Tonight she is in hospital following an overdose and what appears to be a suicide attempt. Everything about this case is sensational and horrible; the personal suffering and indignity and the profound implications for the justice system in Israel. We discuss it all with former IDF MAG lawyer, Ben Wahlhous, who now works as an attorney in private practice in Israel. Wahlhous explains the role of the unit and what is concerning about this case. He also puts it into perspective - making clear that this case demonstrates how strong and ethical the Israeli justice system remains.Because the facts of this case are so - complicated - and important to understand….and there is so much going on, I have divided this podcast into four parts:Part 1 - Introduction and The Facts 00:00 - 14:25Part 2 - Interview with Ben Wahlhous, attorney and former lawyer in IDF legal unit - MAG 14:26 - 41:39Part 3 - Update on the Facts Current to the evening of Sunday, November 9 41:40-44:28Part 4 - A Little Levity - An iPhone Experiment Conducted on a Top Political Analysis Show 44:29 - endShow your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast NotesBen Wahlhaus served for many years as an officer in the IDF’s International Law Department. He has been a member of Israel’s defense team at The Hague against South Africa’s allegations of genocide, advised on Israel’s peace treaties and agreements, and appeared in international media explaining the IDF’s commitment to international law. Today Ben serves in the International Law Department as a reserve duty officer, and works in private practice.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Ya’akov Katz is back in Israel following a two-week book promotion tour in the U.S. See the information below. It is a beautifully written, incisive analysis of what went wrong on October 6 and 7. A page turner.It was great to have him on the podcast to take a close look at what is going on in the Gaza Strip - and what is not happening. It is almost one month since the Trump Peace Plan was signed and hope was high. Less so in Israel, perhaps, where so many weak spots were apparent. But it was something. And the first phase ensured that all living hostages would be released within days of signing. That alone was so important to the majority of Israelis. Incredibly, they did come out on Monday, October 13, after two years in captivity. A miracle that many thought would never come to pass. But then the chicanery began. Hamas has been dragging out the return of bodies of the hostages murdered in captivity. Why? Each day buys them time; to re-arm and regroup. And that is exactly what they are doing. Hamas controls approximately 50% of the Gaza Strip now and has no intention of relinquishing power or surrendering arms. They never did. They are brutalizing the people under their control and also conducting ambushes of IDF soldiers in the area that is controlled by Israel. The situation is volatile and operations are somewhat stalled. Just who will disarm Hamas remains unclear. And this is what Ya’akov Katz and I discuss today. Whereto from here?Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes:“Crisply written... draws on excellent sources within Israel’s military and intelligence services.” —The Wall Street JournalA powerful indictment of the political and military decisions that led to October 7While Israel Slept tells the gripping inside story of how Hamas, Israel’s weakest enemy, succeeded in launching a surprise attack on one of the world’s most powerful militaries. Through a detailed examination of the events leading up to October 7, 2023, the book exposes the intelligence and strategic failures that enabled this devastating invasion. It takes readers back in time, showing how years of complacency, mistaken intelligence analysis, and a misguided policy of containment enabled Hamas to prepare for an assault that Israel did not believe was possible and that would change the Middle East.The book unveils the dramatic events of the night before the attack, highlighting the cracks in Israel’s military and political leadership. It provides unprecedented details on how key warnings were missed, and how Israel ignored the growing threat from Hamas, believing that the group was weak and deterred. By exposing these failures, While Israel Slept offers a stark, sobering account of how overconfidence and complacency paved the way for disaster, while underscoring the critical lessons Israel must embrace to safeguard its future.Yaakov Katz is an Israeli-American author and journalist. Between 2016 and 2023, Yaakov was editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post where he continues to write a popular weekly column.He is the author of three books: “Shadow Strike – Inside Israel’s Secret Mission to Eliminate Syrian Nuclear Power”, “Weapon Wizards—How Israel Became a High-Tech Military Superpower” and “Israel vs. Iran: The Shadow War.”Prior to taking up the role of editor-in-chief, Yaakov served for two years as a senior policy adviser to Naftali Bennett during his tenure as Israel’s Minister of Economy and Minister of Diaspora Affairs.In 2013, Yaakov was one of 12 international fellows to spend a year at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University.Originally from Chicago, Yaakov has a law degree from Bar Ilan University. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife Chaya and their four children.Find Yaakov Katz on X.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

After two years of shock and awe in Israel the pace really isn’t letting up. If anything, it is intensifying. The last few days are typical. Over the weekend, most of the 20 hostages who returned alive, miraculously, from Hamas captivity on October 13, were released from hospital. The remains of those who were murdered in captivity are being returned by Hamas, in “dribs and drabs”, as President Trump would say. Just as Israelis begin to mentally adjust to the possibility of peace with Hamas…..things began to fall apart. Enter Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and Vice President J.D. Vance, who popped into Israel this week for whirlwind visits. As VP Vance departed today, Secretary Rubio arrived. Yesterday, Jonathan Conricus and I discussed the constantly shifting parameters for what passes as reality in this part of the world. And we get into whether the heavy American presence is intended to keep PM Netanyahu and his extreme right coalition government “in line”, or just a friendly series of drop-ins. And I couldn’t resist slipping in a brief look at Canadian PM Mark Carney - who continues to make it his business to remind Israel at every opportunity that Canada is many things under his leadership but is no friend of Israel.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast NotesJonathan Conricus is a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. He served in the IDF for 24 years, four of them as spokesman during the intense 11 days of the Guardian of the Walls Operation between Israel and Hamas. Now a reserve officer with the rank of Lt. Col., he is a sought-after speaker internationally and is frequently seen on major television news shows. Jonathan was born in Jerusalem to a Swedish father and an Israeli mother and spent his formative years in Sweden.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

On October 7, 2023, exactly two years ago, an unimaginable horror overtook southern Israel. We all recall when we found out. The shock. Disbelief. Which only intensified with time.And the unanswered questions. So. Many questions.It seemed appropriate to publish this podcast today. In this episode, Ya’akov Katz, a regular guest on State of Tel Aviv and Beyond, discusses a book he has co-authored with Amir Bohbot; an expose that looks at the damning evidence and records of what happened. And what, tragically, did not. Where was the army? Air Force? What took so long for help to arrive as Hamas was slaughtering its way through southern Israel, unimpeded? Why? How?Amir and Ya’akov had been working on a different book when October 7 happened, and they quickly pivoted. Both have extensive backgrounds in military affairs and related fields which they bring to bear in this daunting project. The book is superb. Truly - a page turner. Published on September 2, it has already made one or two bestseller lists in the U.S. Most importantly, it begins a long-awaited examination of facts. Some of which are discussed publicly here for the first time. In this episode, Ya’akov discusses the failure of every critical security, intelligence, and political institution to interpret the information available to prevent one of the greatest disasters in Jewish history.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes:“Crisply written... draws on excellent sources within Israel’s military and intelligence services.” —The Wall Street JournalA powerful indictment of the political and military decisions that led to October 7While Israel Slept tells the gripping inside story of how Hamas, Israel’s weakest enemy, succeeded in launching a surprise attack on one of the world’s most powerful militaries. Through a detailed examination of the events leading up to October 7, 2023, the book exposes the intelligence and strategic failures that enabled this devastating invasion. It takes readers back in time, showing how years of complacency, mistaken intelligence analysis, and a misguided policy of containment enabled Hamas to prepare for an assault that Israel did not believe was possible and that would change the Middle East.The book unveils the dramatic events of the night before the attack, highlighting the cracks in Israel’s military and political leadership. It provides unprecedented details on how key warnings were missed, and how Israel ignored the growing threat from Hamas, believing that the group was weak and deterred. By exposing these failures, While Israel Slept offers a stark, sobering account of how overconfidence and complacency paved the way for disaster, while underscoring the critical lessons Israel must embrace to safeguard its future.Yaakov Katz is an Israeli-American author and journalist. Between 2016 and 2023, Yaakov was editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post where he continues to write a popular weekly column.He is the author of three books: “Shadow Strike – Inside Israel’s Secret Mission to Eliminate Syrian Nuclear Power”, “Weapon Wizards—How Israel Became a High-Tech Military Superpower” and “Israel vs. Iran: The Shadow War.”Prior to taking up the role of editor-in-chief, Yaakov served for two years as a senior policy adviser to Naftali Bennett during his tenure as Israel’s Minister of Economy and Minister of Diaspora Affairs.In 2013, Yaakov was one of 12 international fellows to spend a year at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University.Originally from Chicago, Yaakov has a law degree from Bar Ilan University. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife Chaya and their four children.Find Yaakov Katz on X.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Since President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu announced the groundbreaking Peace Proposal for the Israel-Hamas war and, more broadly, the Middle East, speculation as to what it all means is rampant.I caught up with State of Tel Aviv and Beyond regular guest, Lt. Col. (Res.) and Senior FDD Fellow, Jonathan Conricus, to take a hard look at what the 21 (now 20) point plan sets out. Bibi was beaming at the White House when it was announced but it’s not all roses for Israel. Even before the announcement, Netanyahu was basically forced to swallow a clump of thorns. His phone call to the Emir of Qatar - during which he read from a prepared script and apologized for having approved an air attack on senior Hamas operatives meeting in Doha on September 9 to discuss a hostage deal - was just the first of many challenges to be faced. We wrote about that moment last week - which caused many politicians to rip into Bibi.But he did it. And Trump seems to have managed the inconceivable, getting Qatar and all significant middle eastern Arab nations to step up and publicly support the plan. It’s an extraordinary accomplishment, made possible only because middle eastern nations respect Trump. And that is because they fear him. For more on that read this piece that we dropped last week.Conricus and I go straight to it, getting into what it means for the hostages, Hamas and Israel. Who will secure the Strip and who will govern? Is de-militarization of Gaza realistic? Will Hamas accept the terms of expulsion from the Gaza Strip? How will Israel handle the first big challenge, which is expected to arise when negotiations begin in earnest on Monday in Sharm el Sheikh? It will almost certainly be about the hostages and their immediate release, a condition precedent on which neither Trump nor Bibi are likely to budge.I wanted to get this out today so that you have the benefit of digesting this discussion before negotiations gather momentum tomorrow.Oh. And the other major challenge? Qatar. As a state sponsor of terror and Hamas’ main benefactor, Qatar holds a lot of sway in these negotiations; and that may not bode well. We break it all down in under an hour.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes:Map published on social media by President Trump and referred to in the podcast by Jonathan Conricus:Jonathan Conricus is a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. He served in the IDF for 24 years, four of them as spokesman during the intense 11 days of the Guardian of the Walls Operation between Israel and Hamas. Now a reserve officer with the rank of Lt. Col., he is a sought-after speaker internationally and is frequently seen on major television news shows. Jonathan was born in Jerusalem to a Swedish father and an Israeli mother and spent his formative years in Sweden.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

(I’m editing and finalizing this podcast in an airport. So please excuse any small glitches or errors today. I thought it important to get this podcast out asap.)Most people may have heard of Charlie Kirk in passing before he was assassinated on September 10, but if you are not “Gen Z” you likely didn’t know much about him. I certainly didn't - until a few months ago when he hosted a debate at one of his Turning Point conferences. The discussion focused on whether America should support Israel and featured Josh Hammer - our STLV guest today - and Dave Smith, a “comedian” turned geopolitical expert. You can find the link to that podcast below, in the notes. It’s worhh to watching.Josh had a long conversation with Charlie and a few others on the night before his murder. They discussed a range of issues relating to Israel, antisemitism and Jews. Charlie was preparing. He told Josh that 50% - FIFTY PERCENT - of the questions he dealt with these days were about - Jews. That is astonishing.Turning Point is an advocacy organization founded by Kirk which over the years has become one of the most influential political groups in America and, possibly, beyond. Not until his death did the extraordinary reach of this young man become apparent to - the masses. He had certainly made a name for himself among young Americans, touring relentlessly to speak and engage on critical issues: social, foreign, and economic policy. He angered many and affirmed others. He opened and probably closed minds. Charlie was tenacious, hardworking, sincere, and head strong. He was unwavering in his beliefs. All of them. Recently, he had also come under attack by more than the usual detractors. Very big names in the podcast world - with millions of followers - turned on Kirk. They accused him of being a stooge for Israel. Some said he was rethinking his support for Israel and Jewish people and more than suggest that this angered the “wrong people.” Blame the Jews. Since his brutal death they’ve doubled down. It’s beyond ghoulish.I was shaken and shocked when I heard about Kirk’s murder. A young man. Earnest. Engaged. A husband and father. Gunned down while speaking to a group of students, as his wife and children watched. That our society has become so hateful, so dumb, so violent, should make us all stop. Think. And then think again. No bad pun intended but Kirk’s assassination may well mark a turning point for America and western civilization. This epic war being waged on the foundational values of western liberal democracy is real. Dangerous. And could well destroy our way of life if we do not wake up. That was Charlie’s message as well. I share some - but not all - of his views. But that’s irrelevant. This isn’t about me. What kind of world do we want to live in?Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivJosh Hammer is the author of the new book, Israel and Civilization: The Fate of the Jewish Nation and the Destiny of the West. He is the senior editor-at-large of Newsweek, a syndicated columnist, and a fellow with the Edmund Burke Foundation and the Palm Beach Freedom Institute. He also hosts The Josh Hammer Show, a Newsweek podcast and syndicated radio show. A frequent pundit and essayist on political, legal, and cultural issues, Josh is a constitutional attorney by training and additionally serves as senior counsel for the Article III Project.Josh has been published by the Los Angeles Times, the New York Post, The Telegraph, the Daily Mail, U.S. News & World Report, National Review, First Things, National Affairs, American Affairs, the Claremont Review of Books, The New Criterion, City Journal, Public Discourse, Tablet Magazine, Deseret Magazine, The Spectator, Fortune, Fox Business, The Times of Israel, The Forward, and the Jewish Journal. His legal scholarship has been published by the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy and the University of St. Thomas Law Journal. Josh is a college campus speaker through Young America's Foundation and the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, and a law school campus speaker through the Federalist Society.Josh graduated from Duke University, where he majored in economics, and from the University of Chicago Law School. He lives in Florida with his wife and daughter, and he also remains an active member of the State Bar of Texas.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

This is a special podcast that I’ve been working on since June. I first heard about Matan Yaffe from a friend in April. He was founding a new political party and the platform was generating real excitement. The founders - including Matan - were all over Israel constantly hosting evening information sessions. Very grassroots and spreading like wildfire. So I reached out to Matan and we had several long chats, some recorded, some not. He is at the forefront of what could be a seismic political change in Israel in the near future.The result of our discussions is this longer podcast; a two part interview with Matan who - along with several colleagues - has founded El HaDegel. It translates in English as “To the Flag.” They are a movement and political party that will run in the next elections.El HaDegel’s core principle is a concept that was central to the vision of David Ben Gurion and the founding mothers and fathers: mamlachti’ut. And that roughly translates to putting the state first. Service. Leave no one behind. No “special deals.” Israeli society is being torn apart from the inside, never mind our external enemies. Three years of domestic conflict, including two years of war, have drained the count of resources - physical and psychological. And Matan Yaffe and his colleagues believe they understand why and propose a solution. They advocate a reformed Israel in which all citizens work and serve the state - whether through the military or in a civilian context. No exceptions. And that is the platform on which they are running - and polling strongly. There are now two parties - El HaDegel and Miluimnikim (which translates as “reservists”) which have been founded recently by IDF reserve soldiers who believe that the state is long overdue for a constitutional rebuild. If not, many worry, it will face a multi-faceted existential crisis. Matan and his colleagues are energetic, smart, accomplished and determined. We get into all the tough issues in this two part podcast, and I know you will learn much from our discussion. I certainly did.My brief introduction to this podcast is audio only but for those who prefer to watch on YouTube the main podcast is full audio visual. It’s been little challenging lately - I’ve been traveling a lot - and finding a place with the right light, etc, is not as easy as you would think. Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivState of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Podcast NotesMatan Yaffe’s social media links (predominantly in Hebrew):Matan Yafe on IG (post in English)Matan Yafe on XMatan Yafe on InstagramMatan Yafe on FacebookEl HaDegel social media links (in Hebrew):El Hadegel on XEl Hadegel on InstagramEl Hadegel on FacebookMatan Yaffe is an Israeli civic leader, reservist, and social entrepreneur dedicated to renewing Zionism for our time. A Major (Res.) in the IDF Commando Brigade with more than 370 reserve days since October 7, he has combined frontline service with groundbreaking civic initiatives from founding Desert Stars, which cultivates Bedouin leadership in the Negev, to co-founding the Shoresh Fund, which invests in ventures strengthening Israel’s resilience. A graduate of Harvard Kennedy School, he also secured a landmark settlement that forced Harvard to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism. Today, as a founding leader of El HaDegel, Yaffe is helping shape a new Zionist movement born from the fire of October 7th: one country, one people, united by collective responsibility and equal service, determined to break the cycle of left-versus-right tribalism and rebuild Israel on the foundations of security, shared sacrifice, and moral clarity of our moral right to live as free people in the land of Israel. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Wild news from the Middle East today as Israel hit a building in Doha where senior Hamas leadership were gathered to reportedly discuss the latest American and Israeli proposal to end the war and bring the hostages home. We caught up with FDD Senior Fellow and State of Tel Aviv friend and regular, Lt. Col. (Res.) Jonathan Conricus to discuss what we know, what we don’t and what this might portend. Both Jonathan and I are on the road, so this episode has no visuals - other than at the very outset. It’s an old-fashioned audio only podcast - we thought it important to skip the bells and whistles and get the information out to our listeners ASAP.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivJonathan Conricus is a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. He served in the IDF for 24 years, four of them as spokesman during the intense 11 days of the Guardian of the Walls Operation between Israel and Hamas. Now a reserve officer with the rank of Lt. Col., he is a sought-after speaker internationally and is frequently seen on major television news shows. Jonathan was born in Jerusalem to a Swedish father and an Israeli mother and spent his formative years in Sweden.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

When I saw the viral clips from Piers Morgan’s show - featuring State of Tel Aviv and Beyond friend and regular guest, FDD Senior Fellow, Jonathan Conricus debating Mehdi Hasan - I could not resist. Jonathan and I spoke Sunday morning about what went down during that raucous exchange, which is more than television theatrics. Conricus has emerged as one of the most powerful and articulate spokespeople globally addressing issues arising regarding the Israel-Hamas war as well as regional issues. He has deep experience in the military and a gift for explaining complex issues in a way that makes them accessible. And, unlike Mehdi, he never loses his cool. We spend most of our time today speaking about the IDF operation in Gaza City and Conricus explains why he believes that it is the correct course of action for Israel at this time, in spite of the fact that the operation imperils the lives of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. It’s hard to keep up, I know. But it struck me that we are at a critical nodal point regarding Hamas, Gaza and the hostages and merited a quick rundown. Given what’s going on - this discussion is a quickie.The issue of media handling of issues relating to Israel is a longstanding interest of mine, as you are likely aware. And the tenor of Piers Morgan’s show is also important, in my view. Like him or hate him he has millions of viewers globally and has maintained a strong focus on the Israel-Hamas war. Which means we have no choice but to pay attention to what goes down on his show. You can watch the full episode of the Conricus-Hasan debate at the link provided in the notes. Also there is a link to a previous podcast episode with Conricus in which we speak about the pros and cons of participating on Piers Morgan Uncensored.Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes* Podcast episode of STLV discussing how Piers Morgan treats the Israel-Hamas war and related issue* Episode of Piers Morgan Uncensored featuring Mehdi Hasan and Jonathan Conricus, below. The Conricus-Hasan debate begins at 14:37.* Jonathan Conricus - Brief bioJonathan Conricus is a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. He served in the IDF for 24 years, four of them as spokesman during the intense 11 days of the Guardian of the Walls Operation between Israel and Hamas. Now a reserve officer with the rank of Lt. Col., he is a sought-after speaker internationally and is frequently seen on major television news shows. Jonathan was born in Jerusalem to a Swedish father and an Israeli mother and spent his formative years in Sweden.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe