FIDF Live: Recent Episodes
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Moving stories, exclusive base visits, donor spotlights. Bringing the men and women of the IDF directly to you.
FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan is joined by Former Head of the National Security Council of Israel Maj. Gen. (Res.) Giora Eiland to discuss the implications of the recently signed ceasefire agreement in Gaza and its strategic consequences. He outlines three main themes: the current ceasefire phase, the more complicated upcoming phase, and the broader regional dynamics. The first phase involved intensive negotiations with key players like Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar, and while difficult to achieve, it offers temporary humanitarian relief and a pause in combat. The second phase—which is still uncertain—will address deeper issues such as governance, disarmament, and the fate of remaining hostages. Eiland warns that while Hamas is militarily weakened, it remains politically defiant, and that prolonging the war without a clear endgame may damage Israel's strategic standing. He emphasizes that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict cannot be isolated from wider regional shifts, including changing alliances and the role of external actors like Iran. Importantly, he calls for Israel to shape a coherent vision for “the day after,” including security guarantees and a realistic political framework. Eiland stresses that only by combining military pressure with diplomatic planning can Israel protect its interests and avoid international isolation.
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FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan is joined by Homefront Command’s Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Liron Donnell, who provides an overview of the Homefront Command, a unique branch of the IDF tasked with civil defense and emergency response inside Israel during wartime. She explains that unlike U.S. agencies like FEMA or Homeland Security, the Homefront Command is both military and civilian in its scope—responsible for preparing the population, coordinating first response during rocket attacks, and ensuring continuity of civilian life. During the Gaza war, Homefront Command played a vital role in rescue missions, shelter management, and public alerts, often under ongoing rocket fire. General Liron emphasizes the complexity of managing simultaneous crises—such as evacuations, infrastructure repair, and psychological support—especially with Hezbollah threatening the northern front. She praises the resilience of Israeli civilians and describes innovative communication strategies used to keep citizens informed and safe in real time. The conversation also touches on how Israeli society adapts to prolonged conflict, with schools and hospitals operating in protected zones. General Liron closes by highlighting the strategic importance of the civilian front, framing it as integral to national security, and expressing gratitude for FIDF support that helps boost morale and readiness.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Nadav Padan is joined by LTC Former Military Diplomat, Foreign Relations Expert and International Spokesperson Jonathan Conricus, who provided a strategic overview of Israel’s military situation and international posture. He stresses that while Israel has achieved operational success against Hamas in Gaza, it is losing the global public relations battle, which could have long-term diplomatic consequences. Conricus outlines how Hamas has shifted from a structured military force to scattered guerrilla cells embedded in civilian areas, making it harder to defeat without international backlash. He warns that Israel must balance continued military pressure with strategic communication and diplomacy, especially given growing criticism from allies like the U.S. and Europe. In the north, tensions with Hezbollah remain high, with the risk of escalation still present. Iran continues to fund and coordinate regional threats, though its nuclear program has been significantly disrupted. Conricus also discusses the importance of preparing for the "day after" in Gaza, recommending that Arab states take part in governance while Israel maintains security control. He underscores the vital role of the U.S.-Israel alliance and urges FIDF supporters to continue advocating for Israel’s security and legitimacy.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Nadav Padan is joined by LTC Yotam Shefer, Head of International Relations Branch for CogAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), a unit within the Israeli Defense Ministry and IDF, responsible for civil and humanitarian coordination in Gaza, the West Bank, and surrounding areas. He explains that CogAT plays a central role in facilitating humanitarian aid into Gaza, coordinating with over 20 UN agencies, dozens of NGOs, and local Palestinian entities, despite the challenges of operating in an active combat zone. Schaefer rejects claims of famine and starvation in Gaza, asserting that aid continues to flow—300 to 350 trucks daily—and that images circulated as evidence of starvation are often misrepresented cases of pre-existing medical conditions. He criticizes the UN and other reports for relying on what he considers unreliable or Hamas-affiliated sources, while stating that CogAT maintains independent assessments and coordination on the ground. He emphasizes that Israel did not seek this war, citing previous efforts to improve Gaza's economy and infrastructure. Evacuations of civilians from combat zones are conducted with prior notice and alternative shelters, including field hospitals. Finally, he stresses that the humanitarian effort is both a moral and strategic interest for Israel, and that it continues despite immense operational complexity.
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FIDF CEO Nadav Padan is joined by Maj. Gen. (Res.) Tamir Hayman, Executive Director of the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), to provide an overview of Israel’s strategic situation across multiple fronts. He begins by stating that Iran's nuclear program has been set back significantly due to recent Israeli operations, requiring at least 1–2 years for Iran to rebuild its capabilities. While a direct Iranian strike is unlikely, the risk of miscalculation remains. Tamir describes growing instability in Syria, where the Assad regime is cracking down on minority groups, and Lebanon, where Hezbollah is losing ground and political pressure is mounting for a withdrawal from the south. Turning to Gaza, he warns that Israel is losing the global PR war and facing severe international pressure despite major tactical gains on the battlefield. Hamas has devolved into a guerrilla network, but its refusal to release hostages is strategically prolonging the war and weakening Israel diplomatically. The speaker suggests two military strategies were considered: a buffer zone or a full reoccupation of Gaza City—the latter was chosen, though it carries high political and humanitarian risks. Ultimately, Tamir argues for a broader regional solution involving Arab partners, a post-Hamas governance structure, and possible steps toward Israel-Saudi normalization. He urges Israel to maintain military pressure while signaling a credible vision for the “day after” and compares the situation to counter-terror efforts in the West Bank following the Second Intifada.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Nadav Padan is joined by Brigadier General Effie Defrin, IDF Spokesperson, to discuss the current war in Gaza and broader regional hostilities as an existential, multi-front conflict for Israel, one that will define its future for generations. He admits that October 7th marked a dramatic failure for Israel's defense establishment, but emphasizes a shift in military doctrine since then—from a strategy of containment and avoidance to one of preemption and aggression, targeting threats before they become unmanageable. Defrin describes the fight against Hamas as unprecedentedly difficult due to Hamas embedding itself in civilian infrastructure (hospitals, schools, ambulances), hostage-taking and psychological warfare (e.g., propaganda videos), and a dense, urban battlefield with a highly committed and extremist enemy. The IDF's stated goal is twofold: bring hostages home and eliminate Hamas rule in Gaza. Defrin calls accusations of deliberate starvation or war crimes propaganda, accusing Hamas of hoarding and selling humanitarian aid for profit. Defrin speaks at length about the "media battlefield", describing Hamas’ manipulation of Western media with staged images and weaponizing civilian deaths. Western expectations of Israeli morality has been exploited by Hamas. He shares an anecdote about a photo of a starving child used by international media, which was later proven to be a sick child in an Italian hospital — used falsely to accuse Israel. Defrin highlights deep strategic cooperation with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), describing it as bipartisan and personal, transcending political changes. This relationship is sssential in building regional alliances under the Abraham Accords and integrating Israel into a broader Middle Eastern defense architecture, and crucial for emergency resupply and logistics during wartime. Without it, successful joint efforts such as the recent 12-day Iran war would not be possible..
Defrin pledges to uphold the IDF’s values of truth and ethical warfare, even under immense pressure.
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FIDF Shiri Yanay, Senior Manager, Delegation Content and Speakers, is joined by Jonathan Schanzer, Exec. Dir., Found. for Defense of Democracies (FDD) to discuss what’s been occurring over the last week, focusing primarily on Gaza but also touching on other key threats: Hezbollah in the north, Iran’s regional influence, and U.S.-Israel relations. Schanzer addresses international claims that Israel is starving Gaza, calling such narratives misleading and emphasizing the complexity of the war zone. Schanzer explains that Hamas embeds itself in civilian infrastructure, making IDF operations slow and difficult, and that the absence of a clear post-war governance plan for Gaza is becoming a strategic liability. He warns that Hezbollah in the north poses a far greater threat than Hamas, with daily attacks forcing tens of thousands of Israelis to evacuate. Iran, he argues, is the central actor behind these threats, funding and arming its proxies across the region. Schanzer criticizes U.S. policy for not doing enough to constrain Iran’s reach, though he affirms that military cooperation between the U.S. and Israel remains strong. He also stresses the importance of fighting misinformation in the media, which he believes Hamas exploits effectively. Finally, he urges continued support for the IDF and warns of the growing global antisemitism tied to the war's narrative battlefield.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan to discuss what’s been occurring over the last week in Syria. Nadav first explains what is happening in Iran, who are is a state of recovery from the 12-day war. The Iranian regime is filled with internal friction, with checkpoints being set up around the country, and Europe not yet lifting their sanctions until they get the go ahead from the US to do so. To explain what’s happening in Syria, Nadav goes back to the destabilization of the region from French and British colonizers years ago, which led to the creation of Syria. It was set up as an Arab-speaking Arab country, until figures like al-Jolani usurped power to turn the country into a Muslim country. Israel launched attacks to destroy much of Syria’s navy and military equipment, weapons and outposts as the Assad regime was falling. 13,000 Druze have crossed the border from Syria into Israel, and IDF troops have entered Syria to defend the innocent Druze population and enforce stability, while ceasefire talks are underway. Meanwhile, in Gaza, the fighting continues. The IDF is losing soldiers from sniper, IED and rocket launcher attacks as they clear out what remains of Gaza, weathering guerrilla-style attacks from Hamas. Regarding the ceasefire negotiations, Israel has been very flexible with the terms. However, it has been challenging to budge the other side. The main goal is to get back the hostages, both those who are alive and deceased, without having to release too many Hamas terrorists and without allowing Hamas too much time to regroups during the span of the ceasefire.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Israeli Druze leader Gadeer Kamal-Mreeh. Gadeer is the first Druze woman to have served in the Knesset, and has an incredible resume, building a remarkable career as one of the most impactful Israelis - Jewish or non-Jewish - in Israel. Gadeer explains her upbringing as an Israeli Druze woman, her father having told her to view herself as not a Druze living in the Jewish state, but as an Israeli. Most Druze lived in Lebanon, but left due to dissension. Many Druze residing in Syria, but the Israeli-Druze population is considered to be the most influential, and have provided a shining example to Druze people of how to integrate into a Democratic society while maintaining your identity. Druze have been viewed by Israelis, even during the early days of establishing the state of Israel, as a trusted and strong stabilizing force in the region. Having embraced modernization and a strong patriotism to the state of Israeli, with Druze serving passionately in the IDF and the Knesset, and contributing in other economic, social and political ways, the Druze have emerged as an invaluable minority of Israeli citizens, whose impact on Israel far exceeds their population. 12 Druze soldiers fell in the war and Gaza, and, being a small minority in the state, the losses have been felt deeply by the community. Gadeer discusses the tragedy of the Majdal-Shams terror attack in July of 2024. However, Gadeer points out how much stronger the ties between the Druze and wider Israeli community after witnessing the outpouring of support from other Israelis, and the massive attendance of Israelis at the victims’ funerals.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Nadav Padan to discuss the current state of the war, and what is happening geopolitically with Iran. Nadav explains that the primary objective is the safety of the land and people of Israel. The agreement that the US negotiation group proposed demands that Iran opens their economy to the west, limit its uranium enrichment program and not pursue the development of a WMD, all in order to stabilize the region to create a lasting and sustainable peace in the long term. Meanwhile, in Syria, there is a process of stabilization happening, led by new leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani. Israel’s goal is to facilitate some kind of Abraham Accord-like deal that will stabilize the relationship, while Israel would remain cautious by their still-radical Islamic regime that does not recognize Israel’s right to exist. The reason why they are willing to come to the negotiating table, explains Nadav, is because Jolani knows that he is out of his league militaristically. Perhaps paramount to Israel’s security concerns is to ensure that Hamas no longer has control in Gaza, which would retroactively limit the power of the Muslim Brotherhood in Judea and Samaria as well. As far as the return of the remaining hostages, Nadav explains that Israel is working on a potential 60-day ceasefire agreement. The humanitarian aspect of this would be dramatic and monumental. However, strategically, in that 60-day span, Hamas could reorganize itself and catch its breath, which could spell further disaster for Israel’s security. The hostage situation thus remains complex.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Eitan Amsalem, Director of Visitor Experience, Delegations, and Public Relations at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem. Eitan is the curator that created the exhibit on October 7th at the Museum, and he has taken world leaders and ambassadors through this exhibit. Eitan discusses with Steven in detail about the dangers of the Muslim Brotherhood and elucidates on how the October 7th attack was planned. Eitan and his team uncovered notes found on the bodies of Hamas terrorists. They created a collection of these notes and translated them. He explains that Hamas gave their officers the title of Sheikhs so that they have the authority to give fatwahs (ordinances) that certain acts that are typically impermissible in Islam are permissible, such as killing women and babies. Eitan also explains that many of the terrorists had a list of Hebrew phrases and words for the operation, including “take off your pants,” which they needed to know how to say in order to rape the women they found on the kibbutzim. They also uncovered documents that elucidate the extent to UNRWA’S involvement in the attack, and on the educational material they provide to Gaza’s and Arab villagers which all teach how they are victims of Israeli oppression and must hate Jews. There’s a phenomena that was uncovered about the October 7th massacre that is entirely unique, which is that Hamas attempted to eliminate, and in many cases successfully, entire families in one shot, sometimes tying together a married couple with their children and torturing and killing them. Eitan has also consulted with and was given evidence by forensics teams that were onsite following the 10.7 massacre, but didn’t go into detail about what the examiners describe and found on the sites. Eitan has also spoken with many survivors of the massacre, and he explains the unimaginable PTSD that they are experiencing. Eitan closes by stating that the Islam of Hamas, which was distorted and changed in disturbing ways, does not represent the whole of Islam.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Lt. Col. (Res.) Dr. Mordechai Kedar, Israeli Scholar of Arab Culture, Lecturer at Bar-Ilan University, and Vice President of NEWSRAEL, who provides an expert analysis on the recent 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran. Mordechai discusses how the conflict has weakened the Iranian regime and emboldened opposition groups within Iran, who are now more active in trying to undermine the regime. He also highlights the growing rift between Hezbollah and how this is shaping dynamics in the region. Steve and Mordechai then discuss how the weakening of Iran has created opportunities for Gulf states to put pressure on Iranian ally Qatar to change its behavior in supporting Iran's regional proxies.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Correspondent Lara Krinsky welcomes Col. Richard Kemp, Former Commander of British Forces in Afghanistan and Chairman of the United Kingdom's national crisis management committee (COBRA) to discuss Israel's Operation Rising Lion against Iran. With his extensive military background, Richard provides expert insight into Israel's significant military successes against Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities, dealing a major blow to Iran's regional influence and proxy network. He outlines the potential outcomes from the current ceasefire, some of which may be far reaching. Lara and Richard then discuss how this war may impact the situation in Gaza, concerns in the United States due to the American attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, and the global response to Israel's military actions.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President of Research for the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), to discuss Israel’s air strike against Iran on June 13th, the ensuing war and, finally, the historic bombing of Iran’s Fordow nuclear complex. Jonathan Schanzer states the gravity of this momentous event, declaring the arc of history having been bent in a new direction. Prior to the destruction of Fordow, Israel had already destroyed 75% of Iran’s nuclear program, with the US’ strike finishing the job. Schanzer explains that it would be decades, at the very least, before Iran can recover its nuclear program, if that day ever does come. Schanzer explains that, while the Iranian regime has been damaged irreparably and is clearly on its last legs, this regime appears to be defiant, and willing to fight until the very end. They appear to be trying to overwhelm Israel’s air defense systems, playing a numbers game, in hopes that Israel’s defense missiles run out entirely. There is also the possibility of a global escalation, with China taking a hit with the closing of the Strait of Hormuz and the threat of Iran striking the US and its allies near Iran. The strategy, Schanzer explains, is to continue to retaliate and attack the regime without boots on the ground, or trying to transform Iran into some kind of Jeffersonian democracy a la President Bush, but to instead continue to attack from afar. There is the hope that perhaps the Iranian people would rise up, rebel and attempt to usurp the regime, with a large portion of Iran’s population being western minded. Whatever happens following the bombing of Fordow, Schanzer believes that President Donald Trump will go down in Israeli and Jewish history as a hero.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Maj. (Res.) Doron Spielman, Author of "When the Stones Speak" & Former VP, City of David, to discuss Israel's ongoing military operations against Iran. Doron describes how Israel had been planning for months and executed a complex operation to take out key Iranian military targets, including ballistic missile sites and air force commanders, severely weakening Iran's military capabilities. They also discuss how potential U.S. intervention will be crucial, as it could embolden the Iranian people to rise up against the regime. Lastly, Doron elaborates on the broader geopolitical implications of this conflict and how it might help shape the future of the Middle East.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan to provide updates on Israel's military operations against Iran and its proxies. Nadav details Israel's successes and challenges in the war against Iran, which is a multi-arena conflict, with ongoing battles in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria in addition to the main conflict in Iran. He describes how Israel is working to push the launch sites of Iranian missiles deeper into Iran to limit their range and effectiveness and has made significant progress in degrading Iran's nuclear and missile production capabilities. Finally, Steve and Nadav discuss the strain this war has put on Israeli society and Israel's ultimate goal to free the world of a serious threat.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, to discuss Israel's ongoing military campaign against Iran. As a longtime expert on Iran's nuclear ambitions, Mark provides a detailed analysis of why Israel decided to launch Operation Rising Lion last week, where they've succeeded thus far, and what the future potentially holds. He also details the technical details of Iran's weapons arsenal and infrastructure, and how Israeli operations have depleted and damaged them. Steve and Mark discuss Iranian society, internal discontent with the ruling regime, and how this could potentially evolve as the conflict progresses. Finally, the two touch on the future of this war and its potential global impact.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Gadi Ezra, an IDF reservist, human rights attorney, and the former Director of Israel's National Public Diplomacy Unit for the Prime Minister's Office. Gadi provides his expert insight on Israel's incredibly successful military offensive against Iran. He highlights the disparity of human rights concerns between where Israel and Iran target their respective strikes, as well as the importance of distinguishing between the Iranian people and their current government. Finally, Gadi and Steve discuss the broader geopolitical context of this conflict as well as how the specific circumstances of Israeli society impact the potential future of this war.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Ari Sacher, rocket scientist for RAFAEL, to discuss the current state of Israel’s historic Operation Rising Lion in Iran. Ari details his own personal experience living through recent events in Israel, including Iran's brutal assault on Israeli civilian centers. As an expert on the relevant technologies, Ari offers detailed analysis about how Israel has destroyed significant portions of Iran's arsenal and intercepted 90% of incoming missiles. Steve and Ari also discuss possible outcomes from this operation, both for Iran's future as well as Israel's security. Finally, Ari provides scientific insight on the science behind Iran's missiles, the devastating damage they cause upon impact, and theories about Iran's military strategy.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President of Research for the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), to discuss Israel’s air strike against Iran on June 13th, and the ensuing war. Jonathan breaks down the Israeli Air Force’s onslaught, or as Jonathan described it, a blitzkrieg-like attack, heavily crippling Iran’s nuclear facilities and defense capabilities, eliminating Iran’s top military personal and eliminating Iran’s top nuclear program personnel. Jonathan believes that, contrary to President Trump’s statements, the United States has supported this attack and was involved to some degree with the planning of this attack. Jonathan explains that there is debate in the Trump administration whether to finish the job or not. The IAF has done a great job of taking out many of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers, however, it’s unclear how many launchers there are and if Israel can take them all out, and there is the concern that Iran’s aim with these missiles is improving, thus posing a dangerous threat to the safety of Israeli citizens and Israeli military strongholds. Another concern is Israel’s capacity to take out Fordo, Iran’s most important nuclear facility. It is buried deep underground and the IAF may not have the capability to destroy it, so the question is, will the US deploy B-2 bombers that have the capability to potentially destroy Fordo? Further, while the IAF, IDF and Mossad have done a stellar job in this attack, the ballistic missile fire and the damage being caused both to Israel’s infrastructure and the civilian psyche is great, and how much more that Israel can take is yet to be seen. All in all, the goal should be to finish the job swiftly and decisively, and US support may be required to do so.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan to discuss Israel's historic Operation Rising Lion, in which it inflicted significant damage to Iran's nuclear facilities and long-range weaponry. Nadav discusses the background of this operation, why Israel chose to act now, and what the future potentially holds.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil speaks with Orna and Ronen Neutra, parents of fallen soldier Capt. Omer Neutra z"l, whose body is being held in Gaza by Hamas. This meeting was pre-recorded on American Memorial Day. Orna and Ronen describe who Omer was as a person during his short, but meaningful life. They detail what inspired him to join the IDF as a lone soldier despite his educational opportunities in the United States and his extraordinary commitment to Israel. Omer's parents elaborate on their Holocaust survivor parents and how they influenced his life before finally describing the tragic details of what happened on October 7, 2023. Lastly, they discuss the aftermath, and their involvements with the American and Israeli governments, trying to get Omer back.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President of Research for the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), to discuss the current state of Israel’s multi-front war. Schanzer explains that we are at somewhat of a yellow light in the war, with activity quieting down in Lebanon and Syria. We have also seen a drop-off in Jihadist activity in Judea and Samaria, but increased activity out of Yemen. Jonathan projects how Israel intends to move forward on the various fronts.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes author, social activist and former FIDF spokesperson for the foreign press in the Unit for Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) Alon Penzel to discuss the atrocities of October 7th, and the world’s denial of these atrocities. Alone discusses his imperative work of documenting and scientifically and empirically proving the atrocities that occurred, and has done everything he can to ensure the international community understands what happened that day.
WARNING: Some of the content on this briefing may be disturbing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Rocket Scientist Ari Sacher to help us understand the current threat of missiles fired into Israel by the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Ari explains that the Houthis are an Iranian proxy, and so they have access to state of the art technology provided to them by Iran, including advanced long range missiles and firing systems. Israel has successfully taken out a vast majority of the missile barrages, using Israel’s Arrow-3 missile defense system. However, a missile did hit the ground on Ben Gurion Airport, but no major damage or casualties were incurred. Ari believes that the Houthis, residents of neaerly unlivable third world conditions, are an enemy with nothing to lose, and so no matter how we hit them, they will keep coming. The key is to cut the Houthis off from acquiring weapons from their sources. Ultimately, Ari believes that the only solution to the threat of the Houthis is a political one.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Doron Spielman, Author of When the Stones Speak & Former VP, City of David, to discuss his experience running the excavations of City of David, and the significance of uncovering 3000 years of Jewish history. Doron served in the army and then went into high tech. He became infatuated by uncovering the truth of Israels ancient history after having an eye opening experience with an Arab woman, who believed in her bones that Israel had no right to exist and the claims of Jews being indigenous to the land were false. Doron left his job in high tech and fell into a position spearheading the digging operations in the City of David. Doron explains that uncovering physical living proof of the Jewish connection to the land of Israel is perhaps the most important battlefront, because many of Israel’s enemies truly believe that Jews have no connection to the land.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Dr. Lucian Tatsa-Laur, former Head of the Mental Health Department in the Israel Defense Forces and current Head of the new Trauma Rehabilitation Center at Assuta Ashdod Public Hospital, to discuss his groundbreaking work in the field of PTSD and mental health treatment for combat soldiers. Dr. Laur described his experience on October 7th, learning about the attack while on the phone with a wife of one of his patients who was outside of the house fighting terrorists at the time. Dr. Laur explains how the trauma of October 7th erupted the IDF’s identity as a small but shrewd and near indestructible defense force, shifting their self-perception from competent to failure. Dr. Laur’s mission was to reverse this collective psychological blow, and the IDF officers, he recounts, were very welcoming and open to this type of work. So did the Israeli public, who were accustomed to wars taking place within the enemy’s borders, not within Israel’s borders. Given the collective trauma of Israel’s combat soldiers and citizenry, Dr. Laur’s research is highly sought out by the US defense department.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Rabbi Stewart Weiss, Director and Founder of the Jewish Outreach Center in Ra’anana, and father of IDF Sgt. Ari Weiss HY”D, to discuss Rabbi Weiss’ journey making Aliyah, and being the father of a fallen solider. Rabbi Weiss recounts his son Ari’s challenges trying to get into an elite anti-terrorist unit in the IDF, initially struggling but ultimately becoming an explosives expert and a sharpshooter. Ari, Rabbi Weiss explains, was in demand and was flown about into the field on many missions. Ari fell in battle in Nablus at the age of 21 on September 30, 2002. Rabbi Weiss took on the responsibility of comforting other parents of fallen soldiers, being open and honest about his battle dealing with the pain and challenges of the loss of a child entering the prime of his or her life. Rabbi Weiss explains that one of the things that has strengthened him most is speaking with other families and experiencing their strength in the face of loss. While Rabbi Weiss misses his son dearly, he is proud of the sacrifice that his son, and all sons and daughters serving in the IDF, made for the safety of Israel’s citizenry.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil tells the story of Passover and its lasting effects on human history as well as relevance in modern times.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Shai Bernstein, an American-Israeli IDF Reservist who just completed his third round of reserve duty, to discuss his experiences over the course over the last 365+ days going back and forth into the field of battle. Shai served as an officer and a captain and officer in Givati, beginning his active duty in 2003. Shai was living in Riverdale when October 7th broke out, having received reports in synagogue about what was happening. He immediately booked a ticket to return to Israel and join his unit. He arrived with his gear in the kibbutzim, and walked four miles with his unit into Gaza. Shai describes a mission during which his unit was hit by an RPG. Several of his comrades were wounded and killed, and another mission in which he was ambushed by RPGs. His friend Moshe Leiter discovered a tunnel shaft under a mosque, and was subsequently killed by a booby trap. Shai describes the immense survivor’s guilt he has been dealing with since his return from duty. He also explains how much he had previously underestimated the true face of evil and hatred that he experienced both in Israel and Gaza, but also in America, on college campuses and otherwise. He also underestimated the love and support that exists amongst the Jewish people, which was revealed following October 7th and the ensuring war. Shai also explains the sacrifice that the spouses of reservists must make, as well as the responsibility of maintaining a household despite the looming fear they live with.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan to discuss the current situation in Gaza and the multi-front war. Nadav reminds us that Israel is still dealing with a 7-front war, despite the tremendous progress in each front since the war began on October 7th. In Gaza, there remains 59 hostages, and Hamas has begun to rebuild its ammunition and missile stores, as well as its terrorist operatives. The recent ceasefire contributed to Hamas’ rebuilding efforts significantly, and has culminated in recent rocket fire targeting dozens of cities in Israel. The IDF has made significant progress in breaking up the Houthi forces, who have been relentless in their rocket fire in recent weeks. The message the IDF is trying to send to the Houthis and Iran is, if you do not cooperate, you will be targeted heavily with potential devastating missile attacks and otherwise. Meanwhile, with soldiers needed on the Syrian, Lebanese and Gazan borders, there is a growing need for soldiers in Judea and Samaria, putting a great strain on the IDF and IDF reservists, and Israel’s economy.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Yuval Baron, Son-in-Law of Keith and Aviva Siegel, to share his family’s unique story of survival. Yuval describes the feeling of welcoming back his mother Aviva, and later his father Keith, from Gaza as witnessing what is known in Judaism as “Techiat Hameitim,” the revival of the dead. Yuval then provides some details on the harrowing conditions under Hamas captivity, such as living underground in tight quarters, a lack of food and water, and being under constant psychological torture from their Hamas captors. Yuval is thrilled to have his family back, but, he explains, healing for Keith and Aviva cannot begin until the other hostages are back. Keith finds it difficult to understand why he is home but not the other hostages. With that being said, Keith is recovering well, and is receiving an outpouring of support from the country and the Israeli government. And Yuval has taken it upon himself to be an ambassador for his parents and the other hostages, using his voice to influence the current state of the hostages.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Olga Deutsch, VP of NGO Monitor, to discuss what Olga calls the most neglected front of Israel’s multi-front war - the political front. Olga gives Steve a breakdown of what it is NGO Monitor does. As the name suggests, NGO Monitor monitors activities of NGOs, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, to assess the true focus of their efforts, and to detect any potential biases in their focus. Unsurprisingly, Olga often finds that these organizations are disproportionately focused on Israel and pointing the finger at the State of Israel as in violation of international human rights laws, and some funnel funds to anti-Israel groups. Further, representatives of various countries at the UN and the International Criminal Court will vilify Israel and Israeli officials based solely on reports from the aforementioned NGOs, thus revealing an entirely corrupt and complex system. Further, the efforts of BDS have harmed Israel greatly in terms of potential investments and business deals that were shut down due to BDS advocacy, and the efforts of the NGO-lobbied Al-Haq, which presents misinformation about the state of affairs in Gaza and the current war with very sophisticated legalistic jargon. The larger goal of course is to undermine Israel’s legitimacy as an independent state and further erode its perception in the court of public opinion.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Ari Sacher, rocket scientist for RAFAEL, to discuss the current state of Israel’s multi-front war. Ari explains that, militarily, the combat has significantly dissipated. Ari also goes into details regarding Israel’s response to Iran’s ballistic missile attack that occurred months ago, explaining that Israel set back Iran’s ballistic missile production capabilities immensely via a successful airstrike. Ari also explains Israel’s capability to defend against Iran were they to decide to launch their missiles stockpile at Israel, and against Hezbollah’s Almas missiles. Israel has done a stellar job defending against both of those threats, and has pushed Hezbollah above the Litani river. While the IDF has responded successfully to the war, over 70% of Israelis disapprove of the recent ceasefire deal with Hamas, and it is likely, according to Ari’s estimation, that the war with Hamas will resume.
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FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Ruby Chen, the father of Itay Chen, a 20-year-old IDF soldier and U.S. citizen, who likely fell while defending his military base on October 7th, and who is still being held by Hamas in Gaza. Ruby describes Itay's life, personality, hobbies, and values. He relates what the family now knows about Itay's experiences and actions on October 7th, and the family's journey in learning about what happened to him following that fateful day. Ruby also tells Steve about his political advocacy in trying to get the hostages, both alive and deceased, back to Israel from Gaza. Steve and Ruby discuss the emotional impact of this ordeal on the Chen family, and their relationship with other hostage families. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President of Research for the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) to discuss the current ceasefire and hostage exchange deal between Israel and Hamas. Dr. Schanzer provides exclusive insight into the intents and aims of Israeli officials who helped formulate the deal. He elaborates on the broader regional geopolitical ramifications of continuing the deal or resuming the war with Hamas and the impact of the new American administration on the situation. Steve and Dr. Schanzer also talk about the war between Israel and Hezbollah, and what the future may hold with the current ceasefire ending. Finally, the two discuss Israel's potential future military engagements with Iran and the Houthis in Yemen.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Lt. Col. (Res.) Dr. Mordechai Kedar, Israeli Scholar of Arab Culture, Lecturer at Bar-Ilan University, and Vice President of NEWSRAEL. Dr. Kedar elucidates the level of impact Trump’s recent press conference regarding his plans to relocate Gazan residents of Gaza in order to revitalize the infrastructure in Gaza had on the world, particularly the discourse in the Middle East around the State of Israel and the two state solution. In the wake of this landmark announcement by President Trump, Dr. Kedar explains how difficult it is to fathom that Zionism has come out as the victor after the tumultuous year and a half following October 7th. However, Dr. Kedar explains, Arab countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia have no choice but to accept this new reality as it is rolled out, because they need the support of the U.S. Dr. Kedar suggests that Qatar should be the lead candidate to weather the impending onslaught of over 2 million Gazan refugees, as they have the planes, the space and the infrastructure in place to accept these refugees. Dr. Kedar goes on to explain the threat of the Muslim Brotherhood, whose hateful and murderous ideology has spread throughout the Middle East and the western world. Looking into the future, Dr. Kedar believes that the fate of the future lay in the hands of the western world, and how they respond to the increase in radicalized Muslims residing in western countries.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Daniel Flesch, Senior Policy Analyst for Middle East and North Africa at the Allison Center for National Security, which is a subsidiary of the Heritage Foundation, the largest conservative think tank in the country. Daniel offers his perspective on the recent ceasefire deal with Hamas. Flesch explains that while the ratio of terrorists being released by Israel to hostages being released by Hamas is a lopsided 50-to-1, Gilad Shalit was released in exchange for 1,027 terrorists, one of whom being Yahya Sinwar. So, with that in mind, the deal isn’t as bad as many of its detractors have made it out to be. It was an opportune time for Israel to make a wing at a deal, due to both the change in administration in the US, and with the threats in Syria, Lebanon and Iran all being significantly diminished. Flesch clarifies that we are currently in phase one of a three phase deal with Hamas, and he is pessimistic that we will make it to phase two and three, most notably due to Hamas’ recent breach of the deal when they released soldiers instead of hostages. However, Flesch is very optimistic about Israel’s future, due to the economic growth, the global display of its might during the multi-front war, and a new generation of young leaders in Israel who proved that they can set aside ideological differences to defend the nation of Israel in remarkable dramatic fashion.
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On this pre-recorded broadcast, FIDF CEO Steven Weil discusses with freed hostage Aviva Siegel about her experience as both a hostage and the wife of a current hostage, Keith Seigel. Aviva and Keith have been married for 44 years and have 4 children and 5 grandchildren. They lived on Kibbutz Kfar Aza for 14 years. Aviva recounts wanting to move on account of the constant threat of rocket fire. But Keith responded to Aviva by asking, “who’s going to look after the border?” Aviva then recounts October 7th, 2023, hearing the gunfire, taking shelter, and ultimately being violently taken along with her husband. Aviva describes being taken into the tunnels and the brutal treatment she and the other hostages received from the terrorists in Gaza. The hostages only received a half a piece of pita to eat. Keith was rapidly losing weight, so Aviva apportioned half of her ration to Keith. She witnessed one of the younger female hostages being beaten with sticks by the terrorists, and recounts wanting to comfort the girl but was barred from doing so. Aviva explains that she takes every opportunity available to her to speak and make media appearances in order to tell the world how brutally Hamas is treating the hostages.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Brig. Gen. (Res.) Nitzan Nuriel, to discuss the current state of Israel’s multi-front war. By Gen. Nuriel’s count, Israel is fighting a 9-front war. In Lebanon, the new president appears to be delivering positive messages, but it’s too soon to make a definitive judgement on him. And, with the pending ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, Gen. Nuriel believes that Syria will become the new hub of Hamas, which will create new problems for Israel. With that said, there is good news coming from Iraq, as they no longer want any part of the conflict, and have cut ties with Iran. The Houthis have continued launching rockets and drones. Iran now needs to regroup and find new sources of funding, and needs to replace Lebanon as a hub for Hezbollah. Gen. Nuriel believes that Jordan will become the replacement, and the IDF is already taking steps to prevent this. Gen. Nuriel is confident that the first stage the Hamas Ceasefire deal will come to fruition, but has drawbacks about stage two, due to the many obstacles and many things that can transpire between now and when stage two is set to commence. The fighting in Gaza has grown incredibly challenging due to the heavy implementation of booby-traps and the constant flow of Hamas recruitment that allows Hamas to replenish their forces on a rolling basis. However, if the ceasefire deal holds, the terrorists will not be released to Gaza, but in a different country, and we will see the return of a large number of hostages.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil invites FIDF Casualties Officer Maj. (Res.) M. to discuss the effect of Israel’s multi-front war on the families of soldiers who have either been injured or have fallen in combat. Officer Maj. (Res.) M. explains that families of soldiers currently serving experience high levels of anxiety and fear that they may get a difficult call in regards to their loved one, which itself is very difficult for families to cope with. However, Officer Maj. (Res.) M. has been involved with support groups and retreats for families of fallen soldiers, which the FIDF supports and funds. She explains how cathartic and therapeutic these retreats are for the families, who can share experiences of losing someone so instrumental to their lives. The programs provide participants with tools to cope without medical supplementation. With that said, coping is a lifelong endeavor, and requires ongoing care and support from organizations like the FIDF, as well as those who share similar grief and experiences.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil walks us through the year 2024, a rollercoaster year for Israel and the IDF. Steven walks us through the progress Israel has made in its mission to eliminate her surrounding threats. However, Steven reminds us that while progress has been made, Hamas is still operative, and still using its civilian population as its first line of defense, and civilization homes and institutions as headquarters and weapons storehouses. With that being said, the FIDF has been integral to supporting IDF soldiers in a variety of ways, such as equipping medical trucks with the tech and gear it needs, supplying state of the art tourniquets, providing PTSD support and injured soldier rehabilitation. It has been the sacrifice and bravery of the IDF soldiers on the ground, the cunning of Israel’s intelligence forces, and the integral support from IDF supporters and organizations like the FIDF that is accountable for why Israel is still stable and thriving amidst turmoil and daily threats to her safety. In the waning months of 2024 we saw the IDF nearly completely eliminate Hezbollah and the downfall of Assad. While there is much uncertainty and instability in the Middle East as we head into 2025, there is much to be encouraged by.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Ruthie and Andy Weiser, Grandparents of sergeant First Class Roey Weiser, Z”L, a combat solider in Battalion 13 of the Golani Brigade, who was killed on October 7th, 2023, to talk about loss and the mixed emotions they and their family have experienced over the last 15 or so months. Andy explains the heroics of Roey, who defended his base, Erez, from Hamas terrorists for hours. He was ultimately overrun by Hamas after having run out of bullets. Roey and his comrades saved 12 soldiers. Roey was 21 years old. The loss beared a heavy burden upon Ruthie and Andy, who participate in a grandparents support group, where they share each other’s thoughts and experiences about loss, and explore the uniquely challenging role of being the parent of a parent of a fallen soldier. However, Ruthie explains, this isn’t a tragedy. Roey was doing his job, and Ruthie takes great pride in her grandson and what he did on that tragic day.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil discusses the story of Chanukah, contextualizing it within the current multi-front war, the power struggle in Syria, and the rapidly evolving Middle East. Steven gives a sweeping Jewish historical overview of the First and Second Temple eras and the region that is now Syria, all the way to modern history, elucidating the evolution of the Israeli Jewish population from its humble beginnings as an economically meager, to growing into a one of the most dynamic economies in the world, at the cutting edge of a wide array of disciplines. Steven explains that the seemingly miraculous events that have occurred over the last several months, with Lebanon, Syria and Iran, are analogous to the miracle of Chanukah, when the Maccabees defeated the mighty Syrian Greeks. Steven likens the young Jewish men and women in the IDF to the modern day Maccabees, who have sacrificed everything to destroy those threatening the lives of their fellow countrymen, and whose actions have liberated Syrians from Al Assad’s tyrannical murderous regime.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan to discuss the seismic shifts that have occurred over the last week in the Middle East as a result of the fall of the Assad regime. Nadav explains that Syria has been fractured for years, split between Assad’s regime, Hezbollah, Kurds, Turks and other rebel and jihadist groups. The situation is very fragile. The IDF immediately implemented its plan to destroy chemical weapons storages and factories, airbases artillery and weapons stores, with the goals of keeping them out of the hands of the various groups jockeying for power. Nadav wonders aloud what Iran’s next move will be. One option could be for Iran to aggressively increase their efforts to develop a nuclear weapon, while another option could involve some kind of a negotiation with President Elect Donald Trump to ensure their own protection. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Amichai Stein, Political Correspondent for Kan 11 IPBC to discuss the hostage situation and a variety of other current challenges for Israel and the IDF. Amichai begins the discussion by pointing out the stark contrast between being a journalist in Israel and being a journalist in the US, and how dramatically his job has changed over the course of the last year. The question, Amichai explains, is what is the goal of Hamas, and what are they willing to walk away with at this juncture. Would they even consider a hostage deal after losing so much? Based on the presence of Hamas officials in Egypt indicating some kind of willingness to enter into negotiations, there is reason to believe that a hostage deal can be salvaged. Following the news about Long Island native Omer Neutra, Israel and the IDF is again going all in on retrieving the hostages. However, Amichai warns of the perils of giving up too much in exchange for the hostages, and setting Israel back to October 6th, 2023. Striking the balance between retrieving the hostages and progressing to a safer and improved security situation between Israel and Gaza is the challenge right now for the IDF and the Israeli government.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Eric Mandel, Founder and Director of the Middle East Political and Information Network (MEPIN) to discuss Eric’s analysis on the current war. Eric expresses cautious optimism in regards to the recently negotiated ceasefire in the north between Israel and Hezbollah. The optimism stems from Hezbollah’s motive to agree to the ceasefire, namely, the embarrassment and devastation they’ve weathered from the IDF and the Mossad taking out much of their fighting force and leadership. The cautiousness comes from Israel’s motives to agree to the ceasefire, namely, the exhaustion of the soldiers, many of whom have been away from their jobs and families for the better part of 400 days. Meanwhile, Eric has tried to explain to both US administrations during their campaigns that the war in Gaza is still far from over, with thousands of terrorists still remaining and with a stronghold on the population, despite being without leadership. Further, hundreds of miles of tunnels still remain. Eric has urged the administrations to focus on Iran, the “head of the octopus.” With their anti-missile weapons systems down following the recent IDF air force operation, now would be the opportunity to hit Iran’s nuclear weapons facilities. However, Eric doesn’t believe that such an operation, although prudent, as likely to occur.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Israeli Olympic Gold Medalist Tommy Reuveny to discuss his experience being an Israeli olympian during the war, traveling the world as an Israeli Jewish athlete, and what it meant to him to be the only Israeli gold medalist in the 2024 olympics. Tommy explains that October 7th occurred shortly after the olympic trials. Tommy’s brother is a IDF soldier for an elite unit. He arrived on the scene in the morning of October 7th. After three days of anxiously waiting, Tommy got word that his brother was okay. While training was difficult for Tommy after the attack, the olympic committee urged him and the other Israeli olympians to go out and win a medal. The fear of a repeat of the Munich Olympics, coupled with whatsapp death threats and the desire to win a medal for his country in desperate need of victory, the pressure was immense. Tommy was even urged not to wear clothing that would identify him was a Jew or Israeli in public, or speak Hebrew in public. But the threats and the will to win for his country propelled Tommy’s competitive spirit, ultimately resulting in a runaway finish for the gold.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Maj. Gen. (RES.) Nadav Padan to provide insight on Israel’s multi-front war. General Padan provides a brief update on the war in the south, which, as he explains, is in its final phases. While Hamas has already been neutralized, the IDF is now battling against small independent groups of terrorists, while working to locate and rescue the remaining hostages. The neutralization of Hamas perhaps renders the hostage scenario even more complex, as the small independent groups have nothing left to lose, other than their lives, with the hostages being the only thing keeping them alive. The IDF is also weathering drone and cruise missiles launched by the Houthis in Yemen, 100% of which they’ve intercepted. In the north, the IDF’s mission remains to take out Hezbollah leadership, while destroying their primary missile and launcher stores, which are stored in highly populated civilian areas, posing an additional challenge of evacuating those areas before destroying the structures where the missiles and launchers are located. However, due to the IDF’s success against Hezbollah, coupled with the mounting pressure felt by Iran following the looming change in the US government, a ceasefire agreement appears to be imminent.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Jonathan Schanzer to provide insight on Israel’s progress in their multi-front war. Jonathan explains that despite the daily rocket attacks from Hezbollah, the IDF has done a stellar job reducing their arsenal. With that being said, the north has sustained significant damage, and reconstruction will be required once the war ends. Further, Israel’s airstrike on Iran left Iran vulnerable and has now enabled Israel to return whenever they want and strike however they want moving forward. Jonathan provides on insight on the implications of the state of the war on the US’s involvement with regards to the twilight of Biden’s term. Jonathan believes that President Biden is now considering his legacy, and how he wants to leave the Middle East before his term is up. The current president is left with choices, such as releasing the weapons the US has withheld from Israel, or even authorizing another Israeli strike against Iran’s nuclear plants, which Jonathan points out as something to watch moving forward.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Maj. Gen. (RES.) Nadav Padan to provide insight on Israel’s multi-front war. Maj. Gen. Padan explains that Iran’s strategy is drag the war out as much as possible to create a war of attrition. Their goal is to break the spirit of the IDF and the Israeli people, and to increase pressure on the Israeli government to end the war. While both Hamas and Hezbollah will likely not be entirely eradicated, as they are both more akin to ideas than groups, their artillery and operational capacity has been devastated by the IDF. Israel’s goal is to put enough pressure on Iran to negotiate the best agreement possible. Until recently, Hezbollah refused to entertain a ceasefire agreement with Israel due to the damage inflicted by the Gaza Strip. Hezbollah has since changed its tune, and are now willing to entertain a ceasefire. When the momentum swings even more heavily in the IDF’s favor, they hope to be able to reach a favorable agreement with Hezbollah.
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FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Brig. Gen. (Res.) Nitzan Nuriel, to discuss the current state of Israel’s multi-front war. Brig. Gen. Nuriel explains that the current mission in Gaza is to ensure that Hamas will not be able to regain power in the region. He believes that this mission is going to take a significant amount of time, barring a surrender of Hamas and reaching an agreement to release the hostages. The IDF’s primary goal in Lebanon is also to neutralize the threat of Hezbollah missile fire for good, and to prevent Hezbollah from regaining power in the region. The IDF is preparing for a potential threat along the Jordanian border, with Iran now setting its sights on mobilizing its shiite militias in Syria and Iraq as a result of Hezbollah being on the brink of annihilation and losing Hamas completely. Brig. Gen. Nuriel reminds us that, while Israel is winning the war, the IDF has weathered significant losses, primarily to their reserve corps. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Rabbi Doron Perez Executive Chairman of the Mizrachi World Movement and Father of Slain Hostage, IDF Capt. Daniel Perez, to discuss the west’s equating the IDF’s defense of their homeland with Hamas’ terrorist mission to obliterate it, which Rabbi Perez terms the “modern day blood libel.” While the IDF would do anything to protect the civilians of Israel, Hamas uses their civilians as pawns for their own gain. Rabbi Perez offers his unique perspective and clarity of thought on this topic, as both the leader of the Mizrahi World Movement and the father of an IDF soldier whose body is currently being held by Hamas. Rabbi Perez shares his son’s story on the morning of October 7th, and how he and his family are dealing with loss.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by RAFAEL Rocket Scientist Dr. Ari Sacher, to discuss the current bombardment of Hezbollah rocket fire currently taking place in northern Israel, where Dr. Sacher resides with his family. Dr. Sacher, the lead scientist behind the development of the groundbreaking Iron Dome missile defense system, explains that while the Iron Dome’s 90-95% success rate is remarkable and indispensable, it isn’t perfect. He witnessed firsthand the carnage of a Hezbollah rocket that made it past the Iron Dome, which landed near his home. Steven and Dr. Sacher discuss two of the IDF’s most pressing current objectives, which is to target and destroy Hezbollah’s missile launchers in Beirut via precision airstrikes, and to push the Hezbollah terrorists behind the Litani River, which would act as a natural border wall that would prevent Hezbollah from executing an attack similar to October 7th. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil explains the history of Tzom Gedalia, the fast day that occurs the day after Rosh Hashanah on the Jewish calendar, and the significance of Rosh Hashanah and the auspicious period in the Jewish that follows, called the “Yamim Noraim,” the Days of Awe. Steven explains that the timing for a retrospective on the past year comes at the perfect time, following the recent monumental military achievement by the IDF of eliminating Nasrallah, causing devastating damage to Hezbollah. Yet, despite the recent triumph, and the year filled with tragedy, Jews have experienced an unprecedented wave of antisemitism in the west, under the guise of “anti-Zionism.” And despite the IDF’s efforts to minimize collateral damage during its campaign in Gaza, the world’s unbalanced criticism of Israel knew no bounds. In addition to the external criticism that the IDF in Israel had to weather over the past year are the 400+ soldiers that have fallen in battle, the injured who have live with physical trauma, and all of the soldiers who returned intact physically but must live the rest of their lives with PTSD and psychological trauma. And now, during these Days of Awe, as, according to Jewish tradition, the fate of the world hangs in the balance, Jews everywhere pray for the state of truth and justice, both for Israel and the world at large.
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Maj. Gen. Nadav Padan informs viewers about the current state of war with Iran following their firing over 180 ballistic missiles into Israel. Despite the low casualty rate, several missiles landed and damaged urban areas. Each missile can carry over 2,000 pound warheads, which have large scale damage capacity. Meanwhile, IDF boots are on the ground with the objective of destroying Hezbollah posts on the border in order to push them behind the Litani river. Israel has already destroyed over 150 positions along the Israel-Lebanon border, and have uncovered a large number of weapon and missile caches. Maj. Gen. Padan expresses a sentiment of great hope and assuredness, stating that Israel is going to win this war, both because they are very strong, and because there is no choice but to win the war.
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Maj. Gen. (RES.) Nadav Padan provides a crucial update on Israel’s war with Hezbollah on the northern front, following the successful elimination of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah. Maj. Gen. Padan explains that while Nasrallah’s elimination warrants celebration, it is only one layer of the IDF’s multi-layered plan to take out Hezbollah. Padan praises operatives at all levels of this plan for doing a great job, making the right decisions, and executing the IDF’s plan successfully. The IDF has destroyed missile launching pads and missile caches throughout the south of Lebanon, which, in addition to the elimination of Nasrallah and his underlings, has placed a tremendous amount of pressure on Hezbollah. The temporary and permanent leadership is further pressured by the refugee situation that they aren’t equipped to handle. In Lebanon, there are roughly 1 million refugees, many of whom have migrated east to the Syrian border, while others have migrated north within Lebanon.
Maj. Gen. Padan reminds us that what is most instrumental to the success of the war is the elimination of Hamas in Gaza. Hamas is being buoyed by the food, supplies and support from the US and NGOs, which Hamas steals from its citizens and resells to the public with the intention of using the money to fund more Hamas recruits.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by RAFAEL Rocket Scientist Dr. Ari Sacher, to discuss the current bombardment of Hezbollah rocket fire currently taking place in northern Israel, where Dr. Sacher resides with his family. Dr. Sacher, the lead scientist behind the development of the groundbreaking Iron Dome missile defense system, explains that while the Iron Dome’s 90-95% success rate is remarkable and indispensable, it isn’t perfect. He witnessed firsthand the carnage of a Hezbollah rocket that made it past the Iron Dome, which landed near his home. Steven and Dr. Sacher discuss two of the IDF’s most pressing current objectives, which is to target and destroy Hezbollah’s missile launchers in Beirut via precision airstrikes, and to push the Hezbollah terrorists behind the Litani River, which would act as a natural border wall that would prevent Hezbollah from executing an attack similar to October 7th.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
Maj. Gen. (RES.) Nadav Padan provides a critical update on escalating tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Maj. Gen. Padan outlines the genesis of the escalation, sparked by two successful IDF operations. The first was to sabotage a meeting at the Hezbollah HQ in Beirut between Hezbollah lay leaders and the Red One Hezbollah unit to plan an October 7th-like attack against Israel. The damage incurred by Hezbollah isn't yet confirmed, but the IDF was able to penetrate the underground bunker where the meeting took place. The second successful operation occurred in the south of Lebanon, where the IDF destroyed Hezbollah missile and launcher caches. These attacks have sent Hezbollah into crisis mode. Hezbollah has subsequently launched missile attacks into both military and civilian areas in Israel.Nadav explains that Iran is trying to engage in a messy war of attrition with Israel, beginning on October 7th in the south, and followed up by the unprovoked mobilization of Hezbollah in the north, in order to deplete Israel's morale. One of the IDF's primary missions in this war has been to break the connection between Hamas and Hezbollah, and has been hugely successful in doing so thus far.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF CEO Steven Weil explains why the IDF is the world’s most ethical army, expounding on the historical and biblical origins of the IDF to elucidate the moral code its policies are rooted in. He cites a few examples to illustrate the IDF’s exemplary moral conduct, including the IDF’s unprecedented civilian-to-combatant kill ratio, a fraction of the ratio of other armies historically.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
Podcast Description: FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Deputy Commander of the Israeli Staff Command and former Head of the Counter Terrorism Bureau at the Prime Minister’s Office Brig. Gen. (Res) Nitzan Nuriel, to discuss the current challenges facing the IDF, including the munitions deficit, being attacked on nine different fronts, the mental well-being of soldiers as we approach the one-year mark of the war, the looming threat of Iran wresting control of Jordan, and the recent hostage assassination.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Lt. Col. (Res.) Dr. Mordechai Kedar, Israeli Scholar of Arab Culture, Lecturer at Bar-Ilan University, and Vice President of NEWSRAEL to offer his expert insight into Israel's conflict with Iran within the broader context of Middle Eastern, Islamic, and world histories. Dr. Kedar elaborates on the various internal divisions within the Muslim world--particularly the Shia and Sunni sects--and how their conflicts are impacting Israel's geopolitical reality and fueling wars throughout the Middle East. Steve and Dr. Kedar also discuss the dangers posed to Western societies around the world by the extremist ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood. Finally, Dr. Kedar provides his views on the current and future situation with Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution goes toward meeting their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 9/1/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil and FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan provide a critical update on Israel’s current security situation. The briefing covers the IDF’s successful preemptive strike against Hezbollah and the interception of hundreds of incoming missiles. General Padan outlines potential escalations in the North involving Iran and other regional actors, as well as the ongoing objectives in Gaza. He also addresses the delicate balance between these operations and Israel’s priority to bring home as many hostages alive as possible, while emphasizing the strategic message Israel’s response sends to its adversaries.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution goes toward meeting their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 8/25/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Aaron Bours, Master Sergeant, Givati Brigade. Bours tells his story from his childhood in the U.S., finding his calling with the IDF, his experience as a lone soldier, his life after active service, his reaction and return to service after October 7th, and much more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 08/18/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil is joined by three soldiers from the IDF Spokesperson's Unit, Capt. Ron, Corp. Ella, and Staff Sgt. Yoav for today's briefing. Corp. Ella, from Kibbutz Be'eri, Staff Sgt. Yoav, from Kfar Aza, and Capt. Ron, serving in reserves, each soldier shares their story of their family, their experience on October 7, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 08/11/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil and FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res) Nadav Padan provide a special briefing update on the current situation in Israel. Maj. Gen. (Res) Padan gives details on the assassinations that took place over the last couple weeks, the anticipation of a response, the options developing with Hezbollah, the drone activity in the North, how the U.S. could respond to the situation, providing context before judging each front, strategies concerning Iran, updates from the war with Hamas in Gaza, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 8/9/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil speaks with Dr. Jerry Berkowitz, a hostage and survivor of the 1970 Black September airplane hijacking in which terrorists from the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) hijacked four airliners bound for New York and took 56 Jews as hostages to Jordan. Dr. Berkowitz recounts in great detail his experience being taken hostage with his wife and young daughter, who were soon after separated from him and released, while he and five other men were held in captivity for a month. The two discuss how this hijacking related to the broader geopolitical events of the time, specifically the Black September Uprising, when the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and PFLP tried to overthrow the Jordanian government. Dr. Berkowitz also describes the painful long-term effects of this experience for himself, his wife, and children. Lastly, he offers advice and words of consolation for the families of current Israeli hostages who are being held in Gaza.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 08/04/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil is joined by Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former U.S. Treasury Finance Terror Analyst for a Special Live Briefing to recount all the latest news concerning Israel and the IDF. Mr. Schanzer discusses the preemptive U.S. strikes in Iraq, strikes from Israel on Hezbollah, the terrorists that Israel has recently eliminated, the anticipated response after these assassinations, the status of Hamas without the majority of its leadership, the U.S.'s intent for involvement in this war, the reality of that involvement, and much more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 07/31/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Noya Govrin, Director of the Lone Soldier Program at Nefesh B'Nefesh to discuss the situation for lone soldiers, non-Israelis who voluntarily join the IDF, during the ongoing war. Noya describes her experience dealing with her own son, who was injured by a Hezbollah attack while on duty. The two also touch on the many unique challenges that lone soldiers from all over the world have to grapple with--from cultural adjustments to bureaucratic obstacles--on top of serving in wartime and how Nefesh B'Nefesh services help make their lives easier.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 07/28/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Maj. (Res.) Michal, IDF Casualties Officer back to our briefings this week. Maj. (Res.) Michal details FIDF's Legacy Camp program that offers young family members of bereaved soldiers a chance to meet and interact with others in the US going through similar experiences. She shares some stories from camps that have recently occurred, how the children use the camps to heal, and some of their unique experiences at various camps.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 07/21/2024)
Captain (Res.) Chaim Meisels of the IDF Infantry Unit, Battalion 450 joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil for this briefing interview. Capt. Meisels talks about his upbringing in the U.S., making the move to join the IDF, his journey from Michve Alon to Golani to Egoz, his experience from October 7 on, and more
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 07/14/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Social Worker, Supervisor and National Coordinator, Ministry of Defense Yael Milnizki, to discuss her experience on October 7, the unique programs and responses she and her team are creating to meet the needs of Israeli families, working with orphans, highlighting some of the inspiring stories of people and families she is working with and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 07/7/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil speaks with Malcolm Hoenlein, Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, who offers his insight about the current situations in both Israel and the diaspora. Malcolm describes how events and societal shifts since October 7th have changed American Jewry and their status in the United States. The two discuss how the American Jewish experience has compared to the experiences of Jews elsewhere in the diaspora before and since October 7th, and what they believe will happen after the current war ends. Finally, Steve asks Malcolm for his thoughts on Israel's and the broader Middle East's geopolitical reality and future.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 06/30/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Cpt. (Res.) Odelia of the Search and Rescue Brigade to discuss her unique background as the granddaughter of German Christians who came to Israel after World War 2 to open a nursing home for Holocaust survivors. She describes her experiences in the IDF on and after October 7th, where she searched for human remains in Kibbutz Be'eri. Cpt. Odelia also elaborates on her mission in Gaza during the war and her previous experiences in the Search and Rescue Brigade. Finally, the two talk about Cpt. Odelia's brother, Urija, who was mortally wounded while fighting in Gaza.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 06/23/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Jewish Educator & Israel Advocate Rabbi Leo Dee, to tell us the tragic story of his wife and daughters being killed in a terror attack in April of last year.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 06/16/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Brig. Gen. (Res) Nitzan Nuriel, Deputy Commander of the Israeli Staff Command and former Head of the Counter Terrorism Bureau at the Prime Minister’s Office to provide an update on how the IDF is trying to avoid casualties, the mission to make sure Hamas does not stay in power, how Syria, Iran, and Egypt factor in to all of this, the preparation for the possibility of a Lebanon War, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 06/09/2024)
FIDF CEO, Steve Weil is joined by Human Rights Lawyer and CEO of the International Legal Forum, Arsen Ostrovsky to discuss the actions of the ICJ and ICC and their adjudications, their weaponization of law, the risks this ongoing terror poses to the United States and every democracy, the strong efforts the IDF has gone through to minimize civilian deaths and more.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 06/2/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil is joined by Richard D. Heideman, Senior Counsel at Heideman Nudelman & Kalik, PC and Joseph Tipograph, Attorney at Heideman Nudelman & Kalik, PC to examine and detail the history of terrorism focused at Israel, learnings of sponsors of terrorism, filing lawsuits against sponsors of terrorism, and more. The legal team also presents the cases that are being brought in regards to the October 7 attacks from Hamas.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 05/26/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer welcomes Major Lior Shweitzer, the Deputy Head of the COGAT International Relations Branch to provide a briefing on the situation in Israel before October 7, the strategic and tactical mechanisms the IDF are working on in order to improve and expand aid, the routes in which aid enters the Gaza Strip, new humanitarian aid measures, the ratio of aid waiting to be collected by the UN vs. what has been provided, the work they do to organize a process to get the aid to evacuated civilians and more.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 05/19/2024)
Maj. (Res.) Michal, and IDF Causalities Officer, joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil from Israel to discuss and observe this particularly unique, difficult, but significant Yom HaZikaron.
Michal tells us what Yom HaZikaron is like in Israel, what it means to the country, and why and how this year will be different than ever before.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 05/12/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former U.S. Treasury Finance Terror Analyst to our FIDF Briefings to break down a potential new phase of the war, the Turks closing off trade with Israel, the hostage deal discussions, the activity on the Lebanon border and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 05/05/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil tells the story of Passover and its lasting effects on human history as well as relevance in modern times. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 04/21/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former U.S. Treasury Finance Terror Analyst to our FIDF Briefings to breakdown what occurred overnight with the IDF and Iran.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 04/19/2024)
Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan, FIDF National Director, joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil to provide an update on Israel's war in Gaza, conflict on the northern border with Hezbollah, and pending response to the Iranian attack over the weekend. Nadav describes the most recent clashes that took place in northern Israel just hours before this briefing and the unique background of the Bedouin village that was attacked.Steve and Nadav also discuss the many factors that are influencing Israel's approach to dealing with Iran, offering an in-depth insider analysis of the complex situation. They cover the importance and extent of the U.S.-Israel relationship specifically in terms of confronting and defending against Iran.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.(Recorded 04/17/2024)
LTC. (Res) Peter Lerner, IDF International Spokesperson joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil to provide a briefing on the escalation overnight with Iran and several other countries targeting Israel with hundreds of drones and missiles. LTC. Lerner describes the alliance that has come out of the threat uniting the US, UK, France and more, the 170 explosive laden drones sent to Israel, 30 cruise missiles, the ballistic missiles that did touch down, the achievement of intercepting 99% of the drones and missiles sent, and the expectations of retaliation.
LTC. Lerner also answers questions about the Nevatim base, and the strikes against Hezbollah in the aftermath of the attacks.
Later, FIDF National Director Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan talks about the history of Iran being the head of the "octopus" controlling all of the proxies, Iran's weapons arsenal, the status of the operation in Gaza, Lebanon's role in all of this, how Iran strategizes the travel of their arsenal to execute multiple points of attack, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 04/14/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes back Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former U.S. Treasury Finance Terror Analyst to our FIDF Briefings to discuss American politics weighing in on the battlefield in the Hamas-Israel war, the efforts to evacuate Gazans from Rafah, the numerous threats and attempts being thwarted by IDF intelligence, details about Turkey and their recent involvement, activity in the North and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 04/10/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Yoni Asseraf, Motivational Public Speaker and Recipient of the Medal of Courage (Itur HaOz) in the Second Lebanon War, to offer a unique perspective on Israel's ongoing war with Hamas. Late at night on October 6th in Los Angeles, Yoni began receiving unusual WhatsApp messages from his family in Ashkelon, which was under attack. He dropped everything and flew back home to Israel to fight for the IDF. As a paratrooper who fought in Gaza, Yoni provides us with an inside look (pictures and video included) from the operations he took part in.
Steve and Yoni then discuss the experiences of Israeli soldiers fighting in this war, the elaborate tunnel system under Gaza, the role of Gazan civilians in Hamas' strategy, and the future of IDF operations in Khan Yunis.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 04/07/2024)
FIDF Correspondent Lara Krinsky welcomes Brig. Gen. (Res) Nitzan Nuriel, Deputy Commander of the Israeli Staff Command and former Head of the Counter Terrorism Bureau at the Prime Minister’s Office to provide an update on the IDF's effort to defeat Hamas, the difficult situation with Gazan refugees currently located in Rafah, and the status of remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza.
They also discuss how the current war compares to the Israel-Lebanon Wars and the challenges that lay ahead for the IDF, Israel, and Gaza after the war is over, including the likelihood of a largescale imminent conflict with Hezbollah in the north. Brig. Gen. Nuriel warns of the dangerous potential consequences within the broader region, from Iran to Yemen, and that Israel's greatest challenges are yet to come.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 04/03/2024)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky is joined by Hila Berdichevsky, October 7th Survivor of Nir Yitzhak, Former IDF Combat Medic, and Devoted Mother to tell her story.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/31/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Trauma Expert Dr. Jeffery Berman to give a presentation on the importance of PTSD Support Programs.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/27/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil tells the story of Purim and bonds it with today's climate in Israel and in the Jewish diaspora.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/24/2024)
Lt. Col. (Res.) Dr. Mordechai Kedar, Israeli Scholar of Arab Culture, Lecturer at Bar-Ilan University, and Vice President of NEWSRAEL joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil to discuss the long storied struggle of Sunni and Shia, the impact and controversy of Arabic traditions within their communities, the friction between both groups, and Iran's support other modern support for Hamas despite that frictionLt. Col. (Res.) Dr. Kedar also answers questions about the financing between Sunni and Shia and the consequences of accepting backing, those branches uniting in the stance that the Jewish religion is "null and void", the modern Muslim brotherhood, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/17/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Lt. Col. (Res.) Jonathan Conricus, Sr. Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former IDF Spokesperson to provide a briefing on dismantling Hamas, fighting against Iran, Hezbollah, and Lebanon, thwarting the attempts from the Houthis in Yemen, the need to oppose Iran, the narrative surrounding Rafah and the significance of it in the bigger picture, and more.
LTC (Res.) Conricus also answers questions about defending against the stock of weaponry Hezbollah has, the expected response to Lebanon, the lack of accountability being held to Iran, the Gaza evacuation efforts as UNRWA chose to disobey, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/13/2024)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky is joined by 1st Sgt. Nimrod, a member of the IDF’s Artillery Corps Special Forces. One of the hundreds of thousands of reservists who stepped up after the attack and atrocities of October 7, he shares his experience of leaving work, family, and personal pursuits behind to defend Israel.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/10/2024)
In this episode, FIDF Host, Lara Krinsky engaged IDF Spokesperson, Maj. (res.) David Ross who provided a timely briefing on the current developments in Gaza and shed light on the challenges faced by our soldiers. Maj. David delved into the recent surge in terror attacks, addressing the pressing question of whether we should brace ourselves for more attempts during the upcoming Ramadan holiday. Moreover, Maj. Ross reacted to yesterday’s intense rocket barrage from the North, originating from Hizbullah, and expressed his gratitude to the FIDF Family, emphasizing the importance of their steadfast support in this War for Our Home.
Be a part of the most important Jewish organization of our generation. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 03/06/2024)
FIDF CEO Steve Weil is joined by Rabbi Doron Perez, father of two IDF soldiers, both of whom were injured while defending Israel on October 7th, and one of whom was taken hostage by Hamas and remains in captivity to this day. Rabbi Perez, who is also the head of the World Mizrachi Movement, speaks about the impossible experience he and his family have faced, as they have received absolutely no information about their son since he was abducted. Giving global, national, and personal examples, he shares how his family has persevered and united with other hostage families and the greater Jewish world to further the shared vision of bringing every hostage home, the soldier hostages no less than anyone else.
Meanwhile, the frontline war continues. Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 3/3/24)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Ruby Chen, the father of Itay Chen, a 20-year-old IDF soldier and U.S. citizen who is being held captive by Hamas. Mr. Chen discusses his background, his family, his last correspondence with Itay before he was kidnapped, how he hopes the U.S. will stand together for this cause, marching to spread awareness, the support and resources put in place for parents and families of hostages, and more.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/28/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Office Steve Weil and FIDF Host Lara Krinsky are joined by Search and Rescue Brigade Commander Colonel Elad Edri who gives an minute by minute breakdown of his experience leading up to, during, and the tragic aftermath of The Battle of Zikim on October 7.
Col. Edri answers questions about his mindset on October 7, his soldiers, the Shahar Battalion, and fulfilling his IDF duties these past few months with a family at home.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/25/2024)
FIDF MidAtlantic Region Vice President Jennifer Scher welcomes two special guests to today's briefing. First, we hear from Maj. (Res.) David Ross from the IDF Spokesperson Unit who briefs us on the most recent events, progress on uncovering tunnels, continued pursuit of rescuing hostages, the support of the United States, fighting the reign of evil, what is happening in the North, the efforts from Iran to smuggle weapons, and a lasting message of gratitude.
Later, we talk to Cpl. Shira from the Bardelas Battalion about her experience on October 7, her mindset during these last few months, how her parents are dealing with her serving, how much the FIDF support means to her and everyone in the IDF, and how to react to what is being said online.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/21/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Bereaved Father of Fallen Lone Soldier, Staff Stg. Rose Lubin, David Lubin to today's briefing. Mr. Lubin shares a video of Rose, the story of her life, her love for Israel, Rose's legacy, the sacrifices we all have to make, Rose's experience on October 7, his learning of Rose's passing, the love and togetherness of her funeral, the impact on her younger siblings, and how we can learn from Rose's life.
Later, FIDF National Director Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan provides insight and updates on what is happening on the Northern Border, the bigger picture of the war, how FIDF is helping the IDF the last few weeks, and making sure we can take care of the soldiers.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/18/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil is joined by Major (Res.) Ben Wahlhaus from the IDF International Law Department who talks about his familiarity and expertise with International Law, the events and consequences of October 7 from his seat, the harm Hamas has caused to its civilians, Israel's overdelivering of humanitarian aid in Gaza. Major (Res.) Ben Wahlhaus shows us examples of Hamas militants hiding weapons, using schools and UN facilities for military purposes, placing explosives in and adjacent to hospitals.
He shows the breakdown of the IDF's evacuation map for the civilian population in Gaza, how the IDF informs Gaza civilians of tactical pauses, maps of the humanitarian zones, and the destruction caused by Hamas at the Erez Crossing forcing its closure.
Major (Res.) Ben Wahlhaus answers questions about being tried at The Hague, his role pertaining to the law of Judea and Samaria, and his relationship with law departments from other nations.Later, FIDF National Director Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan provides a briefing on defending Israel's democracy, an update of threats from Lebanon, the challenges presented by Rafah, all that will go into the continued mission of eliminating Hamas, and answers questions about what is going on in western Khan Yunis, the success of the IDF's maneuvers in Gaza based on how complicated the area is, and praising the young generation of soldiers in the IDF.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/14/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes Vice Chair of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations Malcolm Hoenlein to discuss the modern discrimination and antisemitism stemming from October 7, the emerging significance and demonstration of unity of the Jewish community, the horror of his experience at the immediate aftermath of October 7, the misinformation being taught in the American education system impacting U.S.-Israel relations, conversations he has had with Arab leaders regarding Hamas, and how to continue this fight against the public narrative.
Mr. Hoenlein also answers questions about the perspective of some of the other Arab nations, the impact and role of Qatar and how they are funding numerous interests globally, spreading democracy in the region, and moving forward with and involving more nations in the Abraham Accords.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/11/2024)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky is joined by Public Diplomacy Expert Ran Bar-Yoshafat to share his experiences including how his day unfolded on October 7, shuffling his wedding, deploying into Gaza, the challenges with logistics of being at war, mental difficulties of being deployed away from family, the IDF's consideration of developing a new type of warfare due to the unique circumstances of ruins in urban Gaza, the amount of ammunition found hidden, his responsibility of preparing other soldiers to fight, and what he took with him when leaving Gaza.
Ran Bar-Yoshafat also answers questions about navigating his own mindset after coming back to being a civilian, the differences of serving before and after October 7, bringing his learnings from Gaza into his professional life, and the difficult conversations that happen during warfare.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 2/7/2024)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky welcomes Shahar Peled, IDF Commander, Reservist, Elite Paratroopers Unit who has been making his way across the United States sharing his experience and truth about Israel to misinformed groups and communities searching for answers. During this briefing, Shahar discusses his reserve duty starting October 7, a detailed retelling of that day, writing his goodbye letter before going back to service, the horror of what he saw on October 7, losing friends, his journey trying to correct the narrative about Israel and the war, how he is talking to people to help them realize their beliefs are inaccurate, dispelling misconceptions of "genocide" and other trendy terms, how FIDF support is being appreciated on the frontlines, and how this war is not just with Israel and the Jewish people.
Shahar answers questions about the growing public denial of the events of October 7 and the UNRWA employees taking part in the October 7 attack, and his plans for the future.Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/31/2024)
Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former U.S. Treasury Finance Terror Analyst, joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil to give a rundown of the recent drone strike in Jordan that killed three Americans, the problems created by UNRWA, protests from Gazans asking for Hamas to release the hostages, as well as Israeli hostage families trying to block aid trucks to Gaza so hostages will be released, the possibility of the Biden Administration slowing weaponry delivery to Israel, possible rupture brewing between Israel and Egypt, the anti-Israel rhetoric in Jordan, a possible hostage deal in the works involving the U.S., Israel, Qatar, and Egypt, and the lack of attention in the media for how the Iranian proxies of this war have yet to be remotely held accountable.
Mr. Schanzer also answers questions about the investigation and obliteration of tunnels in Gaza, the friction between Jordan and Israel and how it affects the relationship, and the expected Israel response to attacks from Lebanon.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/28/2024)
Hillel Fuld, Tech Columnist and Startup Advisor joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil to discuss his journey into the technology space, the tragic loss of his brother and how it inspired him, his current challenges with online audiences, the historic resilience of the Jewish people and staying strong.
Later, FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan joins to give his thoughts on the activity in Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and specific strategic military approaches in Gaza, as well as the overall defense of Israel
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/24/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil is joined by 2nd Lt. Tammy Shur, Head of the International Digital Department in the IDF Spokesperson Unit who speaks about leading the international social media efforts for the IDF. 2nd Lt. Shur details her experience on the morning of October 7, her perspective of "the war of fake news", the challenges of being labeled a propaganda channel, how they are using influencers to spread content to new audiences, facing internal dilemmas like how to handle acquiring and sharing footage of the atrocities of October 7, how Hamas has raided the 300+ trucks of humanitarian aid Israel is sending in to Gaza every day.
FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan then joins us from Israel to add insight on the reliable, verified information coming from the IDF Spokesperson Unit, updates on Yemen, Iran, and other activities within the Middle East, the damages inflicted on the Houthis, the current challenges in Northern Israel, ongoing defense of the South, the IDF's discovery of a sub terrain system that once held 20 Israeli hostages, the status of the operation in Judea and Samaria, how he views the success of what is happening in Gaza, and how more strategic successes can be achieved.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/21/2024)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky welcomes Yisrael Klitsner, a Duvdevan Reservist and Former Diaspora Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister. Yisrael details his previous experience in Gaza in 2008, his immediate action on October 7th, the Iranian support of Hamas and Hezbollah, a public opinion poll that was taken amongst Palestinians regarding who supports Hamas and its attacks, the complexities of the region, the morale of the soldiers, the likelihood of his return to the Northern front, his feelings on the university he has been studying at now knowing of its support from Qatar, and the need for American Jews to stand together.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/17/2024)
Dr. Ari Sacher, a Rocket Scientist for RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems joins FIDF Chief Executive Officer, Steve Weil to explain the GPS spoofing happening in Northern Israel and why, the types of rockets being used by Hezbollah, how Israel can distribute its assets to protect from guided rockets, the process of warning the Israeli people when missile fire occurs, the threat of the Kornet EM anti tank mortar bombs coming from Lebanon, his experience with precision tactical weapons and how advanced the Israel weapons are, the US-Israel relationship specifically as it pertains to defense weapons, David's Sling and Israel's strong multilayer missile defense, and the possibility of developing a laser system as a means of defense.
Then, FIDF National Director Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan give us a briefing at this point 100 days into the war. Maj. Gen. Padan outlines that the IDF has killed approximately 9,000 terrorists, and arrested 2,300 terrorists, and provided 7,500 trucks of humanitarian support to Gaza. He addresses the South Africa accusation of Israel's crimes in Gaza, the Hezbollah attacks coming from Lebanon, the attacks on British and US bases in Iran and the continued exchanges with the Houthis in Yemen, the challenge of the economic situation when 300,000 reservists are called upon, looking at the war as a marathon and how continued support for the long duration of the war is most important.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/14/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer, Steve Weil welcomes Israeli News Anchor Sivan Sisay to discuss her interaction with freed hostages and families affected by the war, the displaced Israelis, mental and financial affects of the war, the responsibility of journalists during this time, her experience as a Lone Soldier, winning prestigious presidential excellence award, how FIDF assisted her with her service, and what she is covering today for the news.
Later, FIDF National Director Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan provides information regarding Iran's plan and strategic tactics for recruiting, the threats from Lebanon and Yemen, the recent attack from Houthis on US and UK naval ships, the approach of methods being carried out by the IDF in Khan Yunis, Israel-Egypt negotiations pertaining to the border, timeline for the expectations of how long the war will go on for, and what the FIDF is focusing its future contributions on.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds are going to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/10/2024)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer, Steve Weil is joined by FIDF National Director Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan to recap the war developments over the past few days including the ISIS suicide bombing in Iran, activity at the Lebanon border, Hamas' influence on Judea and Samaria, attempts to reach an agreement with Egypt regarding their border, what to expect from Hezbollah and Iran regarding tactics or agreements, what is happening still in Jenin, a detailed explanation of IED's being manufactured, and calming the criticism, friction, and harmful narrative around the situation.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds will go to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/7/2024)
FIDF CEO, Steve Weil welcomes Eylon Levy, Israeli Government Spokesperson, to discuss the recent involvement of South Africa in the War For Our Home, the stakes of the war and the public diplomacy battle, what needs to happen for the war to end, the significance of supporting Israel, the situation in Khan Younis, and his experience with the US and UK media.
FIDF National Director Major General Nadav Padan speaks to the timeline that led to the killing of a Hamas leader, an attack in Iran that killed more than 100, the link between what IDF troops have found in Gaza to Iran, the progress the IDF is making in missions involving Hezbollah, Syria, and Jordan, and the war taking place in Judea and Samaria. Maj. Gen. Padan also breaks down the balance it takes for a long war concerning the IDF, but also civilians and the economy, and what has recently been made known about any hostages.
Donate NOW to FIDF for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF soldiers what they need most. 100% of emergency funds will go to meet soldiers' urgent humanitarian needs: FIDF.org
(Recorded 1/3/2024)
FIDF CEO, Steve Weil is joined by IDF Spokesperson, Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus for a year-end update on the War for Our Home, wherein he provided a year-end summary of 2023, updated our audience on Hamas’ latest maneuvers in Gaza and enumerated upon Iran’s visible fingerprints across the region. He also shared key strategic objectives that will need to be achieved in order for the war to end and outlined what he believes will be required in 2024 by global powers in order to shift the trajectory of Iranian dominance in the Middle East.
Subsequent to the IDF Spokesperson’s briefing, Major General Nadav Padan provided insights into the deep diplomatic engagement of the United States in facilitating the release of Israeli hostages and forming a coalition against the Houthis, among other matters. He delved into the role of Iran as the central orchestrator of regional dynamics, while addressing the ongoing stages of the conflict in Gaza. Major General Padan aptly communicated the current status on the latter, outlining the remaining objectives and offering his perspective on the timeline for achieving these formidable goals.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/31/2023)
FIDF CEO, Steve Weil is joined by Human Rights Lawyer and CEO of the International Legal Forum, Arsen Ostrovsky who explores the actual tenets of international law and the boundaries it imposes on armies. Given those parameters, he then offers numerous examples of how Israel is above-and-beyond upholding these rules, whereas Hamas is perversely violating them, committing war crimes and double war crimes. He also delves into emotional topics like the handling of hostages and the abdication of responsibility by the Red Cross, and the ICC's reversal of truth, already and baselessly targeting IDF soldiers as war criminals.
Later, Major General Nadav Padan explains the war taking place in the Red Sea that has been waged against Israel and the United States by the Houthis, backed by Iran. Importantly, he communicated a shift in Iran, which is that it is now declaring that it IS indeed a player in this war, whereas before, it maneuvered as a silent puppeteer. He further updated about escalations in Judea and Samaria, Hezbollah's tactics in the North, and how the IDF is advancing in key cities in Gaza.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/27/2023)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum. A soldier in the narrative war against Israel, the Deputy Mayor works to counter and dismantle the inaccurate and dangerous accusations waged against Israel as it works to defend itself from what ultimately is a clash of civilizations. Presenting compelling arguments against the forever mutating virus of antisemitism, she summarizes the ideological war Jews face in the wake of October 7th and the physical proxy war Jews face against Iran’s many terror arms. Detailing how Jerusalem has absorbed evacuees of the South, she offers her view on a Two State Solution, and finally assures viewers that Israel WILL win this War for Our Home, and that it is only a question of at what price to live, in order to live as a free people in our ancestral homeland.
Next, FIDF National Director Nadav Padan briefs us on the war on the ground. Hearteningly, he shares that we are starting to see cracks in the fight: namely that Palestinian civilians – as we saw in Rafah - feel safe enough to come onto the streets and protest their leadership, calling on Hamas to give up. Nevertheless, Hamas ignores their pleas and continues its brutal tactics. We are also witnessing terrorists in Judea and Samaria adopting their strategies. The North too changed operationally: Hezbollah is destroying empty houses in Northern border Kibbutzim; these homes belong to people who evacuated. This damage resembles what happened to homes in the South on October 7th. Simultaneously, an international naval fight continues to grow around the Red Sea and Suez Canal with Iranian support now apparent, as terrorists attempt to control key areas of commerce. Despite these many complexities, MG Padan assures viewers that the IDF’s maneuvers are succeeding and urges viewers to retain vigilance and moral clarity, for this is truly a war of good versus evil.
(Recorded 12/24/2023)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky is joined by Geopolitical Middle East Expert, Former Israeli Intelligence Official, and Senior Arab Affairs Advisor Avi Melamed to give a full presentation on this pivotal moment in the Israel War. Mr. Melamed outlines the question of if this is heading toward a multifront war, the Iranian regime's tactics, the United States involvement in the war, the dangerous movement of the Houthis in Yemen, the way the Arab World is seeing the war and believing or refuting what is being shown through the media and propaganda, and the ultimate mission of making Hamas irrelevant.
Following his presentation, Lara and Mr. Melamed address the narrative that Iran has the Arab people's best interest, the United States' relationship with the Mullah Regime, and how the daily actions of the United States shape its image and relationship with Israel.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/20/2023)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil welcomes IDF Spokesperson LTC. Michal Frenkel who provides a briefing on how the war is unfolding. LTC. Frenkel updates us on the IDF engaging in deep battles with Hamas and the dismantling of its military structure, the numbers of those lost and injured and the number of rockets launched at Israel during the war, the IDF's discovery of tunnel shafts in Gaza, the tragic event of the accidental shooting of hostages, and the opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing for direct aid to Gaza.Maj. Gen. (Res.) and FIDF National Director Nadav Padan offers thoughts and insights on the evolution and process of how and when Israel can feel like it can declare victory of the war, the pressure the 2024 U.S. Presidential election might create in this situation, the status of the Rafah Border crossing, the hope for a leadership that cooperates and can provide better life for the people in Gaza, how depleted Hamas's weaponry inventory is due to the IDF's activity in Gaza, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/17/2023)
IDF Spokesperson SFC. Fay Goldstein joins FIDF Host Lara Krinsky to discuss the focus of continuing the mission of dismantling threats at the borders, recent rocket fire from Syria and Lebanon, an update on the hostage situation, providing instructions toward safety to Gazan civilians, the true terror soldiers continue to face, and the involvement of Yemen's Houthis in the war.Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/13/2023)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Steve Weil opens with information on a program called Operation Hug allowing Lone Soldier parents to visit their children. FIDF welcomes IDF Spokesperson Cpl. Kelly Odes who brings updates on the continued tragedy of Hamas using Gazan civilians as human shields, rocket launches from Hezbollah, the activity of the IDF in Khan Younis, the complications involved in making sure Gazan civilians are evacuating, the effectivity of the websites the IDF is setting up to inform Gazan civilians of how to stay safe, as well as what to expect from the ground for the immediate future.
FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan speaks on the decision to move forward with IDF soldiers in Khan Younis as opposed to other methods, solutions for Hezbollah presence in Lebanon and the impact on Northern Israel, and staying aware of the Middle East as a whole - monitoring Iran, Houthis in Yemen, and many other countries being affected.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs. Wishing all FIDF supporters a very Happy Chanukah!
(Recorded 12/10/2023)
FIDF Host Lara Krinsky welcomes IDF Spokesperson SFC. Fay Goldstein gives a brief update on what IDF Soldiers are facing in Gaza creating safe zones for civilians and how any tactic done in Gaza is based on intelligence. Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Former U.S. Treasury Finance Terror Analyst, joins the briefing to speak to the current situation of the war with Hamas as the IDF goes in to Khan Younis, the consideration of flooding Hamas tunnels with sea water, the current Hezbollah threat on the borders, the results of a recent IDF/Lebanon artillery strike, recent attacks from the Houthis, the consequences of Iran's presence in this war, finding a way to heal the narrative, and more.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will got to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/6/2023)
FIDF Chief Executive Officer, Steve Weil welcomes IDF Spokesperson LTC. Michal Frenkel to provide specific updates on prioritizing the return of hostages, Hamas' violation of the operational pause, and continuing the mission to dismantle Hamas. FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan delivers information and status on action in the Gaza Strip. Nadav Padan also outlines the positions of other countries, including the U.S., regarding the next steps of the war.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will got to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 12/3/2023)
Gadi Ezra, Former Director of Israel's National Public Diplomacy Unit, News Commentator, and Special Forces Reservist provides a briefing from Israel. FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan offers insight into international relations, the Middle East, and the IDF military perspective. Moderated by FIDF Chief Executive Officer, Steve Weil.
Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will got to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.
(Recorded 11/29/2023)
Hosted by Rona-Lee Shimon, star of the Netflix series Fauda, we will journey through Israel’s history with extraordinary interviews and performances by Israel Defense Forces musicians who will enliven your spirits. • Experience immense pride in the State of Israel through an inter-generational story of survival that gives insight into the vital need to ensure a thriving Israel. • See the IDF’s values in action in an enlightening interview with a Search and Rescue Brigade officer who worked day and night to save survivors after Turkey's recent earthquake.• Learn about the IDF’s deep level of humanity and commitment to the value of life with a soldier who works with Ukrainian refugees. • Celebrate how Israel leads the way in the world in medicine, technology, and the arts.
(Original Air Date: 4/25/2023)
FIDF holds an Emergency Briefing involving discussion on the escalating tensions in Israel following a wave of terror attacks. This briefing includes exclusive insights from the IDF, featuring Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, IDF International Spokesperson, Maj Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan, National Director, FIDF, moderated by Steve Weil, CEO, FIDF. Please visit FIDF.org/Donate.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, we hold an intriguing panel discussion with three influential women of the IDF hosted by Lara Krinsky. FIDF Director of Content and Production. Our panelists give insight into the many ways in which the IDF has historically been, and continues to be, a trailblazer in advancing young women into positions of leadership, catapulting them to success for their service, careers, and beyond!
Our Panelists Include:
Sharon Mishkin -New England FIDF Board Chair
Captain Ofir -IDF Navy, Snapir Unit Commander
Lt. (res.) Lital Leshem -Managing Partner at And Beyond and the Co-Founder of Carbyne
(Original Airdate: 3/08/2023)
In honor of this International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Rena Quint, holocaust survivor, will share her heart-wrenching journey with 30 IDF soldiers in an intimate meeting in her living room in Jerusalem.
History will come alive through Rena's awe-inspiring story, not only for the protectors of our homeland, but for all viewers of this remarkable episode. Rena gives undeniable meaning to Israel and her protectors in this stirring exclusive, brought to you only by FIDF.
(Original Airdate: 1/26/2023)
The Israeli Lebanese border is one of the most complex of all the borders that Israel protects, with Muslim, Jewish, Drews, and Christian villages living in astoundingly close proximity to each other. IDF soldiers thwart attacks from Hezbollah militants, UAV’s and drones as well as infiltration attempts that put the safety of her citizens at risk.
The ongoing activity requires tremendous thought, training and care. In this episode, you will get an exclusive look at how Israel defends its most northern border, while also allowing daily life to continue safely.
- You will hear from Lt. Avi, Liaison Officer to the U.N. about the sensitivities on the border.
- You will meet Cpl. Liana, Combat Medic and Lone Soldier from White Plains NY who delivers medical care to the most far-reaching and inaccessible communities.
- And you will have an exclusive look into operations at the Naval Base with Captain Itay, IDF Navy Ship Captain and Commander of Advanced Training, who will show us how the IDF prepares soldiers for the maritime space through rigorous physical and educational training.
(Original Airdate: 11/15/2022)
What does it take to be an IDF combat leader? How do instructors and commanders ensure preparedness? Gain exclusive insights into the many facets of leadership in the IDF that enable the success of a unit. From planning to rigorous training, ethics, and teamwork, you will see how leadership qualities translate into action in protecting Israel.
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Go inside the operations of the infantry corps and meet the instructors who train combat soldiers in precise weaponry expertise for the battlefield.
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Meet with the soldiers and commanders of the 931st Battalion of the Nahal Infantry Brigade who operated as the first line of defense during the recent “Operation Breaking Dawn” along the Gaza strip.
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Watch commanding officers and operators of one of the IDF’s most innovative UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). These elite leaders will share their experiences in carrying out missions, including
intelligence gathering and cooperation with the forces on the ground. Learn about the tough decisions they must make to avoid collateral damage and preserve human life.
- Hear from a combat medic about the leadership qualities she learned to make split-second decisions in this highly sought-after role that saves lives.
(Original Airdate: 10/25/2022)
Join us for an exclusive day at the IDF’s Paratroopers Training Base! From sunrise to sunset, view a day in the life of an IDF Paratrooper as you visit different places on base. See the different training they go through: physical and mental and learn what archeological excavations have to do with the Paratroopers’ education. Witness how the Paratroopers spring into action and use different aspects of training throughout the day come together in an intense drill simulating wartime.
This episode features:
- Sgt. Yuval, IDF Paratroopers Brigade, Team Commander in the elite “Sayeret” unit.
- Nir Paran, Israel Antiquities Authority, Site Excavator
- Maj. Nir, IDF Paratroopers Brigade, Advanced Training Commander
- SSgt. Dean, IDF Paratroopers Brigade, Krav Maga Instructor
- Sgt. Lia, IDF Paratroopers Brigade, Combat Fitness Instructor
(Original Airdate: 08/30/2022)
There are many different types of jobs that create one strong IDF. In this episode, will be meeting the people behind the scenes that aren’t usually in the spotlight, the unsung heroes. We will learn how interesting roles such as Hebrew instructors, combat field observers, rescue dogs, and more, are an integral part in the mission of ensuring security for the people of Israel.
This episode features:
Pvt. Chaiyah, IDF Combat Field Observer
Sgt. Ron, IDF Givati Brigade, Hebrew Instructor
Combat Lone Soldiers in Training, Pvt. Yuval (from Miami), and Pvt. Yehuda (from New York), IDF Givati Brigade
Capt. Eden, Ministry of Defense, Biology Project Manager
Lt. Maya, IDF Havat Hashomer, Company Commander
(Original Airdate: 07/26/2022)
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a lone soldier in the IDF? What drives one to leave their former lives behind, start from scratch, and join the IDF? Three lone soldiers serving in the IDF will be answering your questions and will give you their insight on what it’s like to live the life of a lone soldier protecting the State of Israel.
This episode features:
- IDF Lions of the Valley Battalion, Deputy Company Commander, Lt. Yael – a lone soldier from South Africa.
- IDF Spokesperson Unit, Officer of Reservists of the Bureau, Lt. Hayley – a lone soldier from East Brunswick, New Jersey.
- IDF Nahal Brigade, Combat Soldier, Sgt. Jacob – a lone soldier from Orange County, California.
(Original Airdate: 06/28/2022)
Join us for the ultimate FIDF Independence Day party you won’t want to miss! Meet inspiring soldiers, hear inspiring stories, and dance with the IDF Ensemble!
(Original Airdate: 05/04/2022)
Honor the fallen heroes who gave their lives to protect the state of Israel. Hear the stories of the fallen soldiers, who they were, and what they meant to their loved ones.
· Col. Elad Edri serving the Home Front Command
· Noah, former Lone Solder from Golani a friend of SSgt. Amit Ben Yigal Z”l
· The IDF Ensemble
(Original Airdate: 05/03/22)
Meet Holocaust Survivor Prof. Ariel Cohen, and his granddaughter, Sgt Roni, a combat lone soldier from California. Prof. Cohen will share his testimony, and his hope for future generations.
(Original Airdate: 4/27/2022)
In this episode we’ll get the chance to meet the strong women of the IDF, hear about the experiences and beliefs of the first ever female Battalion Commander in the Artillery Corps. We’ll see the first female Combat Doctor in the Paratroopers Brigade in action commanding a team of male Combat Medics, learn how women encourage other women with an IMPACT! Graduate (now donor) and be empowered by a special message from the IDF advisor to the Chief of Staff on gender affairs. These inspiring commanders and courageous soldiers break through the glass ceiling and prove every day that gender doesn’t matter – it’s the person that makes the job what it is.
This episode features:
- IDF 334 Artillery Corps, Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Efrat - the first female ever to serve as an Artillery Corps Battalion Commander.
- IDF Paratroopers 890 Battalion, Lt. Dr. Nofit – the first female ever to serve as a Combat Doctor in the Paratroopers Brigade.
- IMPACT! Scholarship recipient and donor (and diver in reserve service), Gali Sabach
- Special message from the IDF advisor to the Chief of Staff on gender affairs, Brig. Gen. Ella Shedo
(Original Airdate: 3/22/2022)
There are two states on Israel's eastern border: Jordan, the border of peace, and Syria, a country where Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations aim to establish themselves to threaten Israel. We will meet the men and women who make up the IDF’s first responders and learn how their various units deal with the many threats aimed against them and Israel’s civilians. The episode begins with a briefing from the liaison forces responsible for diplomatic and strategic relations between the countries, as well as the U.N. in the Golan Heights.
This episode features:
- Lt. Avi, Golan Heights, Liaison Officer
- Sgt. Omer, Nahal Brigade, Combat Soldier. The Nahal Brigade is adopted by FIDF (open for adoption)
- Cpl. Michal, 595 Unit, Field Observer- the unit is adopted by WCT Chapter
- SSGT. Dani, SSGT. Inbar and Pvt. Anava from the Lions of the Jordan Valley Battalion adopted by Palm Beach Chapter
- Cpl. Yonah ,and Pvt. Zac from the 401 Armored Corps Brigade, both Lone Soldiers from NY. The Brigade is adopted by the FIDF (open for adoption)
- Lt. Tova from the 137 Iron Dome Battalion. Tova is a Lone Soldier from San Diego!
(Original Airdate: 2/22/2022)
The IDF protects Israel from countless dangerous threats. Already in 2022, the northern border has been faced with securing Israel from drones, infiltration attempts, and violations of the UN Security Council Resolution 1701. In this episode, you will see a real time encounter with a Hezbollah activist, meet the forces who are the guiding eyes of the ground forces and learn how the IDF trains to battle the northern enemy.
This episode features:
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Captain Gabi, IDF UAV Platoon Commander, Sky Rider Unit
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Lt. Lahav, IDF 300 Brigade, IDF Liaison Officer to the UN
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Pvt. Chaya, IDF Red Unit, Combat Soldier
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SSgt. Max, IDF Nachal Brigade, Combat Lone soldier from Chicago
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Honoring International Holocaust Memorial Day (Jan. 27), a special salute to the Victims and survivors of the Holocaust.
(Original Airdate: 1/25/2022)