Call Me Back - with Dan Senor Episode: News Roundup - July 7th, 2025 Release Date: July 7, 2025

Introduction

In the July 7th, 2025 episode of "Call Me Back" hosted by Ark Media, Dan Senor provides a comprehensive news roundup addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Israel. This episode delves into ongoing military operations, hostage negotiations, domestic protests, and incidents of anti-Israel violence abroad. The discussion is punctuated with insightful quotes and real-time updates, offering listeners a thorough understanding of the current geopolitical landscape involving Israel.

Military Operations and Regional Tensions

Recent Airstrikes in Yemen

The episode begins with an update on Israel's recent military actions in Yemen. "Hours ago, Israel carried out a fresh wave of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen after issuing evacuation orders for several areas of the country," explains Senor (00:02). The Israeli Air Force targeted strategic locations such as the ports of Hodea, Ras Issa, Saleif, and the Ras Khatib power station. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), these sites were instrumental for the Houthis in transferring weapons and orchestrating terror attacks against Israel and global shipping enterprises.

Escalation Following Houthi Missile Attack

Senor recounts the escalation that led to the recent airstrikes: "This operation was following last Tuesday's Houthi missile fired at Israel, which set off alarms at Ben Gurion Airport and in areas like Modi and Rishon Lezion in some areas of the West Bank and Jerusalem" (00:10). He shares a personal anecdote about his mother's engagement party being disrupted by the missile alarm, highlighting the pervasive fear and disruption caused by such attacks. Thankfully, the missile was intercepted successfully, resulting in no injuries or damage.

Hostage Negotiations and Ceasefire Talks

Ceasefire Deal Amidst Conflict

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the ongoing hostage ceasefire negotiations. Senor notes, "President Trump said Israel had agreed to terms for a 60-day ceasefire earlier last week, with the return of 10 living hostages and 18 deceased hostages" (02:15). This negotiation also includes the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons. However, the path to a permanent resolution remains fraught with challenges.

Hamas's Conditional Agreement

Senor provides an update on Hamas's stance: "On Friday, Hamas announced that it had submitted a positive response, albeit with reservations, some of which are presumably related to how the deal lays the groundwork for a permanent end to the Gaza war" (05:30). Reflecting on past negotiations, Senor expresses skepticism, referencing an episode with former Biden adviser Brett McGurk: "Hamas has a pattern... to say they've agreed to a deal, and then buried in their announcement... they didn't actually agree to the deal at all" (07:45).

Public Demand for Comprehensive Hostage Release

The episode highlights domestic pressure within Israel for a more comprehensive hostage release. "This past Saturday night saw tens of thousands of Israelis take to the streets urging the government to reach a deal that would free all remaining hostages... the Hostages and Missing Families forum demanded a comprehensive deal to end the war with all hostages released at once again rather than in these phases" (10:20). This public outcry underscores the urgent desire among Israelis for an immediate and total resolution to the hostage crisis.

Casualties and Human Cost of the Conflict

Recent Losses in the IDF

Senor somberly reports on recent casualties within the Israeli Defense Forces: "On Friday, the IDF announced that two soldiers, Asaf Zamir from Dimona and Yair Eliyahu from Ezer, were killed in separate incidents in the Gaza Strip, bringing the Israeli death toll to 444 since October 7th" (15:00). Both soldiers were only 19 years old, highlighting the significant human cost of the ongoing conflict.

Impact on IDF Soldiers

He emphasizes the toll on IDF soldiers beyond reservists, pointing out the sacrifices of young standing army members: "It's important to remember that many soldiers in the standing army... the 18, 19, and 20-year-olds who have spent 500 and 600 days fighting the war" (17:10). This focus shifts the narrative to the enduring strain on young Israeli soldiers committed to the prolonged conflict.

Prospects for Regional Normalization

Potential Normalization with Saudi Arabia

Amid the conflict, there are glimmers of potential diplomatic progress. Senor discusses the possibility of resumed normalization talks with Saudi Arabia: "The post-war conditions have brought revamped ceasefire hostage talks, they've also potentially opened the door for resumed normalization talks with Saudi Arabia, something that would be considered a major win not just for Israel, but for President Trump and the US Saudi normalization as well" (20:25). This development could signify a pivotal shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics, fostering broader peace initiatives.

Netanyahu's Vision for Peace

Prime Minister Netanyahu's optimistic outlook is also highlighted: "Before boarding his flight to Washington, Netanyahu told reporters that Israel has an opportunity to, 'expand the circle of peace far beyond what we could have imagined'" (22:00). However, he remains firm in his conditions: "Israel would not agree to any deal in Gaza that allows Hamas to remain the governing force of Gaza" (23:15). This stance underscores the complexity of achieving a lasting peace agreement that addresses both security concerns and political realities.

Incidents of Anti-Israel Violence Abroad

Tragic Events in Melbourne

The episode shifts focus to disturbing incidents affecting Jewish communities outside Israel. Senor reports, "This past week has been particularly frightening for Jews in the diaspora, especially in Australia. On Friday evening, an historic Melbourne synagogue was targeted in an arson attack while people were worshiping inside. Thankfully, everyone in the synagogue managed to escape unharmed" (26:40).

Vandalism and Incendiary Rhetoric

Shortly after, anti-Israel sentiments manifested in violence against businesses: "Minutes later, also in Melbourne, a mob of anti-Israel protesters vandalized the Miznon restaurant... Witnesses said the rioters were heard chanting 'death to the IDF'" (28:00). This wave of violence follows inflammatory remarks by public figures, notably: "This comes just over a week after musician Bob Villain called for death to the IDF in front of thousands of cheering fans at the Glastonbury Music Festival" (30:10).

The Danger of Incitement Leading to Violence

Senor underscores the perilous connection between incendiary rhetoric and real-world violence: "These are all just reminders of the connection between incitement and how dangerous rhetoric can turn into violence" (32:25). The Melbourne incidents serve as a stark example of how verbal hostility can escalate into tangible threats against communities.

Looking Ahead: Netanyahu's Diplomatic Mission in Washington, D.C.

As the episode draws to a close, Senor anticipates significant developments stemming from Prime Minister Netanyahu's upcoming meetings in Washington, D.C.: "We will be watching closely as Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Israeli delegation get to work in D.C. and of course, we'll be back this week to unpack all that comes out of these meetings" (35:00). The outcomes of these discussions are poised to shape the trajectory of peace efforts, normalization talks, and broader regional stability.

Conclusion

The July 7th episode of "Call Me Back" offers a detailed and nuanced overview of the current state of affairs concerning Israel. From military engagements and hostage negotiations to the human cost of the conflict and alarming incidents of anti-Israel violence abroad, Dan Senor provides listeners with a clear and comprehensive analysis. As Israel navigates these turbulent times, the episode underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and informed discourse in understanding and addressing the challenges at hand.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Senor (00:10): "This operation was following last Tuesday's Houthi missile fired at Israel, which set off alarms at Ben Gurion Airport and in areas like Modi and Rishon Lezion in some areas of the West Bank and Jerusalem."

• Senor (05:30): "Hamas has a pattern... to say they've agreed to a deal, and then buried in their announcement... they didn't actually agree to the deal at all."

• Senor (22:00): "Israel has an opportunity to, 'expand the circle of peace far beyond what we could have imagined.'"

• Senor (32:25): "These are all just reminders of the connection between incitement and how dangerous rhetoric can turn into violence."

For more in-depth discussions and updates, tune into the latest episodes of "For Heaven's Sake" and "What's You Number?" available on the Ark Media Network.