Are You a Real Estate Agent?
The Hebrew word מתווך means a real estate agent. Some people really really dislike מתווכים. Let’s learn why.
Jewish Nationalism, Sovereignty, and International Law
Prof. Rotem Giladi discusses his book “Jews, Sovereignty, and International Law: Ideology and Ambivalence in Early Israeli Legal Diplomacy” (Oxford 2021), which explores the role of ideology in shaping Israel’s early attitudes towards international law
The “The Valley of the Shadow of Deif” Edition
We discuss: 1) the likely impacts of the likely assassination of Mohammad Deif, a man personally responsible for thousands of Israeli deaths 2) a new TikTok trend of videos of the everyday life of Gazans during the war, and what Israelis can learn from them
Minority Rights and Jewish Non-Territorial Autonomy in Interwar Estonia
Dr. Timo Aava examines Estonia's establishment of non-territorial autonomies during the interwar period, with a particular focus on the Jewish self-government case, thereby providing intriguing insights into Estonia's treatment of minorities
The “Comfort Where You Find It” Edition
We discuss: 1) the IDF decision to allow, for the first time ever, military gravestones to add “God will avenge his blood” 2) a new line of “Heroes of Israel” action figures for kids to play with
Can I Pet Your Dog?
Imagine this: You are walking your dog in the ‘Viv and, out of nowhere, someone comes up to you, clearly wanting to speak about something important. Their lips are moving. They are saying something. What are they likely to say to a dog owner like you?
Diplomacy Without Sovereignty: The Zionist Movement at the League of Nations
Dr. Eran Shlomi discusses Zionist diplomacy and representation at the League of Nations, the UN predecessor, during the interwar period. He analyzes the League’s role in the Zionist path to statehood
The “U.S. and Us” Edition
We discuss: 1) the 3 months Bill spent in the West Bank keeping local Palestinians from being harassed by local Israelis 2) how America and Americans have left their imprint on Israeli culture and politics
Law in Times of Crisis: The Life and Legacy of Jacob Robinson
Dr. Iris Nachum introduces the jurist Jacob Robinson (1889-1977), emphasizing his activism for minority rights and compensation for expulsion. A research institute in his name has recently been established at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem
The “New Day Dawning?” Edition
We discuss: 1) the bombshell unanimous Supreme Court decision that requires Haredi men of army age to enlist 2) a new report about how to end the war and coax Gazans to accept Israel
Your Israeli Soundtrack for June 2024
DJ Antithesis is back with more music influenced by the Israel-Gaza war that's making the airwaves here in our little part of the Middle-East
The “Making It About Us” Edition
We discuss: 1) Netanyahu’s speech to a joint session of the US Congress and what it was and was not 2) Who is Kamala Harris, and if she becomes president, what will it mean for, well, us?