The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Jacob Magid, U.S. Bureau Chief for The Times of Israel and seasoned reporter on American and Middle Eastern policy, breaks down U.S. plans for a rebuilt “New Gaza” and the push to demilitarize the Strip. He explains who would run the Rafah crossing, how the Palestinian Authority might return in new forms, and why some countries balked at the Board of Peace rollout in Davos.

Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, head of Realign For Palestine and analyst of Israel-Palestine policy, unpacks the 12-member technocratic council poised to run Gaza's daily affairs. He discusses who sits on the committee and Israel's objections. He examines whether the council can enter Gaza, the enforcement challenge posed by Hamas, and the regional roles of Qatar, Turkey, Egypt and others.

Jordan Hoffman, film reviewer and arthouse authority, gives a brisk look at Jafar Panahi and his new film. He unpacks Panahi's history with censorship and house arrest. The conversation covers the film's tense premise about identifying a suspected torturer, Panahi's dark comedic touches, inventive visuals, sound and long takes, and connections to his smuggled Taxi work.

In a compelling discussion, Adam Louis-Klein, an anthropologist and founder of the Movement Against Anti-Zionism, dives deep into the ideology of anti-Zionism and its troubling roots in Nazi and Soviet propaganda. He explains how terms like 'settler-colonialism' are weaponized against Israel, presenting it as a genocidal project. Adam argues that this movement is not just anti-Zionist but a new form of hate, impacting Jewish identity and representation in public life. He also shares personal experiences of backlash and the need to clarify the discourse on anti-Zionism.

Jeremy Sharon, a legal affairs correspondent known for his insights on Israeli human rights issues, shares alarming findings about the shocking conditions faced by Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons. He reveals systematic violence and neglect uncovered by the Public Defender's Office, sparking debates on prison reform. Additionally, Sharon provides a firsthand look at a powerful rally demanding ultra-Orthodox enlistment in the IDF, highlighting unexpected unity among diverse groups and the rally's potential political implications.

Emanuel Fabian, a military correspondent focused on Israeli defense and regional security, shares critical insights on rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. He discusses the recent buildup of American military assets in the region, including F-15s and an aircraft carrier. Fabian details Israel's consistent strikes against Hezbollah and the challenges Lebanon faces in disarming the group. He also highlights a troubling 27% increase in settler violence and its implications, amidst a decline in Palestinian terrorism.

David Horovitz, Editor at The Times of Israel, dives into a heartbreaking incident involving two Haredi infants who died in an overcrowded daycare in Jerusalem. He discusses how Haredi leaders blame state policies, especially the conscription debate, for the tragedy. The conversation also touches on the international reaction to Trump's Board of Peace and the complex dynamics between Netanyahu and world leaders at Davos. Lastly, Horovitz shares intriguing insights from his recent trip to Japan, highlighting cultural contrasts with Israel.

Jacob Magid, the U.S. bureau chief for The Times of Israel, shares insights on the newly formed Board of Peace aimed at overseeing Gaza. He discusses the controversial inclusion of Turkey and Qatar, raising Israeli concerns amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions. Magid also highlights the challenges faced by Palestinian technocrats stuck in Cairo and the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The episode delves into funding needs and the board's ambitious global goals, presenting a complex picture of peace efforts in the region.

Lazar Berman, a diplomatic correspondent specializing in Israeli and Middle Eastern affairs, shares insights on the tragic death toll in Iran, citing conflicting reports that range from 5,000 to over 16,500 casualties due to protests. He discusses the international silence surrounding these casualties compared to those in Gaza, questioning the consistency of global reactions. Berman also analyzes Israeli military operations amid ceasefire violations and the geopolitical implications of countries like Turkey and Qatar being involved in peace efforts.

Jordan Hoffman, a film critic for The Times of Israel, joins to discuss the poignant documentary 'Holding Liat,' which follows an Israeli-American family's struggle to recover loved ones taken hostage by Hamas. They explore the generational perspectives on October 7's aftermath, Yehuda's peacenik legacy, and the emotional toll of hope and grief. Jordan highlights the film's nuanced portrayal of family dynamics and political advocacy, while also critiquing its editing choices and the polarized audience reactions it has sparked.