It began as a network of Islamic charities: Schools, clinics, and food drives serving Gaza’s poorest families. But within a few years, that network evolved into Hamas: a militant organisation waging jihad against Israel, the absolute ruler of Gaza, and the orchestrator of the October 7th attack.

Born from the ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood and guided by an antisemitic charter, Hamas built an empire of arms and billions of dollars. It became one of the most powerful terror groups in the world, and it all started with one man in a wheelchair. Today, we bring you - The Origin Story of Hamas.

Join us for more on: israelipuzzle.com Guest: Shlomi Eldar

Executive Producer: Gusti Yehoshua Braverman, Host: Elad Simchayoff, Producer: Rom Atik, Sound Design and Mix: Assaf Rappaport

In the 1960s and 70s, hundreds of thousands of young volunteers from the UK, Sweden, the US, and across the Western world came to Israel to live and work on kibbutzim. For a generation of idealistic, left-leaning youth, the kibbutz offered a rare opportunity: A living, breathing experiment in equality, community, and hard work under the Mediterranean sun.

For many, it was an unforgettable chapter of connection between the Western Left and Israel. But that bond didn’t last.

What began as a love affair gradually turned into disillusionment. The same cultural and political movements that once celebrated Israel’s socialist experiment now lead the campaign against it.

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Guests:

Professor Yaara Bar-On, Paul Mor, and Yoav Bril

Host: Elad Simchayoff, Executive Producer: Gusti Yehoshua Braverman, Producer: Nir Goraly, Sound Design and Mix: Daniel Shemer

In 1975, the United Nations voted to equate Zionism with racism. For Israel, it felt like an international indictment of its very existence, so much so that the Israeli ambassador literally tore the resolution apart. The UN's decision, however, was much larger than just Israel. Cold War politics, Arab alliances, and Soviet influence are all important parts of today's story. A story that ended with a surprising twist.

Join us for more at: israelipuzzle.com

Guest: Prof. Yoav Tenembaum

Host: Elad Simchayoff, Executive Producer: Gusti Yehoshua Braverman, Producer: Nir Goraly, Sound Design and Mix: Daniel Shemer