AJC Jerusalem director Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich shares how the IDF — and its neighbors and allies — defended Israel with remarkable success. In the early hours of April 14, sirens and explosions were heard across the Jewish state. In an unprecedented, first-ever direct attack on the Israeli people, the Iranian regime launched a wave of more than 300 drones and missiles.  Episode Lineup:  <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> (0:40) Avital Leibovich </li> </ul> Show Notes: Take Action: <a href="https://actnow.ajc.org/K55Krc1">Join AJC in urging Congress to call on the EU to designate all of Hezbollah and the IRGC as terror organizations. </a> Read AJC’s Explainers on Iran: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/get-the-facts-about-irans-unprecedented-attack-on-israel"> Get the Facts About Iran’s Unprecedented Attack on Israel</a> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/crimes-against-humanity-another-un-report-finds-sexual-violence-by-irgc-and-other-authorities"> ‘Crimes Against Humanity:’ Another UN Report Finds Sexual Violence by IRGC and Other Authorities in Iran; Similar to Crimes by Hamas</a> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/what-is-irans-islamic-revolutionary-guard-corps"> What is Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Why is it Designated a Terror Group by the United States?</a> </li> </ul> Listen to AJC’s People of the Pod on the Israel-Hamas War: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/meet-modi-rosenfeld-the-comedian-helping-the-jewish-community-laugh-again"> Meet Modi Rosenfeld – the Comedian Helping the Jewish Community Laugh Again</a> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/a-look-back-ajcs-award-winning-remembering-pittsburgh-series"> A Look Back: AJC’s Award-Winning “Remembering Pittsburgh” Series</a> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/jewish-college-student-leaders-share-their-blueprint-for-combating-antisemitism"> Jewish College Student Leaders Share Their Blueprint for Combating Antisemitism</a> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/matisyahus-message-to-his-fellow-jews-and-to-the-israel-haters-trying-to-cancel-him"> Matisyahu’s Message to His Fellow Jews and to the Israel Haters Trying to Cancel Him</a> </li> </ul> Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod">AJC.org/PeopleofthePod</a> You can reach us at: <a href= "mailto:peopleofthepod@ajc.org">peopleofthepod@ajc.org</a> If you’ve appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Episode Transcript: Manya Brachear Pashman:   Few of us slept well on Saturday night into Sunday knowing that Iran had launched a wave of more than 300 drones and missiles in its first ever direct attack on Israel. In the early hours of Sunday, sirens and explosions were heard across the Jewish state. Here to talk about how Israel definit itself from what many feared was inevitable, Director of AJC Jerusalem Avital Leibovich, who also serves in the Israel Defence Force Reserves.  Avital Leibovich: Thank you. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So can you share with our listeners what it was like to hear that Iran had launched this wave of missiles and drones? Did Israelis immediately pack up and head for shelters? Avital Leibovich: I think that was one of the most dramatic nights in Israel's history. You know, we're living in an era in which everything is televised and broadcasted. And when those drones have been launched from Iran, that has been broadcasted. So you can imagine millions of Israelis sitting at home, counting the hours until those drones will hit the Israeli airspace. In addition to that there was a lot of uncertainty of which type of drones we're talking about, what kind of explosives will they carry? Will they make it or not? And also, will these drones be accompanied by other weapons? So yes, there was huge concern. It was a sleepless night, sometimes between 2am until seven in the morning, Israel has been paralyzed with this unprecedented attack. Now 200 drones that have been fired at the same time to Israel. This is something that the world have never, ever experienced, there was never a country in the world that has been attacked simultaneously by 200 drones.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, we also know that there were in addition to drones, there were ballistic missiles, there were cruise missiles. And we know that some of those ballistic missiles could have been fitted with nuclear warheads. And certainly, we know Iran's nuclear capability has been developing rapidly for more than a decade. Was that a concern? Avital Leibovich: Look,unlike terror groups, you know, they rely on funding of different countries, proxies and so on. Iran is a country with its own budget with its own economic means, and has been investing in technologies and procurement and development of weapons of different kinds for decades. So we saw some of the outcome of the Iranian weapons in Ukraine. When Iran sold some types of drones to Russia to hit Ukrainian civilians. We understood the capacity, the capability. And of course, Israeli intelligence followed closely the Iranian capabilities.  Now, when you have so many options, the warheads of ballistic missiles can vary. And therefore there was also uncertainty with regard to what would those ballistic missiles carry? Will they carry conventional weapons? Will they carry non conventional weapons? In addition to that, the attack came after more than six months of the war in Israel. So the level of stress and the level of uncertainty was high to begin with.  We're talking about six months in which Israel paid the heavy price of more than 600 soldiers and officers who were killed, and more than 1200 civilians. So it wasn't an isolated evening. It really came in the course of a very long war. And now, Israel is facing the big question of retaliation, yes or no, when and how? Manya Brachear Pashman:   You know, we have long talked about Israel and Iran being in a proxy war, Hamas and Hezbollah being two of those terror proxies that want to destroy Israel and are already engaged in conflict, as you've said, as you pointed out, to do just that. Yet, it really was unthinkable that Iran would dare to directly launch missiles at Israel. How did this attack change the thinking and do Israelis think it is an indication of more to come? Avital Leibovich: Israel changed its thinking twice in the last six months. The first time was October 7. Israel never believed that Palestinians who entered Israel on a daily basis from Gaza as workers, would be collaborators of Hamas and would supply them with intelligence information about communities, about homes of people, about police stations in cities and so on. So we understood that we are, we need to change the concept, the operational concept, the strategic concept as well.  And the second time was when Iran attacked Israel a few nights ago. And here for the first time, Iran shows to take a risk, and fire over 350 targets more than 60 tons of explosives at Israel from its own sovereign territory. So whether it's proportionate or not, whether it's a retaliation to something or not, this does not change the fact that this is a precedent and as a president, Israel, of course needs to change the way it reacts and it plans. I know that the cabinet has met a few times already, since the attack of Iran. And the cabinet is discussing different ways in which it could retaliate, prepare, better prepare the storages of munitions that we have. So they are different opportunities for Israel.  And one of the questions I want to ask Manya is, how is the world looking at this? Because this is not an ordinary thing. And you know, one of the statements that came out yesterday, was from the G7 ministers meetings. And I was certain that the statement will primarily include practical steps against Iran, which is not only a problem for the Middle East and Israel, but for the entire world. And one of the leading statements said that, no, we have agreed to, to convince Israel not to retaliate. And I'm thinking to myself, haven't we learned anything? Do we want to wake up in a few months and discover that Iran has turned into a country with nuclear capabilities, with five bombs with six bombs?  Now, October 7, have never would have happened if it wasn't for Iran. Hezbollah attacking Argentina, the Jewish Community Center, decades ago, and murdering a lot of Jews and diplomatic staff would not have happened if not of Iran, and a lot of terror attacks all over the world as well. So how many proofs more does the world need, in order to take concrete action concrete measures against this terror global inciter called Iran. Manya Brachear Pashman:   In addition to the United States, Israel's allies and neighbors really stepped up Saturday night, the United Kingdom, France, Jordan, they all helped down some of the drones that were headed Israel's way. But the attack undoubtedly depleted some of Israel's defenses. And so what does Israel need now from its allies, particularly, you know, in the way of action by governments in the United States and the EU? What does Israel need to make sure it can defend itself if God forbid, this happens again, or another October 7, happens again? Avital Leibovich: It's not a secret that the US and Israel are very strong strategic allies. And this has two main reasons for it. The first and maybe the most important one is the shared values that we hold between us. And the second is the mutual interests. The US needs a strong Israel in the region with strong capabilities, whether its intelligence or others. And Israel needs also a very close coordination with the US. So when we are maneuvering between these islands of terror in the region, we can work together to overcome those islands of terror. Now, in this situation, I think the coalition that work together, the countries which you mentioned, preformed an amazing, orchestrated, successful operation.  And part of it comes because Israel is now a part of CENTCOM, the central command. This is the command that actually gathers all the countries from the region. So in addition to being a part of that command, we share knowledge, technology,intelligence, we exercise together with other militaries. And this is the basis for future cooperation, like we've seen a few days ago within that coalition. So I think those steps are very important. I would say that continued US support for Israel’s strength. And obviously, we did not plan to fight for so long. And such a long period of fighting demands a lot of ammunition. So the US support, both in budget, but in also resources, military resources, is critical for Israel to succeed and continue to defend its people and in the country. Manya Brachear Pashman:   My last question, Avital, kind of references what you just said a moment ago about how the world just doesn't seem to realize the global threat that is posed by Iran. Does Israel's success matter not just to Israel, but to the world at large? Avital Leibovich: You know, Israel's success is based on the air defense system that was built for decades, with Israeli technology, Israeli know how. The ability to intercept different kinds of rockets and drones is something first of all technology we shared with the US, and we work in partnership, but also comes out of a lot of investment.  Now, I believe that today in 2024, the world needs to aspire for a more stable Middle East. The Abraham Accords, was a part of that direction. And furthering and enhancing the Abraham Accords, expanding the Abraham Accords in the future, will just help the world to see a more stabilized area.  Now, Iran has to be dealt with, there is no question about that. I do expect sanctions and putting on the terror list, the Revolutionary Guards and Hezbollah in its entirety, you know, Lebanon doesn't have a president for more than a year, because Hezbollah never approved the candidates, for example. So Hamas needs to be on the terror list. The Houthis need to be on the terror list, the Houthis are a problem for the world disrupting cargo movement in the Red Sea.  So these are all terror groups, proxies, with different sizes with different intensities of weapons, all imminent in one troublemaker, and that is Iran. So my expectation after a few nights ago, is that the world, the Western world, the modern Western world will gather together and take concrete steps. So we do not wake up surprised in a few months and find a nuclear Iran ready to launch the rockets with nuclear warheads and we don't know exactly where–to Europe to Israel, elsewhere in the world. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, Avital, I'm glad you're safe. Thank you so much for joining us.  Avital Leibovich: Thank you for the opportunity and am yisrael chai.

<description>&lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;AJC Jerusalem director Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich shares how the IDF — and its neighbors and allies — defended Israel with remarkable success. In the early hours of April 14, sirens and explosions were heard across the Jewish state. In an unprecedented, first-ever direct attack on the Israeli people, the Iranian regime launched a wave of more than 300 drones and missiles. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Episode Lineup: &lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;(0:40) Avital Leibovich&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Show Notes:&lt;br /&gt; Take Action:&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt; &lt;a href="https://actnow.ajc.org/K55Krc1"&gt;Join AJC in urging Congress to call on the EU to designate all of Hezbollah and the IRGC as terror organizations.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;/a&gt; Read AJC’s Explainers on Iran:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/get-the-facts-about-irans-unprecedented-attack-on-israel"&gt; Get the Facts About Iran’s Unprecedented Attack on Israel&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/crimes-against-humanity-another-un-report-finds-sexual-violence-by-irgc-and-other-authorities"&gt; ‘Crimes Against Humanity:’ Another UN Report Finds Sexual Violence by IRGC and Other Authorities in Iran; Similar to Crimes by Hamas&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/what-is-irans-islamic-revolutionary-guard-corps"&gt; What is Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Why is it Designated a Terror Group by the United States?&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;Listen to AJC’s People of the Pod on the Israel-Hamas War:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/meet-modi-rosenfeld-the-comedian-helping-the-jewish-community-laugh-again"&gt; Meet Modi Rosenfeld – the Comedian Helping the Jewish Community Laugh Again&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/a-look-back-ajcs-award-winning-remembering-pittsburgh-series"&gt; A Look Back: AJC’s Award-Winning “Remembering Pittsburgh” Series&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/jewish-college-student-leaders-share-their-blueprint-for-combating-antisemitism"&gt; Jewish College Student Leaders Share Their Blueprint for Combating Antisemitism&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/matisyahus-message-to-his-fellow-jews-and-to-the-israel-haters-trying-to-cancel-him"&gt; Matisyahu’s Message to His Fellow Jews and to the Israel Haters Trying to Cancel Him&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at &lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod"&gt;AJC.org/PeopleofthePod&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You can reach us at: &lt;a href= "mailto:peopleofthepod@ajc.org"&gt;peopleofthepod@ajc.org&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;If you’ve appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Episode Transcript:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Few of us slept well on Saturday night into Sunday knowing that Iran had launched a wave of more than 300 drones and missiles in its first ever direct attack on Israel. In the early hours of Sunday, sirens and explosions were heard across the Jewish state. Here to talk about how Israel definit itself from what many feared was inevitable, Director of AJC Jerusalem Avital Leibovich, who also serves in the Israel Defence Force Reserves. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thank you.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So can you share with our listeners what it was like to hear that Iran had launched this wave of missiles and drones? Did Israelis immediately pack up and head for shelters?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;I think that was one of the most dramatic nights in Israel's history. You know, we're living in an era in which everything is televised and broadcasted. And when those drones have been launched from Iran, that has been broadcasted. So you can imagine millions of Israelis sitting at home, counting the hours until those drones will hit the Israeli airspace. In addition to that there was a lot of uncertainty of which type of drones we're talking about, what kind of explosives will they carry? Will they make it or not? And also, will these drones be accompanied by other weapons? So yes, there was huge concern. It was a sleepless night, sometimes between 2am until seven in the morning, Israel has been paralyzed with this unprecedented attack. Now 200 drones that have been fired at the same time to Israel. This is something that the world have never, ever experienced, there was never a country in the world that has been attacked simultaneously by 200 drones. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Well, we also know that there were in addition to drones, there were ballistic missiles, there were cruise missiles. And we know that some of those ballistic missiles could have been fitted with nuclear warheads. And certainly, we know Iran's nuclear capability has been developing rapidly for more than a decade. Was that a concern?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Look,unlike terror groups, you know, they rely on funding of different countries, proxies and so on. Iran is a country with its own budget with its own economic means, and has been investing in technologies and procurement and development of weapons of different kinds for decades. So we saw some of the outcome of the Iranian weapons in Ukraine. When Iran sold some types of drones to Russia to hit Ukrainian civilians. We understood the capacity, the capability. And of course, Israeli intelligence followed closely the Iranian capabilities. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Now, when you have so many options, the warheads of ballistic missiles can vary. And therefore there was also uncertainty with regard to what would those ballistic missiles carry? Will they carry conventional weapons? Will they carry non conventional weapons? In addition to that, the attack came after more than six months of the war in Israel. So the level of stress and the level of uncertainty was high to begin with. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;We're talking about six months in which Israel paid the heavy price of more than 600 soldiers and officers who were killed, and more than 1200 civilians. So it wasn't an isolated evening. It really came in the course of a very long war. And now, Israel is facing the big question of retaliation, yes or no, when and how?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You know, we have long talked about Israel and Iran being in a proxy war, Hamas and Hezbollah being two of those terror proxies that want to destroy Israel and are already engaged in conflict, as you've said, as you pointed out, to do just that. Yet, it really was unthinkable that Iran would dare to directly launch missiles at Israel. How did this attack change the thinking and do Israelis think it is an indication of more to come?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Israel changed its thinking twice in the last six months. The first time was October 7. Israel never believed that Palestinians who entered Israel on a daily basis from Gaza as workers, would be collaborators of Hamas and would supply them with intelligence information about communities, about homes of people, about police stations in cities and so on. So we understood that we are, we need to change the concept, the operational concept, the strategic concept as well. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;And the second time was when Iran attacked Israel a few nights ago. And here for the first time, Iran shows to take a risk, and fire over 350 targets more than 60 tons of explosives at Israel from its own sovereign territory. So whether it's proportionate or not, whether it's a retaliation to something or not, this does not change the fact that this is a precedent and as a president, Israel, of course needs to change the way it reacts and it plans. I know that the cabinet has met a few times already, since the attack of Iran. And the cabinet is discussing different ways in which it could retaliate, prepare, better prepare the storages of munitions that we have. So they are different opportunities for Israel. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;And one of the questions I want to ask Manya is, how is the world looking at this? Because this is not an ordinary thing. And you know, one of the statements that came out yesterday, was from the G7 ministers meetings. And I was certain that the statement will primarily include practical steps against Iran, which is not only a problem for the Middle East and Israel, but for the entire world. And one of the leading statements said that, no, we have agreed to, to convince Israel not to retaliate. And I'm thinking to myself, haven't we learned anything? Do we want to wake up in a few months and discover that Iran has turned into a country with nuclear capabilities, with five bombs with six bombs? &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Now, October 7, have never would have happened if it wasn't for Iran. Hezbollah attacking Argentina, the Jewish Community Center, decades ago, and murdering a lot of Jews and diplomatic staff would not have happened if not of Iran, and a lot of terror attacks all over the world as well. So how many proofs more does the world need, in order to take concrete action concrete measures against this terror global inciter called Iran.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;In addition to the United States, Israel's allies and neighbors really stepped up Saturday night, the United Kingdom, France, Jordan, they all helped down some of the drones that were headed Israel's way. But the attack undoubtedly depleted some of Israel's defenses. And so what does Israel need now from its allies, particularly, you know, in the way of action by governments in the United States and the EU? What does Israel need to make sure it can defend itself if God forbid, this happens again, or another October 7, happens again?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;It's not a secret that the US and Israel are very strong strategic allies. And this has two main reasons for it. The first and maybe the most important one is the shared values that we hold between us. And the second is the mutual interests. The US needs a strong Israel in the region with strong capabilities, whether its intelligence or others. And Israel needs also a very close coordination with the US. So when we are maneuvering between these islands of terror in the region, we can work together to overcome those islands of terror. Now, in this situation, I think the coalition that work together, the countries which you mentioned, preformed an amazing, orchestrated, successful operation. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;And part of it comes because Israel is now a part of CENTCOM, the central command. This is the command that actually gathers all the countries from the region. So in addition to being a part of that command, we share knowledge, technology,intelligence, we exercise together with other militaries. And this is the basis for future cooperation, like we've seen a few days ago within that coalition. So I think those steps are very important. I would say that continued US support for Israel’s strength. And obviously, we did not plan to fight for so long. And such a long period of fighting demands a lot of ammunition. So the US support, both in budget, but in also resources, military resources, is critical for Israel to succeed and continue to defend its people and in the country.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;My last question, Avital, kind of references what you just said a moment ago about how the world just doesn't seem to realize the global threat that is posed by Iran. Does Israel's success matter not just to Israel, but to the world at large?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You know, Israel's success is based on the air defense system that was built for decades, with Israeli technology, Israeli know how. The ability to intercept different kinds of rockets and drones is something first of all technology we shared with the US, and we work in partnership, but also comes out of a lot of investment. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Now, I believe that today in 2024, the world needs to aspire for a more stable Middle East. The Abraham Accords, was a part of that direction. And furthering and enhancing the Abraham Accords, expanding the Abraham Accords in the future, will just help the world to see a more stabilized area. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Now, Iran has to be dealt with, there is no question about that. I do expect sanctions and putting on the terror list, the Revolutionary Guards and Hezbollah in its entirety, you know, Lebanon doesn't have a president for more than a year, because Hezbollah never approved the candidates, for example. So Hamas needs to be on the terror list. The Houthis need to be on the terror list, the Houthis are a problem for the world disrupting cargo movement in the Red Sea. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So these are all terror groups, proxies, with different sizes with different intensities of weapons, all imminent in one troublemaker, and that is Iran. So my expectation after a few nights ago, is that the world, the Western world, the modern Western world will gather together and take concrete steps. So we do not wake up surprised in a few months and find a nuclear Iran ready to launch the rockets with nuclear warheads and we don't know exactly where–to Europe to Israel, elsewhere in the world.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Well, Avital, I'm glad you're safe. Thank you so much for joining us. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thank you for the opportunity and am yisrael chai.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

AJC Jerusalem director Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich shares how the IDF — and its neighbors and allies — defended Israel with remarkable success. In the early hours of April 14, sirens and explosions were heard across the Jewish state. In an...

What the Iranian Regime’s Massive Attack Means for Israel and the Region

We’re joined by Yotam Politzer, CEO of IsraAID, to discuss how Israel’s leading international humanitarian organization is responding to the immediate and long-term needs on the ground in the wake of Iran-backed Hamas's barbaric terrorist attack in Israel. Politzer shares how American Jews can step up to support Israelis through this incredibly difficult time. American Jewish Committee (AJC) has launched an Israel Emergency Campaign to support Israeli relief organizations. Their first grantee will be IsraAID, AJC's longtime partner, which has responded to emergencies worldwide, but never before in Israel. Until now.  *The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC.  Episode Lineup:  <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> (0:40) Yotam Politzer  </li> </ul> Show Notes: Donate: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "http://ajc.org/SupportIsrael">AJC.org/SupportIsrael</a> </li> </ul> Learn: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/attackonisrael">AJC.org/AttackonIsrael</a>  </li> </ul> Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod">AJC.org/PeopleofthePod</a> You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you’ve appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts.  ___ Transcript of Interview with Yotam Politzer: Manya Brachear Pashman:   On the morning of October 7th, Hamas, the terror group governing Gaza and backed by Iran’s regime, launched a brutal assault against Israel, invading towns and cities across the southern border aiming to kill as many people as possible and taking more than 100 captives to Gaza. By the time of this recording, the death toll had reached 900. Thousands more are wounded.  In response to this atrocity, American Jewish Committee has launched an Israel Emergency Campaign to support Israeli relief organizations. The first recipient money raised will be AJC’s longtime partner IsraAID, which has responded to emergencies in more than 50 countries around the world, but never before in Israel– until now.  Yotam Polizer, CEO Of IsraAID, joined us in Tel Aviv earlier this summer. He is joining us again now from New York, where he was visiting when the war broke out. While Yotam is unable to return home at the moment due to lack of flights to Israel, he is working hard to coordinate emergency response from here and is with us to discuss the efforts underway. Yotam, welcome back to People of the Pod.  Yotam Politzer:   Thanks for having me.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   It must be so difficult not to be there with your team.  Yotam Politzer:   Thankfully, our headquarters and our emergency response team is already in full speed. So I think it's also important for me to be here for two reasons, one, to coordinate the support, and not less importantly, to communicate to people here, both in the Jewish community and in the general community, what we're seeing and hearing in terms of the humanitarian needs on the ground. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So what are you hearing from your people on the ground there? What are they reporting? Yotam Politzer:   I don't think I need to elaborate on the horrors because I think we've all been following the news and saw all the horrific images. But for us, as Israel’s leading international humanitarian organization, we have never had a full-scale humanitarian response in Israel. This is the first time we're actually doing it. And we're doing it because the situation is indeed dire and extreme. The biggest need that we identify right now is related to mental health. And because, of course, we are not a humanitarian organization, we're not involved in the security and the military operation. And of course, there are many needs related to the operation that's going on. From a humanitarian perspective, the whole country is traumatized.  I don't know of a single person who doesn't know anyone who either was murdered or kidnapped or both. And the number of people who have an immediate family member, or neighbor, who was murdered, or unaccounted for and probably kidnapped by Hamas is so high, talking about hundreds of 1000s of people. Specifically, what we consider the most vulnerable are obviously the people who lived on the frontline, the villages, the moshavim, and the kibbutzim surrounding Gaza. They have lost on average 10-20% of their population in each of these villages. In Kibbutz Be'eri, just an hour ago, it was published that they found 108 bodies– that's probably much more than 10% of the population there. And many more again, are kidnapped. So these communities who suffered the worst atrocities a person could think of are now in different shelters around the country. So supporting them in these shelters in any shape or form is the most important humanitarian mission of our time.  Many of them have been evacuated specifically from this kibbutz to the Dead Sea, to the Dead Sea hotels, because it's one of the safest places in Israel. If God forbid, we will have another frontline on the north border, that's still safe enough for these people. And these hotels are now operating as shelters and evacuation centers. And the government and the local regional council and the hotel owners are currently providing the food and shelter. So there are less needs on that front. But again, when it comes to mental health support for everyone there, this is crucial. So that's what our team has been focusing on.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   You’re also operating what are called Child Safe Spaces, which you describe as “a place for the kids to be kids.” Tell us more about that.  Yotam Politzer:   We can't imagine what these kids went through. And we just want to give them some sense of normalcy. And let them be kids again, and let them play and let them express themselves and let them release their stress and allow their parents or whoever is left from their families a chance to finally maybe get some sleep, try to reorganize, regroup and deal with everything else that they need to deal with. Try to, you know, start thinking about rebuilding their life after these horrors, which again, will obviously take years. So when we look at the humanitarian needs, I think we need to look at the immediate needs. But even more important, we need to understand that there will be long term needs for these people, and for everyone that is related to them. And so as IsraAID it's very important for us to be first on the ground, wherever it is, in Israel, or in anywhere else in the world. In fact, our team who was responding to the earthquake in Morocco, is now on its way back to Israel to join our team that's already responding in Israel. So that's in short. Manya Brachear Pashman:   In fact, some of the services that you are describing, I believe, you described to me when we spoke earlier this summer, regarding the war in Ukraine, right, many of these similar services were provided there as well, as well as other places around the world. Can you elaborate a little bit about where else around the world you have offered the same services that you're now offering everywhere? Yotam Politzer:   I mean, I started my humanitarian career in Japan, again, another developed country, following the earthquake and tsunami in 2011, that killed more than 20,000 people. And they're there, the local government, the local community was very well equipped to support with infrastructure, but they didn't have any kind of emotional mental health support and trauma care. So we actually brought therapists from Sderot, who was working with children who are traumatized in Sderot and develop these models. We brought them to Japan, and we worked with the Syrian refugees with Arabic speaking therapist from Israel. We worked we work in Ukraine in partnership with the First Lady doing mental health and trauma and resilience. And, now we're in Israel. And yes, there are many great professionals doing that in Israel, but many of them were affected. And the level of trauma is so big, that we have to do it in Israel, too. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So what can people here do Yotam? How can they help? Because there's certainly a feeling of helplessness as we watch these images from abroad.  Yotam Politzer:   Yeah and I totally understand and I think being in a position of doing is very important. Look, I think the two main things to do right now, from here from the other side of the world, which is what I'm trying to do as well, while I'm here, is supporting initiatives like IsraAID, like many other organizations who are responding, and they are great organizations, from Magen David Adom, MDA, that people know, and United Hatzalah, and many are focusing on medical services, some of the hospitals, which is very important.  The other thing, which is very, very important, and I think each and every one of us can do, even if we don't have the financial resources, is to be ambassadors for the people of Israel. And we need it more than ever. And it means to do it in the Jewish community, outside the Jewish community, on social media, in synagogues, in schools, in the supermarket, everywhere, there are so many ways to become ambassadors for Israel. And this is something we can all do using our phone. And, and it's very, very important.  And for the people of Israel, and especially the people who are worst affected. There's so much anger, so much frustration, so much fear, and anxiety. And showing our solidarity, in every shape or form, has a huge mental health impact on Israel. I mean, these pictures of cities, the Eiffel Tower or the Brandenburg Gate. In Kyiv. More than 20 places were displaying the Israeli flag as solidarity. I saw it shared so widely in Israel. I mean, knowing hat we have friends. And a lot of them have a huge impact, not only on the Hasbara, and advocacy, which is important, I'm not against it, but also for the mental health and well being of the people of Israel. So it's very, very important.  What is less helpful at the moment, I'm not against it in general. I don't think we need to send supplies from here to Israel. I know a lot of people want to send supplies, but we can purchase supplies in Israel and support the local economy. And there's also a lot of donations going on or so I think that's less helpful. In terms of volunteers, people who want to go from here to volunteer in Israel, that may be needed in the long run. At this very specific moment. I don't think that's a big need. I think supporting organizations on the ground is more important. If you only have limited resources, rather than paying on a very expensive flight, that may or may not go, I think it's important to support organizations who are on the ground and are based there. But it may be needed in the near future, especially as this become a more long term operation. And then we will need people with specific skills and expertise. Manya Brachear Pashman:   In terms of the response, what are you seeing that is giving you hope? What are you seeing that is discouraging?  Yotam Politzer:   I see a lot of things that are reassuring. I see the tremendous support we're getting from many, so many. Not all of them are our typical friends. And, you know, whether it's mainstream media or political leaders, political leaders. I also see some people who are not supporting or trying to paint it, you know, try to be diplomatic on both sides. I don't think at the moment that that makes any sense, to be honest. So that is disturbing. But I also don't hear enough focus on humanitarian needs. I mean, again, I'm not I think the political consequences, the security and safety are very important, but the people there and how to help them and what their needs are, are not being highlighted enough.  Because maybe it's less sexy in the news, I mean, we do hear a lot of horror stories, but the people who are alive and survived and lost their loved ones and went through the worst trauma a person could think of are not being highlighted. Also the incredible story of resilience and heroism from so many people. I have seen some of these in the Israeli media, but not enough in the foreign media and not enough on social media here. So I also think we need to celebrate the resilience of the people there that have been the most resilient people before this crisis. But considering what they're going through, we need to celebrate these people, these heroes, these communities, we need to support them in whatever way we can, we need to be there for them. We need to so I don't see enough of that. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Is there a particular story that comes to mind that you would like to share with our listeners of such heroism? Yotam Politzer:   There are so many actually, but personally, again, and I've been following this news of so many. So many actually, not one person, hundreds of people who were you know, pulled out their sleeves and went in and pulled out people under fire. And these are people who are not in active duty. And they went in and risked their lives in these first 24 hours and pulled out people and some of them lost their lives who are doing that. I was also very touched by stories of Arab nurses and doctors who came in at even higher percentage than they are, to volunteer and to support in the hospitals. I just heard a story of this woman who was not young. But when terrorists came into her house she was so resilient, and she was able to offer – she was so smart and sharp and resilient. And she was able to offer the Hamas terrorist cookies. And to set them down until her rescuers actually came and were able to rescue her. So you know, it’s unbelievable. Among the horrors, there are so many of these heroism and resilience stories and I think we should talk about them more. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Yotam, thank you to IsraAID for all you’re doing on the ground. AJC has been so proud to call you a partner and is so grateful that we can rely on you to help us channel our heartbreak, constructively.   Yotam Politzer:   Thank you so much, first of all, and we're so grateful for AJC. For everything we do together, especially now. AJC has supported us in more than 20 countries. So we have never imagined that we will need AJC to support us in Israel. But here we are. So that's number one. Number two, I do think that myself and all of us here in this part of the world have an important role to play to be the voice for the voiceless and to bring more support. Thank you very much. Manya Brachear Pashman:   In less than 24 hours, AJC’s Israel Emergency Campaign has raised more than one million dollars. 100 percent of which will be distributed to hospitals, trauma centers, and frontline Israeli NGOs starting with IsraAID. If you would like to donate, go to AJC.org/supportisrael.

<description>&lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;We’re joined by Yotam Politzer, CEO of IsraAID, to discuss how Israel’s leading international humanitarian organization is responding to the immediate and long-term needs on the ground in the wake of Iran-backed Hamas's barbaric terrorist attack in Israel. Politzer shares how American Jews can step up to support Israelis through this incredibly difficult time.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;American Jewish Committee (AJC) has launched an Israel Emergency Campaign to support Israeli relief organizations. Their first grantee will be IsraAID, AJC's longtime partner, which has responded to emergencies worldwide, but never before in Israel. Until now. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;*The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Episode Lineup: &lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;(0:40) Yotam Politzer&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Show Notes:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Donate:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "http://ajc.org/SupportIsrael"&gt;AJC.org/SupportIsrael&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Learn:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/attackonisrael"&gt;AJC.org/AttackonIsrael&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at &lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod"&gt;AJC.org/PeopleofthePod&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;If you’ve appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; ___&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Transcript of Interview with Yotam Politzer:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;On the morning of October 7th, Hamas, the terror group governing Gaza and backed by Iran’s regime, launched a brutal assault against Israel, invading towns and cities across the southern border aiming to kill as many people as possible and taking more than 100 captives to Gaza. By the time of this recording, the death toll had reached 900. Thousands more are wounded. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;In response to this atrocity, American Jewish Committee has launched an Israel Emergency Campaign to support Israeli relief organizations. The first recipient money raised will be AJC’s longtime partner IsraAID, which has responded to emergencies in more than 50 countries around the world, but never before in Israel– until now. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Polizer, CEO Of IsraAID, joined us in Tel Aviv earlier this summer. He is joining us again now from New York, where he was visiting when the war broke out. While Yotam is unable to return home at the moment due to lack of flights to Israel, he is working hard to coordinate emergency response from here and is with us to discuss the efforts underway. Yotam, welcome back to People of the Pod. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thanks for having me. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;It must be so difficult not to be there with your team. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thankfully, our headquarters and our emergency response team is already in full speed. So I think it's also important for me to be here for two reasons, one, to coordinate the support, and not less importantly, to communicate to people here, both in the Jewish community and in the general community, what we're seeing and hearing in terms of the humanitarian needs on the ground.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So what are you hearing from your people on the ground there? What are they reporting?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;I don't think I need to elaborate on the horrors because I think we've all been following the news and saw all the horrific images. But for us, as Israel’s leading international humanitarian organization, we have never had a full-scale humanitarian response in Israel. This is the first time we're actually doing it. And we're doing it because the situation is indeed dire and extreme. The biggest need that we identify right now is related to mental health. And because, of course, we are not a humanitarian organization, we're not involved in the security and the military operation. And of course, there are many needs related to the operation that's going on. From a humanitarian perspective, the whole country is traumatized. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;I don't know of a single person who doesn't know anyone who either was murdered or kidnapped or both. And the number of people who have an immediate family member, or neighbor, who was murdered, or unaccounted for and probably kidnapped by Hamas is so high, talking about hundreds of 1000s of people. Specifically, what we consider the most vulnerable are obviously the people who lived on the frontline, the villages, the moshavim, and the kibbutzim surrounding Gaza.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;They have lost on average 10-20% of their population in each of these villages. In Kibbutz Be'eri, just an hour ago, it was published that they found 108 bodies– that's probably much more than 10% of the population there. And many more again, are kidnapped. So these communities who suffered the worst atrocities a person could think of are now in different shelters around the country. So supporting them in these shelters in any shape or form is the most important humanitarian mission of our time. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Many of them have been evacuated specifically from this kibbutz to the Dead Sea, to the Dead Sea hotels, because it's one of the safest places in Israel. If God forbid, we will have another frontline on the north border, that's still safe enough for these people. And these hotels are now operating as shelters and evacuation centers. And the government and the local regional council and the hotel owners are currently providing the food and shelter. So there are less needs on that front. But again, when it comes to mental health support for everyone there, this is crucial. So that's what our team has been focusing on. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You’re also operating what are called Child Safe Spaces, which you describe as “a place for the kids to be kids.” Tell us more about that. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;We can't imagine what these kids went through. And we just want to give them some sense of normalcy. And let them be kids again, and let them play and let them express themselves and let them release their stress and allow their parents or whoever is left from their families a chance to finally maybe get some sleep, try to reorganize, regroup and deal with everything else that they need to deal with. Try to, you know, start thinking about rebuilding their life after these horrors, which again, will obviously take years. So when we look at the humanitarian needs, I think we need to look at the immediate needs. But even more important, we need to understand that there will be long term needs for these people, and for everyone that is related to them. And so as IsraAID it's very important for us to be first on the ground, wherever it is, in Israel, or in anywhere else in the world. In fact, our team who was responding to the earthquake in Morocco, is now on its way back to Israel to join our team that's already responding in Israel. So that's in short.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;In fact, some of the services that you are describing, I believe, you described to me when we spoke earlier this summer, regarding the war in Ukraine, right, many of these similar services were provided there as well, as well as other places around the world. Can you elaborate a little bit about where else around the world you have offered the same services that you're now offering everywhere?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;I mean, I started my humanitarian career in Japan, again, another developed country, following the earthquake and tsunami in 2011, that killed more than 20,000 people. And they're there, the local government, the local community was very well equipped to support with infrastructure, but they didn't have any kind of emotional mental health support and trauma care. So we actually brought therapists from Sderot, who was working with children who are traumatized in Sderot and develop these models. We brought them to Japan, and we worked with the Syrian refugees with Arabic speaking therapist from Israel. We worked we work in Ukraine in partnership with the First Lady doing mental health and trauma and resilience. And, now we're in Israel. And yes, there are many great professionals doing that in Israel, but many of them were affected. And the level of trauma is so big, that we have to do it in Israel, too.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So what can people here do Yotam? How can they help? Because there's certainly a feeling of helplessness as we watch these images from abroad. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yeah and I totally understand and I think being in a position of doing is very important. Look, I think the two main things to do right now, from here from the other side of the world, which is what I'm trying to do as well, while I'm here, is supporting initiatives like IsraAID, like many other organizations who are responding, and they are great organizations, from Magen David Adom, MDA, that people know, and United Hatzalah, and many are focusing on medical services, some of the hospitals, which is very important. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;The other thing, which is very, very important, and I think each and every one of us can do, even if we don't have the financial resources, is to be ambassadors for the people of Israel. And we need it more than ever. And it means to do it in the Jewish community, outside the Jewish community, on social media, in synagogues, in schools, in the supermarket, everywhere, there are so many ways to become ambassadors for Israel. And this is something we can all do using our phone. And, and it's very, very important. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;And for the people of Israel, and especially the people who are worst affected. There's so much anger, so much frustration, so much fear, and anxiety. And showing our solidarity, in every shape or form, has a huge mental health impact on Israel. I mean, these pictures of cities, the Eiffel Tower or the Brandenburg Gate. In Kyiv. More than 20 places were displaying the Israeli flag as solidarity. I saw it shared so widely in Israel. I mean, knowing hat we have friends. And a lot of them have a huge impact, not only on the Hasbara, and advocacy, which is important, I'm not against it, but also for the mental health and well being of the people of Israel. So it's very, very important. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;What is less helpful at the moment, I'm not against it in general. I don't think we need to send supplies from here to Israel. I know a lot of people want to send supplies, but we can purchase supplies in Israel and support the local economy. And there's also a lot of donations going on or so I think that's less helpful. In terms of volunteers, people who want to go from here to volunteer in Israel, that may be needed in the long run. At this very specific moment. I don't think that's a big need. I think supporting organizations on the ground is more important. If you only have limited resources, rather than paying on a very expensive flight, that may or may not go, I think it's important to support organizations who are on the ground and are based there. But it may be needed in the near future, especially as this become a more long term operation. And then we will need people with specific skills and expertise.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;In terms of the response, what are you seeing that is giving you hope? What are you seeing that is discouraging? &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;I see a lot of things that are reassuring. I see the tremendous support we're getting from many, so many. Not all of them are our typical friends. And, you know, whether it's mainstream media or political leaders, political leaders. I also see some people who are not supporting or trying to paint it, you know, try to be diplomatic on both sides. I don't think at the moment that that makes any sense, to be honest. So that is disturbing. But I also don't hear enough focus on humanitarian needs. I mean, again, I'm not I think the political consequences, the security and safety are very important, but the people there and how to help them and what their needs are, are not being highlighted enough. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Because maybe it's less sexy in the news, I mean, we do hear a lot of horror stories, but the people who are alive and survived and lost their loved ones and went through the worst trauma a person could think of are not being highlighted. Also the incredible story of resilience and heroism from so many people. I have seen some of these in the Israeli media, but not enough in the foreign media and not enough on social media here. So I also think we need to celebrate the resilience of the people there that have been the most resilient people before this crisis. But considering what they're going through, we need to celebrate these people, these heroes, these communities, we need to support them in whatever way we can, we need to be there for them. We need to so I don't see enough of that.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Is there a particular story that comes to mind that you would like to share with our listeners of such heroism?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;There are so many actually, but personally, again, and I've been following this news of so many. So many actually, not one person, hundreds of people who were you know, pulled out their sleeves and went in and pulled out people under fire. And these are people who are not in active duty. And they went in and risked their lives in these first 24 hours and pulled out people and some of them lost their lives who are doing that. I was also very touched by stories of Arab nurses and doctors who came in at even higher percentage than they are, to volunteer and to support in the hospitals. I just heard a story of this woman who was not young. But when terrorists came into her house she was so resilient, and she was able to offer – she was so smart and sharp and resilient. And she was able to offer the Hamas terrorist cookies. And to set them down until her rescuers actually came and were able to rescue her. So you know, it’s unbelievable. Among the horrors, there are so many of these heroism and resilience stories and I think we should talk about them more.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam, thank you to IsraAID for all you’re doing on the ground. AJC has been so proud to call you a partner and is so grateful that we can rely on you to help us channel our heartbreak, constructively.  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Yotam Politzer:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thank you so much, first of all, and we're so grateful for AJC. For everything we do together, especially now. AJC has supported us in more than 20 countries. So we have never imagined that we will need AJC to support us in Israel. But here we are. So that's number one. Number two, I do think that myself and all of us here in this part of the world have an important role to play to be the voice for the voiceless and to bring more support. Thank you very much.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;In less than 24 hours, AJC’s Israel Emergency Campaign has raised more than one million dollars. 100 percent of which will be distributed to hospitals, trauma centers, and frontline Israeli NGOs starting with IsraAID. If you would like to donate, go to AJC.org/supportisrael.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong id= "docs-internal-guid-26b08f95-7fff-94d1-dc51-e0b31c691821"&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

We’re joined by Yotam Politzer, CEO of IsraAID, to discuss how Israel’s leading international humanitarian organization is responding to the immediate and long-term needs on the ground in the wake of Iran-backed Hamas's barbaric terrorist attack...

Responding to Hamas Terror: IsraAID CEO on How You Can Help Israelis Right Now

Since his election by the Knesset in 2021, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has used his position as a platform to try to mend the social fabric of the Jewish state. At AJC Global Forum 2023 in Tel Aviv, Herzog sat down with AJC CEO Ted Deutch to discuss key issues, including judicial reform, Israel-Diaspora relations, and the importance of the Abraham Accords. Herzog ends his discussion with an important message for today’s youth.  *The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC.

Since his election by the Knesset in 2021, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has used his position as a platform to try to mend the social fabric of the Jewish state. At AJC Global Forum 2023 in Tel Aviv, Herzog sat down with AJC CEO Ted Deutch to...

Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Conversation with AJC CEO Ted Deutch

Margo Vdovichenko and Diana Buchman, both refugees of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have found new lives in Israel. Margo, a student from Kyiv, now plans to attend medical school, while Diana, a single mother, bravely shielded her sons during their escape from Odessa. Recorded live at AJC Global Forum 2023, this moving conversation captures their journey and adjustment to life in Israel.  *The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC.  ____ Episode Lineup:  <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> (0:40) Margo Vdovichenko and Diana Buchman </li> </ul> ____ Show Notes: Watch:  <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV-uRP7MxxM">This conversation from AJC Global Forum 2023 </a> </li> </ul> Listen: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/hakeem-jeffries-on-israel-ghana-and-representing-brooklyn"> Hakeem Jeffries on Israel, Ghana, and Representing Brooklyn</a> </li> </ul> Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod">AJC.org/PeopleofthePod</a> You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, tag us on social media with #PeopleofthePod, and hop onto Apple Podcasts to rate us and write a review, to help more listeners find us.

<description>&lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Margo Vdovichenko and Diana Buchman, both refugees of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have found new lives in Israel. Margo, a student from Kyiv, now plans to attend medical school, while Diana, a single mother, bravely shielded her sons during their escape from Odessa. Recorded live at AJC Global Forum 2023, this moving conversation captures their journey and adjustment to life in Israel. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;*The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;____&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Episode Lineup: &lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;(0:40) Margo Vdovichenko and Diana Buchman&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;____&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Show Notes:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Watch: &lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV-uRP7MxxM"&gt;This conversation from AJC Global Forum 2023 &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Listen:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/hakeem-jeffries-on-israel-ghana-and-representing-brooklyn"&gt; Hakeem Jeffries on Israel, Ghana, and Representing Brooklyn&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at &lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod"&gt;AJC.org/PeopleofthePod&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, tag us on social media with #PeopleofthePod, and hop onto Apple Podcasts to rate us and write a review, to help more listeners find us.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

Margo Vdovichenko and Diana Buchman, both refugees of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have found new lives in Israel. Margo, a student from Kyiv, now plans to attend medical school, while Diana, a single mother, bravely shielded her sons during their...

Two Ukrainian Refugees Reflect on Escaping War, and Life in Israel– Live from AJC Global Forum 2023

In a special breaking news edition, Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich, director of AJC Jerusalem, joins us to break down Israel’s Operation Shield and Arrow and the threat posed by the Iranian-backed terror group Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which has fired over 500 rockets towards Israel since Tuesday. Leibovich also provides an update on how Israelis are coping with the latest escalation and efforts being made towards a ceasefire.  *The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC.  ___ Episode Lineup:  <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> (0:40) Avital Leibovich </li> </ul> ___ Show Notes: Take action: <a href="https://actnow.ajc.org/tBnQ1Vh">Urge Congress to Stand with Israel Against Terrorism</a> Read: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/what-to-know-about-the-gaza-strip-terrorist-rocket-attacks-and-more"> What to Know About the Gaza Strip, Terrorist Rocket Attacks, and More</a> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/5-things-you-need-to-know-about-israels-iron-dome-defense-system-and-those-who-voted-against"> 5 Things You Need to Know About Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System and Those Who Voted Against It</a> </li> </ul> Listen: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/israel-at-75-7-things-you-should-know-about-israel"> Israel at 75: 7 Things You Should Know About Israel</a>: </li> </ul> Listen to these seven episodes of AJC’s People of the Pod featuring leading Israeli and American scholars, experts, and influencers that will help you learn more about the complexities, triumphs, and challenges facing Israel today. <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/ajc-ceo-ted-deutch-on-the-importance-of-jewish-american-heritage-month"> AJC CEO Ted Deutch on the Importance of Jewish American Heritage Month:</a> </li> </ul> This May, AJC is proud to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month and the countless contributions that Jewish Americans have made as patriotic citizens, creative artists, brilliant scientists, and star athletes. To kick things off, we’re joined by AJC CEO Ted Deutch to hear his reflections on his first several months at AJC, what he’s looking forward to at AJC Global Forum 2023 in Tel Aviv, and how he’s marking Jewish American Heritage Month. Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at <a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod">AJC.org/PeopleofthePod</a> You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, tag us on social media with #PeopleofthePod, and hop onto Apple Podcasts to rate us and write a review, to help more listeners find us. __ Transcript of Interview with Avital Leibovich Manya Brachear Pashman:  Welcome to a special breaking news edition of People of the Pod to bring our listeners up to date on what's going on in Israel. Joining me is Lieutenant Colonel Avital Leibovich, Director of AJC Jerusalem. Avital, welcome, and I hope you are safe. But how are you doing? Tell me. Avital Leibovich:   Thank you. It's an opportunity for me to be here with you today and to share from the ground our experiences here in Israel. This is already the third day of the operation. There's tension in the air, but I think that our resilience as Israelis is quite strong. And I'm sure we will overcome this situation as we have in the past. Manya Brachear Pashman: So what is going on there–who is firing the rockets that are now falling on Israel? Avital Leibovich:    So the operation is directed towards the Islamic Jihad in Gaza. Islamic Jihad in Gaza is the smaller of two terror groups in Gaza. It's backed and funded and directed by Iran. And its charter is pretty clear, I would say. Basically, the organization believes that Israel has no right to exist. And in order to make sure that we will not exist, Iran is funding its military capabilities. They have managed to build an arsenal of rockets, of mortars, of drones. They have managed to train soldiers, militants in order to conduct anti-Israeli operations.  And Israel decided to initiate an operation, following two events. The first event was a week ago, where over 100 rockets were fired by this organization, the Islamic Jihad, within 24 hours, towards Israel. And the second event actually took place on Pesach, on Passover, in which 34 rockets were fired from Lebanon within 10 minutes by factions of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Lebanon. So this was an opportunity to make sure that Israel is preventing further escalation and basically defending its people. Manya Brachear Pashman: So where's Hamas in all of this? Avital Leibovich:    So Hamas has in the past, decided to actually sit quietly and not intervene. And this is common. We've seen this in the operation last year, we've seen this in the operation two years ago. And you may want to ask what the reason for Hamas sitting back and the reason is that Hamas has a lot to lose. Currently, Israel declared that it's only looking to target Islamic Jihad targets, namely not Hamas targets. And Hamas understands that if it will join the celebration of Islamic Jihad, then the price Hamas will pay will be very, very high, for one.  There are 18,000 Palestinian workers entering Israel from Gaza on a daily basis. These kinds of workers bringing salaries back home, actually move some sort of an economic cycle inside the Gaza Strip, and the shopping power is stronger and stronger by these workers. If Hamas will join the operation, then obviously, Israel will close the border and will not allow these workers to enter. And additionally, I'll remind our listeners that Hamas is still renovating Gaza from previous operations. So it would be quite serious from their perspective, to stop the renovation and then create further damage. Because as you know, Hamas and Islamic Jihads' arsenal of weapons are very much inside densely populated areas. Manya Brachear Pashman: So what are we seeing in terms of – is the Iron Dome doing its job of protecting Israelis? Avital Leibovich:    So I would say thank God for the Iron Dome, I would say thank God for the very strong and strategic partnership Israel has with the US, which is very highly valued here. The Iron Dome is basically saving their lives with a whopping success rate of 90%, the Israeli people know that there's something in the sky that will be able to protect them. There are thousands of people that have spent the last three days in shelters, their spirit is quite broken. Because sitting in a shelter, whether you're a four year old child or a 30 year old mum, and hearing constantly sounds of explosions and jets flying in the air, this is not a normal kind of atmosphere.  Manya Brachear Pashman: By the time this airs, perhaps a ceasefire will be reached, wouldn't that be a blessing? Are you optimistic that that will happen? Avital Leibovich:   You know, living in the Middle East, you have to be optimistic in routine times, in emergency times. Talks of a ceasefire began yesterday. But we have to keep in mind that there is a lot of fake news, a lot of false publications. And I don't see an end to the current situation, the next couple of hours, maybe in another 24 to 48 hours. And I'm just getting a report that there was a direct hit of a building in Rehovot, which is a city maybe half an hour from here, half an hour from Tel Aviv. So we're not there quite yet. I do want to mention, in this context, Egypt's role. Media has put a focus on Saudi Arabia's role in the region. But we must not forget that Egypt is a strong partner. And this is the partner who actually mediates between Israel and the different terror groups in Gaza. They have an important role. Israel respects this role. And we should not forget this very, very significant actor in our region. Manya Brachear Pashman: Well Avital, thank you for that addendum and thank you for joining us. I really hope that you're able to stay safe and that we are talking about a ceasefire very soon. Avital Leibovich:   Thank you for the opportunity.

<description>&lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;In a special breaking news edition, Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich, director of AJC Jerusalem, joins us to break down Israel’s Operation Shield and Arrow and the threat posed by the Iranian-backed terror group Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which has fired over 500 rockets towards Israel since Tuesday. Leibovich also provides an update on how Israelis are coping with the latest escalation and efforts being made towards a ceasefire. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;*The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;___&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Episode Lineup: &lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;(0:40) Avital Leibovich&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;___&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Show Notes:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Take action:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://actnow.ajc.org/tBnQ1Vh"&gt;Urge Congress to Stand with Israel Against Terrorism&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Read:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/what-to-know-about-the-gaza-strip-terrorist-rocket-attacks-and-more"&gt; What to Know About the Gaza Strip, Terrorist Rocket Attacks, and More&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/5-things-you-need-to-know-about-israels-iron-dome-defense-system-and-those-who-voted-against"&gt; 5 Things You Need to Know About Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System and Those Who Voted Against It&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Listen:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/israel-at-75-7-things-you-should-know-about-israel"&gt; Israel at 75: 7 Things You Should Know About Israel&lt;/a&gt;:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Listen to these seven episodes of AJC’s People of the Pod featuring leading Israeli and American scholars, experts, and influencers that will help you learn more about the complexities, triumphs, and challenges facing Israel today.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul&gt; &lt;li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr" role="presentation"&gt;&lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/news/podcast/ajc-ceo-ted-deutch-on-the-importance-of-jewish-american-heritage-month"&gt; AJC CEO Ted Deutch on the Importance of Jewish American Heritage Month:&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;This May, AJC is proud to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month and the countless contributions that Jewish Americans have made as patriotic citizens, creative artists, brilliant scientists, and star athletes. To kick things off, we’re joined by AJC CEO Ted Deutch to hear his reflections on his first several months at AJC, what he’s looking forward to at AJC Global Forum 2023 in Tel Aviv, and how he’s marking Jewish American Heritage Month.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at &lt;a href= "https://www.ajc.org/peopleofthepod"&gt;AJC.org/PeopleofthePod&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, tag us on social media with #PeopleofthePod, and hop onto Apple Podcasts to rate us and write a review, to help more listeners find us.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;__&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Transcript of Interview with Avital Leibovich&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman: &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Welcome to a special breaking news edition of People of the Pod to bring our listeners up to date on what's going on in Israel. Joining me is Lieutenant Colonel Avital Leibovich, Director of AJC Jerusalem. Avital, welcome, and I hope you are safe. But how are you doing? Tell me.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thank you. It's an opportunity for me to be here with you today and to share from the ground our experiences here in Israel. This is already the third day of the operation. There's tension in the air, but I think that our resilience as Israelis is quite strong. And I'm sure we will overcome this situation as we have in the past.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So what is going on there–who is firing the rockets that are now falling on Israel?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:   &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So the operation is directed towards the Islamic Jihad in Gaza. Islamic Jihad in Gaza is the smaller of two terror groups in Gaza. It's backed and funded and directed by Iran. And its charter is pretty clear, I would say. Basically, the organization believes that Israel has no right to exist. And in order to make sure that we will not exist, Iran is funding its military capabilities. They have managed to build an arsenal of rockets, of mortars, of drones. They have managed to train soldiers, militants in order to conduct anti-Israeli operations. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;And Israel decided to initiate an operation, following two events. The first event was a week ago, where over 100 rockets were fired by this organization, the Islamic Jihad, within 24 hours, towards Israel. And the second event actually took place on Pesach, on Passover, in which 34 rockets were fired from Lebanon within 10 minutes by factions of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in Lebanon. So this was an opportunity to make sure that Israel is preventing further escalation and basically defending its people.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So where's Hamas in all of this?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:   &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So Hamas has in the past, decided to actually sit quietly and not intervene. And this is common. We've seen this in the operation last year, we've seen this in the operation two years ago. And you may want to ask what the reason for Hamas sitting back and the reason is that Hamas has a lot to lose. Currently, Israel declared that it's only looking to target Islamic Jihad targets, namely not Hamas targets. And Hamas understands that if it will join the celebration of Islamic Jihad, then the price Hamas will pay will be very, very high, for one. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;There are 18,000 Palestinian workers entering Israel from Gaza on a daily basis. These kinds of workers bringing salaries back home, actually move some sort of an economic cycle inside the Gaza Strip, and the shopping power is stronger and stronger by these workers. If Hamas will join the operation, then obviously, Israel will close the border and will not allow these workers to enter. And additionally, I'll remind our listeners that Hamas is still renovating Gaza from previous operations. So it would be quite serious from their perspective, to stop the renovation and then create further damage. Because as you know, Hamas and Islamic Jihads' arsenal of weapons are very much inside densely populated areas.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So what are we seeing in terms of – is the Iron Dome doing its job of protecting Israelis?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:   &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;So I would say thank God for the Iron Dome, I would say thank God for the very strong and strategic partnership Israel has with the US, which is very highly valued here. The Iron Dome is basically saving their lives with a whopping success rate of 90%, the Israeli people know that there's something in the sky that will be able to protect them. There are thousands of people that have spent the last three days in shelters, their spirit is quite broken. Because sitting in a shelter, whether you're a four year old child or a 30 year old mum, and hearing constantly sounds of explosions and jets flying in the air, this is not a normal kind of atmosphere. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;By the time this airs, perhaps a ceasefire will be reached, wouldn't that be a blessing? Are you optimistic that that will happen?&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;You know, living in the Middle East, you have to be optimistic in routine times, in emergency times. Talks of a ceasefire began yesterday. But we have to keep in mind that there is a lot of fake news, a lot of false publications. And I don't see an end to the current situation, the next couple of hours, maybe in another 24 to 48 hours. And I'm just getting a report that there was a direct hit of a building in Rehovot, which is a city maybe half an hour from here, half an hour from Tel Aviv. So we're not there quite yet. I do want to mention, in this context, Egypt's role. Media has put a focus on Saudi Arabia's role in the region. But we must not forget that Egypt is a strong partner. And this is the partner who actually mediates between Israel and the different terror groups in Gaza. They have an important role. Israel respects this role. And we should not forget this very, very significant actor in our region.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Manya Brachear Pashman:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Well Avital, thank you for that addendum and thank you for joining us. I really hope that you're able to stay safe and that we are talking about a ceasefire very soon.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Avital Leibovich:  &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p dir="ltr"&gt;Thank you for the opportunity. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

In a special breaking news edition, Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich, director of AJC Jerusalem, joins us to break down Israel’s Operation Shield and Arrow and the threat posed by the Iranian-backed terror group Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which has...

From Israel: AJC’s Avital Leibovich Breaks Down Latest Gaza Escalation

People of the Pod is an award-winning weekly podcast analyzing global affairs through a Jewish lens, brought to you by American Jewish Committee. Host Manya Brachear Pashman examines current events, the people driving them, and what it all means for America, Israel, and the Jewish people.

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