Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas

Boundless Israel, Inc.

When it comes to Israel, antisemitism, and American Jewry, the conversations are seemingly endless—there are so many perspectives and so many difficult questions that it can be hard to know where to start.

That’s why we created Boundless Insights—to bring you thoughtful, in-depth, and engaging discussions to help make sense of the issues.

Our goal is to become your trusted source for insights that are not just informative, but also empowering – giving you the confidence to start conversations of your own.

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173 episodes
Updated July 29

Episodes173

Newest first

Aug 14, 2025 · 35 min
The Israel–Diaspora Divide - with Yossi Klein Halevi
Yossi Klein Halevi joins Dr. Rachel Fish for an honest and moving conversation about the State of Israel, Zionism, and the widening rift with the American Jewish community. From the trauma of October 7 to the breakdown of Israel’s political consensus, Yossi reflects on how Israelis are navigating war, grief, and internal division. Together, they explore why American and Israeli Jews understand power, victimhood, and identity so differently, and what’s at stake if they continue to talk past one another. Along the way, Halevi shares what still gives him hope, and how a 12-year-old’s question in synagogue revealed something profound about how Jews understand themselves across the globe. Guest Bio: Yossi Klein Halevi is a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem. Together with Imam Abdullah Antepli of Duke University, he co-directs the Institute's Muslim Leadership Initiative (MLI), which teaches emerging young Muslim American leaders about Judaism, Jewish identity and Israel. Halevi’s 2013 book, Like Dreamers, won the Jewish Book Council's Everett Book of the Year Award. His latest book, Letters to My Palestinian Neighbor, is a New York Times bestseller. He writes for leading op-ed pages in the US, including the Times and the Wall Street Journal, and is a former contributing editor to the New Republic.
Aug 11, 2025 · 28 min
The Rules Only Israel Has to Follow – with John Spencer
We want to hear from you. Send questions and comments to podcast@boundlessisrael.org or message Aviva on X at @avivaklompas. Israel is fighting two wars: one on the ground in Gaza—and another in the court of global opinion. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas is joined by urban warfare expert John Spencer to discuss the double standards Israel faces in its fight against Hamas. While other democracies conduct military campaigns with little scrutiny, Israel is seemingly expected to wage war without civilian casualties. Aviva and John discuss the pressure on the IDF to operate under moral and tactical constraints that no other military would accept—and how those constraints may be prolonging the war and increasing the death toll on both sides. 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 Madison Policy Forum, Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. More from John on double standards: https://x.com/SpencerGuard/status/1951354086282109391
Aug 7, 2025 · 20 min
The Rush to Recognize a Palestinian State Part 2 – with Dr. Michael Oren
We want to hear from you. Send questions and comments to podcast@boundlessisrael.org or message Aviva on X at @avivaklompas. In part two of their conversation, host Aviva Klompas and Dr. Michael Oren examine the deeper forces behind the global push to recognize a Palestinian state—and what this moment reveals about the West’s enduring relationship with the Jewish people. As the Gaza narrative shifts from war to famine, Oren argues that charges of Israeli genocide are not rooted in policy, but in long-standing antisemitic tropes. He and Aviva explore how Western media shapes public perception, the political calculus behind recognition efforts in France and the UK, and whether we are witnessing a return to the pre-Holocaust “old normal” of antisemitism in the West. They also discuss the limits of public diplomacy, the strategic consequences for Israel, and whether October 7 marked a historic turning point—not just for the Jewish state, but for the West itself.
Aug 4, 2025 · 17 min
The Rush to Recognize a Palestinian State Part 1 – with Dr. Michael Oren
We want to hear from you. Send questions and comments to podcast@boundlessisrael.org or message Aviva on X at @avivaklompas. France, the United Kingdom, and Canada have each announced they plan to recognize a Palestinian state this September at the United Nations General Assembly. The move has been harshly criticized by Israeli and U.S. officials, who argue it rewards Hamas and risks further undermining hostage negotiations. Host Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren—former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., historian, and veteran strategic analyst—to discuss the implications. They examine whether recognition is symbolic or substantive, the domestic and diplomatic motivations behind it, whether other countries are poised to follow, and how Israel should respond in strategy and rhetoric. They also reflect on what this moment reveals about the ideological divide between liberal democracies and rising Islamist influence across Europe and the Middle East. New Words from Dr. Oren: Solipsism - the quality of being very self-centered or selfish
Jul 31, 2025 · 21 min
Canada’s Antisemitism Crisis – with Melissa Lantsman
Antisemitism in Canada has exploded in ways that few could have imagined. Attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, and businesses have become frighteningly common. How did it get this bad in a country that prides itself on tolerance and multiculturalism? Why have leaders at every level failed to protect their Jewish communities? And what does this say about Canada’s moral standing at home and on the global stage? In this episode, host Aviva Klompas talks with Melissa Lantsman, Deputy Leader of Canada’s Conservative Party and a Member of Parliament from Thornhill, Ontario. They explore why antisemitism is spiraling out of control, what meaningful responses might look like, and how Canadian society is grappling with questions of free speech, hate speech, and rising polarization Guest Bio: Melissa Lantsman is the Member of Parliament for Thornhill and Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. Elected in 2021, she previously served as the Shadow Minister for Transport and as a Senior Advisor to leading Canadian political figures. Melissa believes in breaking the mold and in bringing new ideas and energy to Ottawa. She represents the next generation in Canadian politics. Born and raised in the community she now serves, Melissa was taught by her immigrant parents to work hard and to stand up for what’s right. Those are values that have guided her in all points of her life and career. Melissa is an award-winning communicator and was amongst Canada’s most sought-after public affairs executives. She has served on various boards of directors, was a regular TV commentator and hosted her own radio show. Her writing has been featured in Canada’s largest circulation publications.
Jul 30, 2025 · 2 min
Unpublished Opinions: Why Hamas Abandoned Negotiations - with Aviva Klompas
In this episode of Unpublished Opinions, Aviva Klompas shares a letter to the editor that never made it to print, unpacking why Hamas no longer feels the need to negotiate. While the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is real and devastating, global outrage has been overwhelmingly directed at Israel—giving Hamas exactly what it wants: cover, leverage, and zero accountability. Aviva explains how international institutions, campus protests, and media narratives have created a dynamic in which terrorists are rewarded and hostages are forgotten. Got thoughts? We want to hear them. Email us at podcast@boundlessisrael.org or message Aviva on X @avivaklompas.
Jul 28, 2025 · 28 min
Gaza at a Boiling Point - with Jonathan Conricus
Host Aviva Klompas is joined by Lt. Colonel (Res.) Jonathan Conricus to discuss the escalating pressure on Israel—from mounting international outrage over the humanitarian situation in Gaza to the breakdown of hostage negotiations. As accusations of starvation and civilian suffering dominate global headlines, Israel faces growing condemnation from foreign governments, the UN, and aid organizations. Meanwhile, with 50 hostages still in Hamas captivity and no deal in sight, tensions are rising at home. What’s Israel’s strategy now—militarily, diplomatically, and morally? Have thoughts on the episode? Email us at podcast@boundlessisrael.org or message Aviva on X at @avivaklompas. 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.
Jul 25, 2025 · 2 min
Unpublished Opinions: Mahmoud Khalil Visits Congress - with Aviva Klompas
We’re trying something new on Boundless Insights. Welcome to Unpublished Opinions—a mini-series where Aviva Klompas shares letters to the editor that didn’t make it to print, but still make an argument worth hearing. In this first episode, Aviva takes a closer look at Mahmoud Khalil—a leader of Columbia’s anti-Israel encampment who was recently released from federal detention. Homeland Security accused him of engaging in activity aligned with Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization. Since his release, Khalil’s become a political and media darling—despite refusing to condemn the atrocities of October 7. Aviva asks: why are members of Congress celebrating a man who won’t denounce terrorists? Got thoughts? We want to hear them. Email us at podcast@boundlessisrael.org or message Aviva on X @avivaklompas.
Jul 24, 2025 · 26 min
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation & The Battle Over Aid in Gaza – with Rev. Johnnie Moore
For years, UNRWA positioned itself as the primary source of humanitarian aid in Gaza. But after October 7, its deep entanglement with Hamas became undeniable. A dozen UNRWA employees participated in the massacre. Up to 10% of its Gaza staff are linked to terror groups. And aid meant for civilians has been diverted, looted, and weaponized to fund Hamas’s war machine. So what’s the alternative? In this episode, host Aviva Klompas speaks with Rev. Johnnie Moore, Executive Chairman of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation—a new initiative led by global leaders determined to deliver food and aid directly to civilians, without empowering terrorists. They discuss what’s happening on the ground in Gaza, how Hamas is manipulating the aid system, and why legacy organizations like UNRWA are fiercely resisting new models of humanitarian relief. Guest Bio: Rev. Johnnie Moore, PhD is a human rights advocate and multifaith leader who serves as Executive Chairman of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. He leads the foundation’s efforts to deliver emergency food aid to civilians in Gaza and to engage governments, media, and civil society. Rev. Moore has spent decades working at the intersection of faith, foreign policy, and humanitarian action, including advocacy for persecuted communities in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. He played a key role in the response to ISIS, genocide recognition, and the release of religious prisoners. A two-time appointee to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, he also helped lay the groundwork for initiatives like the Abraham Accords. He is the author of ten books and lives in Washington, D.C.
Jul 21, 2025 · 26 min
Deadlock in Gaza – with Dr. Michael Oren
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s recent visit to Washington made headlines and raised expectations. He met twice with President Trump, and both leaders suggested that a deal to release hostages was within reach. But on the ground, little has changed. The war in Gaza continues. IDF soldiers are still being killed. And 50 hostages remain in captivity. Despite talk of progress, the region remains stuck in a familiar deadlock. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas speaks with Dr. Michael Oren—former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, historian, and author—to take stock of where things stand. They unpack what actually came out of Netanyahu’s trip to Washington, how Israel’s recent strike on Iran fits into the larger strategic picture, and whether the shifting regional dynamics—from Riyadh to Doha—are opening the door to anything resembling an endgame. Read More: A Region Reordered – Perhaps by Dr. Michael Oren
Jul 17, 2025 · 20 min
Israel and Syria: Is Peace Still on the Table? – with Dr. Michael Oren
For more than seven decades, Israel and Syria have been in a formal state of war. Now, for the first time in years, there are murmurs of something different, but new tensions are threatening to unravel what little stability remains. In recent days, violence has erupted in southern Syria. A bloody assault on the country’s Druze community has reignited fears that Syria’s fragile postwar order could collapse. The unrest has drawn in Israel and raised new questions about the region’s trajectory. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas speaks with Dr. Michael Oren—historian, author, and former Israeli Ambassador to the United States—about whether peace between Israel and Syria is truly within reach or slipping further away. They explore Syria’s volatile history, the strategic importance of the Golan Heights, what’s changed under Syria’s new leadership, and whether there’s any real path toward ending hostilities. Read More: Is Peace Between Israel and Syria Really Possible? by Dr. Michael Oren New Words from Dr. Oren: Vociferousness – the quality of being loud, forceful, and outspoken in expressing one's opinions or feelings.
Jul 14, 2025 · 39 min
How Iran and Hamas Mainstreamed Anti-Zionism - with Jeffrey Herf
In this episode, Dr. Rachel Fish talks with historian Dr. Jeffrey Herf, a leading expert on Nazism, the Holocaust, antisemitism, and the connections between Europe and the Middle East. Dr. Herf explains how antisemitism and anti-Zionism have become more accepted in universities and public debates, and why that’s so dangerous. They discuss Iran’s state-sponsored antisemitism, Hamas’s genocidal ideology, and how these views are being normalized in higher education and social justice circles. Dr. Herf also talks about how Western foreign policy often downplays threats to Israel, and how parts of the academic left have morally failed by ignoring or excusing hatred. He explains how groups with extreme right-wing, religious, and misogynistic views have been wrongly embraced by people who see themselves as progressive. Together, they explore what it will take to restore moral clarity, defend historical truth, and push back against hatred disguised as justice. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ Guest Bio: Jeffrey Herf, a historian of modern European, especially German, history, is Distinguished University Professor Emeritus at the University of Maryland, College Park. His publications include The Jewish Enemy: Nazi Propaganda during World War II and the Holocaust (Harvard U.P., 2006), Nazi Propaganda for the Arab World (Yale U.P., 2009), Israel's Moment: International Support for and Opposition to Establishing the Jewish State, 1945-1949 (Cambridge UP, 2022), and Three Faces of Antisemitism: Right, Left and Islamist (Routledge, 2024). Before and since October 7, 2023, he has published essays on contemporary issues have appeared in the pages of The Free Press,, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Quillette, Persuasion/American Purpose, Sapir, and The Washington Post. Mentioned in this episode: Laurent Murawiec, The Mind of Jihad (Cambridge University Press, 2008) Hamas Charter 7 October Parliamentary Commission Report Anti-Israel Campus Groups: Online Networks and Narratives Jeffery Herf's Articles: 'Free Palestine' Terrorism, The Free Press, June 1, 2025 Why it’s wrong to call Israel’s war in Gaza a ‘genocide’, The Washington Post, June 3, 2025 (with Norman J.W. Goda) From the River to the Sea, Persuasion, Nov 20, 2023 Jeffrey Herf’s Books: Nazi Propaganda for the Arab World (Yale University Press, 2010) Three Faces of Antisemitism: Right, Left and Islamist (Routledge, 2023) Israel's Moment: International Support for and Opposition to Establishing the Jewish State, 1945–1949 (Cambridge University Press, 2022) Undeclared Wars with Israel: East Germany and the West German Far Left, 1967–1989 (Cambridge University Press, 20
Jul 10, 2025 · 19 min
My Husband is a Hostage in Gaza – with Rebecca Bohbot
On October 7, Hamas terrorists stormed the Nova Music Festival in southern Israel. Among those taken hostage was Elkana Bohbot, who was working for the festival that morning. Before he was captured, Elkana called his wife Rebecca to tell her he was staying behind to help the wounded. He promised her he would come home. That was their last conversation. In this episode, Rebecca shares who Elkana is as a husband and father – a man of joy, bravery, and kindness who never left anyone behind. She describes the pain of raising their son, who was just three years old when his father was taken, and how she explains his absence to him now. Rebecca shares what she’s learned of Elkana’s condition in captivity and opens up about why she chose to start speaking out publicly, despite fears it might jeopardize his chances of release. This is a heartbreaking and deeply human conversation about the fight to bring Israel’s hostages home.
Jul 7, 2025 · 17 min
Rebuilding Tel Aviv after the Iranian Attack – with Asaf Zamir
Tel Aviv – Israel’s cultural and commercial heart – was rocked by direct missile strikes from Iran. In this episode, Aviva sits down with Deputy Mayor Asaf Zamir to discuss how the city is recovering from the attacks. They explore what it felt like on the ground during the missile strikes, the challenges of rebuilding homes and lives, and whether Tel Aviv’s trademark confidence has been shaken. Asaf reflects on the emotional toll on residents, the scale of destruction, and Tel Aviv’s unique place in Israeli society – both as a symbol of defiance and as a hub of solidarity for the families of hostages still held in Gaza. Guest Bio Asaf Zamir is the First Deputy Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo and former Consul General of Israel in New York. A longtime public servant, Zamir previously served as a Member of Knesset for the Blue and White party and as Israel’s Minister of Tourism. He began his political career in Tel Aviv, where he became the youngest Deputy Mayor in the city's history and has since led efforts on urban development, education, transportation, and LGBTQ+ rights. A graduate of Tel Aviv University and the Sorbonne, Zamir is known for his commitment to strengthening civic life in Israel and deepening ties with Jewish communities abroad. He lives in Tel Aviv with his wife, actress Maya Wertheimer, and their two children.
Jul 3, 2025 · 22 min
Will NYC Elect an Antisemitic Mayor? – with Jonah Platt
Aviva Klompas sits down with Jonah Platt to unpack what Zohran Mamdani’s rise means for New York and the broader Jewish community. Mamdani, a 33-year-old socialist state legislator, is now the presumptive Democratic nominee for mayor. His positions on Israel, refusal to condemn extremist slogans, and calls to arrest Israeli leaders have sparked alarm among many Jews. Jonah shares his reaction to Mamdani’s win, whether this signals a deeper shift within the Democratic Party, and what it says about the political climate in America’s largest Jewish city. They discuss how the Jewish community should respond, what it’s like being an outspoken Jewish voice in Hollywood today, and why these conversations have become personal – even within his own family. Guest Bio: Jonah Platt is a trusted voice in the modern conversation on Jewish identity, culture, and current events. A true entertainment multi-hyphenate, Jonah has acted in prestige projects from Hollywood to Broadway (Wicked), written for many TV comedies, and is currently producing his first feature film, The Mensch, in which he will co-star alongside Ginnifer Goodwin. He is also a singer, musician, vocal arranger, director of improv and theater, and is currently co-writing the musical adaptation of Lois Lowry’s best-selling novel, The Giver. Jonah has written for Variety, Times of Israel, and USA Today. He’s appeared as an expert on NewsNation, Fox News Digital, and more.
Jun 30, 2025 · 18 min
My Son is a Hostage in Gaza – with Idit Ohel
New research from Boundless shows that 40% of Americans don’t know that dozens of hostages are still being held by Hamas. And it’s clear from released hostages that those who remain are being starved, tortured, humiliated and denied medical care. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas speaks with Idit Ohel, whose son Alon was kidnapped by Hamas from the Nova music festival on October 7. Alon arrived just half an hour before the massacre. Idit shares what life has been like since Alon’s abduction and how she is fighting to keep his name and humanity front and center. This conversation is a reminder that behind every hostage is a life, a family, and a story the world must not ignore. Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/
Jun 26, 2025 · 18 min
My Home Was Destroyed by an Iranian Missile – with Ethel Berdah
Ethel Berdah’s apartment in Tel Aviv was destroyed by an Iranian missile less than two weeks ago. In this episode, Ethel joins Aviva Klompas to share what it’s like to lose everything in an instant and how she’s navigating life in the aftermath. Originally from France, Ethel moved to Israel to build a life, never imagining she’d be caught in the crosshairs of a war between regional superpowers. Her story offers a rare, personal glimpse into the human cost of living under the threat of Iranian attack. Guest Bio: Ethel Berdah is 41, originally from France, and has been living in Tel Aviv since 2012, after spending a few years in New York. She arrived just weeks before Operation Pillar of Defense, when rockets began firing at the city for the first time in decades — and chose to stay. She works in high tech at Mavens, a Zynga/Take-Two company, and lives with her husband and their dogs. Over time, her family joined her, and together they’ve built a life rooted in Israel. She has lived through many conflicts over the years, but October 7 marked a moment when her commitment to this country became unshakeable. Most recently, her apartment was destroyed by an Iranian missile during the latest escalation.
Jun 22, 2025 · 23 min
America Bombed Iran – with Dr. Michael Oren
On the night of June 21, the United States launched direct military strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure for the first time in history. Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—long considered untouchable—were hit with precision by American forces. President Trump called the strikes a “spectacular military success” and declared that Iran’s key nuclear sites had been “completely and totally obliterated.” Host Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States and one of the leading voices on U.S.–Israel strategy. Together, they explore what finally pushed the U.S. to act, whether this strike has truly neutralized the nuclear threat, how Iran is likely to respond, and whether America is prepared to go further if needed. This episode offers essential insight into one of the most consequential military decisions in decades—and what it means for the future of the Middle East. Referenced in the episode: Iran Pulled the Trigger: Revisiting a Dirty Harry Moment Ally: My Journey Across the American-Israeli Divide
Jun 19, 2025 · 17 min
Israel at War: The View from Washington – with Ambassador Yechiel Leiter
As Israel engages in open warfare with Iran, Israel’s most senior envoy in Washington is in a different war zone—battling for U.S. support and moral clarity in the face of escalating threats. Host Aviva Klompas sits down with Ambassador Yechiel Leiter to discuss the Iranian threat, the state of U.S. support, and what it will take to achieve victory. The conversation turns deeply personal as they discuss the recent murder of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., and the profound loss of Ambassador Leiter’s son, Major Moshe Leiter, during combat in Gaza. Ambassador Leiter reflects on his role as a bridge between Israel and the U.S. and the principles guiding Israel’s war effort—both on the battlefield and in the diplomatic arena. Guest Bio: Dr. Yechiel (Michael) Leiter was appointed Israel’s Ambassador to the United States in January 2025. A longtime public servant, he has served as adviser to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, Chief of Staff to then-Finance Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and held senior roles in the Ministries of Education and Transportation. He holds a PhD in political philosophy and is the author of a Cambridge University Press book on John Locke and the Hebrew Bible. Ambassador Leiter is a father of eight. His eldest son, Maj. Moshe Yedidya Leiter—a doctor, special ops commander, and father of six—was killed in Gaza in November 2023.
Jun 17, 2025 · 23 min
Israel’s War for Survival – with Yair Lapid
For years, the conflict between Israel and Iran played out in the shadows—through proxies, cyberattacks, and covert operations. Now it’s an open war. Iranian missiles have struck Israeli cities. Israel is hitting back deep inside Iranian territory. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas speaks with Yair Lapid, Israel’s former Prime Minister and current Leader of the Opposition, about the scale and significance of this war. They explore the military campaign, the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program, and whether Israel can achieve its stated goals without broader international support. Lapid offers insight into Israel’s strategy, evaluates the government’s response, and reflects on the role of the United States, regional allies, and the international community. Guest Bio: Yair Lapid served as Israel’s 14th Prime Minister and currently leads the opposition in the Knesset. He is the founder of the centrist Yesh Atid party and has held key roles including Foreign Minister, Finance Minister, and member of the Security Cabinet. Known for his focus on diplomacy, civil rights, and security, Lapid remains one of Israel’s most prominent political figures.