Episodes

  • Can history predict Trump's next move on Iran?

    Can history predict Trump's next move on Iran?
    Feb 26 2026
    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
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    55 mins
  • How the haredi draft issue puts the status of Israeli women into question

    How the haredi draft issue puts the status of Israeli women into question
    Feb 19 2026
    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.
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    59 mins
  • Iran, Gaza, and Australian politics: Can Netanyahu, Herzog make a diplomatic impact?

    Iran, Gaza, and Australian politics: Can Netanyahu, Herzog make a diplomatic impact?
    Feb 12 2026
    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.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Was Israel honest about the war's past, Gaza's future?

    Was Israel honest about the war's past, Gaza's future?
    Feb 5 2026
    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.
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    43 mins
  • The final hostage returns to Israel: Can healing begin?

    The final hostage returns to Israel: Can healing begin?
    Jan 29 2026
    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.
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    47 mins
  • Did Trump abandon Israel on Gaza issues?

    Did Trump abandon Israel on Gaza issues?
    Jan 22 2026
    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?
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    56 mins
  • How Iranian women could shatter the regime's oppression

    How Iranian women could shatter the regime's oppression
    Jan 14 2026
    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.
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    38 mins
  • Maduro's downfall: What's next for Venezuela?

    Maduro's downfall: What's next for Venezuela?
    Jan 9 2026
    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.
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    1 hr and 3 mins