Unholy: Two Jews on the News Modi's Big Visit, Iran Tensions and a Republican Clash over Israel - with Matti Friedman and Alon Ushpiz
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Feb 26, 2026 
Alon Ushpiz, former Israeli ambassador to India, shares behind-the-scenes on India–Israel ties. Matti Friedman, journalist and author, discusses Iran anxieties and Israeli social tensions. They explore Modi’s warm visit and its timing, the pragmatic roots of bilateral cooperation, rising Iran fears and Israel’s uneasy normal, plus political rows that complicated the reception.
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Everyday Normality Under Constant Alert
- Israelis live a tense normality where everyday life continues but people know they could be in safe rooms within minutes.
- Yonit Levi describes Purim anxiety and children asking if there will be another “siren vacation” because sirens closed schools during past escalations.
Ancient Tropes Resurface In Modern Conspiracies
- Contemporary antisemitic tropes mirror ancient texts like Esther by portraying Jews as separate conspirators.
- Matti Friedman links Haman’s description to modern social media and conspiracy narratives targeting diaspora Jews.
Modi Turned Quiet Ties Into Strategic Partnership
- India–Israel ties combine emotional affection, technological cooperation, and personal rapport between leaders.
- Alon Ushpiz says Narendra Modi elevated the relationship for deep tech, defense, water and strong personal memories of Israel’s early support.