Episode 257 | An assessment of the UK–Israel relations
In this episode, Daniel J. Levy speaks with Dr Lynette Nusbacher about the future of UK–Israel relations, as viewed from a British strategic perspective. They explore how the Labour government’s evolving stance – including threats of sanctions and the suspension of trade talks – is reshaping bilateral ties, and what this means for defence, intelligence […]
Episode 256 | Meet the Pope’s Angel of Peace
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with veteran journalist and Middle East expert Henrique Cymerman about his extraordinary 12-year relationship with Pope Francis. They discuss Cymerman’s unique role as an emissary between the Vatican and the Middle East, including organising the Pope’s historic visit to Israel, brokering interfaith peace initiatives, and advocating for Israeli hostages […]
Episode 255 | Navigating the Iran nuclear talks
In this episode, Daniel Levy hosts Professor Chuck Freilich for a discussion on the current state of US-Iran nuclear negotiations and the broader strategic implications for Israel and the region. They explore how Donald Trump’s diplomatic posture shapes the unfolding talks and whether a viable deal is within reach. Professor Chuck Freilich is a former […]
Episode 254 | The Kurdish geopolitical struggle
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Professor Ofra Bengio about the historical evolution and contemporary challenges of the Kurdish people across the Middle East. They discuss how being divided among four main states shaped Kurdish identity and delve into recent challenges, including the rise of the new Jolani regime in Syria. Professor Ofra Bengio […]
Episode 253 | Qatar and the rise of antisemitism in academia
In this episode, Richard Pater discusses with Professor Charles Asher Small the ideological and financial influence of Qatar and the Muslim Brotherhood on Western academia, especially in the UK and the US. Professor Small outlines how Qatar’s soft power has contributed to the spread of antisemitism and anti-democratic values on university campuses and beyond. Professor […]
Episode 252 | Bridging Divides in the Middle East
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks to Tom Wegner, founder of the newly launched Center for Middle East Normalization. They discuss the center’s role in fostering civil society connections between Israel and pro-democracy, pro-peace groups across the region. Wegner shares insights from his experience in Israeli politics, military coordination with the Palestinian Authority Security Forces, […]
Episode 251 | Ben Gurion University of the Negev
In this episode, Dr Amira Halperin speaks with Professor Chaim Hames, the Rector of Ben Gurion University of the Negev. They discuss the horrific situation on campus following October 7th when, 88 members of the BGU community, students, staff, and family members, were murdered, and 6 students were taken hostage. One-third of the student body are active reservists. Prof. […]
Episode 250 | Palestinian prisoners
In this episode, Dr Amira Halperin speaks to Lt.-Col. (res.) Maurice Hirsch about the release of Palestinian prisoners in the ceasefire deal, and the state of security in the West Bank. Lt-Col (res.) Hirsch served as Director of the Military Prosecution for Judea and Samaria. Since retiring from the IDF, Hirsch worked as the Head […]
Episode 249 | Trump’s plans for the region
In this episode Richard Pater speaks to Ilan Berman, Senior Vice President at the American Foreign Policy Council. The conversation was recorded as part of a live media briefing following Prime Minister Netanyahu’s meeting with President Trump. They discuss a range of regional issues including Trump’s plan for Gaza and his likely approach towards Iran. […]
Episode 248 | Surviving a suicide bus bombing
In this episode, Dr Amira Halperin speaks to Sarri Singer. Sarri is the founder and director of Strength to Strength, a charity based in New York, established to bring survivors of terrorism and their families together globally to heal. After witnessing 9/11, Sarri moved to Israel and volunteered her time to help Israeli victims of […]
