Unholy: Two Jews on the News

Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon After ministers vote to approve the reoccupation of Gaza, tensions erupt between Israel’s political leaders and the military establishment. With senior IDF officials voicing unease, the divide between the cabinet and the high command deepens. This week, Jonathan is joined by Channel 11’s diplomatic correspondent Suleiman Maswadeh to unpack the political and military implications — and to discuss how the war is likely to shape the Arab vote in Israel’s next elections. And we continue our summer tour of the world’s Jewish communities with a focus on Australia, courtesy of a conversation with Nomi Kaltmann. Plus: “Locksgate” earns this week’s Chutzpah award, while a rare exponent of civility earns the Mensch prize

Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2025

As Israel signals its intent to reoccupy Gaza, the public conversation around the Strip is beginning to shift — but how far, and in which direction? Meanwhile, the battle over the draft bill continues to simmer, exposing deep divisions within Israeli society. This week, Jonathan is joined by New Yorker journalist Ruth Margalit to break down the latest developments on both fronts, and to launch a new series of conversations from across the Jewish world. First up: Ilanit Spinner, a German journalist, reflects on what it means to be Jewish in Germany in 2025 — and how the war is shaping daily life far beyond Israel’s borders.

Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2025

Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VCcIpEYOqr4 Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Don't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform! As the war in Gaza grinds on, a rift appears between two familiar allies: Donald Trump breaks ranks with Benjamin Netanyahu, acknowledging the scale of hunger in Gaza. Meanwhile, the UK moves to formally recognise a Palestinian state, prompting a diplomatic storm. This week, Yonit and Jonathan are joined by Haaretz’s senior military analyst Amos Harel to assess the state of negotiations, the burden borne by Israeli reservists, and the stark realities on the ground for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Plus: a crowded field for this week’s Chutzpah and Mensch awards — and a nod to our listeners who treat Unholy as an English-language workout.

Transcribed - Published: 1 August 2025

As the war nears its 21st month, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens — with harrowing footage of children searching for food sparking growing outrage, even among Israel’s staunchest allies. Meanwhile, the Israeli government prepares to push forward a controversial draft bill, fuelling an already volatile political climate. This week, Yonit and Jonathan are joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Thomas Friedman for a wide-ranging conversation on the war, Donald Trump, his thoughts on the man who might be New York's next mayor: Zohran Mamdani and the question everyone’s asking: is there a way out?

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2025

As the war in Gaza passes its 650th day, Yonit and Jonathan delve into the political and personal forces keeping the conflict going—from ceasefire talks that lead nowhere, to new revelations about Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to heed warnings ahead of October 7. Plus: new cracks in Israel’s ruling coalition, how criticism of the country is now coming from the American MAGA right, what’s behind the latest IDF strikes on Syria—and the return of one of Unholy’s favourite guests, the legendary Israeli journalist Ilana Dayan.

Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2025

Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sbqe4AWNxzE Don't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform! Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Social links, shop and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod As the war in Gaza grinds on, Yonit and Jonathan unpack the politics behind Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit to Washington and the fragile state of ceasefire and hostage negotiations. They discuss the plan for Gaza proposed by Israel’s defence minister that has stirred trenchant opposition inside and outside the country - and the military draft bill splitting an already divided Knesset. They are also joined by Rachel Goldberg-Polin, whose son Hersh was murdered while a captive of Hamas, for a conversation about grief, belief and the future of Israel.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2025

Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Social links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod This week, Jonathan returns to the podcast as he and Yonit assess the public mood in Israel in the aftermath of the war with Iran, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and renewed talk of a potential ceasefire. They also discuss the political fallout at home and abroad —including a moment at the Glastonbury music festival that saw a collision of protest and prejudice.

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2025

As the dust settles from the war between Israel and Iran, Yonit sits down with Nuseir Yassin to unpack what just happened—and what it all means. From shifting regional power dynamics to the role of social media in shaping global narratives, they go deep on war, peace, and the politics of perception. They also touch on the democratic mayoral elections in New York, the conflicts elsewhere that could either ignite or resolve in the coming years, and—above all—ask what future the region might still have. Is there room for cautious optimism, or are we simply bracing for the next round?

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2025

Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Social links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod The Israel–Iran war may be behind us, for now, but one of the most critical questions is only just beginning to surface: what really happened to Iran’s nuclear program? To begin unpacking that, Yonit spoke with someone uniquely positioned to offer insight: Zohar Palti, former Head of the Political-Military Bureau at Israel’s Ministry of Defense and a longtime senior official in the Mossad. With years of experience at the heart of Israel’s security establishment, Palti helps us explore what’s known, what’s rumored, and what may still be unfolding behind the scenes.

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

A few hours after the U.S. Army, under orders from President Donald Trump, bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities, Yonit sat down for an in-depth conversation with former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They discussed the ongoing operation in Iran, the aftermath of October 7th, the ICC arrest warrant—and even found a glimpse of optimism for the region’s future.

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025

It’s day seven of the Israel-Iran war, and the world is waiting on President Trump’s next move. Will he or won’t he strike Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility. Yonit is joined this week by CNN anchor and senior global affairs analyst Bianna Golodryga; together they speak with former senior adviser to President Biden, Amos Hochstein, about what could happen if the U.S. joins the war. Plus: a chutzpah award you’ll enjoy, and a next-generation mensch.

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2025

Day five of the war with Iran, and the world is holding its breath. With President Trump abruptly leaving the G7 and urging Tehran’s citizens to evacuate, the next chapter remains uncertain — escalation or ceasefire? Yonit speaks with Beni Sabti, an expert on Iran, to look beyond the headlines, to explore what life looks like for ordinary Iranians: under fire, and under a theocracy that has shaped daily reality for nearly half a century.

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

Day five of the war with Iran, and the world is holding its breath. With President Trump abruptly leaving the G7 and urging Tehran’s citizens to evacuate, the next chapter remains uncertain — escalation or ceasefire? Yonit speaks with Beni Sabti, an expert on Iran, to look beyond the headlines, to explore what life looks like for ordinary Iranians: under fire, and under a theocracy that has shaped daily reality for nearly half a century.

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

After a night marked by a deadly Iranian attack that claimed the lives of Israeli civilians, Yonit sat down with military analyst Amos Harel for an update on the current situation and a look at what might unfold in the days ahead.

Transcribed - Published: 15 June 2025

Following Israel’s wide operation in Iran, targeting nuclear sites and top officials, we bring you a special episode and talk to Dr. Suzanne Maloney, an expert on Iran and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution Center for Middle East Policy.

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

Following Israel’s wide operation in Iran, targeting nuclear sites and top officials, we bring you a special episode and talk to Dr. Suzanne Maloney, an expert on Iran and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution Center for Middle East Policy.

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Social links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod As speculation increases of an imminent attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Israel’s internal political turmoil shows no sign of calming. At the heart of the latest furore: the long-running debate over military service exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox. Who should serve—and who shouldn’t? Yonit and Jonathan unpack the implications of this fiercely divisive issue, and look ahead to what it means for Israel’s future. Plus: a special conversation recorded at Unholy’s first-ever live event at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall, with Yuval Noah Harari—historian, and one of Israel’s most original thinkers.

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2025

Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Social links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod A terror attack strikes a peaceful protest in Colorado calling for the release of hostages, while efforts to finalise a deal between Israel and Hamas remain deadlocked. Meanwhile, humanitarian aid begins to trickle into Gaza and a series of violent, and disputed, events ends in deadly consequences for Palestinian civilians. Yonit and Jonathan discuss all that, and also step back from the frontlines to look at the economic toll of a war that has lasted more than 600 days. They are joined by Dr Nadine Baudot-Trachtenberg, former deputy governor of the Bank of Israel, for a sobering conversation on the social and financial cost of protracted conflict—borne most heavily by those sent to fight, and those left waiting at home.

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2025

Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Social links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod A terror attack strikes a peaceful protest in Colorado calling for the release of hostages, while efforts to finalise a deal between Israel and Hamas remain deadlocked. Meanwhile, humanitarian aid begins to trickle into Gaza and a series of violent, and disputed, events ends in deadly consequences for Palestinian civilians. Yonit and Jonathan discuss all that, and also step back from the frontlines to look at the economic toll of a war that has lasted more than 600 days. They are joined by Dr Nadine Baudot-Trachtenberg, former deputy governor of the Bank of Israel, for a sobering conversation on the social and financial cost of protracted conflict—borne most heavily by those sent to fight, and those left waiting at home.

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2025

As Israel prepares for the festival of Shavuot, the country holds its breath for news on a hostage deal that could finally bring an end to the war in Gaza. Meanwhile, airstrikes continue, and Benjamin Netanyahu openly weighs the controversial possibility of a solo Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear sites—despite President Trump’s evident reluctance. To unpack the chaos and complexity of Trump’s Middle East strategy, Israel’s options on Iran, and intriguing new revelations about President Biden’s health, we’re joined by Jake Sullivan, former National Security Advisor under President Biden.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

Two shot dead in Washington DC, in an attack that shocked many but surprised few. Meanwhile, a string of Israel’s longtime allies denounce the country over the blockade of aid to Gaza, even threatening sanctions. Yonit and Jonathan discuss what’s next and what to make of the partial resumption of humanitarian aid. Plus, they’re joined by fellow Jewish podcaster Jonah Platt, taking the temperature at this moment of angst and revealing what it means to be a Jew in Hollywood in 2025—the challenges and the moments of light. Jonah Platt is an American actor, singer, writer, and director known for his role as Fiyero in Wicked on Broadway. He’s appeared in TV shows like The Office and Curb Your Enthusiasm, and written for Family Guy. An advocate for Jewish identity and education, Platt hosts the podcast Being Jewish with Jonah Platt and actively participates in various Jewish organizations. He hails from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, being the son of producer Marc Platt and brother to actor Ben Platt.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

Donald Trump says the US is inches away from sealing a nuclear deal with Iran, an Israeli hostage walks free from captivity thanks to American diplomacy and the warning lights of Gaza are flashing red as talk of a humanitarian crisis gets ever louder. Meanwhile, as the US president's headline-grabbing tour of the Middle East continues to make waves through the region, we’ll unpack its significance with expert insight from Dr. Sanam Vakil of London's Chatham House. Plus - a mensch award 500 years in the making, all thanks to King Henry VIII

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

A dramatic — some might say extreme — proposal to escalate the war in Gaza, fresh signs of daylight between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu and an increasingly direct confrontation with Yemen. This week, we turn to military analyst Amos Harel to make sense of what’s coming — and the competing forces driving events. Plus: a powerful new art exhibition, a spellbinding new play and an outrageous act of chutzpah.

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

A solemn week for Israel, marked by mourning – and yet politics, as ever, presses on. At the centre: a widening rift between Prime Minister Netanyahu and the head of the Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic intelligence agency. In our conversation this week, we widen the lens. Sam Harris – neuroscientist, bestselling author and host of the Making Sense podcast – joins us to talk religion, politics and the elusive art of clear thinking in a time of sound and fury. Plus: our Chutzpah of the Week award goes to those who seem to have forgotten the basic dignity owed to the sick, while our Mensch accolade is shared by two groups standing firm in defence of their values – even when it’s hardest.

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Unholy is going live in London! Join Yonit Levi and Jonathan Freedland for a special night of news and surprises—live on stage, June 8th 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to see the podcast come to life, now’s your chance. Reserve your seat now via the link—space is limited, and we’d love to see you there! https://bit.ly/UnholyLondonLive

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

As Qatar-gate gathers momentum—following the arrests of two of Netanyahu’s closest advisors and an Israeli journalist—the scandal inches closer to the heart of power. Netanyahu names a new Shin Bet chief and rescinds his decision within hours. Meanwhile, the IDF expands its military operations in Gaza, raising questions about next steps on multiple fronts. We are joined by acclaimed writer and journalist Matti Friedman ("The Free Press") to discuss a dramatic week for Israel. Plus: A conversation with Lawyer, author and scholar Anthony Julius, whose new book casts a piercing light on one of the Bible’s most elusive and troubling figures—Abraham.

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

Israel is once again at war on multiple fronts – and yet, the domestic political drama shows no sign of slowing. As the government barrels ahead with its judicial overhaul, Prime Minister Netanyahu has now shown the door to both the head of Shin Bet and the attorney general, prompting yet more questions about the independence of Israel’s key institutions. Yonit and Jonathan unpack the growing turmoil, and turn to what’s fast becoming known as Signal-gate – the extraordinary story of a journalist who was accidentally added to a Signal group discussing the US operation in Yemen. Plus: a chutzpah award for the antisemitism conference that invited antisemites, and a Mensch who’s larger than life. Join our Patreon community and get access to exclusive content and more: www.patreon.com/unholypod Social links, Unholy store and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

In the space of a week, Israel is once again at war in Gaza, Ben Gvir is back in government, and Netanyahu is moving to oust the head of Israel’s domestic intelligence agency, the Shin Bet. Meanwhile, the U.S. strikes the Houthis, the Houthis strike Israel, and rockets from Gaza target central Israel. With tensions escalating on multiple fronts, Yonit and Jonathan turn to Haaretz military analyst Amos Harel to make sense of the renewed fighting and the wider political-military turmoil. Plus: A Mensch award for the record-breaking Israeli tech giant Wiz, and a Chutzpah winner for the podcaster who crossed the line.

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

Yonit and Jonathan break down today's major news: the ceasefire is over. As Israeli airstrikes resume in Gaza leaving hundreds dead and fears grow for the remaining hostages, this short update tackles the most urgent question—what explains what just happened?

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Yonit and Jonathan unpack the latest drama in Israel which many are calling a moment of truth for the country’s democracy: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans to remove Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet. What’s behind the move, what does it mean for Israel’s security, and how do the US and Qatar fit into the picture?

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

This week – New Yorker editor David Remnick partners up with Yonit as guest co-host. As Trump reshapes the global order—strengthening ties with Putin, unsettling NATO, and proposing a radical reimagining of Gaza—Hamas expert Michael Milstein joins us to break down the latest developments in the region. Meanwhile, the Israeli government officially launches the plan to oust the attorney general , we talk about The New Yorker's centenary, Jeff Bezos’ influence on The Washington Post, and the Oscar-winning documentary ״No Other Land״ sparks debate. Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes (like Saturday Night Live), live zoom calls with Yonit and Jonathan, and more: https://www.patreon.com/unholypod Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod ---- David Remnick is an award-winning journalist, author, and the editor of The New Yorker since 1998. Michael Milstein is a leading expert on Hamas and Palestinian affairs, with extensive experience in Israel’s security and intelligence sectors. A former senior analyst in the Israeli military’s intelligence division, he specializes in Palestinian society, politics, and regional dynamics.

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2025

As Israel mourns the return of four hostage bodies, pressure mounts ahead of negotiations for the next stage of the deal. Meanwhile, Donald Trump lays out his vision for Gaza in a bizarre, AI-generated video. At the same time, new IDF investigations into October 7th reveal years of misreading Hamas, leaving southern Israel dangerously exposed. Yonit and Jonathan speak with Ahmed Fouad Al-Khatib, an expert on Hamas, to understand what Gazans really want—and how perceptions on the ground differ vastly from those imagined in Tel Aviv or New York. Plus: a literary Chutzpah and a stardust Mensch. Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes (like Saturday Night Live), live zoom calls with Yonit and Jonathan, and more: https://www.patreon.com/unholypod Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2025

One of Israel’s darkest days since October 7th, as four hostages return home in coffins—two of them children. Yonit and Jonathan reflect on the profound impact of this moment on the nation and what it means for the fragile negotiations over a second stage of the hostage deal. Meanwhile, as Germany heads to the polls this Sunday, the far-right AfD party is on the rise. With the help of Israeli-German social scientist Meron Mendel, we examine what this surge means for Germany, for Europe, and for Jewish communities watching with unease. Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, live zoom calls with Yonit and Jonathan, and more: https://www.patreon.com/unholypod Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

As Israelis wait for noon on Saturday, and the promised release by Hamas of three more living hostages, Yonit and Jonathan talk through a nerve-wracking few days in which the deal teetered on the brink of collapse. They discuss a turbulent week and the ever-complicated Trump-Netanyahu relationship as the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance. Meanwhile, scandal as a close adviser to Netanyahu is reported to have been acting as a paid consultant for the Qatari government—while on the payroll at the Prime Minister’s office. Plus: a Chutzpah award that brooks no competition and a Mensch that’s truly man and woman’s best friend.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

As Israel waits for three more hostages to be released from Gaza, Donald Trump calls for the takeover and emptying out of the Strip—provoking both outrage and debate. This week, Yonit and Jonathan talk about that and much else with a towering figure of American politics: former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, who served as ambassador to Japan until last month, joins Unholy. Plus: our Chutzpah award goes to a TV host who’s already had the honour once before, while our Mensch of the week takes us straight back to the ’90s. Join our Patreon community as a Friend of the Pod, Family Member, or just get access to specific bonus episodes (like When Harry met Sally): https://www.patreon.com/unholypod Get an exclusive TGIF Unholy Tote Bag: https://bit.ly/4gxErC5 You can find our social links here: https://linktr.ee/unholypod

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

As Keith Siegel, 65, returns home after 484 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza—having been abducted from his home on October 7th—Yonit speaks with his wife, Aviva, who was also held hostage and released after 51 days.

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2025

This week, Yonit is joined by CNN anchor and global affairs analyst Bianna Golodryga, as scenes of joy and relief unfold with the return of seven more hostages. With another three set to be released on Saturday, they discuss the week’s key developments and speak with Dr. Einat Yehene, Head of the Rehabilitation Division at the Hostages Families Forum. Together, they examine the short and long-term effects of captivity on the released hostages—and on an entire nation.

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

An American president is sworn in, an IDF chief of staff quits and Israel waits for a second group of hostages to be freed. Yonit and Jonathan take a deep dive into a dramatic week – and have no trouble at all in identifying what Elon Musk was doing with his arm.

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2025

As the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal unfolds, bringing home three women held by Hamas for 471 days, Yonit and Jonathan talk about the profound joy felt in Israel at seeing their return, and the politics - and trepidation - that surround the next moves.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

After 15 long and terrible months, a deal is agreed that should bring the hostages home and end the fighting in Gaza. How did it come about, who and what made it possible and how will it play out - Yonit and Jonathan get into it all, and explore the background and the implications of a breakthrough moment with military analyst Amos Harel. Plus: those who emerge from this extraordinary week with great credit, and those guilty of outrageous chutzpah

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2025

In an in-depth interview, Yonit and Jonathan talk to Gen David Petraeus, the former Director of the CIA and onetime head of US Central Command about both his admiration for Israel's military successes against Iran and Hizbollah - and his concerns about its war in Gaza. Plus: the wait for a hostage deal goes on and on, the region braces for the second coming of Donald Trump - and a very specific reason why you need to see When Harry Met Sally.

Transcribed - Published: 10 January 2025

The resignation of former defense minister Yoav gallant and the death of an American president -- Yonit and Jonathan discuss the fallout of Yoav Gallant's exit from the Knesset and the passing of Jimmy Carter, who stayed engaged with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for more than five decades. Plus: they speak with Suzanne Maloney, one of the world's foremost analysts of Iran and the Middle East on what 2025 might hold. They also salute a veteran of Jewish journalism, while a chutzpah award is on its way to the English seaside. Join our Patreon community and more from Unholy! www.patreon.com/unholypod Get an exclusive Unholy Tote Bag: https://bit.ly/4gxErC5 Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypod

Transcribed - Published: 3 January 2025

As the hostages held by Gaza spend their second Chanukah as captives of Hamas, Israel’s attorney general delivers a political bombshell — opening an investigation into Sara Netanyahu following revelations of her role in the attacks by Israel’s first family against its enemies. Yonit and Jonathan discuss all that and mark the start of Chanukah by looking for some light in the gloom, seeking out some reasons to be hopeful for 2025.

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2024

Increased speculation on a hostage/ceasefire deal, a disturbing account of alleged IDF misconduct in Gaza and the fallout of two shocking attacks on synagogues in Montreal and Melbourne. Plus: a conversation that ranges from Damascus to Limerick and all points in between with historian Simon Sebag Montefiore. Finally Yonit and Jonathan salute a French heroine - and decry the Syrian prisoner who never was.

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2024

Yonit and Jonathan take stock of a momentous week in the Middle East, breaking down the fall of the Assad regime with US foreign policy veteran Richard Haass - and taking a deep dive into the court appearance of Benjamin Netanyahu with Alexis Bloom, director of The Bibi Files, an acclaimed documentary which lifts the lid on the corruption charges facing the prime minister. Plus - a sporting flavour to both of this week’s chutzpah and mensch awards. Join our Patreon community - The first bonus episode drops this Tuesday for our premium members! Find us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, Linkedin, YouTube, X)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2024

As a veteran of Israel's security establishment, a former defence minister with roots on the Israeli right, says Israel is engaged in "ethnic cleansing" in Gaza, there's renewed talk of a deal to secure a hostage release and ceasefire before Donald Trump takes office in January. Yonit and Jonathan discuss all that - and they speak with Yael Alexander, whose son Edan is still held captive and was this week shown alive in a video released by Hamas. There's a bulging list of chutzpah nominees, stretching from Rumania to New Jersey, and big news about Unholy itself - with a chance for listeners to join the Unholy family.  Subscribe to our new Patreon community Social media links (Instagram, X, Bluesky, Youtube and Facebook) available here Our membership tiers: $8/month (Friend of the Pod): Get 2 bonus episodes a month, early access to event tickets, discounts on merch, and access to a members-only chat room.$25/month (Family Member): Enjoy everything in the Friend tier, plus a live Zoom call with us once a quarter and a limited-edition tote bag at no extra cost. Special Holiday Promotion: Sign up for the Family Member tier now and get 80% off your first month!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024

As a ceasefire with Hizbollah brings an anxious quiet to the north of Israel, Yonit speaks with the US diplomat who brokered the deal, Amos Hochstein. Plus, a conversation with the man who ordered an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon a quarter century ago: former prime minister Ehud Barak. In a wide-ranging discussion, Barak shares with Yonit and Jonathan his views on how to end the war in Gaza, the ICC arrest warrants - and why Israel may have to learn to live with a nuclear Iran. Plus: a Latin American mensch and a serial winner bags the chutzpah award -- You can watch this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/SKqZ6Ms2xBM Subscribe to our Substack: https://unholypodcast.substack.com/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unholypodcast/ X: https://x.com/2jewsonthenews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/unholypod.bsky.social Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1150578065793142See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2024