The Israel Conversation

Its anyone's guess what the incoming Trump administration's will really be. So let's start guessing! Why is the newly appointed ambassador (http://foreignpolicy.com/2016/12/17/trumps-new-ambassador-to-israel-heralds-a-radical-change-in-policy-david-friedman/) so controversial? And what's the story with Jerusalem, is it the capitol or not?

For some history, background, opinions and insights, join us for this episode. We'll explore the question of who the ambassador will be, where his office will be, and why these things matter.

As always, send us you questions and comments! Contact info is available on our website at: juisrael.jerusalemu.org (http://juisrael.jerusalemu.org/).

We think its important to follow this story! The crisis in Amona may be off many people's radar, but here in Israel it seems to be entering the crisis stage. While we're sorry that the audio quality may not be up to our usual standard, Alan, Mike and new panelist Yedidya Kennard bring you up to date on this fast moving story. They explain why this budding crisis has major consequences in Israel and abroad, and give you the background to understand this rapidly developing story!

Alan refers to this story: http://mosaicmagazine.com/essay/2016/12/disorder-in-the-court/

Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amona,_Mateh_Binyamin

For a map of the region: http://tinyurl.com/zh6fwwf

As always, send us your questions and comments: juisrael.jerusalemu.org

After a difficult week of terrible fires across Israel, Alan, Mike and Ze'ev try to put things in perspective. Then, they try to define terrorism, and examine what is or isn't included in that definition. And what can be done about it? Join us as once again we work to keep you connected to events and discussions in Israel. Let us know what you think on our website: juisrael.jerusalemu.org

We're bringing Zion back!

Often misunderstood and much maligned, Zionism is in need of some explanation. Alan, Mike and Benji begin an exploration of the movement. This week they focus on some fundamental questions:

What were the various branches (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zionism#Types)? How has it evolved with time? What changed when the State was founded? Is it only a movement, or also an ideology? Has it always been part of the Jewish experience, only to be named in modern times?

So many questions! So much fun answering and arguing! Join us and let us know what you think and what questions you still have.

Check out the website at juisrael.jerusalemu.org

After a surprise ending to a draining campaign, its easy to feel a bit disoriented. Alan and Mike share some perspective, and chat about what the implications might be for Israel and the Middle East. Enjoy!

Benji is back!!! And just in time to discuss the 99th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balfour_Declaration) with Mike and Alan. They are also in time to talk about the US elections, and what they think about Zionists voting abroad if they live in or out of Israel. (sorry that it ran a bit longer than usual, but things got exciting)

Let us know if you want to write a post for our blog, or submit an Inside Israel story for the podcast. juisrael.jerusalemu.org (http://juisrael.jerusalemu.org/ )

(http://publish.blubrry.com/bdata/programs/ju_israel_teachers_lounge/attach/Arthur-Balfour.jpg)

In this week's episode, Alan, Mike and Zeev briefly discuss UNESCO's jerk move. Then they start what will be a longer conversation about the West bank, at the request of Gabi Benisti. (We hope this will be the first of many episodes that respond to listener questions! So don't forget to send them in)

Please consult the map at this link (https://goo.gl/maps/v9zZnqEqyMS2) to better understand the areas under discussion. A lot is covered, (terminology, correct assigning of responsibility, rejection of Israel's existence, etc.) But there will be more to come.

Shana Tova and Chag Sameach!

After waking to the sad news of the death of Shimon Peres, Alan and Mike sit with Zeev Ben-Shachar to discuss ideas educators can share with students about his loss. After reviewing his career, they reflect on his activism, determination and patriotism, and discuss what it means to live after the passing of the last founding father.

(http://www.veteranstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/young-shimon-peres.jpg)

Alan and Mike discuss the controversy over Netanyahu's "ethnic cleansing" video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8CUFSHB114), the recent spate of stabbings (http://www.timesofisrael.com/now-the-knives-are-out/) by terrorists, and the new foreign aid deal with the USA (http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/14/world/middleeast/israel-benjamin-netanyahu-military-aid.html?_r=1). After some brief explanation of each issue, they give you some background and analysis to see beyond the headlines. Please let us know what you think! You can reach us through our website at juisrael.jerusalemu.org.

For Palestinian opinion polls, follow this link (http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/new-palestinian-poll-shows-hardline-views-but-some-pragmatism-too).

Alan, Mike and Benji went out for coffee and discussed three topics for this episode. They discussed recent strange New York Times articles, and how we consume journalism in general. Then they moved on to goals for gap year students. Finally they discussed the recent deaths of Jewish actors Gene Wilder, Steven Hill, and Fyvush Finkel, and what they tell us about Hollywood Jews. Join us in the conversation with your own comments insights and thoughts! You can find us on our new website: juisrael.jerusalemu.org (http://juisrael.jerusalemu.org/).