Allison Kaplan Sommer and Noah Efron discuss two topics of incomparable importance and end with an anecdote about something in Israel that made them smile this week.

Hear the Extra-Special, Special Extra Segment on Patreon

 

—Nobody Expects the Pax Trumpiana!—

What’s behind US President Donald Trump’s plan to move Gazans to Jordan and Egypt and turn Gaza into a place where maybe they’ll film the next season of White Lotus?

—Suitable for Framing?—

Why do Hamas men in black balaclavas and semi-automatic rifles give gift bags and souvenir swag to hostages they let go?

—Peter Beinart Questions Israel’s Right to Exist—

For our most unreasonably generous Patreon supporters, in our extra-special, special extra discussion: When Peter Beinart writes in the times that “States Don’t Have a Right to Exist. People Do,” he ain’t talking about Mississippi!

All that and an appreciation for Yisroel Rutnitsky, may his memory be for a blessing, and tales of returning hostages. Plus, a sad and soulful new album by Ravid Plotkik.