The IDDF Podcast with Chuck Freilich and Benjamin Anthony

The MirYam Institute

This is the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum podcast with Professor Chuck Freilich & Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder & CEO, The MirYam Institute. Join us as we agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues which Israel faces.

read less
GovernoGoverno
Religião e espiritualidadeReligião e espiritualidade
NotíciasNotícias
JudaísmoJudaísmo
PolíticaPolítica

Episódios

IDDF PODCAST SPECIAL: Operation Swords of Iron situational update
21-10-2023
IDDF PODCAST SPECIAL: Operation Swords of Iron situational update
Israel is engaged in a war it doesn't want and not of its making.A quiet Shabbat morning, also the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah where Jews celebrate finishing reading the Torah and then start to read it again, “In the Beginning”, was shattered by a mass invasion of Hamas terrorists, smashing through the concrete border wall, paragliding into Israel, before rampaging through a music festival killing 260, machine gunning people at the bus stop and in their own homes in Sderot and on kibbutzim. Gruesome videos and pictures swiftly circulated on X, horror one can never unsee.The elderly and babies slaughtered, women raped, bodies taken in to Gaza paraded and desecrated, mothers with children in their arms abducted are all now hostages in Gaza’s terror tunnels and tower blocks.Depravity and barbarism reminiscent of the European Holocaust and Russian pogroms. How did Israel’s famed security services miss this evil plan fermenting?Can Israel contain this war to just one front? Or when Benjamin Netanyahu says retaliation will change the Middle East does that mean going to the source of this terror, Tehran? Is the long anticipated attack from Hezbollah about to happen? And what catastrophe would this wrought on Israel’s towns and cities? How will Israel prevail? These are questions for Israel’s former deputy national security adviser, Chuck Freilich, author of "Israeli National Security: A New Strategy for an Era of Change" and his latest, "Israel and the Cyber Threat: How the Startup Nation Became a Global Cyber Power", MirYam Institute's in-house military analyst, Yaakov Lappin and hosted by MirYam Institute CEO, Benjamin Anthony. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
IDDF PODCAST: Israel & The Cyber Threat: Benjamin Interviews Chuck On His Incredible New Book In The JBS Studios, NYC
06-10-2023
IDDF PODCAST: Israel & The Cyber Threat: Benjamin Interviews Chuck On His Incredible New Book In The JBS Studios, NYC
“Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum” (IDDF), Est. 2022 - A  Biweekly Podcast with Chuck Freilich and Benjamin AnthonyEpisode 37 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder of the Miryam Institute. This episode of the podcast features an exclusive interview of Chuck, by Benjamin, recorded in the JBS studios in New York. The two discuss Chuck's new book, "Israel and the Cyber Threat - How The Start Up Nation Became A Global Cyber Power."It's a fascinating discussion that examines the recruitment process of the IDF in the realms of intel and cyber, as well as the cultural "chutzpa gone viral" that the Israeli people take into the cyber realm and technological innovation. Enjoy!Click on this link to read Chuck's exclusive monograph, Israel: The Making of a Global Cyber Power .Click here to learn more about JBS: https://jbstv.org/The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
IDDF PODCAST: PM Netanyahu U.N. Sideline Meetings + Oslo + Erdogan Thaw?
22-09-2023
IDDF PODCAST: PM Netanyahu U.N. Sideline Meetings + Oslo + Erdogan Thaw?
“Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum” (IDDF), Est. 2022 - A  Biweekly Podcast with Chuck Freilich and Benjamin AnthonyEpisode 36 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder of the Miryam Institute. Chuck and Benjamin begin by discussing the Oslo Accords. Chuck explains that Oslo was merely a framework agreement, which set out the parameters of a five-year period of negotiations designed to bring about a final peace agreement, but without specifying its nature.  Oslo was thus silent about a possible Palestinian state and the final status of Jerusalem, borders, settlements and refugees. Chuck believes Oslo was a mixture of success and failure. Benjamin opposes any deal that might include land for peace and compromise on Jerusalem and believes that other options exist.They then turn to a discussion of the topics raised in the meeting between Biden and Netanyahu (Saudi Arabia, Iran, normalization, judicial reform, 2 states) and between Netanyahu and Turkish President Erdogan and they discuss the painful downturn in Israeli ties with Turkey since Erdogan came to power.Join us as Chuck and Benjamin agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvEDThe MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
IDDF PODCAST: Death Of Mossad Chief + Nuclear Terrorism + Peace For Peace
08-09-2023
IDDF PODCAST: Death Of Mossad Chief + Nuclear Terrorism + Peace For Peace
“Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum” (IDDF), Est. 2022 - A  Biweekly Podcast with Chuck Freilich and Benjamin AnthonyEpisode 35 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder of The Miryam Institute. In this episode, Chuck and Benjamin discuss the passing of former Director of the Mossad Shabtai Shavit, who died this week during a vacation in Italy. They analyze his view that the Iranian nuclear weapons program may or may not be intended for actual use by Iran and discuss the possibility of nuclear terrorism. Benjamin expresses his fundamental opposition to any peace agreements predicated upon Israeli territorial concessions and asserts that agreements should be based on the principle of peace for peace, not land. Chuck is willing to consider land for peace, but acknowledges that his support for a deal with Syria in 2000 was mistaken. They then discuss the dangers of the Saudi demand that the US accede to their having an enrichment capability. Chuck believes that a sufficient  regime of inspections can be established.Join us as Chuck and Benjamin agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.Enjoy. Subscribe. Leave a Review. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
IDDF PODCAST: Vivek Ramaswamy, Yevgeny Prigozhin, Israel As A Cyber Power + Israel-U.S. Defense Pact
25-08-2023
IDDF PODCAST: Vivek Ramaswamy, Yevgeny Prigozhin, Israel As A Cyber Power + Israel-U.S. Defense Pact
Episode 34 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder & CEO of the Miryam Institute. In this episode, Chuck and Benjamin discuss the pros and cons of a possible US-Israeli defense treaty, a potential side product of the US-Israeli-Saudi normalization deal now under discussion. Chuck describes the conditions under which a treaty such as this would be favorable for Israel, although he is in a minority view among Israeli defense officials, Benjamin leans more towards the majority view, raising concerns about the future deployment of IDF forces abroad. They also briefly touch on the assassination of the head of the Russian Wagner Force, Yevgeny Prigozhin and the first Republican presidential debate. Benjamin expresses concern over GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s call for ending military aid to Israel when the current 10-year package expires in 2028. Chuck shares his deep concern, believing that the relationship with the US is critical to Israel’s national security. The two disagree on the background to statements such as Ramaswamy's and similar ones by Democratic candidates. Benjamin attributes this primarily to anti-Semitism, particularly on campus. Chuck to Israel’s policies regarding the West Bank.Join us as Chuck and Benjamin agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.To purchase Chuck’s new book, "Israel and the Cyber Threat: How the Startup Nation Became a Global Cyber Power", click here: https://tinyurl.com/2sa4tfurThe MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
IDDF PODCAST: Israel-Saudi Normalization + The State Of The Israel-U.S. Relationship
11-08-2023
IDDF PODCAST: Israel-Saudi Normalization + The State Of The Israel-U.S. Relationship
“Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum” (IDDF), Est. 2022 - A  Biweekly Podcast with Chuck Freilich and Benjamin AnthonyEpisode 33 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-chair of the Miryam Institute. In this episode, Chuck and Benjamin conduct an in-depth discussion of a possible Israeli-Saudi normalization deal, under US aegis. According to the emerging contours of the agreement, Israel would have to make major concessions on the Palestinian issue and the US would have to accede to Saudi demands for a defense treaty, civilian nuclear program and sales of advanced weapons. Benjamin opposes concessions on Israel’s territorial birthright as the price of a deal, believes that normalization with the Saudis should simply be in exchange for normalization, and that it is not critical for Israeli purposes. Chuck believes that normalization would constitute an historic change in Israel’s strategic circumstances. Since Chuck supports separation from the Palestinians in any event, his concerns focus on the proposed civil nuclear program, which should be made contingent on a strong inspections mechanism.Join us as Chuck and Benjamin agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands Click here to read Chuck's article: https://www.inss.org.il/publication/usa-saudi-arabia-israel/Enjoy. Subscribe. Leave a Review. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
Hot Debate: Judicial Reform Passes. IDF Refusals. U.S.-Israel Crisis?
28-07-2023
Hot Debate: Judicial Reform Passes. IDF Refusals. U.S.-Israel Crisis?
“Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum” (IDDF), Est. 2022 - A  Biweekly Podcast with Chuck Freilich and Benjamin AnthonyEpisode 32 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder of the Miryam Institute. In this episode, Chuck and Benjamin continue their discussion of the ongoing crisis in Israel centering around the judicial overhaul process. Following the Knesset decision to nullify the “reasonability” criteria by which the Supreme Court has heretofore weighed the cases before it, both Chuck and Benjamin are deeply concerned by the dire effects of the situation on the cohesion of the IDF and defense establishment as a whole. Benjamin fervently opposes the injection of the IDF into the protest movement. Chuck has a different opinion. They also conduct an in-depth discussion of the dramatic report by NY Times columnist, Tom Friedman, that President Biden is seeking to broker normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia - with heavy terms and conditions attached. Chuck is supportive of such a deal. Benjamin is far more reserved and opposes the Palestinian dimension that would accompany any normalization.  Join us as Chuck and Benjamin agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Enjoy. Subscribe. Leave a Review. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
Examining The Two-State Solution, The Jenin Operation & Judicial Reform. The Latest In Israel. 
14-07-2023
Examining The Two-State Solution, The Jenin Operation & Judicial Reform. The Latest In Israel.
Episode 31 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Benjamin Anthony, Co-Founder of the Miryam Institute. In this episode, in which Benjamin succeeds Danny Ayalon as Chuck’s interlocutor, they begin by extending their deep appreciation to Danny for his participation to date. Danny is moving on to new and better pursuits and Chuck and Benjamin wish him every success. It has been a pleasure working with him. Chuck and Benjamin then turned to the ongoing crisis over the judicial reform process, which has reached another turning point with the proposed nullification of the “reasonability” criteria by which the Supreme Court has heretofore weighed the cases before it. Both Chuck and Benjamin agree that the reform process was entirely unnecessary, is tearing Israeli society and the IDF apart and has weakened Israel in the eyes of its adversaries. They disagree regarding its causes. Chuck believes Netanyahu’s legal considerations motivated it, Benjamin disagrees. They also disagree over the growing threat to serve by reservists in elite IDF units, should the legislation actually go through. Although both find this highly problematic and are concerned precedent set, Chuck’s thinking has changed and he is now supportive of it, whereas Benjamin believes there is no justification whatsoever.They then conduct an in-depth discussion of developments in the Palestinian area, including the reasons for the recent two-day operation in Jenin, its consequences and causes. Chuck continues to believe that there is no realistic alternative to a separation between the two peoples, presumably through a two-state solution, Benjamin does not believe that this is possible and seeks alternatives.Join us as Chuck and Benjamin agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Is Climate change impacting Israel's national security?
30-06-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Is Climate change impacting Israel's national security?
Episode 30 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to the US. In this episode, Chuck and Danny talk about climate change and its impact on Israel’s national security with Galit Cohen, who was the Director General for the Ministry of the Environment. Galit emphasizes the Middle East is already considered most vulnerable to climate change, with a severe problem of water scarcity, and is also expected to become 40-50% hotter in the coming decades. The region faces a dual water problem: an already severe shortage of freshwater, along with an anticipated rise of about a meter in the level of the Mediterranean, which will inundate coastal shorelines, including cities and critical infrastructure along them. Climate change is also expected to create greater regional instability, mass migrations, even terrorism. The IDF will have to deal with the effects to both personnel and combat equipment. Israel is a global leader in climate-tech, especially in extreme heat, desertification, and plant-based meat. 20% of all start-ups in Israel in the last year were in climate-tech. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST: Is The Iran Nuclear Deal Being Revived? Israel-Saudi Normalization In The Offing?
16-06-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST: Is The Iran Nuclear Deal Being Revived? Israel-Saudi Normalization In The Offing?
Episode 29 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Chuck and Danny engage in an extensive back-and-forth about the impending partial agreement, or maybe just “understanding”, between the US and Iran on the nuclear issue. Chuck believes that Iran’s strategic position has improved greatly, strengthening its bargaining position, and that a partial deal, for all its faults, is the least of the bad options. Danny is more critical and believes that it would just bring us that much closer to an operational Iranian nuclear capability.They then switch to the topic of US-Saudi relations and Saudi-Israeli normalization. The Saudis have reportedly made four demands of the US in exchange for doing so: an American security guarantee, US acquiescence to a civil Saudi nuclear program, advanced arms sales, including F 35’s, and progress on the Palestinian issue. Chuck and Danny discuss the pros and cons of agreeing to these different demands.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: #Hezbollah threatens war, will #Erdogan's victory be good for #Israel and NATO? #Iran #Saudi #UAE #Syria rapprochement: what now for the #AbrahamAccords?
02-06-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: #Hezbollah threatens war, will #Erdogan's victory be good for #Israel and NATO? #Iran #Saudi #UAE #Syria rapprochement: what now for the #AbrahamAccords?
Episode 28 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Chuck and Danny conduct an in-depth discussion of the threats of war by Hezbollah leader Nasrallah, especially in light of the recent conflict in Gaza, and what a war with Hezbollah look like. Chuck explains in detail why the changing nature of warfare means that an asymmetric conflict with Hezbollah will be very bloody and likely to achieve only transient results. Danny is somewhat more optimistic. They then turn to a discussion of the ramifications of the elections in Turkey, for Turkey itself, the US and NATO and primarily the Middle East and Israel. Danny is optimistic that Erdogan will continue the rapprochement with Israel of the last year or so, Chuck is more skeptical about his behavior. They then discuss the impact of the changing regional alignments, including the Iranian-Saudi and Iranian-UAE rapprochement, and return of Syria to the Arab fold. Both are worried about the downturn in Israeli relations with the Gulf countries, as a result of the policies of the right-wing government in Israel and the regional changes. Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Operation Shield & Arrow harms Islamic Jihad but how much will it change Gaza? Plus the Iran nuclear deal and the US withdrawal 5 years ago. What should Israel do?
19-05-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Operation Shield & Arrow harms Islamic Jihad but how much will it change Gaza? Plus the Iran nuclear deal and the US withdrawal 5 years ago. What should Israel do?
This is Episode 27 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. Chuck and Danny go in-deep on the outcome of the recent conflict in Gaza, Operation Shield & Arrow. Both agree that it didn't fundamentally change the situation in Gaza, but Danny is more optimistic about the harm to Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s capabilities and the strengthening of Israel’s deterrence. Chuck takes a more equivocal position on the deterrence issue, believing that the operation may contribute to Israel’s long-term deterrence, but that the short-term impact is minimal and that targeted killings have a questionable record of efficacy. He also believes that the decision to launch the operation, justified though it was for counterterrorism purposes, was also designed to serve the premier’s personal political goals. Chuck and Danny then turn to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from the nuclear deal five years ago this month. Chuck believes that decision to do so was an historic error. Danny does not dispute the hard data that Chuck presents in support of this contention, but does present some counterarguments.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Rockets from Gaza and Saudi-Iran rapprochement
05-05-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Rockets from Gaza and Saudi-Iran rapprochement
Episode 26 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Danny advocates a more forceful response to rocket attacks from Gaza, including the cautious response to the recent round in which Hamas fired 104 rockets at Israel. The threat is unacceptable, he argues, and Israel must launch a major operation to strengthen its deterrence and create new rules of the game. Chuck believes that there is a reason that all governments for the last 20 years, left to right, including the current ultra-right wing one, have refrained from a major response, which is that the cost in lives, primarily of IDF soldiers, will be far greater than the price of the current situation. If and when Israel develops an offensive capability that buys more than a few months, at a price it is willing to pay, he too will advocate offensive action, but for the meantime, he supports reliance primarily on defense. Chuck and Danny then turn to the regional realignment currently underway, in which the Saudi-Iranian rapprochement was a critical turning point. The UAE and other Sunni states are also trying to reduce tensions with Iran, Iran is continuing to expand its influence in the region, including through the current visit by President Raisi to Syria, and Syria is being reintegrated in the Arab world. None of these developments bode well for Israel.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Yom Hashoah, Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Yom Ha'atzmaut. What all these dates mean to Israelis and Jewish people
21-04-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Yom Hashoah, Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Yom Ha'atzmaut. What all these dates mean to Israelis and Jewish people
Episode 25 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this special episode, spanning the week between Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) and Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers, followed immediately by Israel’s 75th anniversary, Chuck and Danny discuss what these dramatically diverse dates mean for them. Both agree fully on the importance of Holocaust remembrance and Danny describes a project underway at Yad Vashem that has already documented the names of five out of the 6 million.When it comes to Memorial and Independence days, their views diverge. Chuck talks about how he has long awaited the 75th anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate Israel’s remarkable achievements, but that for the first time ever, following the domestic crisis in recent months over the “judicial reforms”, he will not be able to celebrate. Instead, it will be a day of solemn reflection for him. For example, he would not participate in a memorial ceremony addressed by ministers such as Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, or the premier who has appointed them.Danny believes that Memorial Day and the 75th anniversary should be an opportunity to begin the healing process, that we are all one people and must put our differences aside. While he shares many of Chuck’s concerns regarding the need to address critical issues such as relations between synagogue and state, the secular and ultra-Orthodox communities, Ashkenazim and Sepharadim and Jews and Arabs, as well as the Palestinian issue, he believes that it is now time for compromise and goodwill. Chuck believes this is an opportunity that should not be wasted on platitudes and is a time for finally making real decisions on these critical issues.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: With guest Prof. Manuel Trajtenberg, Israel's enemies are astonished at the internal protests and political instability at home
07-04-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: With guest Prof. Manuel Trajtenberg, Israel's enemies are astonished at the internal protests and political instability at home
Episode 24 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Chuck and Danny interview Prof. Manuel Trajtenberg, one of Israel’s most prominent economists and a prominent global expert in the field of innovation and economic growth. Trajtenberg has vast experience in national security areas, as well, and is now as Executive Director of the Institute for National Security Studies, INSS, in Tel Aviv.Trajtenberg is deeply concerned by the “legal reforms” proposed by the government. In a fascinating analysis of the situation, he believes it essential that a true process of national dialogue now begin, which will require that all sides make painful concessions, e.g. on the issue of ultra-Orthodox military service. He believes that the only way to do this is as part of a national unity government, which would be formed following new elections in the near future.​Danny agrees with Trajtenberg’s recommendations, believes that one cannot force military service on the Haredim and, in any event, that’s all sides are now fatigued by recent events. Chuck believes that these events are the Israeli equivalent of the French Bastille, the American Civil War, or the revolutions in Russia and China, one of those defining moments after which things never are – and should not be – the same. Hestresses that one should never waste a good crisis andthat well-meaning proposals for national dialogue miss this historic opportunity to finally address truly critical issues, such as the future of the West Bank, synagogue-state relations, the electoral system and more. Danny believes that the national discussion should be limited to the domestic issues, primarily the legal dimensions, and that foreign policy, such as the future of the West Bank, should be kept separate. Danny does believe, however, that Netanyahu has fulfilled his historic role and must give way for a new generation of Likud leaders.Following the discussion of the ongoing domestic crisis in Israel, Chuck and Danny turn to their deep concern over the crisis in relations with the US. Both agree that the domestic crisis in Israel is causing grave damage to the bilateral relationship. Chuck notes a recent poll showing, for the first time, that a majority of Democrats now support the Palestinians, not Israel, a development that Danny deplores. Both stress the vital importance of the US for Israel’s national security.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: With guest Prof. Avi Bell, snr. fellow, Kohelet Policy Forum pushing for far-reaching judicial reform
24-03-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: With guest Prof. Avi Bell, snr. fellow, Kohelet Policy Forum pushing for far-reaching judicial reform
Episode 23 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Chuck and Danny interview Avi Bell, a professor of law at Bar Ilan University and University of San Diego. Prof. Bell is also a senior fellow at the Kohelet Policy Forum, which is the think tank behind the current push for far-reaching legal change in Israel. He is an eloquent and well-informed proponent of the reforms and although he did not convince either Chuck or Danny, he certainly presented his case effectively.Following the interview, Chuck and Danny continue their ongoing analysis of the unprecedented legal and political crisis Israel is undergoing. Chuck notes the statements by the heads of virtually all state institutions, including the former heads of the Shin Bet, Mossad, atomic energy committee, chiefs of staff, almost all former Supreme Court justices, attorneys general, and more, who have come out strongly against the proposed changes. Danny is essentially in full agreement and is particularly worried about the impact on relations with the United States. He notes that the Prime Minister has yet to receive an invitation to visit the White House, and the unprecedented nature of Pres. Biden’s open criticism of the reforms. Both Chuck and Danny deplore the fact that Israel is totally preoccupied with its domestic convulsions at the expense of dealing with the truly important issues, such as Iran’s growing uranium program. They conclude the podcast with a discussion of the Saudi-Iranian rapprochement, brokered by China, and its ramifications for the region and Israel. One big question stemming from this rapprochement is whether we are seeing the beginning of the Chinese era in the Middle East, at the expense of the American leadership role in the region.Join Chuck and Danny as they agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: featuring very special guest, Major General Yair Golan, former IDF deputy chief of staff and member of Knesset
10-03-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: featuring very special guest, Major General Yair Golan, former IDF deputy chief of staff and member of Knesset
In this episode, Chuck and Danny interview Major General Yair Golan, former IDF Deputy Chief of Staff, Former Deputy Minister of the Economy and Member of Knesset. In a fascinating and wide-ranging interview, they cover a lot of ground, including how Israel’s adversaries perceive its domestic turmoil and its effects this has on their various calculations, the dangers of a major eruption of violence on the West Bank, how Israel should be handling the Iranian nuclear issue and lessons that the IDF can learn from the war in Ukraine.Following the interview, Chuck and Danny continue their ongoing analysis of Israel’s unprecedented legal-political crisis. Chuck argues that the new government has succeeded in causing severe harm to Israel in almost every area, in just two months in office. Mass demonstrations are taking place on a regular basis, there are signs of the IDF coming apart, starting with the reserves, , the economy is nose diving, violence – both by Palestinians and Israeli settlers – is on the rise in the West Bank, the relationship with the US is being undermined, Israel’s international standing has been hit and its adversaries heartened. Danny agrees with many of Chuck’s assessments, but continues to believe that a compromise will be worked out between the coalition and government that will avert a true moment of crisis. Both agree that the IDF should be left out of the political crisis.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Ex-Attorney General Elyakim Rubinstein says “judicial reforms” will turn Israel into a “democratic dictatorship”
24-02-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Ex-Attorney General Elyakim Rubinstein says “judicial reforms” will turn Israel into a “democratic dictatorship”
Episode 21 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Chuck and Danny interview Elyakim Rubinstein, Israel's former deputy chief justice and former Attorney General, to discuss the judicial-political crisis. Rubinstein fears that the proposed “judicial reforms” will turn Israel into a “democratic dictatorship” and states, surprisingly, for a former justice, that he even participates in the public protests. Danny has shifted his position, from concern, to sharing in Chuck’s strong opposition to the reforms.Chuck argues that Israel’s right-wing often raises important concerns, but that its constant overreach ends up destroying almost everything it touches. The judicial reforms are one example, but the new government’s West Bank policies have already led to rising violence and to heightened friction with the US, indeed, that Israel is risking its entire strategic relationship with the US. Even worse, the de facto annexation of the West Bank is turning Israel into a binational state, possibly irreversibly.Danny agrees that Israel must separate from the Palestinians, but emphasizes the need to keep negotiating cards for the future, including through ongoing settlement by Israel’s true pioneers and Zionists. He rejects the argument that Israel is undermining its democratic character, or creating an irreversible situation, and believes that a peace settlement may only be possible in the next generation or thereafter. He believes that Israel should wait until there is a deal on the table and true reconciliation is possible. Chuck believes that Danny’s approach means it will be too late.On Iran, Danny rejects Chuck’s charge that right-wing overreach - the withdrawal from the JCPOA - has left Israel with no good options and emphasizes that it is high time for the international community to take effective action. He believes that credible US and Israeli military options will deter Iran from crossing the final threshold. Chuck fully agrees that Israel must develop a military option to strike in Iran, but stresses that even the US can no longer achieve more than a brief delay through military action and that effective international action is again right-wing dreaming, not realistic policy.Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Turkish earthquake: how ready would Israel be in a similar situation? Sec. Blinken's Israel visit and building in Judea and Samaria
10-02-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Turkish earthquake: how ready would Israel be in a similar situation? Sec. Blinken's Israel visit and building in Judea and Samaria
Episode 20 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington.  In this episode, Chuck and Danny begin with a discussion of their shared horror over the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria and deepest sympathy for the people affected. They further discuss the IDF emergency search and rescue team dispatched to Turkey, whether it is likely to have an impact on Israeli-Turkish relations, and the fact that Israel itself, which is geologically “overdue” to be hit by a major earthquake, is woefully unprepared. Sharp differences emerge as they turn to recent events in the Palestinian arena, the reasons for the ongoing conflict and potential resolutions. Although Chuck agrees with Danny that Palestinian rejectionism and terrorism have had a devastating impact on Israeli attitudes towards the peace process, he notes that one cannot ignore the similar impact that Israel’s settlement activities have had on the Palestinian side. Both agree that Sec. Blinken’s recent visit to Israel was highly unusual, with the US expressing strong criticism of Israel in a number of crucial areas, including the planned judicial changes and impact on Israeli democracy. Whereas Danny is more confident, Chuck believes that Israel’s policies, both in regard to the Palestinians and now the planned judicial changes, threaten Israel’s fundamental character as a state and pose a threat to the future of the “special relationship”.They also disagree over the ramifications of the new government’s policies on ties with Arab states, especially the Gulf states. Although Danny acknowledges problems with Jordan, he believes that the damage with the rest will not be significant. Chuck is far more concerned and believes that the relationship will likely be impaired significantly.  Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces. The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands     The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Israel's policies over the Ukraine War and US-Israel relations with special guest Abe Foxman
27-01-2023
THE IDDF PODCAST WITH CHUCK FREILICH & DANNY AYALON: Israel's policies over the Ukraine War and US-Israel relations with special guest Abe Foxman
Episode 19 of the Israel Defense and Diplomacy Forum (IDDF) – with Prof. Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Advisor, and Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Washington. In this episode, Chuck and Danny discuss three critical issues: US-Israeli relations; Israel’s policies regarding the war in Ukraine, and its domestic crisis. They also conduct a fascinating conversation with Abe Foxman, one of the great American Jewish leaders of our time.Both Chuck and Danny are concerned about growing tensions in US-Israeli relations. Chuck was concerned that a crisis, which was brewing in any event, has now been greatly exacerbated by the new government’s policies towards the Palestinians and the “judicial reform” now underway. Danny is more hopeful that these differences can be managed. Chuck raises an interesting question, whether Netanyahu and Biden can work out a grand bargain: Netanyahu promises to keep a lid on the extremists in the new government, both on the Palestinian and domestic issues, in exchange for an American commitment to supply critical military capabilities that Israel needs to carry out a possible attack against the Iranian nuclear program (e.g. modern aerial tankers), if necessary, and at least partial backing for it.Chuck and Danny reverse their typical positions on the war in Ukraine. Danny is open to changes in Israel’s positions and possible supply of weapons to Ukraine. Chuck takes the more hawkish position, that the same considerations that led Israel to limit its support for Ukraine to humanitarian aid, to date, have not changed and should not, unless Russia provides Iran with nuclear assistance.Foxman elaborated on his controversial recent statement, that his unconditional lifelong support for Israel has now become conditional. “We always said that Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East...If just half of the coalition agreements happen, it will change the nature of democracy in Israel… If Israel is redefining who is a Jew, why would diaspora Jews identify with it?... American Jews love Israel, but if Israel doesn’t love them back…”Join us as Chuck and Danny agree and disagree, in detail and in-depth, always respectfully, on the critical issues Israel faces.The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow Danny:https://www.thetruthaboutisrael.org.ilFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxLike Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct9The MirYam Institute. Israel's Future in Israel's Hands.Follow Chuck:https://www.ChuckFreilich.comFollow The MirYam Institute Twitter: https://bit.ly/3jkeUyxFollow Benjamin Anthony Twitter: https://bit.ly/3hZeOe9Like Benjamin Anthony Facebook: https://bit.ly/333Ct93Like The MirYam Institute Facebook: https://bit.ly/2SarHI3Follow Benjamin Anthony Instagram: https://bit.ly/30m6uPGFollow The MirYam Institute Instagram: https://bit.ly/3l5fvED