The Deep Dive

In a recent episode of The Deep Dive, Shifra Jacobs and Ezra Taylor provided an in-depth analysis of the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its significant implications for the region.A key topic was Iran’s perception of an existential threat, particularly from Israel and the US. The conversation emphasized how Iran's aggressive posture is driven by the survival of its regime, especially after the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In this episode, Gil Troy, a presidential historian, joins Jacob Laznik to examine the escalating tensions between the US and Iran, and how this will affect Israel. As the world waits to see if President Trump will strike a deal or take military action, we explore historical precedents and discuss the potential consequences of a strike or a nuclear deal with Iran. Tune in for expert insights on this ongoing crisis, and gain a deeper understanding of the possible outcomes and implications for global security. Want to hear more from Gil Troy? Check out his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Resist-Academic-Intifada-Students-Defending/dp/B0DHD9X1KZ

Jacob Laznik sits down with Tal Hochman, Executive Director of the Israel Women's Network, and Rabbi Natan Slifkin, a renowned figure in Judaism, to explore the ongoing struggles of women in Israel’s military and society. From the shocking mob attack on female soldiers in Bnei Brak to the growing tensions between Israel's secular and religious communities, we dive into the challenges faced by women who serve in the IDF. Tal shares her insights on the societal pressures women endure, while Rabbi Slifkin offers his perspective on how Israel’s religious divide is impacting gender equality. The episode also covers Arbel Yehoud's recent interview where she shared her horrifying testimony of abuse in captivity. What’s the real cost of balancing faith, national duty, and women's rights in Israel? How can Israel address the gap between the government, religious factions, and the women who are putting their lives on the line? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that examines the complex relationship between religion, gender, and the military in Israel today.

This week's episode goes into the current back and forth between Israel, the US, and Iran. Host Jacob Laznik sits down with former Editor-in-chief, Yaakov Katz, and Diaspora correspondent Mathilda Heller to analyze the top stories. Additionally, Laznik and Katz discuss how Israel has come under intense scrutiny for its security protocols following October 7.Netanyahu released some handpicked details about the attack, shedding light on critical failures. However, the country is still waiting for a full investigation into the tragedy. As Israel deals with the aftermath, it also focuses on Iran’s growing nuclear and missile threats. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s meetings with President Trump in Washington are aimed at securing a US commitment to address these pressing issues.

In this episode of The Deep Dive, we explore the complex and uncertain path forward for Gaza's governance following the ongoing conflict. Host Jacob Laznik sits down with military correspondent Yonah Jeremy Bob to break down the developments surrounding the ceasefire, the opening of the Rafah crossing, and the complicated plans for post-war governance in Gaza.Will Hamas maintain influence behind the scenes? What role will international actors play in ensuring peace and stability? And how will Israel balance security interests with the push for civilian governance?Later, we hear from Gil Dickmann, cousin of Carmel Gat, one of the hostages tragically murdered in Rafah. Dickmann discusses the failures of the negotiations, the political pressures faced by hostage families, and the ongoing need for accountability in the aftermath of the hostage crisis.Tune in to get an in-depth look at Gaza’s uncertain future and the high-stakes gamble surrounding its governance. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on the latest developments in Israel and the Middle East.

In this special episode of The Deep Dive, host Jacob Laznik explores the poignant return of Israeli hostage Ran Gvili, the last of the Israeli hostages to be brought back from Gaza. After 844 days of uncertainty and fear, his body was recovered in a complex operation by the IDF, ending a long and painful chapter for Israeli families. Laznik speaks with Major A, who was directly involved in the mission, and shares personal reflections on the emotional toll of the operation. Additionally, Ayelet Samerano, a mother whose son Yonatan was also held captive, offers insight into the long road to healing. This episode captures both the sorrow and the resilience that have defined this chapter in Israel’s history.

In this week’s episode of The Deep Dive, we unpack the latest developments in the Middle East and beyond. Host Jacob Laznik is joined by Alex Winston and Noah Shusterman Dvir for a critical conversation covering: -The tragic events in a Jerusalem kindergarten -Ongoing bloodshed in Iran - The rising concerns over Jewish safety in the UK - A deep look into President Trump’s newly announced “Gaza Board of Peace” We examine who's really calling the shots, why Turkey and Qatar’s involvement is drawing backlash from Israel, and how Netanyahu’s response reflects shifting US-Israel dynamics. Plus, what does this mean for the future of the Gaza ceasefire?

In this week’s episode of The Deep Dive, we examine developments inside Iran through the personal story of Marzieh Hamidi. Iran is under a complete internet and communications shutdown, as we wait for the response of the world after it was reported that over 12,000 have been killed during the protests. Hamidi is an Iranian taekwondo professional who lived under the Islamic Republic and later under Taliban rule in Afghanistan in 2020. Now living as a refugee in France, she speaks about her firsthand experiences and what it means to be a woman living under authoritarian Islamist regimes.Edited and produced by Shifra Jacobs and Gadi Zaig.

In this week's episode of The Deep Dive, we break down the shocking US military operation that led to the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This bold move has left the world questioning: What does this mean for Venezuela's future, and how will it affect global geopolitics?Join us as we explore the legal, moral, and strategic implications of this unprecedented operation, including the potential fallout for US relations with Iran, Israel, and the rest of the world. With Venezuela in the midst of a political crisis and Maduro's regime teetering on the edge, we discuss what could happen next in this high-stakes game of power.To better understand the legal, political, and regional implications of the operation, we spoke with Dr. Daniel Wajner of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, whose research focuses on legitimacy and legitimation in international relations, conflict resolution, populism in foreign policy, regional integration, and transnational politics in Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. We also spoke with Jonathan Liverman, a Reichman University student and Venezuelan Jew, who offered a personal and regional perspective on how Maduro’s capture is being perceived within the Venezuelan diaspora.Edited and produced by Shifra Jacobs, Gadi Zaig, and Jacob Laznik.

Is Iran heading toward collapse or cracking down harder? In this week’s episode of The Deep Dive, host Jacob Laznik is joined by Israel’s UN spokesperson Jonathan Harounoff to unpack Iran’s latest wave of protests, economic freefall and the regime’s response. Harounoff explains how internal pressures are mounting — and why this unrest feels different. Later, Lara Sukster Mosheyof reports on Romi Gonen’s brave testimony of sexual abuse, sparking renewed calls for justice and reform in Israel. And finally, former IDF soldier and musician Eyal Zakai shares how music became his way of coping with trauma and life after war.Edited and produced by Shifra Jacobs, Gadi Zaig, and Jacob Laznik.

In this special year-end episode of The Deep Dive, host Jacob Laznik sits down with Zvika Klein, JPost's Editor-in-chief, to reflect on the most significant stories of 2025. From Donald Trump’s unexpected return to global politics to the aftermath of the October 7 attack and Israel’s political shakeups, this year was filled with surprises, tension, and pivotal moments.Join us as we recap the biggest headlines of the year, from political resignations to terror attacks and unexpected diplomatic breakthroughs. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how these events shaped 2025 and what we can expect in 2026.Produced by Shifra Jacobs.

In this powerful episode of The Deep Dive, Jacob Laznik sits down with Professor Shlomo Shpiro, Shir Perets, and Rabbi James Kennard to unpack the emotional, political, and historical forces shaping Jewish discourse, specifically following the Bondi Beach massacre. From inherited trauma to moral courage, from silence to solidarity, this episode explores what it means to speak out (or stay quiet) during moments of crisis. Whether you're part of the Jewish community or simply navigating complex global issues, these conversations offer the kind of depth, honesty and nuance that’s all too rare.

In this week’s Deep Dive, host Jacob Laznik breaks down the ongoing debate over Israel’s Haredi draft bill. Political correspondent Keshet Neev explains the current deadlock in the Knesset, while Yesh Atid MK Moshe ‘Kinley’ Turpaz discusses the challenges of integrating the ultra-Orthodox into the IDF. Likud MK Dan Illouz also shares his perspective on Israel’s security strategy post-October 7 and the political landscape moving forward. Tune in for expert analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into the most pressing issues in Israeli politics!

In this week’s episode of The Deep Dive, host Jacob Laznik sits down with Sarah Ben-Nun to break down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request for a presidential pardon from Isaac Herzog. What are the legal and political implications, and is this a preemptive move in light of upcoming legal battles? Next, after Hamas returned the remains of Sudthisak Rinthalak, only one hostage is being held in Gaza: Ran Gvili.Udi Goren, cousin of slain hostage Tal Haimi, joins us to share perspective and the unrelenting demand for everyone to return home. Finally, Diaspora affairs correspondent Mathilda Heller joins to explain why Guinness World Records is reportedly no longer accepting Israeli applicants, and what it says about Israel’s growing international isolation.

In this week’s episode of The Deep Dive, host Jacob Laznik unpacks some of the most urgent and controversial stories making headlines in Israel and abroad. The episode opens with Michael Starr, diaspora and antisemitism correspondent at The Jerusalem Post, who joins Laznik to discuss the return of Dror Or, a hostage previously held in Gaza.With only two slain hostages still unaccounted for, the discussion focuses on the emotional and political significance of Or’s release. Starr also addresses the backlash against Peter Beinart following his appearance at Tel Aviv University, and analyzes the fallout from American commentator Candace Owens’s accusation that Israel and France were plotting to assassinate her. In the second segment, Laznik speaks with Dalia Ziada, coordinator at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy, about Donald Trump’s renewed call to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization.Ziada offers insight into the history and political context of the Brotherhood, and what such a move could mean for U.S. relations across the Middle East. The episode closes with political analyst Sasha Machta, who examines growing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah on the northern border. With cross-border attacks increasing, Machta warns that a broader regional conflict could complicate and escalate Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas.

Saudi Arabia's historic F-35 fighter jet deal with the US raises urgent questions about Israel's military edge. Plus: France posthumously promotes Captain Dreyfus after 130 years, and Iran reportedly halts uranium enrichment. In this Jerusalem Post Deep Dive podcast, host Jacob Lasnik and senior Middle East analyst Seth J. Frantzman break down the implications of Saudi Arabia becoming a Major Non-NATO Ally and acquiring the same advanced F-35 jets that give Israel air superiority."Saudi Arabia is not an enemy of Israel," Frantzman argues, explaining why the decade-long procurement timeline and regional dynamics mean this deal might actually strengthen, not weaken, Israel's position. Also discussed: Breaking desk manager Shir Peretz on Iran's nuclear program pause, the Trump-Gaza stabilization force, Lebanon border tensions, and the latest Epstein files developments. News editor Alex Winston examines France's attempt to close the Dreyfus Affair chapter amid rising antisemitism - 68% of French citizens now believe France has an antisemitism problem.

Welcome to The Deep Dive, the Jerusalem Post's flagship podcast. Each week, host Jacob Laznik breaks down Israel's biggest stories and the events shaping the Middle East.This week on the Deep Dive, we break down Israel’s biggest stories with expert guests. Shifra Jacobs, JPost’s studio manager, joins us to discuss this weeks main stories. Sarah Ben-Nun, JPost’s legal correspondent, provides an in-depth look at the legal implications of the death penalty bill’s passage. Ruth Marks Eglash, editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Report, joins to reflect on the return of  Lt. Hadar Goldin for burial in Israel, and the ongoing impact of the hostage crisis. We also dive into the latest developments with the Abraham Accords and discuss Trump’s surprising request for Israeli President Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Netanyahu.Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel. For more news, analysis and the latest updates, head to jpost.com

This pilot episode of The Deep Dive arrives ahead of our planned launch schedule. The collision of big stories this week made waiting impossible. Host Jacob Laznik provides essential analysis on the stories demanding immediate attention: the groundbreaking Armenia-Azerbaijan peace accord, the UN's official notice to Israel concerning sexual assault allegations, the formal blacklisting of Hamas, and the extraordinary incident that saw Israel's Attorney-General barred from her offices. While we're still smoothing out the rough edges and figuring out our groove, we're committed to bringing you the serious analysis these big stories deserve. We break down the facts, examine the stakes, and explore what lies ahead.Editing and production by Shifra Jacobs and Yuval Barnea.

The Jerusalem Post is excited to soon be launching our flagship podcast, The Deep Dive. This teaser shows one of our segments in which Jacob Laznik reviews the top stories of the week. Our first episode is coming soon!Hosted by Jacob Laznik.Ediited and produced by Shifra Jacobs and Yuval Barnea.