In this episode of The Israeli-American Podcast, we begin with breaking news — President Trump’s newly brokered agreement to free Israeli hostages held by Hamas terrorists. We examine what’s known about the deal’s first phase, its implications for Israel’s security and deterrence, and how it underscores renewed American leadership in the Middle East.

Then we turn to California, where Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 715, legislation originally introduced to combat antisemitism and anti-Israeli discrimination in public schools. While we appreciate the bill’s intent, ICAN remains deeply concerned that lawmakers stripped the legislation of real enforcement power before passage. During the September 10 Senate Education Committee hearing, legislators removed the antisemitism definition, investigative authority, and civil-rights enforcement mechanisms, leaving only a coordinator who can provide “technical assistance” but no authority to investigate or enforce protections.

We break down what this means for Jewish and Israeli-American students, how AB 715 was positioned as legislative cover for advancing the Ethnic Studies mandate, and why ICAN is urging Californians to stay engaged ahead of the 2026 legislative session. Governor Newsom has already promised follow-up legislation — and ICAN will work to ensure it delivers real accountability and genuine protections, not symbolic politics.