In this hard-hitting episode of the Israeli-American Podcast, ICAN CEO Dillon Hosier and Chief Policy Officer John Mirisch sit down with Aaron Bandler, national correspondent for Jewish News Syndicate (JNS), to expose how Wikipedia—once heralded as a democratic source of knowledge—has become a digital front line in the war against Israel and the Jewish people.

Together they uncover how organized activist networks coordinate to rewrite entries on Israel, Hamas, and antisemitism—often erasing key facts, amplifying anti-Israel talking points, and punishing editors who dare to restore accuracy. The hosts lay bare how this manipulation shapes headlines, misinforms students, and poisons civic discourse.

Bandler describes his investigative reporting into these covert editorial campaigns, while Hosier and Mirisch connect the dots between online bias and real-world policy outcomes—from classrooms to legislatures. They call on listeners to recognize Wikipedia as a battleground for public perception, not a neutral reference, and to join ICAN’s mission to fight digital antisemitism with transparency, data, and truth.

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.

The Israeli-American story begins eleven minutes after midnight on Israel's independence day, back in 1948.

Since then, Americans and Israelis have stood side by side—sharing a deep commitment to freedom and democracy.

But today, there's something new happening, and its happening right here in the United States.

The next generation of Israeli-American activists and pro-Israel Americans are coming together and bringing new life to the U.S.-Israel relationship in powerful new ways.  

By creating person-to-person connections through advocacy, from combating antisemitism in public schools, to promoting the Abraham Accords, together we're turning our shared values into meaningful action.

And now, there's a place to share conversations about how we make that happen, turning action into impact.

With that I'm happy to introduce you to The Israeli-American Podcast, produced by ICAN.

Our signature format brings together Israeli and American perspectives— featuring one guest from each community—to offer unique insights on the issues that matter most.

My name is Dillon Hosier, CEO at ICAN and I hope you'll join us for expert analysis, bold conversations, and real stories—right here on The Israeli-American Podcast.

What happens when Israeli and American voices come together in dialogue, dignity and discovery?

This is The Israeli-American Podcast, produced by ICAN. Our signature format often features one guest from each community, offering bold perspectives on the issues that matter most—from strengthening the U.S.–Israel alliance and combating antisemitism to empowering our communities here at home.

The Israeli-American Civic Action Network (ICAN) is the only organization that brings together Israeli and American activists to create change for a better America, a more secure Israel, and a stronger U.S.-Israel alliance. ICAN works with community leaders, elected officials, and grassroots organizations to strengthen the bond between the United States and Israel at all levels of government through civic education, advocacy, and public engagement. It also promotes policies that support the Israeli-American community and foster mutual understanding. With a focus on policy leadership and strategic engagement, ICAN is committed to empowering Israeli-American activists and pro-Israel Americans to take an active role in shaping public policy.