The Israel Conversation Masa Israel Journey

410 Complicated current politicsIn this episode, we delve into the turbulent landscape of Israeli politics following the recent departure of centrist ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot from the government. We explore the impact of their exit on the coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who formed an ultra-orthodox far-right government after the fifth elections in November 2022. Our discussion covers the rising discontent among Israeli citizens, marked by increasing Saturday night demonstrations that initially called for the return of hostages and have now merged to demand both a hostage deal and new elections. We examine the internal tensions within the government, particularly between the Shas and Otzma Yehudit parties, and speculate on the government's potential instability as it approaches the end of its shelf life.As the Knesset heads into a long recess, we consider whether Netanyahu can maintain his position amidst growing pressures and internal conflicts. Join us for an in-depth analysis of the current political climate, the challenges faced by the government, and the possible future scenarios in Israeli politics.Tune in to hear expert insights and perspectives on the evolving situation and what it could mean for the future of Israel.Calev hosts this roundtable discussion with Benji, Jordana and Matt. Am Yisrael Chai!

409 Is Judicial Reform Dead? It feels like a million years ago that Israel was debating the government plan for judicial reforms. In the traumatic aftermath of October 7th, all of that fight has been left behind. But is that a permanent or a temporary shift? Once the dust settles after the defeat of Hamas, (God willing) will we once again be plunged into the divisive political battle over checks and balances in Israel? Mike hosts this episode’s debate, where Matt takes the position that it's still in play, and Benji argues that it's all in the rear view mirror. . Am Yisrael Chai!

408 Is it Time for Elections? “... It [is] not best to swap horses when crossing streams”, said Abraham Lincoln when running for reelection during the American Civil War. How well does that argument apply to Israel today?Polls show that Israelis have low confidence in the current government. This is a dangerous situation in a time of multiple major conflicts. But it is also dangerous to create a new election season in such a situation as well. Which is the greater danger? Should we push for elections as soon as possible, or wait till the war(s) settles down? Calev hosts this episode’s debate, where Matt takes the position that it's time to hold elections, and Alan argues we should wait till the war is over. Am Yisrael Chai!

407 National Security and Arab IsraelisIn the context of the Gaza war, many Jewish Israelis argue that their fellow citizens of Arab ethnicity present a security threat. Employment, access and movement must be monitored and perhaps restricted, according to this view. Is that concern reasonable? And even if it hypothetically is, can a democracy functionally discriminate based on the ethnicity of its citizens? How should a democratic Jewish state resolve this dilemma? Mike hosts this episode’s debate, where Matt takes the position that we can racially profile to maintain security, and Jordana argues that ethnicity must be ignored among Israeli citizens. Am Yisrael Chai!

406 Can Hamas be Contained? Until October 6th, the shared Israeli conception was that Hamas could be contained in the Gaza strip. Sure, the IDF would occasionally have to knock out their rocket launchers. But overall, that is something we could live with. Now since October 7th, is it possible to go back to that plan? Or has the reality changed leaving destruction of our enemies as the only valid option?Matt hosts this episode’s debate, where Calev takes the position that we can restore containment of our adversaries, and Mike argues that prompt and utter destruction is the only valid option. Am Yisrael Chai!

405 American AbstentionThe routine is that if Israel doesn’t approve of a United Nation Security Council resolution, the United States vetoes it. But in March, America abstained on UNSC resolution 2728. Israeli leaders (and many Israelis) were furious. Is this a big deal and a sign of things to come? Is the allyship between these two democratic nations deteriorating? Or is this just a typical dustup between administrations, soon to be in our rear view mirror? Benji hosts this episode’s debate, where Matt takes the position that this is a major setback in Israel/US relations that will have lasting consequences, and Mike argues that this is a tempest in a teapot that will be mostly forgotten. Am Yisrael Chai!