Boundless Insights – with Aviva Klompas

Since the start of the war, the Houthis—an Iran-backed Shia Islamist group—have launched hundreds of attacks on Israel, disrupted global trade by targeting vital Red Sea shipping routes, and destabilized an entire region.

How did a rebel group from one of the world’s poorest countries come to possess such advanced military capabilities? Who are the Houthis, and why is the world still unwilling to confront them directly?

To break it all down, I’m joined by retired Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus—a former IDF spokesperson, senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and leading expert on the Middle East.

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/

Find Aviva Klompas on X @AvivaKlompas
Find Jonathan Conricus on X @jconricus

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.

In this episode of Boundless Insights, host Aviva Klompas sits down with Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, to dissect Amnesty International’s controversial report accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.

They discuss the report's claims, the implications of Amnesty’s decision to lower the threshold for proving genocide, and the far-reaching consequences of these accusations on Israel and the global narrative. The episode also touches on why genocide accusations resonate so deeply for Israel and what’s at stake in the war of words surrounding this.

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/

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken the stand in his long-running corruption trial, facing charges of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust. His testimony comes as Israel battles a multifront war now in its 14th month, deepening political divides.

To his supporters, the trial is a politically motivated effort to remove him from power; to his critics, it’s a critical test of Israel’s legal system and its ability to hold leaders accountable.

Joining us to break it all down is Tomer Naor, Head of the Legal Department at The Movement for Quality Government in Israel. We’ll unpack the details of the case and its far-reaching implications for Israel’s politics, society, and legal system.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

Guest Bio:

For over a decade, Tomer Naor has been a central figure at The Movement for Quality Government in Israel, one of the country’s leading grassroots organizations. As Head of the Legal Department for the past five years, he has led landmark Supreme Court cases, championing democracy, transparency, and good governance, particularly during Israel’s recent constitutional crisis.

Recognized as one of the Hebrew University’s “40 Promising Graduates Under 40” and The Marker’s “40 Under 40,” Tomer is a prominent voice on law, politics, and civil society. He is a frequent media commentator, a sought-after lecturer, and actively involved in social initiatives across Israel.

Tomer holds law degrees from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Northwestern University, in partnership with Tel Aviv University. He is also a father, educator, and dedicated social activist.

Syria’s collapse didn’t happen overnight. Born from the colonial borders of post-World War I, Syria has long been a fractured country, divided by sectarianism, tribal rivalries, and decades of brutal dictatorship. For years, Bashar al-Assad’s regime seemed untouchable, propped up by foreign support from Iran and Russia.

Now, in a sudden and decisive turn, Assad’s regime has fallen—an event few predicted and one with profound consequences for the region. Rebel factions, some with extremist ties, are vying for control, and Syria’s neighbors are jockeying to fill the power vacuum.

How did we get here? What does Assad’s collapse mean for Syria’s future, and how might this moment reshape the Middle East?

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to Washington and a leading expert on the region, to explore the history that led to Assad’s fall and what comes next for Syria, its people, and its neighbors.

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/

The Assad regime has collapsed, marking a historic turning point in the Middle East. Long a cornerstone of Iran’s Axis of Resistance, Syria now stands at a crossroads. Rebel forces have delivered a major blow to Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia—while raising alarms about the rise of new jihadist groups.

For Israel, the resulting power vacuum introduces new security challenges, especially along its northern border. In this episode, Aviva Klompas speaks with Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jonathan Conricus, Middle East strategist and former IDF spokesperson, to break down the fallout from Assad’s collapse, its impact on Israel, and what lies ahead for the region.

Guest Bio:

Lt. Col. (Ret.) 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.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

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.

Diplomacy is often seen as the key to resolving conflicts, but can it succeed without the strength to back it up?  Host Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren, Israel's former Ambassador to the United States, to explore the interplay between diplomacy and power.

Dr. Oren shares his insights on America's reluctance to demonstrate its strength and its growing aversion to military engagement. He discusses how these tendencies have shaped global perceptions of U.S. leadership, the mixed messages they send to allies, and the ripple effects on conflicts like the ongoing war Israel is fighting.

Together, they unpack questions at the heart of modern diplomacy: How can nations balance the use of force with the pursuit of peace? What role does trust play in sustaining alliances? And what does America’s approach to diplomacy signal for its future role on the global stage?

This is a thought-provoking conversation about the limits of diplomacy, the necessity of strength, and the challenges facing Western leadership in an increasingly volatile world.

Additional Resources:

Dr. Michael Oren’s book Ally: My Journey Across the American-Israeli Divide

Dr Oren: The Diplomatic Whiplash of Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

We’re discussing one of Israel’s most contentious debates: the military draft exemption for the ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, community. Since Israel's founding, Haredim have been largely exempt from mandatory military service, a policy initially intended for a small group of Torah scholars but now encompassing tens of thousands of men.

With Israel facing a multifront war and a strained IDF, the debate over this exemption has shifted from one of fairness to one of sustainability. How is this impacting Israeli society, the military, and the future of the State? Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren to unpack the historical roots, current tensions, and broader implications.

Key Topics Covered:
-The history of the Haredi draft exemption
-How the IDF’s manpower shortages and increasing demands on reservists are fueling resentment toward the Haredi community
-The role of Israel’s Supreme Court in pushing for draft reforms
-Broader implications for Israeli society, national security, and economic sustainability

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the United States, to discuss the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

After more than a year of conflict, including near-daily attacks that displaced tens of thousands of Israelis in the north, the proposed ceasefire introduces a 60-day transition plan that would put a halt to the fighting and see Lebanese troops deployed in southern Lebanon to keep Hezbollah away from Israel's border.

Aviva and Dr. Oren discuss the details of the agreement and tackle several pressing questions including: Who is behind the deal? Can displaced Israelis safely return to their homes? What are the odds this fragile truce will hold?

Key Topics:
-Details of the ceasefire agreement 
-Internal and external pressures that may have contributed to the agreement
-The role of international actors in overseeing the agreement
-The willingness of Israelis to return to their homes

In this episode, we sit down with actor, comedian, and outspoken advocate Michael Rapaport. Known for his fearless, unfiltered style, Michael has emerged as a powerful voice in support of Israel and the Jewish people following the events of October 7.

Join us as we explore the pivotal moments and personal experiences that have fueled his commitment to standing against antisemitism and rallying support for Israel – no matter the cost.

Key Topics:
-From his father’s lessons about Jewish identity to his connection with Israel after October 7, Michael shares how his perspective has evolved over time
-How the rise of Jew-hatred in the headlines pushed Michael to use his platform in bold new ways.
-A candid discussion about why so many celebrities remain silent on issues of antisemitism and Israel
-How Michael uses comedy to cut through the noise and make his advocacy resonate with audiences.

Guest Bio:
Michael Rapaport is an actor and comedian celebrated for his direct and no-nonsense approach. With a career spanning film, television, and stand-up comedy, he has become one of Hollywood’s most outspoken supporters of Israel, using his platform to inspire others to stand up and speak out.

Referenced in the Episode:
Time: As the Families of Murdered Hostages, Our Message to People in Power Is Simple: Act
Michael Rapaport’s Susan Sarandon The Remix and Susan Sarandon Remixing the remix 

In this episode of Boundless Insights, Aviva Klompas is with former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Michael Oren, to discuss the consequences of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) recent decision to issue arrest warrants against Israeli leaders. Ambassador Oren describes why this decision is not just a threat to Israel, but a deeply dangerous precedent for democracies worldwide.

Key Topics:
-How the ruling undermines the principles of sovereign nations defending themselves against terrorism
-The chilling message this sends to Western democracies and their ability to confront threats
-The varied responses from governments around the world—who is standing with Israel, and who is not

Ambassador Oren provides his expert analysis, warning that the ICC’s actions set a precedent that could embolden authoritarian regimes and constrain democratic nations.

Related Articles:
Michael Oren’s Substack on Mein Kulturkampf

In an unprecedented move, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This is the first time the ICC has targeted leaders of a liberal Western democracy—a decision that has far-reaching implications for Israel, global justice, and democracies worldwide.

In this episode of Boundless Insights, host Aviva Klompas speaks with Eugene Kontorovich, a leading authority on international law, to unpack the ICC’s motivations and explore the consequences of this decision.

Key Topics:
-The practical and political implications of these arrest warrants.
-How this decision sets a dangerous precedent for democracies fighting terrorism.
-What this means for global justice and the ICC’s credibility moving forward.

Guest Bio:
Eugene Kontorovich is the head of the International Law Department at the Kohelet Policy Forum, a Jerusalem-based think tank, and a professor at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia School of Law and the director of its Center for International Law in the Middle East. He is an expert in international and constitutional law, with over thirty academic articles published in leading law reviews and peer-reviewed journals.

Related Articles:
Why Is It OK for Everyone but Israelis to Defend Themselves?
The ICC’s Brazen Anti-Israel Bias
Already a Travesty, the ICC Eyes Charges Against Israel

What does Zionism really mean, and why does it matter?

In this episode of Boundless Insights, we discuss the findings of a new study from Boundless that sheds light on one of the most misunderstood and debated concepts in public discourse. Despite its central role in Jewish history and identity, only one-third of people claim to know what Zionism is—and just 14% can define it correctly. These misconceptions have serious implications for public opinion, global Jewry, and the fight against rising antisemitism.

We’re back with Dr. Michael Oren—former Israeli ambassador to the United States and New York Times bestselling author—to unpack these findings, challenge misconceptions, and explore why Zionism remains as relevant as ever.

Key Topics:
-What is Zionism? We explore the meaning of Zionism, its origins, and its relevance to modern Jewish identity.
-How misunderstandings about Zionism influence public opinion and what can be done to address them.
-The Role of Education especially as we confront rising antisemitism.
-We discuss the troubling lack of recognition of antisemitic slogans and why understanding this language is critical for Jewish safety.

For more on the misunderstandings and implications of anti-Israel rhetoric, check out Ron E. Hassner’s insightful article, From Which River to Which Sea? in the Wall Street Journal.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

In this episode of Boundless Insights, we assess the progress of the war. While Israel has seen strategic successes, such as dismantling top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah and repelling Iranian attacks, serious issues remain, including the haunting uncertainty surrounding the 101 hostages still in Gaza.

Dr. Michael Oren joins Aviva to discuss the toll of the war, from the strain on Israel’s soldiers and economy to the rekindling of internal fractures. They also touch on the question of ultra-Orthodox military service, a topic growing more urgent as reservists are stretched to their limits.

Key Topics Covered
-Assessing Israel’s military and strategic progress
-The impact of prolonged reserve duty on soldiers and families
-The economic strain and its implications for Israel's future
-Rising internal tensions around service in the IDF

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

In this episode of Boundless Insights, Aviva Klompas and Dr. Michael Oren are talking about UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.

Established in 1949, UNRWA has long been the subject of controversy. In October, Israel’s Knesset passed two laws restricting UNRWA’s operations. We’re talking about the implications of these laws for humanitarian aid and security in the region.

Key Topics Covered:
-UNRWA’s origins and how it differs from the UN’s other refugee agency, UNHCR.
-We break down the criticisms of UNRWA and how its policies impact the prospects for peace
-Possible paths forward, including reforming, limiting, or even disbanding UNRWA.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

In this episode of Boundless Insights, we’re talking about Donald Trump’s return to the White House and what it could mean for U.S.-Israel relations, the fight against antisemitism in America, and broader Middle Eastern diplomacy.

Host Aviva Klompas is back with Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, for a thoughtful exploration of what’s on the horizon.

Key Topics Covered:
-Predictions of what’s store for Trump’s second term, from expanding the Abraham Accords to confronting Iran
-Trump has pledged to secure the return of American hostages held by Hamas. Dr. Oren weighs in on what actions Trump might take to do so
-Will President Trump get tough on the UN again?
-With antisemitism rising on U.S. campuses, Dr. Oren discusses what steps the administration might take to ensure universities take stronger measures to protect Jewish students

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

Host Aviva Klompas and Dr. Michael Oren are discussing the harrowing events that unfolded in Amsterdam on the evening of November 7, when hundreds of Israeli soccer fans were targeted in a brutal act of antisemitic violence. The attack, which took place just two nights before the anniversary of Kristallnacht, feels like a chilling reminder of history repeating itself.

Aviva is joined by historian and former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Michael Oren, to explore the resurgence of violent antisemitism in Europe. Together, they explore the factors driving this troubling trend and examine whether these attacks will finally serve as a wake-up call for Europe—and the world—to address the escalation of antisemitic hatred.

Whether you’re concerned about the rise in antisemitism, drawn to historical parallels, or looking for ways to support Jewish communities under threat, this episode offers valuable insights and a powerful call to action.

Key Topics Covered:
-A review of the attacks on Jews in Amsterdam and their disturbing timing before Kristallnacht’s anniversary.
- With his deep knowledge of history, Dr. Oren reflects on the parallels between this attack and past antisemitic violence, exploring how history can seem to come full circle if left unchecked.
- We discuss Israel’s swift announcement to send planes to bring Israelis home and how this response embodies Israel’s commitment to protect Jews worldwide.
-What Jewish communities need to hear to foster resilience in the face of mounting threats.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/ 

In this episode, we delve into one of the most heart-wrenching aspects of Israel’s ongoing conflict – the plight of the hostages. On October 7, 2023, Hamas and other terrorists carried out coordinated attacks, abducting 250 people from Israel and taking them into Gaza.

These hostages include men, women, and children, as well as citizens from Israel, the U.S., Canada, Britain, and other nations. Nearly 400 days later, 101 hostages remain in Gaza, and their fate is uncertain.

Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the U.S., joins us to discuss the anguish these hostages’ families endure, the dilemmas facing Israel’s leadership, and the broader implications for Israel and the world.

Key Topics Covered:
-Can Israel realistically hope to bring all the hostages home? Dr. Oren discusses the challenges of both military and diplomatic solutions.
-With only a few hostages freed through military operations, we explore the balance between military action and diplomacy.
-Any agreement to release the hostages would demand profound sacrifices. Dr. Oren weighs in on the difficult question: What price should Israel be prepared to pay? And how does Israel balance the immediate needs of hostage families with long-term national security?
-Yahya Sinwar, a key orchestrator of the October 7 attack, played a central role in Hamas’s negotiations but was killed by the IDF. Who, if anyone, remains to negotiate with and what obstacles does this pose for Israel?
-The abduction of American citizens on October 7 raises critical questions about global response and accountability. What message does a muted response send to terrorists, and what does it mean for the safety of American citizens worldwide

Tune in for a conversation that sheds light on the human, political, and strategic challenges Israel faces in bringing its people home.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

As the United States gears up for its next presidential election, what’s at stake for the future of US-Israel relations?

Aviva Klompas is back with Dr. Michael Oren - historian, diplomat, and former Israeli Ambassador to the United States - to explore the potential impact of the upcoming election on America’s role in the Middle East and its partnership with Israel.

Together, we discuss how US foreign policy could shift depending on the election outcome, the evolving nature of bipartisan support for Israel, and how the rest of the Middle East is making calculations based on the U.S. election.

Key Topics Covered:
- How the US election will shape foreign policy in the Middle East.
- The future of bipartisan support for Israel.
- The role of the US as a global leader and what’s at stake in the Middle East.
- How the Israel-Hamas war and antisemitism factors into voter priorities.

Aviva’s article in Newsweek on America’s reckoning with antisemitism:
https://www.newsweek.com/time-reckoning-antisemitism-us-opinion-1976924

Boundless research on the impact of October 7 and the subsequent Israel-Hamas war on young Jewish Americans: https://boundlessisrael.org/young-american-jews

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

In the inaugural episode of Boundless Insights, host Aviva Klompas sits down with Dr. Michael Oren to discuss the long-standing threat Iran poses to Israel and the broader Middle East.

When we recorded this episode, Israel had not yet responded to Iran’s recent barrage of nearly 200 ballistic missiles, leaving the region in a state of uncertainty. Just hours later, Israel launched a significant strike, reportedly sending 100 planes over 1,000 miles to strike Iranian military sites.

Despite the fast-moving developments, this conversation remains as relevant as ever. Dr. Oren shares his expert insights into the enduring tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as the West’s ongoing attempts to placate the Iranian regime.

The episode also delves into the leak of classified U.S. documents outlining Israel’s planned attack. Dr. Oren, with his extensive diplomatic and security experience, sheds light on the potential implications of this breach.

Key Topics:

- Iran’s shadowy role in the Middle East and its support of terrorist groups.
- The West’s reluctance to confront Iran directly, and how the 2015 Iran Deal set a -dangerous precedent for appeasement.
- Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons
- Iran’s efforts to build an Axis of Resistance alongside Russia and China
- The leak of top-secret U.S. military documents concerning Israel

For more on Israel’s recent retaliation, check out Dr. Oren’s Times of Israel article:
https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/game-ender-or-game-changer/

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

We’re excited to introduce Boundless Insights, a new podcast designed to inform, engage, and connect you with current events and significant topics affecting Israel and American Jewish communities.

Each week, Boundless co-founder Aviva Klompas will be joined by Dr. Michael Oren for conversations that help make sense of the headlines. From Israel’s security challenges to the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations, we’ll offer thoughtful analysis and insights.

Additionally, once a month, Boundless co-founder Dr. Rachel Fish will host a special episode that dives deeper into an issue of central importance to American Jewry – providing in-depth analysis and new perspectives.

Whether you're catching up on the latest developments or seeking a deeper understanding of critical issues, our goal is to serve as a trusted source of information while giving you the tools to start conversations of your own.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/