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What does the UAE understand about Iran, Muslim Brotherhood, and extremism that much of the West still refuses to see? In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, host Asher Fredman is joined by Rauda Altenaiji, an Emirati political commentator, geopolitical analyst, author, and motorsport endurance racer, for a powerful conversation on the new Middle East, the Iranian regime, the Muslim Brotherhood, Abraham Accords 2.0, and the battle over narratives in the West. Rauda explains why the UAE refuses to be blackmailed by Iran, why the Strait of Hormuz cannot be held hostage by the Islamic Republic, and how Emirati society responded with resilience and confidence during Iranian missile and drone attacks. She also discusses the UAE’s pride in its armed forces, the country’s national identity, and why Qatar may be reassessing its approach to extremism after the latest regional war.  The conversation also turns to the deeper ideological struggle taking place across the Middle East and the West. Rauda warns that Iran, the Muslim Brotherhood, and other extremist movements do not only fight with rockets and militias - they fight through narrative warfare, media influence, issue framing, and the manipulation of Western freedoms. Drawing on her book Andalusion, she explains how Islamist movements use selective storytelling and psychological strategies to advance their agendas inside Western societies.  Rauda also makes a striking argument: The Iranian regime and other extremists fear women because they understand the power of women to challenge authoritarianism, repression, and ideological control. From Iran’s protest movements to the regime’s propaganda, she explains why women remain at the center of the struggle over Iran’s future.  Asher and Rauda also discuss Abraham Accords 2.0, the future of UAE-Israel ties, Sudan, Somaliland, the failure to confront extremist influence in universities, and why the UAE continues to pursue its national interests with confidence despite criticism. For critical insights on Iran, the UAE, the Muslim Brotherhood, the Abraham Accords, Israel, Gulf security, and the changing Middle East, like, share, and subscribe to Misgav Mideast Horizons. Follow Rauda Altenaiji on X: @FormulaRauda  Follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to: [email protected] Sign up for the Misgav Institute’s Israel in 10: Daily Brief with Laura Cellier - https://izs.activetrail.biz/Israel-in-10-Sign-Up

While Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas attack Israel on the battlefield, a vast and often hidden network of NGOs seeks to demonize and delegitimize Israel in the international arena. How does this network operate - and how does it fuel sanctions campaigns, violent protests, ICC cases, and high-profile media libels, including Nicholas Kristof’s recent op-ed in The New York Times? In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, host Asher Fredman is joined by Olga Deutsch, incoming President of NGO Monitor and Senior Fellow at the Misgav Institute, for a revealing conversation on the vast network of NGOs, activists, media outlets, governments, and international institutions shaping the global narrative against Israel. Deutsch explains how anti-Israel NGOs use the language of human rights and humanitarianism to promote campaigns of delegitimization - from Gaza flotillas and boycott efforts to ICC and ICJ cases, international sanctions campaigns, and media narratives accusing Israel of apartheid, genocide, starvation, and other crimes. She argues that many of these campaigns are not isolated PR efforts, but part of a well-funded political warfare strategy aimed at undermining Israel’s basic legitimacy and national security. The conversation also addresses the controversy surrounding Nicholas Kristof’s recent New York Times op-ed, documented links between various NGOs and designated terrorist organizations, the “halo effect” that shields such organizations from scrutiny, and the flow of taxpayer money from Western governments to the NGO industrial complex. Deutsch also explains what success looks like in this battle: exposing NGO funding, pushing governments to improve vetting and accountability, cutting off support to extremist or terror-linked groups, and changing the way policymakers, journalists, and the public understand the NGO industry. • For critical insights on Israel, Hamas, Iran, the UN, and the changing Middle East, like, share, and subscribe to Misgav Mideast Horizons. • Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to: [email protected] • Follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen • Sign up for Israel in 10: Daily Brief — all the headlines and expert insights you need in just 10 minutes every day: http://izs.activetrail.biz/Israel-in-10-Sign-Up

What is the Arab case for Israel — and how did the Iranian regime distort Shia Islam? In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov are joined by Hussain Abdul-Hussain, Research Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and author of The Arab Case for Israel, for a wide-ranging conversation on Lebanon, Hezbollah, Iran, Iraq, Shia Islam, and the future of Arab-Israeli peace. Born to an Iraqi father and Lebanese mother, Hussain grew up between Saddam Hussein’s Iraq and civil-war Lebanon, later becoming a journalist in Beirut before moving to Washington. He shares the personal journey that led him from anti-Israel slogans to a radically different conclusion: that Israel is not the source of the Arab world’s problems, but a potential asset for Arab prosperity, stability, and peace. Hussain explains why Lebanon has never fully recovered its sovereignty since the rise of armed factions operating outside the state, from the PLO to Hezbollah. He argues that Hezbollah has kept Lebanon trapped as a hostage state, and that the current moment may represent a rare opportunity for Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, restore sovereignty, and move toward peace with Israel. He also offers sharp criticism of the regional and international actors — including Iran, France, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt — whose policies he says have often held Lebanon back. The conversation also dives into Iraq’s future after Saddam, the rise of Iraqi patriotism, the limits of Iranian influence among Arab Shia, and why Iraq’s Shia parties are increasingly cautious about appearing to serve Tehran’s interests. Hussain explains why corruption, weak rule of law, and oil dependency remain major obstacles to Iraq attracting serious investment and becoming a stable regional power. In one of the episode’s most important segments, Hussain challenges common assumptions about Shia Islam, Iran, Jerusalem, and Israel. He argues that the Islamic Republic imported ideological ideas from the Muslim Brotherhood and politicized Shia theology in a way that was foreign to traditional Shia thought. He explains why Khomeini’s revolution transformed Israel into a Shia political enemy — and why many Arab Shia, especially in Iraq, still do not accept Iran’s doctrine of rule by the jurist. In the opening segment, Asher and Lahav analyze the latest developments across the region: Iran’s missile and drone attacks on the UAE and Oman, Israel’s security support for the UAE, the failure of Europe’s “de-escalation” reflex, the difficulties in negotiations with Lebanon, and the growing possibility of renewed escalation in Gaza as Hamas refuses to disarm. For critical insights onIsrael, Iran, Lebanon, Hezbollah, the Abraham Accords, and the changing Middle East, like and subscribe toMisgav Mideast Horizons. Follow Hussain Abdul-Hussain on X at: @hahussain. Purchase “The Arab Case for Israel” on Amazon: https://t.co/0SfZbaFfaI Sign up for Israel in 10: Misgav Daily Brief — all the headlines and key insights you need in just 10 minutes every day- http://izs.activetrail.biz/Israel-in-10-Sign-Up Follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen. Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected].

Is Israel becoming a regional superpower, or is it facing an internal ideological crisis? In this episode of Mideast Horizons, hosts Lahav Harkov and Asher Fredman are joined by Member of Knesset Dan Illouz (Likud) for a candid discussion on the campaign to end UNRWA’s operations, the impact of the Iran war on UAE-Israel ties, the polarizing debate over the ultra-Orthodox draft, and the struggle within the Likud party between classical liberals and socialist populists. Illouz offers a candid look inside Israeli politics at a pivotal moment. He explains why the Haredi draft crisis is not merely a political dispute, but an existential issue for Israel’s security, economy, and future as a strong Jewish and democratic state. He discusses the pressure of taking principled positions inside his own party, the internal battle over the soul of the Likud, and whether Israel’s right can remain committed to free markets, equality before the law, and national responsibility. The conversation also explores Illouz’s legislation targeting UNRWA, why he believes the agency perpetuates the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and how Israel’s move to restrict UNRWA’s operations is being implemented on the ground. As co-chair of the Knesset Abraham Accords Caucus, Illouz also analyzes the future of Abraham Accords 2.0, the impact of Iran’s attacks on Gulf states, and the potential for deeper regional cooperation between Israel, the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and other countries in the Middle East. In the opening segment, Asher and Lahav break down the latest developments on Iran, Washington-Tehran negotiations, the Strait of Hormuz, Israel-UAE security cooperation, Ukraine’s accusations regarding Russian grain shipments, and the political maneuvering ahead of Israel’s next elections. Key Topics Discussed: The Haredi Draft Crisis: Why Illouz believes ultra-Orthodox enlistment is an existential issue for Israel after October 7. Inside the Likud: The struggle between free-market Zionism, populism, interest groups, and coalition politics. UNRWA Under Pressure: How Israel’s anti-UNRWA legislation is being implemented — and why Illouz says the agency must be replaced. Abraham Accords 2.0: How Iran’s attacks on Gulf states could strengthen Israel-Arab security cooperation. Aliyah and Public Service: Illouz’s advice to new immigrants who want to make a real impact in Israeli society. For critical insights on Israel, Iran, the Abraham Accords, Israeli politics, and the future of the Middle East, like, share, and subscribe to Misgav Mideast Horizons. Sign up for Israel in 10: Misgav Daily Brief — all the headlines and key insights you need in just 10 minutes - https://izs.activetrail.biz/Israel-in-10-Sign-Up Follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen. Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected].

In this deeply moving episode of Mideast Horizons, recorded on the eve of Yom HaZikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) and Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day), hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov are joined by Rabbi Doron Perez. Rabbi Perez - President of the World Zionist Organization, Chair of World Mizrachi, and father of Captain Daniel Perez z”l, who fell on October 7 - offers profound insights on the "pain and privilege" of the Jewish experience. He shares his personal perspective on the unique Israeli transition from Memorial Day to Independence Day, and explains how Jewish tradition is defined by bringing our pain with us into moments of redemption. Rabbi Perez reflects on Daniel’s character and legacy, the extraordinary maturity and courage of young Israeli soldiers, and the urgent need to preserve unity within Israel and across the Jewish world even amid deep disagreements. He also addresses the public debate over Israel-Diaspora relations, arguing that no love of land or ideology should come at the expense of love for the Jewish People. In the opening segment, Asher and Lahav analyze the fragile geopolitics of the ceasefires in Iran and Lebanon. They break down the security implications of Israel’s buffer zone in southern Lebanon, and the dangers associated with potential sanctions relief for Iran. They also address a disturbing incident involving the desecration of a Christian statue in Lebanon, emphasizing the urgent need for education and a heavy hand against extremism. Like, Share, and Subscribe to Mideast Horizons for fresh insights into Israel and the Middle East. Sign up for "Israel in 10": Get our daily brief—all the headlines and key insights you need in just 10 minutes every day: https://izs.activetrail.biz/Israel-in-10-Sign-Up. Follow us on X: @MisgavINSen. Suggestions? Email us: [email protected].

In this episode of Mideast Horizons, Robert Greenway provides a rare insider’s perspective on President Trump’s decision-making on Iran, U.S.-Israel military cooperation, and the reshaping of the Middle East. Greenway, Director of the Allison Center for National Security at The Heritage Foundation and former Senior Director for MENA at the U.S. National Security Council, discusses:  The "Epic Fury" Breakthrough: Why the level of operational integration between the U.S. and Israel has surpassed even the historic U.S.-UK partnership. Trump’s Decision-Making: A firsthand account of how President Trump uses provocative negotiations to achieve outcome-oriented national security goals. The "Zero Enrichment" Demand: Why Iran has no right-and no practical need-for domestic nuclear enrichment. The China Connection: Insights from "Project TIDALWAVE," an AI-enabled simulation revealing how the depletion of munitions impacts a potential 35-day culmination window in a conflict with China. Regional Security Architecture: The future of the Abraham Accords and a new regional security, economic, and energy architecture. Unfinished Business: Reflections on the 2020 elimination of Qasem Soleimani and the terrorists still waiting to face justice. In the first segment, hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov reflect on recording during Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) and how the vow of "Never Again" applies in the post-October 7th world. They also discuss: The U.S. Naval Blockade: The economic impact of cutting off 90% of Iran’s trade through the Strait of Hormuz. Historic Lebanon Talks: Analyzing the first high-level meeting between Israeli and Lebanese officials in over 30 years, facilitated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The "Accordion" of French Diplomacy: A look at France’s role in the region and why Israel is moving forward with its security objectives regardless of European pressure. Stay up to date with Misgav: Subscribe to Mideast Horizons for fresh insights into regional security and international alliances. Sign up for "Israel in 10": Get “Israel in 10: Misgav Daily Brief” - all the headlines and key insights you need in just 10 minutes – straight to your inbox: https://izs.activetrail.biz/Israel-in-10-Sign-Up Suggestions? Email us: [email protected]

In this powerful and inspiring episode of Mideast Horizons, hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov are joined by Sana Ebrahimi, a prominent Iranian activist and AI researcher, to discuss the current state of the Islamic Republic, the Iranian opposition, and the growing momentum for regime change. Sana shares her remarkable personal journey, from growing up in a religiously conservative family in Tehran and wearing the chador from age seven, to becoming an outspoken voice against the ayatollah regime. She explains why so many Iranians reject the regime, why she does not believe the war has produced a true “rally around the flag” phenomenon, and why public anger inside Iran remains intense. Sana also provides a masterclass on the landscape of the Iranian opposition, from the “reformists” and the MEK to the evolving movement around Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. She argues that if the American and Israeli operations in Iran succeed in truly weakening the regime’s “killing machine,” a large-scale internal uprising could be on the horizon. Sana also reveals how AI-generated propaganda, fake videos, and coordinated online campaigns are distorting global perceptions of Iran, and what social media platforms should do about it. In the opening segment, Asher and Lahav analyze the current state of Operations Epic Fury and Roaring Lion, and the critical questions on the table regarding any potential deal to end the war. They also discuss the return of Hamas displays of power in Gaza and the new roadmap for disarming the terrorist group presented by U.S. and regional mediators. Key Topics Discussed: Life Inside the Regime: Sana’s journey from a restricted life under the ayatollah regime to a leading voice in the global opposition. The Uprising Timeline: Why the Iranian people are outraged and waiting for the right moment to reclaim their country. Decoding the Opposition: A breakdown of the different groups vying for Iran’s future and why the Pahlavi camp is gaining traction. The First AI War: How generative AI is being used as a weapon of war, and the need for “Responsible AI” in online discourse. Gaza & Lebanon: Insights into the ongoing efforts to disarm Hamas and drive Hezbollah back from Israel’s border. For critical insights on Iran and the changing Middle East, follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen. Please like and share this episode! Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected].

Is Operation Epic Fury a regional conflict, or a testing ground for a new global order? In this episode of Mideast Horizons, hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov are joined by Zineb Riboua to discuss the hidden layers of Operation Epic Fury and its role in U.S.-China global competition. Zineb, a Research Fellow at the Hudson Institute, reveals how Beijing has helped build Iran’s missile arsenal and mass surveillance systems, and used the Islamic Republic as a "laboratory" to test financial channels designed to bypass Western sanctions. She also discusses how the Iran war can help shape an Abraham Accords 2.0, and the unique role that Morocco can play. In the first segment, Asher and Lahav break down the strategic significance of the strike on Ali Larijani, who served as a crucial bridge between Iran’s military and political leadership, discuss a potential ground operation in Lebanon, and address the bizarre wave of online conspiracy theories, including claims that Prime Minister Netanyahu has been replaced by AI. Key Topics Discussed: • The China Connection: Why China views Iran as a strategic partner and shield. • The Indo-Pacific Pivot: How a successful operation against Iran could finally allow the U.S. to focus its resources on Beijing. • "Third-Worldism" & Propaganda: Why anti-Western ideologies are becoming more attractive in the West than in the Middle East. • Abraham Accords 2.0: Deepening coordination between Israel and Arab states. • Regional Deradicalization: Utilizing the Moroccan model of deradicalization to reshape the future of Gaza. • Lebanon on the Brink: The potential for a broader ground invasion against Hezbollah. • The Sahel "Black Swan": The overlooked threat of Al-Qaeda’s expansion in West Africa and its implications for the West. For critical insights on Iran, follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen. Please like and share this episode! Send your questions and comments to [email protected].

Former Israeli National Security Adviser and Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Prof. Jacob Nagel, joins Mideast Horizons for a wide-ranging conversation on the war with Iran, unprecedented US-Israel cooperation, and the future of the Middle East. With Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov, he discusses how Israel and the United States are coordinating across intelligence, air power, logistics, and “science-fiction” technologies - and shares what victory against Iran could look like. In the first segment of this episode, Lahav and Asher share insights on the potential timeline of the Iran war, the ayatollah regime’s survival strategy, Israel’s resilience, and why serious people should not go on Piers Morgan’s show. Prof. Jacob Nagel is Israel’s former National Security Advisor and head of the National Security Council. He currently heads the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology’s Center for Security Science and Technology. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Following a more than 40-year career in the IDF, Defense Ministry, and Prime Minister’s Office, Prof. Nagel was selected to chair Israel’s national commissions on the security budget and IDF force build-up, and on artificial intelligence. For critical insights on Iran and the changing Middle East, follow the Misgav Institute on X: @MisgavINSen. Please like and share this episode! Send your questions, comments, and suggestions for future podcast topics and guests to [email protected].

Can the UN be repaired - or should it be defunded and replaced? In this episode of Mideast Horizons, former Israeli Minister and Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan joins Asher Fredman for a candid, no-holds-barred conversation about the failure of the UN system, the future of Gaza, and the historic opportunity now facing the U.S. and Israel in Iran. Ambassador Erdan pulls back the curtain on his four years at the UN, describing an organization that is “broken and corrupt” and dominated by non-democratic regimes. As PM Netanyahu meets with President Trump, Erdan argues that we are facing a "watershed moment” in which the U.S. and Israel must focus on one goal: regime change in Tehran. Topics covered: The UN Exposed: Why the UN is beyond repair and why the U.S. should defund it. The Trump Opportunity: Why a new Iran “deal” isn’t enough - and why the West must support the Iranian people in their efforts to topple the ayatollahs. Gaza’s Future: Erdan explains why the PA must have no role in Gaza, and why international forces cannot be relied upon to oversee Hamas’s demilitarization. The Communications War: A candid look at Israel’s failure to prioritize public diplomacy and the urgent steps needed to strengthen Israel’s international standing. Resilience Under Fire: Erdan’s new mission as Global President of Magen David Adom and how his ambulance teams prepare for incoming Iranian missiles. What’s Next? Erdan discusses his plans for the future, including his intention to return to politics. Don’t miss this insider’s look at the global diplomatic battlefield! Watch, share, and subscribe to Mideast Horizons for more in-depth conversations with leading policymakers and strategic thinkers. You can send comments or suggestions to [email protected].

In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov sit down with Dr. Ariel Admoni - one of Israel’s leading experts on Qatar - for a deep dive into the most controversial actor in the Middle East today. Is Qatar merely a mediator between warring sides - or something far more strategic and dangerous? Dr. Admoni, a Senior Fellow at the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security, explains Qatar’s decades-long relationship with the Muslim Brotherhood, its hosting and financing of Hamas leadership, and how Doha has positioned itself as the “default” intermediary for the United States - from Gaza to the Taliban to the Houthis. We examine whether Qatar’s role reflects good-faith mediation or a sophisticated strategy to legitimize terror actors while expanding its global influence. The conversation explores: Qatar’s ideological and financial ties to the Muslim Brotherhood Whether Al Jazeera functions as an independent media outlet or a Qatari state instrument How Qatar leverages education, universities, aid, and media to shape Western discourse Qatar’s influence operations in Washington and Europe The controversy surrounding “Qatargate” in Israel Whether Qatar could ever join the Abraham Accords The strategic risks of Qatari involvement in post-war Gaza Dr. Admoni argues that Qatar’s power lies not in overt confrontation, but in subtle, long-term influence - shaping academic narratives, political incentives, and media ecosystems across the West. In the opening segment, Asher and Lahav analyze the latest developments regarding Iran and the possibility of renewed U.S.–Iran negotiations, Israel’s strategic timeline vis-à-vis Iranian missile and air defense rebuilding, Israel’s surprising economic resilience in 2025, and the debate over how democracies should combat rising antisemitism. Subscribe and follow Misgav Mideast Horizons for fresh insights into the most critical security and diplomatic issues facing Israel and the Middle East! You can send comments or suggestions to [email protected].

In this powerful episode of Mideast Horizons, recorded on the eve of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, hosts Asher Fredman and Lahav Harkov sit down with Arsen Ostrovsky, Misgav Institute Senior Fellow and Head of the Sydney Office of the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC). Arsen shares his harrowing firsthand account of surviving the Bondi Beach terror attack, which claimed the lives of fifteen innocent people gathered for a Chanukah celebration. As gunfire rang out and victims lay wounded around him, Arsen was shot in the head and believed he might never see his wife and daughters again. His survival, which doctors later described as a miracle, has reshaped his personal mission and intensified his resolve to combat antisemitism worldwide. The conversation explores the explosion of antisemitism since October 7, how anti-Zionism increasingly serves as a mask for anti-Jewish hate, and how unchecked incitement led to Islamist violence. Arsen discusses the lessons that the global Jewish community, Australia, and all democracies must learn from the deadly attack. The episode also delves into the rise of AI-generated disinformation, the role of social media companies and governments in confronting online hate, the rise of Holocaust distortion, and strategies for defending Israel in the international legal and diplomatic arenas. In the first part of this episode, Lahav and Asher discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by President Trump’s Board of Peace, the danger of Israeli concessions in Syria, developments in Iran, and the deeper trends driving Saudi Arabia’s increasingly hostile stance towards Israel and the UAE. This is a sobering, courageous, and ultimately hopeful conversation about resilience, responsibility, and the urgent need for moral clarity and bold action in the fight against antisemitic hate. Please subscribe and share the Misgav Mideast Horizons podcast! You can send comments or suggestions to [email protected].

In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, we sit down with Isaac “Yitz” Applbaum - one of the most experienced investors in Israeli technology and a key figure at the intersection of Israeli, American, Saudi, and Emirati innovation - for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of defense tech, regional cooperation, and the U.S.–Israel relationship. Yitz, Chair of Kinetica Partners and Senior Advisor to the Saudi Minister of Communications, IT, and Space, shares his remarkable personal journey from Brooklyn to Israel to the GCC, and explains why he believes Israel–Saudi normalization is coming sooner than most people think. Drawing on years of firsthand experience in the Gulf, he outlines where cooperation between Israel and Saudi Arabia could be transformational - particularly in defense, healthcare, AI, agtech, and water - and why the combination of Israeli innovation and Saudi scale could be a true “100X” moment. We also dive deep into the global defense tech boom following October 7, and what it means for Israel’s economy, innovation ecosystem, and international standing. Yitz explains why countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States are increasingly looking to Israel not just to buy systems, but to co-develop and co-invest in next-generation defense technologies. He discusses the rise of early-stage defense startups, the role of elite IDF talent, and what Israel’s government can do to better support this rapidly growing sector. In the latter part of the conversation, we explore how U.S.–Israel defense cooperation could evolve beyond traditional military aid toward deeper partnerships, joint projects, and large-scale initiatives. Yitz also reflects personally on October 7, the surge in antisemitism on both the Left and the Right, and how it has changed the way he engages with the world.   In the first part of the episode, we go beyond the headlines to discuss the latest developments related to President Trump’s Board of Peace, Gaza, the Iran protests, Josh Shapiro and the Harris campaign, and deepening UAE–India ties. This is a candid, insider discussion on technology, alliances, and the future of the Middle East—with someone who is helping shape all three. Listen now, share the episode, and rate it 5 stars wherever you get your podcasts! You can send comments or suggestions to [email protected].

Is it time for Israel to wean itself off of American military aid? According to former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren, the answer is a resounding yes. In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, hosts Lahav Harkov and Asher Fredman are joined by Dr. Michael Oren—historian, diplomat, and former deputy minister—for a provocative conversation on the future of the U.S.-Israel alliance, Iran, and potential flashpoints between Trump and Netanyahu. Oren argues that U.S. aid has rendered Israel "less than sovereign" and exposed the Jewish state to dangerous pressure during wartime. Oren also provides a historian’s perspective on the collapse of the Iranian regime and Israel’s current geopolitical strength, and sets the record straight on one of the most controversial conspiracy theories in U.S.-Israel history: the USS Liberty incident. In this episode, Michael Oren discusses: The Case for Independence: Why U.S. aid is actually a subsidy for American arms manufacturers—and why weaning Israel off it is essential for national survival. The Iranian End-Game: Why the regime is a "shell of what it was," and the possibility of a deal where regime elements turn on the Ayatollahs to survive. The USS Liberty: A definitive, historical debunking of the conspiracy theories surrounding the 1967 friendly-fire tragedy. Campus Antisemitism: Why the "old methods" of fighting Jew-hatred in academia—shaming and educating—no longer work. The "Day After" in Gaza: The strategy Israel should adopt with regards to the International Stabilization Force. In the opening segment: Lahav and Asher analyze the latest psychological warfare coming out of Tehran, including "poetic" threatening text messages sent to Israelis. They also discuss the chaotic succession battle looming in the Palestinian Authority, what the latest developments teach us about Trump’s national security doctrine, and the life and legacy of late archaeologist Gabriel Barkay. Listen now, share the episode, and rate it 5 stars wherever you get your podcasts! You can send comments or suggestions to [email protected].

As we kick off 2026, the Iranian regime finds itself at its most vulnerable point in 47 years. Following the devastating "12-Day War" that exposed the regime's military weakness, and amidst a crushing economic collapse, the Iranian people are rising up with renewed courage. In this episode of Misgav Mideast Horizons, hosts Lahav Harkov and Asher Fredman are joined by Mehrdad Marty Yousefiani, an Iranian-American strategic communications expert and former chief strategic counselor to Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. Drawing on his deep ties to actors on the ground and in the Iranian diaspora, Marty takes us inside the current protests, explaining why this wave is fundamentally different from the past – and what the Day After could look like. In the opening segment, Lahav and Asher take stock of the start of 2026—looking at Israel’s surprising economic and societal resilience, the political and demographic debates shaping the year ahead, and the fast-moving regional dynamics that are putting Tehran under unprecedented pressure. Topics Discussed: The "Emperor Has No Clothes": How Israel’s air superiority during the "12-Day War" shattered the regime's image of power. It’s the Economy: Why the collapse of the rial and the "Bazaar strikes" are posing an existential threat to the Ayatollahs. The "Do No Harm" Doctrine: Marty’s critical advice for President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu on how to support the Iranian people without tainting their movement. The Day After: Visions of a pluralistic, democratic Iran and the restoration of "fraternal relations" with Israel. Israel at 2026: Lahav and Asher analyze Israel's economic success—boasting a $64k GDP per capita—and the internal political shifts as the country moves past the war. Don't miss this insider’s look at the crumbling of the Iranian regime and what a free Iran could mean for the entire Middle East. Chapters 00:00 - Opening: The End of the Iranian Regime? 01:06 - Welcome to Misgav Mideast Horizons 02:30 - Israel 2026: The Economic Miracle ($64k GDP) vs. Social Challenges 10:41 - The "Maduro Effect": Does Venezuela’s Fall Signal the End for Iran? 13:50 - Guest Intro: Who is Marty Yousefiani? 14:14 - Inside the New Iranian Revolution 18:15 - Why This Time is Different: The "Bazaar Strikes" & Economic Collapse 23:00 - Is the Regime Cracking? Signs of Instability in the IRGC 27:35 - After the "12-Day War": How Israel’s Air Superiority Exposed the Regime 32:30 - Trump’s Warning: How the Capture of Maduro Shook the Ayatollahs 35:55 - "Do No Harm": Critical Advice for Netanyahu & Trump on Supporting Iran 39:25 - Who Replaces the Mullahs? Pahlavi, Republicans & The Opposition Coalition  43:10 - The Day After: A Vision for Peace & Trade Between Israel and a Free Iran Listen now, share the episode, and rate it 5 stars wherever you get your podcasts! You can send comments or suggestions to [email protected].