Episode 304 | The story of Black Jews in Israel
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Roni Fantanesh Malkai about the story of Ethiopian Jews and their integration into Israeli society. Roni reflects on her family’s journey and the deep attachment to Jerusalem that sustained the community for generations. Roni Fantanesh Malkai is an Ethiopian Israeli activist, commentator and author of ‘We Are Black […]
Episode 303 | Tactical lessons and political consequences of war with Hezbollah
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with author and commentator Yaakov Katz about the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and the wider strategic implications of the war with Hezbollah. Katz examines Hezbollah’s use of fibre-optic drones and the significance of the IDF’s return to Beaufort Castle. He also relates to the emerging competition among the candidates to be […]
Episode 302 | Can Trump stop Iran’s nuclear programme?
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with veteran US official Elliott Abrams about the state of US-Iran negotiations. Abrams assesses President Trump’s approach to Iran’s nuclear programme, the future of the Strait of Hormuz, and the risks of sanctions relief for Tehran. They also discuss the Trump administration’s decision-making process, the prospects for further US […]
Episode 301 | Inside the Israel-Lebanon peace process
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Hagar Chemali about the prospects for Israel-Lebanon peace and the US-led diplomatic efforts taking place in Washington. Chemali outlines why she believes Hezbollah’s weakened position, shifting Lebanese public opinion and the Trump administration’s regional approach have created a rare opportunity for progress. Hagar also assesses Hezbollah’s current strength, […]
Episode 300 | Egypt’s regional posture
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Ambassador Amira Oron about Egypt’s role in the Middle East. Ambassador Oron outlines Egypt’s approach to Hamas, the Palestinian Authority and the Iranian issue. They also discuss Israel-Egypt relations and Turkey’s efforts to play a role in Gaza. Ambassador Amira Oron served for three decades in Israel’s Foreign […]
Episode 299 | Palestinian politics in search for new leadership
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Samer Sinijlawi about Palestinian politics. Sinijlawi outlines why he believes the recent Palestinian local elections were so significant and what the results reveal about public frustration with both Hamas and President Abbas. He outlines why reform is long overdue and must begin with a new democratic mandate. They […]
Episode 298 | Two fragile ceasefires
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Professor Chuck Freilich about the fragile ceasefires with Iran and Lebanon and the current negotiations. Prof Freilich outlines Iran’s perspective on the talks and the status of their nuclear programme. They also discuss Hezbollah’s remaining capabilities as well as wider implications for US-Israel relations. Prof. Chuck Freilich is […]
Episode 297 | Assessing the ceasefire from Washington
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Dr Ilan Berman about the war with Iran, the ceasefire talks, and how Washington is thinking about what comes next. He examines the unresolved question of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, and the implications for Gulf allies, NATO, and the UK-US relationship. Dr Ilan Berman is Senior Vice President […]
Episode 296 | Assessing the changing regional dynamics
In this episode, Richard Pater speaks with Koby Huberman, who reflects on how the war with Iran is influencing the thinking across the Gulf and wider region. He examines changing perceptions of Iran among Gulf leaders, the long-term challenges, and opportunities that could emerge. Koby Huberman is an Israeli high-tech veteran and business strategist. He […]
Episode 295 | The War with Iran from the Gulf perspective
In this episode, recorded during a media briefing, Richard Pater speaks with Dr Ahmed Al Khuzaie, who reflects on how the war with Iran is being experienced in Bahrain and across the Gulf. He examines shifting public attitudes towards Iran, the mounting concern over attacks on civilian infrastructure, the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz […]