G7 Summit in Italy and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Influence

Military analyst Rebecca Grant discusses G7 summit priorities in Italy and concerns over Russian aggression near Cuba. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni aims to strengthen Italy's influence in Europe and maintain strong ties with the U.S. Meloni has been a valuable U.S. ally, supporting Ukraine and withdrawing from China's Belt and Road Initiative. The G-7 summit will focus on international issues like climate change, Africa, and Israel's conflict with Hamas. Meloni's success is seen as a threat to Putin, who launched a propaganda campaign against her.

Benny Gantz Resigns from Israeli Government

Benny Gantz, a key member of Israel's war cabinet and longtime rival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, resigned from Netanyahu's government, citing a lack of progress in the conflict with Hamas in Gaza and growing discontent among the Israeli public.

U.S. Intelligence Assistance in Hostage Rescue in Gaza

U.S. intelligence assisted Israel in rescuing four hostages in Gaza, providing crucial information and logistical support. President Biden and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan praised the rescue and emphasized ongoing efforts to secure the release of all hostages. The U.S. and U.K. have been supporting Israel with intelligence during the conflict.

Pro-Palestinian Protest at the White House

Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators surrounded the White House with a 'red line' banner to symbolize a boundary for President Joe Biden over his support for Israel in the war on Gaza. Israel had not crossed Biden's 'red line' despite the ongoing conflict. Names of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces were written on the banner. The protest took place hours after Israel rescued four hostages kidnapped by Hamas.

Student Antiwar Movement and University Divestment

Student antiwar movement demanding universities divest from Israeli companies with ties to Gaza war continues over summer. Protests, encampments, arrests, and suspensions reported at various universities. Demonstrations planned in different cities. Movement gaining momentum despite opposition.

Anti-Israel Agitators at Stanford University

Anti-Israel agitators occupy offices at Stanford University, causing vandalism and graffiti with hateful messages. Protesters demand divestment from companies doing business with Israel over Gaza conflict. University responds by suspending participants and removing protest camp.

President Joe Biden's comments on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gaza conflict

President Joe Biden suggests Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prolonging Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza for political gain. Biden emphasizes the need for a two-state solution and criticizes Netanyahu's stance on Gaza's future.

Resignations from Biden Administration over Israel Support

Two officials who resigned from the Biden Administration over his support for Israel amid the war in Gaza spoke about a 'dam breaking' among American government. They mentioned that many others in government are upset with the president's foreign policy.

Taylor Swift urged to speak out on Gaza conflict

Swifties are calling on Taylor Swift to break her silence on Gaza, hoping to catch her attention during her Eras Tour. Fans are urging Swift to speak out about the ongoing conflict and show support for Palestine.

Israeli military warning to evacuate parts of Rafah, Gaza

Israeli military issues urgent warning to evacuate parts of Rafah, Gaza, despite warnings from the United States. The conflict escalates as Israel plans a full-scale ground assault on the city, facing criticism for civilian casualties and international law violations.

Anti-Israel Protest at University of Pennsylvania

Police dismantled an anti-Israel encampment at the University of Pennsylvania, arresting protesters after over two weeks of demonstrations. Six students were given temporary leaves of absence. The protests were in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

US Politics and International Relations

House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Rep. Adam Smith urges the White House to clarify and reiterate support for Israel after President Biden's comments. He criticizes Hamas for holding up a ceasefire and calls for a message to be pushed about it. Smith also acknowledges concerns about Israel's conduct in the Gaza conflict.

Anti-Israel Protesters Confront Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Anti-Israel protesters confronted Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer at a restaurant, questioning her stance on the Gaza conflict.

US halts arms shipment to Israel amid concerns over possible offensive on Rafah

The United States halted a large shipment of offensive weapons to Israel in concern over a possible military offensive on Rafah, urging compromise and a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas. The decision reflects growing friction between the U.S. and Israel over the war in Gaza.

Current Events

Israel observes Holocaust Remembrance Day amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza, Boeing launches astronauts to the International Space Station, U.S. House of Representatives may vote on a bill regarding non-citizens in the census, NPR reports on immigration stories from the U.S.-Mexico border, Jeff Beal, composer of House of Cards theme, discusses living with multiple sclerosis and his latest music collection, original Harry Potter book cover illustration to be auctioned at Sotheby's.

Criticism of Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu

Rep. Jerry Nadler criticized Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu as the worst Jewish leader since an infamous Biblical figure. The conflict between Netanyahu and liberal Democrats like Schumer and Nadler has intensified due to the ongoing war in Gaza.

Response to Anti-Israel Protests on College Campuses

Sen. John Kennedy criticizes President Biden's response to anti-Israel protests on college campuses. College Democrats support the protests, calling them heroic and advocating for divestment from Israel.

Protesters at Harvard University raise Palestinian flags

Protesters at Harvard University raised Palestinian flags, which sparked tension and misinformation on social media claiming the university replaced the American flag. The university did not replace the flag, and the flags were removed by Harvard staff. The ongoing war in Gaza has led to student protests across the US. Harvard's response to the protests has been misrepresented on social media.

Pro-Palestinian Activists Blockade French Universities

Pro-Palestinian activists in France have spread their blockades to various universities, protesting against the perceived complicity of the universities in the Gaza conflict. The movement has gained momentum both in the US and France, with calls for denouncing the ongoing 'genocide' in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Faces Pressure Over Gaza Conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure from all sides over the ongoing war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, with calls for a cease-fire to bring home remaining hostages and end the devastating conflict. Diplomatic efforts are underway to secure a truce, but challenges remain as Netanyahu weighs the fate of hostages against his mission to destroy Hamas.

Pro-Palestinian Activists Blockading Sorbonne University in Paris

Far-left pro-Palestinian student activists in Paris blockade Sorbonne University following similar actions at Sciences Po. Activists demand debates on Gaza conflict and support for Palestinian cause. Political figures and parties have conflicting views on the blockades.

Anti-Israel Protests in the U.S.

Anti-Israel protests break out in cities nationwide with clashes between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups, leading to arrests and disruptions in major economic hubs.

Iran's Attack on Israel and Global Responses

UN Secretary-General calls for maximum restraint and de-escalation in the Middle East after Iran launches attack on Israel. World leaders urge Israel not to retaliate. Germany and some African governments call for de-escalation. Death toll rises in Gaza conflict. US works to prevent escalation as Biden pushes Israel to show restraint.

Israeli Airstrike Kills Sons of Hamas Leader

Three sons of Hamas' top political leader were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict. The leader accused Israel of acting in the spirit of revenge and murder, vowing not to cave in to pressure. The situation has strained relations between Israel and the U.S., with President Biden criticizing Netanyahu's handling of the conflict and urging for increased aid to Gaza.

Antiwar Rallies by Palestinian Citizens of Israel

Palestinian citizens of Israel are starting to hold antiwar rallies after six months of fighting in Gaza, with voices growing louder in opposition to the war.

State Department staff dissent over Biden's support for Israel amid Gaza conflict

State Department staff are expressing unprecedented dissent and unhappiness over President Biden's support for Israel amid the Gaza conflict, resulting in internal opposition and resignations. The killing of international aid workers by Israel has sparked outrage and led to a disconnect between State Department analysis and White House decisions.

Hezbollah's Warning to Israel and US Involvement in Gaza Conflict

Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah warns Israel after Iranian consulate attack and killing of Revolutionary Guard generals. Tensions escalate with threats of retaliation against Israel. US warns Israel over Gaza war tactics and humanitarian aid.

U.S.-Israel Relations and Gaza Conflict

President Biden issues ultimatum to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding Gaza conflict, stating that U.S. support may be withdrawn if Israel does not change course.

U.S. Sending Bombs to Israel Amid Conflict in Gaza

The U.S. is sending a fresh round of bombs to Israel, despite public frustration with Israel's conduct in the war. The bombs can cause civilian deaths, and there are concerns about their use. Cease-fire negotiations are ongoing, but the conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and destruction in Gaza.

Rep. Tim Walberg's Controversial Comments on Gaza Conflict

Rep. Tim Walberg of Michigan made controversial comments comparing the conflict in Gaza to Nagasaki and Hiroshima, suggesting the need for swift resolution without humanitarian aid. His remarks were criticized by fellow politicians and deemed unacceptable.

U.S. Financial Support for Wars in Ukraine and Gaza

The episode explores the debate around U.S. financial support for wars in Ukraine and Gaza, discussing taxpayer contributions, foreign assistance, and arms sales. It delves into the complexities of calculating the average taxpayer's contribution to these conflicts.

Eurovision Song Contest artists' response to Israel's participation

A group of artists set to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest express discomfort over Israel's participation due to the ongoing military offensive in Gaza, but stop short of boycotting the competition. Some LGBTQ+ artists call for a boycott, while others believe in the unifying power of music and wish for peace and solidarity. The European Broadcasting Union allows Israel to participate after changing the entry deemed political.

American Support for Israel in Gaza Conflict

A Harvard-Harris poll shows strong American support for Israel over Hamas in the Gaza conflict, with 79% backing Israel. The majority of American voters also oppose the Biden administration's policies on the issue.

Pro-Palestinian Protesters Interrupt President Biden's Speech in North Carolina

Pro-Palestinian protesters interrupted President Biden's speech in North Carolina, demanding more healthcare in Gaza. Biden acknowledged their point and emphasized the importance of healthcare for everyone.

Tensions between White House and Israel over Gaza conflict

Tensions are rising between the White House and Israel as the war in Gaza intensifies. Biden supports Israel's goals but criticizes its actions. The relationship between Biden and Netanyahu is strained, with the U.S. pushing for an independent Palestinian state, which Netanyahu opposes. The U.S. continues to provide military aid to Israel despite criticism of its operations in Gaza.

U.S. Military Building Port in Gaza for Humanitarian Aid

President Joe Biden will announce in his State of the Union address that the U.S. military will build a port on the Mediterranean coast of Gaza to aid in the import of humanitarian aid via large ships. The port will initially be led by the military but is expected to transition to a commercially operated facility over time.

Recent Developments in the Middle East

Supreme Court rules Trump can't be kicked off ballot over Capitol riot; American diplomat in Beirut to de-escalate Hezbollah-Israel conflict; Anti-tank missile hits field in northern Israel, one dead; Benny Gantz in Washington amid tension with Netanyahu; Family members of Hamas hostages demand release in Israel; Israeli forces raid Ramallah, killing 16-year-old; Gen. Kurilla meets with Israel's defense minister; Gallup poll shows declining opinions of Israel and Palestinian Authority in the U.S.; UN human rights chief warns against escalation in Gaza conflict

Biden administration's efforts to salvage cease-fire negotiations in Gaza

The Biden administration is trying to salvage cease-fire negotiations after dozens of Palestinians were reportedly killed by Israeli forces while waiting in line for humanitarian aid in Gaza. There is growing concern that a deal may not be finalized, despite efforts from President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The administration remains unwilling to make major policy shifts towards Israel, but is urging Israel to investigate the attack in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's Press Conference on Gaza Conflict and Domestic Issues

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized Israel's determination to continue fighting in Gaza despite international pressure. He condemned a terror attack in the West Bank and highlighted the need for unity among Israelis. Netanyahu also addressed the issue of military draft and rejected the idea of calling early elections amidst the ongoing war.

Michigan Voters' Message to President Biden

In Michigan, voters sent a message to President Biden by voting 'uncommitted' in the Democratic primary, concerned about his stance on the Gaza conflict. The campaign plans to engage with younger, Arab American, and Muslim voters to address their concerns. The co-chair of the Biden campaign emphasizes Biden's fitness for presidency and contrasts his ideas with those of Donald Trump.

Michigan Primary Results and Biden Campaign Challenges

NPR's Mary Louise Kelly discusses the Michigan primary results and challenges for the Biden campaign with Mitch Landrieu, the national co-chair of the Biden campaign. A group in Michigan encouraged voters to vote 'uncommitted' to send a message about President Biden's stance on the Gaza conflict.

Michigan Democrats Threatening to Stay Home Over President Biden's Handling of Gaza

Michigan Democrats threaten to stay home over President Biden's handling of Gaza, with rising state lawmaker Abraham Aiyash criticizing Biden for not pushing for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war. Aiyash urges others to vote 'uncommitted' in the presidential primary.

Michigan State Representative and 'Vote Uncommitted' Movement

State Representative Abraham Aiyash and other young leaders in Michigan are supporting a 'Vote Uncommitted' movement in the primary due to President Biden's handling of Israel's war in Gaza, calling for a ceasefire and a shift in policy to save lives.