Inside One Of The Most Complex War Zones On Earth - With John Spencer Boundless Insights

21:07

We’re diving into an issue that sits at the core of Israel’s security and its enduring relationship with the United States: foreign aid. U.S. assistance has been a critical force in strengthening Israel’s defense capabilities. But as Dr. Michael Oren explains, it hasn’t come without costs. While aid has helped build Israel’s military strength, it has also created strategic dependencies and, at times, limited Israel’s autonomy on the global stage. In this conversation, we explore how U.S. aid to Israel evolved from early economic assistance into today’s substantial military funding. We examine why aid, while beneficial, can also be a double-edged sword — tying Israel’s hands when it comes to innovation, defense exports, and strategic decision-making. Dr. Oren also walks us through the shifting political dynamics in the United States, including the growing influence of progressive voices that are reshaping foreign policy and making support for Israel increasingly contentious. He offers a candid assessment of how these trends are impacting the U.S.-Israel relationship — and why Israel must be prepared to rethink its approach to American aid. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. We’d also love to hear your thoughts! Write to us at podcast@boundlessinsights.com Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Referenced in this episode: Dive deeper into the topic with Ambassador Michael Oren’s provocative 2021 article in Tablet Magazine : "Is U.S. Aid a Threat to Israel?"…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Israel Turns 77 – with Dr. Michael Oren 19:15

4 days ago19:15

19:15

As Israel marks its 77th Independence Day, we step back from the headlines to reflect on the extraordinary, improbable story of its survival and triumph. Aviva Klompas opens with a moment from November 1947: just hours after the UN vote to establish a Jewish state, Golda Meir warned a jubilant crowd that the dream would not come easily. It would have to be fought for—and it would come at a cost. Israel’s early years were defined by war, scarcity, and isolation. But against overwhelming odds, the state didn’t just survive—it reinvented itself, again and again, turning the impossible into the possible. Each week on Boundless Insights , we tackle hard news: war, hostages, internal turmoil. But today, we remember where Israel began—and why hope remains central to its story. Dr. Michael Oren joins the episode to bring that story to life. He reflects on pivotal moments that reveal the many faces of Israeli identity: courage, innovation, grief, and defiance. Together, we revisit the spirit of the founding generation, the resilience that shaped the nation, and the enduring hope that still lights the way forward. A celebration of Israel at 77—through memory, storytelling, and the enduring miracle of the Jewish state. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The Shin Bet vs. the Prime Minister – with Dr. Michael Oren 19:43

7 days ago19:43

19:43

Israel is facing a domestic crisis with sweeping implications for its democracy, national security, and political leadership. In a sworn affidavit to Israel’s Supreme Court, Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of demanding personal loyalty above the rule of law. Among the explosive allegations: that Netanyahu urged him to spy on Israeli citizens, interfere with the premier’s corruption trial, and defy Supreme Court rulings in the event of a constitutional crisis. Bar says he was fired not for any professional failings—but for refusing to turn the Shin Bet into a political tool and refusing to protect the prime minister from legal accountability. This episode isn’t just about one affidavit. It’s about the integrity of Israel’s institutions, the balance of power in a democracy without a written constitution, and what happens when security and politics collide. To break it all down, host Aviva Klompas is joined by historian and former Israeli ambassador to the United States, Dr. Michael Oren. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Trump vs. the Ivy League – with Alyza Lewin 25:32

11 days ago25:32

25:32

Since October 7, antisemitism has surged across American college campuses—setting off one of the fiercest debates in higher education today. In response, the Trump administration has launched an aggressive crackdown: threatening to pull federal funding, investigating elite universities, and detaining foreign students accused of supporting terror groups. Supporters see this as long-overdue protection for Jewish students. Critics call it a dangerous overreach aimed at silencing dissent and reshaping academia. Host Aviva Klompas sits down with Alyza Lewin, President of the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law and a leading legal voice in the fight against campus antisemitism. In this wide-ranging conversation, they explore the line between protected speech and targeted harassment, what Jewish students are experiencing on the ground, and whether the federal response will ultimately safeguard civil rights or erode academic freedom. Alyza offers a frank and clear-eyed assessment of the legal and political stakes—and what students, families, university leaders, and lawmakers need to grapple with next. Guest Bio: Alyza D. Lewin is President of The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, where she leads legal and educational efforts to combat antisemitism and defend civil rights, particularly on college campuses. She is also a partner at Lewin & Lewin, LLP, specializing in litigation, mediation, and government relations. Lewin successfully represented Avi Zinger in securing the rights to sell Ben & Jerry’s in Israel and argued the landmark Zivotofsky v. Kerry case before the U.S. Supreme Court, which helped pave the way for U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. She has also litigated key terror finance cases, clerked on Israel’s Supreme Court, and led the American Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists. A graduate of Princeton and NYU Law, she is a member of the New York and D.C. bars and a trained mediator. Referenced in this episode: Trump’s Jewish Cover Story by Yair Rosenberg in The Atlantic If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Caught Between Trump and Tehran – with Dr. Michael Oren 19:32

14 days ago19:32

19:32

As nuclear talks between the United States and Iran get underway, Israel is watching with unease. What’s being billed as technical negotiations over uranium levels and verification protocols is, in truth, a high-stakes diplomatic gamble with enormous implications for the Middle East. Iran is dragging its feet, playing for time. Former President Donald Trump, eager for a foreign policy win ahead of the election, wants a deal sealed fast. And Israel is stuck in the middle—between a regime that seeks its destruction and an ally willing to look the other way to score political points. Dr. Michael Oren returns to Boundless Insights to discuss the deal and what’s at stake. Drawing on his experience as Israel’s former ambassador to Washington, he shares why the current moment echoes the lead-up to the 2015 Iran deal—and why this time, the risks may be even greater. We talk about the limits of trust in any deal with Tehran, the challenges of verification, and what Israel can do when it’s excluded from decisions that threaten its security. And we ask a central question: can the West afford to underestimate Iran again? Referenced in the episode: There’s only one way US-Iran talks should end: Halt Tehran’s nuclear terror for good by Dr. Michael Oren in the New York Post If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Inside One of the Most Complex War Zones on Earth - with John Spencer 28:28

18 days ago28:28

28:28

Since October 7, Israel has been fighting a war unlike any in modern history — against a terror group that hides in hospitals, stores weapons in schools, and holds hostages underground. The IDF is operating under intense pressure, with international demands for zero civilian casualties, blocked operations in key Hamas strongholds, and constant pauses driven more by perception than fact. Urban warfare expert John Spencer joins Aviva Klompas to explain what’s really happening on the ground in Gaza. He’s been inside Hamas’s tunnels, studied the world’s most complex battlefields, and advised top U.S. generals. Together, they unpack the realities of urban combat, the misinformation war playing out across social media, and what the world gets dangerously wrong about how Israel is fighting. Guest Bio: John Spencer is an award-winning scholar, internationally recognized expert and advisor on urban warfare, military strategy, tactics, and other related topics. Considered one of the world’s leading experts on urban warfare, he served as an advisor to the top four-star general and other senior leaders in the U.S. Army as part of strategic research groups from the Pentagon to the United States Military Academy. John currently serves as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. Recent Articles from John Spencer: The lies behind the Gaza casualty figures and the thousands of names removed without explanation How Hamas Can Be Destroyed With Military Force…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Is It Time for an Israeli Constitution? – with Dr. Michael Oren 21:15

21 days ago21:15

21:15

Why doesn’t Israel have a constitution and what would it mean to finally write one Aviva Klompas sits down with Dr. Michael Oren to discuss one of the most foundational—and contentious—questions about Israeli democracy: the absence of a formal constitution. Despite a promise made at the country’s founding in 1948, Israel continues to operate under a framework of Basic Laws and judicial precedents, with no singular document that defines the principles, powers, and limits of governance. As Israel faces political upheaval, protests, war on multiple fronts, and a deepening struggle over the role of the judiciary, the debate over a constitution has resurfaced with urgency. Once an opponent of adopting a constitution, Dr. Oren now believes it’s essential to Israel’s future—and even to its security. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Referenced in the episode: 2048: The Rejuvenated State by Michael Oren Israel needs a constitution to prevent civil war by Michael Oren…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Netanyahu Goes to Washington & Comes Up Short – with Dr. Michael Oren 19:44

25 days ago19:44

19:44

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made an unplanned stop at the White House after a visit to Hungary, aiming to persuade Donald Trump to reverse a looming 17% tariff on Israeli goods. But the real story was playing out just beneath the surface. Trump dropped a surprise announcement: senior U.S. officials would be holding direct talks with Iran — a shift that appeared to blindside the Israeli leader. Netanyahu stuck to his hard line on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while Trump emphasized diplomacy and pointedly reminded everyone of the billions in U.S. aid to Israel. Was this an act of diplomatic finesse or a political gamble gone sideways? Aviva Klompas speaks with Dr. Michael Oren — historian, author, and former Israeli ambassador to Washington — to break down the visit, the messaging, and what it all signals about the road ahead for Israel and Iran. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Definition of adumbration - the act of providing vague advance indications.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The Hijacking of Human Rights - with Michal Cotler-Wunsh 42:22

28 days ago42:22

42:22

In this longform edition of Boundless Insights , Dr. Rachel Fish sits down with Michal Cotler-Wunsh — Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism and a former Member of Knesset — for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of antisemitism, the weaponization of international law, and the global implications of October 7. Michal argues that the misuse of human rights language, including terms like "genocide" and "apartheid," has served to delegitimize Israel, and she calls urgently for moral clarity and consistency in applying human rights principles globally. Drawing from her own personal journey — from early childhood in Jerusalem’s Knesset corridors to formative years in Canada — Michal brings a rare perspective to understanding Israel from both the inside out and the outside in. She shares deeply personal stories, including memories of playing in the Knesset and visiting the home of Menachem Begin, while also offering sharp political insight into the modern-day challenges facing the Jewish people and the international community. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Guest Bio: Michal Cotler-Wunsh, LL.B, LL.M, is Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism and a Senior Policy and Strategy Advisor. A former Member of Knesset, she chaired and served on several key parliamentary committees and was the first Knesset liaison to the International Criminal Court. She also co-founded the Inter-parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism. Michal’s work focuses on antisemitism, international law, human rights, and Zionism. Her diverse legal, academic, and professional background includes roles with the Jewish Federations of North America, Nefesh B’Nefesh, and Reichman University in Herzliya. She also serves as a trustee of The Rabbi Sacks Legacy. Michal lives in Ra’anana, Israel, with her husband and four children. Mentioned in this episode: Working definition of antisemitism from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA)…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Trump vs The Houthis – with Michael Doran 21:17

5 weeks ago21:17

21:17

As the Houthis escalate their attacks on international shipping and threaten both Israeli and Western vessels, the Trump administration has responded with a sweeping military campaign against the Iran-backed group in Yemen. With Red Sea shipping traffic plummeting and global trade at risk, the U.S. is signaling that enough is enough. So what’s different this time? Can the Houthis actually be stopped? And how will Iran, global powers, and U.S. allies respond? Aviva Klompas is joined by Michael Doran, senior fellow and director of the Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East at the Hudson Institute. A veteran of the Bush administration, Doran served on the National Security Council, at the State Department, and in the Pentagon. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org Guest Bio: Michael Doran is a senior fellow and director of the Middle East center at the Hudson Institute. In the administration of President George W. Bush, he served as the senior director in the National Security Council responsible for the Middle East and North Africa. He has taught at Princeton, NYU, and the University of Central Florida, and publishes articles frequently. His last book, Ike's Gamble , was published by Free Press in 2016. He received a B.A. from Stanford and a Ph.D. from Princeton.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The Anti-Hamas Protests in Gaza – with Dr. Michael Oren 22:51

5 weeks ago22:51

22:51

Videos have surfaced showing Palestinians in Gaza rising up against Hamas. How significant are these protests? Do they mark a genuine turning point in public sentiment, or are they a fleeting moment of frustration? And what would it take for this unrest to evolve into a broader political shift or a change in leadership? A recent Gallup poll found that more than half of Gazans would leave if given the chance. Meanwhile, Israel’s message to civilians has been stark: “The solution is in your hands. Hamas is insisting on taking you to hell.” For the past 18 months, Israel has maintained that Hamas will not survive this war because there is no viable future, for anyone, while Hamas remains in power. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren to discuss the protests, whether they signal a deeper shift within Gaza, and what it will take to imagine — and build — a future without Hamas. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Referenced in this episode: Gallup International Poll Win-Win? - Clarity by Michael Oren Definition of solipsistic - someone who is so focused on their own wants and needs that they don't think about other people at all. Definition of adumbration - the act of providing vague advance indications.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The War in Gaza Reignites – with Dr. Michael Oren 17:18

6 weeks ago17:18

17:18

Nearly 18 months after Hamas’s October 7 massacre, the war in Gaza has reignited. Israeli airstrikes are once again targeting senior Hamas leaders, and IDF troops have taken up new positions inside the Strip. Predictably, international condemnation has resumed, calling Israel’s actions a “step backward,” while rocket fire from Gaza and the Houthis intensifies. But this time, one thing is different: the Trump administration has signaled a sharp shift in U.S. policy, giving Israel far more operational leeway than under the previous administration and expanding America’s own military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen. Host Aviva Klompas is speaking with Dr. Michael Oren about Israel’s evolving military and political goals in Gaza, the international community’s response, and the moral dilemmas surrounding hostage negotiations. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Qatargate - with Dr. Michael Oren 18:11

6 weeks ago18:11

18:11

Israel’s security leadership is in turmoil. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has moved to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, citing a breakdown of trust after the October 7 Hamas massacre. But Bar is pushing back—warning that his removal is tied to what’s being called Qatargate . He claims the government is trying to obstruct an ongoing investigation into Qatar’s covert influence at the highest levels of Israeli leadership. Israeli police have already arrested two suspects amid explosive allegations that senior aides to Netanyahu were on Qatar’s payroll. This is the same regime that funds Hamas, fuels terrorism across the region, and provided safe haven to the masterminds of October 7. To help make sense of this unfolding crisis, I’m joined once again by Dr. Michael Oren. We unpack the far-reaching implications of these allegations, what they could mean for Israel’s national security, and whether Netanyahu’s government is at risk of collapsing under the weight of scandal. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Israel’s Broken Promise: Reckoning with October 7 – with Dr. Michael Oren 20:11

7 weeks ago20:11

20:11

Israel was founded on a promise—to be the defender of the Jewish people. On October 7, that promise was broken. In the deadliest attack against Jews since the Holocaust, Israel’s security, deterrence, and very raison d’être were shaken to the core. What went wrong? How does Israel begin the process of reckoning with its failures—not just to return the hostages, but to rebuild trust, restore deterrence, and reclaim its sovereignty? In this episode, historian, former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., and author Michael Oren breaks down the hard truths about what happened, the challenges ahead, and the steps Israel must take to ensure that October 7 never happens again. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Mentioned in this episode: Our choice between ‘never again’ and ‘again’ by Dr. Michael Oren Is U.S. Aid a Threat to Israel? by Dr. Michael Oren…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Netanyahu, Zelensky, and Superpower Politics – with Dr. Michael Oren 18:25

7 weeks ago18:25

18:25

Last month, Israel made a surprising diplomatic move, voting alongside the United States and Russia against a United Nations resolution reaffirming Ukraine’s territorial integrity. It was the first time Israel had taken such a stance since the war began—raising questions about the pressure Jerusalem faces as President Trump reshapes U.S. foreign policy. Since taking office in January, Trump has distanced himself from Biden’s strong backing of Ukraine, labeling President Volodymyr Zelensky a “dictator” and urging him to agree to a ceasefire with Moscow. Tensions boiled over in a high-stakes White House meeting where Zelensky clashed publicly with both Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. For former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren, the moment was strikingly familiar. He recalls a pivotal 2011 exchange in the Oval Office when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directly challenged President Obama’s Middle East policy. Oren sees important parallels between Netanyahu’s bold approach and the situation Zelensky now faces. In this episode, we explore how smaller nations like Israel and Ukraine navigate relationships with global superpowers, what diplomatic leverage they hold, and what lessons can be drawn from history. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Mentioned in the episode: Michael Oren: What Zelensky Can Learn from Netanyahu…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Talking to Terrorists: US-Hamas Hostage Talks - with Dr. Michael Oren 17:17

8 weeks ago17:17

17:17

The U.S. has been in direct talks with Hamas, aiming to negotiate the release of hostages still held in Gaza. Leading the discussions is Adam Boehler, the U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, who recently met with Hamas officials in Doha. He described the talks as “very productive,” indicating they extend beyond hostage negotiations to broader discussions about a long-term ceasefire. Boehler has suggested that Hamas may be willing to disarm and relinquish control of Gaza—but not without significant concessions. For its part, Israel is increasing pressure, cutting off electricity and halting aid deliveries to Gaza. So, is a deal within reach? Or are these negotiations heading nowhere? Host Aviva Klompas discusses the latest developments with former Israeli ambassador to Washington, Dr. Michael Oren. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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A Palestinian Perspective on Palestinian National Identity - with Ghaith al-Omari 50:02

8 weeks ago50:02

50:02

In this episode of Boundless Insights , Dr. Rachel Fish sits down with former Palestinian negotiator Ghaith al-Omari to examine the shifting landscape of Palestinian leadership and the viability of a two-state solution. They discuss the historical evolution of Palestinian nationalism, the deep legitimacy crisis facing the Palestinian Authority, and the role of Arab nations in rebuilding Gaza and advancing a diplomatic resolution. Ghaith also weighs in on the impact of U.S. leadership in driving Palestinian political reform, the generational shifts shaping Israeli and Palestinian perspectives, and how identity factors into the peace process. Throughout the conversation, he underscores the urgent need for pragmatic, courageous leadership to counter extremism and build a path toward lasting stability. Guest Bio: Ghaith al-Omari is the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Senior Fellow in The Washington Institute’s Irwin Levy Family Program on the U.S.-Israel Strategic Relationship. Previously, he served as executive director of the American Task Force on Palestine and was an advisor to the Palestinian negotiating team during the 1999–2001 permanent-status talks. He has held various other positions within the Palestinian Authority.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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From Gaza to Jenin – with Jonathan Conricus 23:08

9 weeks ago23:08

23:08

While much of the world’s attention remains fixed on Gaza, the security situation in Judea and Samaria / the West Bank is escalating. In January, the IDF launched Operation Iron Wall , a major campaign aimed at dismantling terror networks. The operation began in Jenin—a long-standing hub for terrorist activity – and has since expanded into nearby towns. To understand what’s happening on the ground, Aviva Klompas speaks with retired Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus, one of the most respected voices on Middle East security. Subscribe and stay connected: Don’t miss future episodes of Boundless Insights. Follow us for more expert analysis and deep dives into the issues shaping Israel and the world. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Guest Bio: Jonathan Conricus is a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies focused on the Middle East. He served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for 24 years as a combat commander in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. He also served as a military diplomat, foreign relations expert, and international spokesperson. He recently retired as lieutenant colonel. Jonathan was the first Israeli officer to be seconded to the United Nations (UN), during which he provided military and strategic analysis for UN peacekeeping forces. He has directed social media and public diplomacy efforts and has extensive on- and off-camera experience from his years as a spokesperson.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The Arab Plan for Gaza – with Dr. Michael Oren 18:16

9 weeks ago18:16

18:16

For months, world leaders have been asking: What comes next for Gaza once the war ends? President Trump stirred controversy by suggesting an unconventional approach—relocating Palestinians from Gaza to other countries while the Strip undergoes reconstruction. The backlash was swift. Now, Arab states are rallying around a counterproposal. Leading the charge is Egypt, which is promoting a plan to rebuild Gaza without relocating its residents and to establish a new governing authority. Can this new plan succeed where so many others have failed? Host Aviva Klompas sits down with Dr. Michael Oren—former Israeli ambassador to the U.S.—to unpack the latest developments. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ PR9A6pZGGmWr97nIiGuG…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Saying Goodbye to Oded, Shiri, Ariel & Kfir - with Dr. Michael Oren 20:11

10 weeks ago20:11

20:11

This week, Israel laid to rest four murdered hostages—Oded Lifshitz, Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas—all from Kibbutz Nir Oz. Their names are now etched into the heart of a grieving nation. Oded Lifshitz was an 83-year-old peace activist, a man who dedicated his life to coexistence. On October 7, he was shot in the hand, dragged into Gaza, and murdered in captivity. At his funeral, his wife spoke of the deep betrayal she felt—how after years of championing peace with Palestinians, they were attacked by the very people they had tried to help. The Bibas family has become the face of national heartbreak. The world watched the footage of Shiri Bibas clutching her young sons, Ariel and Kfir, as they were taken hostage. Her face—frozen in terror is an image burned into collective memory. When Yarden Bibas was released after 16 months in captivity, many held onto a desperate hope that his family would also emerge alive. Instead, this week, he was forced to bury them. His grief and loss are incomprehensible. On today’s episode, Aviva Klompas and Dr. Michael Oren sift through the heartache and discuss the deeper national reckoning that this tragedy has set in motion. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Coming Home in Coffins – with Dr. Michael Oren 21:30

10 weeks ago21:30

21:30

Since October 7, it has felt like we’ve been trapped in an unending nightmare. That horror deepened when Hamas staged a grotesque spectacle in Gaza, parading the coffins of hostages through the streets. The scene was chilling: a stage draped with propaganda banners, celebratory music blaring, and crowds—including Palestinian children—cheering as the coffins were handed over to the Red Cross. Even the UN, an organization rarely sympathetic to Israel, condemned the display as "cruel and degrading." To unpack the significance of these events, Aviva Klompas speaks with Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States and historian. Together, they confront the reality of evil, explore how Israel might respond, and discuss the search for moral clarity in a world increasingly muddled by false equivalencies and moral relativism. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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What Happened to Moral Courage? – with Bret Stephens 20:34

11 weeks ago20:34

20:34

Since the horrific attacks of October 7, the absence of moral courage has been glaring. In a time when speaking the truth comes with real consequences—risking careers, reputations, and even personal safety—many have chosen silence over principle. But what does it truly mean to stand up for what’s right? Why do some rise to the occasion while others retreat into the background? And how can we cultivate the strength to act, even when the cost is high? In this episode, Aviva Klompas is joined by Bret Stephens, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist known for his intellectual clarity and willingness to challenge prevailing narratives, no matter how uncomfortable. Together, they examine today’s crisis of moral courage—why it’s so scarce, what forces discourage people from speaking out, and what it will take to foster a culture where standing up for truth and justice isn’t the exception, but the expectation. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Guest Bio Bret Stephens is an op-ed columnist for The New York Times and editor-in-chief of Sapir ( sapirjournal.org ), a new quarterly dedicated to exploring issues of Jewish concern. He has previously worked as foreign-affairs columnist and deputy editorial-page editor for The Wall Street Journal and as editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post. Among his many prizes and distinctions are the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary, the 2019 Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and three honorary doctorates. His 2014 book, "America in Retreat: The New Isolationism and the Coming Global Disorder" correctly predicted many of the events of our day. In 2022 he was permanently banned by the government of Russia from visiting that country. Bret was raised in Mexico City and educated at the University of Chicago and the London School of Economics He and his wife, Corinna, have three children and live outside of New York City.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Beyond the Holocaust: Rethinking How to Teach about Jews - with Rachel Fish & Dara Horn 35:41

11 weeks ago35:41

35:41

In this special episode of Boundless Insights , guest host Dr. Rachel Fish speaks with award-winning author and scholar Dr. Dara Horn about the shortcomings of Holocaust education. Too often, it emphasizes universal moral lessons while overlooking Jews themselves and disregarding Jewish life before and after the Holocaust. They explore the concept of the “null curriculum”—the lessons schools leave out—and reveal how a narrow focus on the Holocaust can mislead students into seeing Jews solely as historical or symbolic victims rather than as a thriving, evolving people. Dara also unpacks the “big lie,” the false accusation that portrays Jews as a collective threat to society, and underscores the urgent need to teach a broader, richer view of Jewish history and culture to challenge these dangerous misconceptions. Guest Bio Dara Horn is an award-winning author, including People Love Dead Jews: Reports from a Haunted Present and the novels Eternal Life and The World to Come . Named one of Granta's Best Young American Novelists, she has won three National Jewish Book Awards, and her work has been recognized as a New York Times Notable Books and translated into 13 languages. Her essays have appeared in leading outlets like The New York Times , The Atlantic , and The Wall Street Journal . A Harvard-trained scholar of Yiddish and Hebrew, she has taught at institutions like Sarah Lawrence and Harvard, and lectures internationally. Dara is also the founder of Mosaic Persuasion, a nonprofit dedicated to educating the American public about Jewish civilization. More from Dara Horn Dara Horn's website: darahorn.com One Little Goat by Dara Horn Why the Most Educated People in America Fall for Anti-Semitic Lies in The Atlantic by Dara Horn Is Holocaust Education Making Anti-Semitism Worse in The Atlantic by Dara Horn People Love Dead Jews: Reports from a Haunted Present by Dara Horn…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The Haredi Draft Debate: Faith, Duty, and Israel’s Future – with Eli Paley 24:18

12 weeks ago24:18

24:18

We’re diving into one of the most contentious and emotional debates in Israeli society: Haredim and military service. For decades, ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students have been exempt from Israel’s mandatory draft to focus on Torah study. But with Israel’s security stretched thin after October 7, the debate over Haredi participation in the military has taken on new urgency. Host Aviva Klompas is joined by Eli Paley, a leading voice in the Haredi world, to explore this issue from a deeply informed perspective. We discuss how the Haredi community views military service and why full-time Torah study is central to their identity; the heated debate over fairness, national security, and shared responsibility in Israeli society; and what solutions could balance Israel’s security needs with respect for Haredi values. This is an eye-opening and essential conversation about one of the defining issues shaping Israeli society today. Guest Bio: Eli Paley is a Haredi-Israeli philanthropist, businessman, and social entrepreneur. In his philanthropic role, Paley chairs The Paley Family Foundation. He is also the owner and publisher of "Mishpacha," the largest media group in the Haredi world. As a social entrepreneur, Paley is the chairman of the Paley family foundation and President and founder of the Institute for Strategy and Haredi Policy If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

1
Trump’s Middle East Gamble – with Dr. Michael Oren 17:26

12 weeks ago17:26

17:26

Donald Trump has upended global politics with a radical new proposal. He’s floated the idea of the U.S. taking control of Gaza and relocating the Palestinian population, calling it an opportunity to build a “Riviera of the Middle East.” His proposal marks a dramatic shift from decades of U.S. foreign policy and the longstanding belief that a Palestinian state is essential for regional peace. But is Trump serious? Is this even remotely feasible? To break it all down, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Oren, historian, diplomat, and former Israeli ambassador to the United States. We discuss whether Trump’s idea is a trial balloon or a serious policy shift and America’s evolving role in the region. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Trump's Plan to Take Over Gaza – with Jonathan Schanzer 21:08

13 weeks ago21:08

21:08

President Donald Trump stunned the world when he announced that the United States should take over Gaza, clear the rubble, rebuild it into “the Riviera of the Middle East,” and relocate its population to other countries. Is this a serious policy proposal, a negotiation tactic, or something else entirely? And what does it mean for Israel, the hostages, and the broader Middle East? I’m joined by Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, executive director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, to break down Trump’s stunning announcement and its far-reaching implications. Is Trump’s plan bold or reckless? Could it change the course of the Middle East? Dr. Schanzer brings his expert analysis. Guest Bio Dr. Jonathan Schanzer is the executive director at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), where he oversees the work of the organization’s experts and scholars. Jonathan previously worked as a terrorism finance analyst at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, where he followed and froze the funding of Hamas and al-Qaeda. Jonathan has held previous think tank research positions at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and the Middle East Forum. He has written hundreds of articles on the Middle East and U.S. national security. His most recent book is Gaza Conflict 2021: Hamas, Israel and Eleven Days of War (FDD Press 2021). His other books are State of Failure: Yasser Arafat, Mahmoud Abbas, and the Unmaking of the Palestinian State (Palgrave Macmillan 2013), Hamas vs. Fatah: The Struggle for Palestine (Palgrave Macmillan 2008), and Al-Qaeda’s Armies: Middle East Affiliate Groups and the Next Generation of Terror (Washington Institute for Near East Policy 2004). Jonathan testifies often before Congress and appears on television channels such as CNN, Fox News, BBC, and MSNBC.…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Negotiating with Terror: The Impossible Choices of a Hostage Deal – with Dr. Michael Oren 18:50

13 weeks ago18:50

18:50

It has been almost 500 days since Hamas terrorists stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250 hostages into Gaza. In recent weeks, a hostage deal has held, bringing some hostages home—but with it comes an emotional rollercoaster of relief, fear, and the devastating reality that some will never return. This episode takes a hard look at where things stand. The release of hostages has been met with the simultaneous release of Palestinian prisoners, including convicted murderers, raising urgent questions about what this signals for the future. From Hamas’s perspective, hostage-taking has proven to be an effective strategy, forcing Israel to confront difficult decisions moving forward. To help make sense of the good, the bad, and the painful, I’m joined by historian, diplomat, and former Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Dr. Michael Oren. If you found this episode insightful, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Benjamin Netanyahu: The Man in the Eye of the Storm - with Dr. Michael Oren 23:58

14 weeks ago23:58

23:58

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is navigating an extraordinary set of challenges, from political and public backlash after October 7 to ongoing legal battles and personal health concerns. Today, we delve into the immense pressures facing Israel’s longest-serving leader, the criticisms and demands from every direction, and how history will remember him. Joining us is Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the United States, historian, and prominent commentator on Israeli affairs. Together, we explore Netanyahu’s leadership, the moral and strategic dilemmas he faces, and how history might remember him. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Mentioned in the Show: Six Days of War: June 1967 and the Making of the Modern Middle East by Michael B. Oren Ally: My Journey Across the American-Israeli Divide by Michael B. Oren…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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Is the Two-State Solution Still Viable? – with Dr. Michael Oren 21:32

14 weeks ago21:32

21:32

For decades, the two-state solution has been the cornerstone of international efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This episode delves into its history, from its origins to repeated failed negotiations, and examines whether it remains a viable path forward. In the aftermath of October 7 — a day that fundamentally changed how Israelis view the conflict — the challenges to this vision feel more insurmountable than ever. Can a sovereign Palestinian state be established without compromising Israel’s security? Or has the two-state solution become little more than an empty slogan? Host Aviva Klompas sits down with Dr. Michael Oren — historian and former Israeli ambassador to the United States — to explore whether the two-state solution is still realistic or an outdated delusion in a world where peace feels increasingly elusive. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Referenced in this episode: Israelis, Palestinians and the ‘Two-State Situation’ by Michael Oren, published Feb. 24, 2015…

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

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The Return of Donald Trump – with Dr. Michael Oren 20:48

15 weeks ago20:48