Mixed messages from Washington, growing uncertainty over Iran and a heated debate about where Israel stands in America's foreign policy agenda dominated this week's ALL CAPS. The panel unpacked President Donald Trump's rapidly shifting rhetoric on Iran, questioned whether diplomacy or confrontation is now driving U.S. strategy and examined what those changes could mean for Israel and the wider Middle East.
The episode also explored how anti-Israel rhetoric continues to spill into unexpected places, from conspiracy theories surrounding Lionel Messi's World Cup success to anti-Israel demonstrations in New York that coincided with Father's Day celebrations. The panel discussed how sporting events and public gatherings are increasingly becoming platforms for political extremism and antisemitic messaging.
All Caps ep. 17
One of the episode's highlights was an in-depth conversation with internationally renowned behavioral economist and psychologist Prof. Dan Ariely, who reflected on the personal experiences that shaped his life's work after surviving devastating burn injuries as a teenager. Ariely explained how embracing vulnerability became a source of resilience, why confidence often outweighs knowledge in public debates and why arguing with facts alone rarely changes deeply held beliefs.
Addressing the surge in antisemitism following October 7, Ariely suggested that asking thoughtful questions—not winning arguments—is often the most effective way to challenge misinformation. Rather than debating historical narratives, he encourages people to ask what practical solutions critics envision for the future, forcing conversations beyond slogans and into reality. He also reflected on why Israel consistently ranks among the world's happiest countries, arguing that the country's deep sense of solidarity and community creates resilience even during prolonged conflict.
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The panel unpacked President Donald Trump's rapidly shifting rhetoric on Iran
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Prof. Dan Ariely reflected on the personal experiences that shaped his life's work after surviving devastating burn injuries as a teenager
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The episode also highlighted a major legal victory for terror survivor Maayan Peretz, who was left paralyzed after a Palestinian terrorist attack in 2021. After years of intensive rehabilitation that enabled him to walk again, Peretz secured a $15 million judgment against both the terrorist and the Palestinian Authority in a lawsuit led by Shurat HaDin. The panel described the ruling as another step in holding terror sponsors financially accountable while recognizing the determination of victims who refuse to let violence define their future.
Closing the program, conservative American broadcaster Mark Levin delivered a forceful defense of Israel while criticizing emerging efforts within the Trump administration to pursue a new understanding with Iran. Levin warned against pressuring Israel to compromise its security, insisting that the Iranian regime remains an existential threat despite renewed diplomatic discussions. While acknowledging the importance of the U.S.-Israel alliance, the panel concluded that Israel must ultimately retain the ability to make independent decisions when its national security is at stake.
Nitsana Darshan-Leitner in the new episode, highlighting a major legal victory for terror survivor Maayan Peretz
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Ariely also reflected on why Israel consistently ranks among the world's happiest countries
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India Naftali in the new episode, discussing how sporting events and public gatherings are increasingly becoming platforms for political extremism
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Watch the full episode of ALL CAPS featuring Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, Sarai Givaty and India Naftali for more unfiltered conversations, exclusive interviews and analysis of the stories shaping Israel and the Jewish world.
To learn more about Shurat HaDin's efforts to fight terrorism and defend Israel through legal action, visit Shurat HaDin – Israel Law Center.
First published: 14:51, 07.05.26