Linda Gradstein, Allison Kaplan Somer and Noah Efron discuss two topics of incomparable importance and end with an anecdote about something in Israel that made them smile this week.
Exemption Preemption
A bombshell unanimous Supreme Court decision says that, until the Knesset passes a law that says otherwise, Haredi men of army age need to enlist, and those that don’t cannot get government stipends. Are we about to find Yeshiva boys in foxholes?
New Day in Gaza?
A new report is making the rounds in Jerusalem about how to end the war and coax Gazans to accept Israel, which, new report, may or may not be nuts.
AIPAC vs. Bowman
For our most unreasonably generous Patreon supporters, in our extra-special, special extra discussion: AIPAC vs. the Squad’s Jamaal Bowman. Decision, AIPAC?
Plus, Hebrew Book Week 100 years on, and more music of our times.
Songs
- Neta Barzilai and Ivri Lider — Gonvim et ha-zman
- Adi Avrahami — Hi She’amda
- Alma Gov — Zeh ha-Sof
Noah,
This episode was so informative for me. I learned a lot about the history of the ultra-orthodox movement as well as Israeli history itself. You had a nice discussion on Gaza and possible solutions but, like the three of you, I feel it’s a festering sore for now, maybe for a long time with no solution (but we can hope and keep trying!). Your last section where the three of you share personal perspectives was truly touching, especially your contribution regarding ‘space and spirituality.., simply lovely.
Thank you so much and, never give up!
What a kind note, Paul. We appreciate it. It is true that it is sometime difficult even to imagine a solution to some of our toughest and most vexing problems here, but I take comfort from the fact that things change in unforeseeable and unexpected ways, and sometimes for the better. (Like you wrote, we can hope and keep trying).
A message like yours is really encouraging. Thanks for taking the time to write, with such generosity.