This week's episode of All CAPS brought together host Nitsana Darshan-Leitner and panelists Sarai Givaty, Titi Ayanaw and India Naftali for a wide-ranging discussion on international hypocrisy, legal battles affecting Israel, rising antisemitism abroad and a historic achievement that has placed Israeli culinary excellence firmly on the world stage.
From the suspension of International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan to concerns about economic boycotts targeting Israel and a groundbreaking Michelin star for a kosher restaurant, the episode explored some of the most pressing issues facing Israel and Jewish communities around the world.
ALL CAPS EP 13
The discussion opened with criticism of FIFA's decision to ban Iran's historic Lion and Sun flag during the World Cup. Panelists argued that the flag represents the Iranian people and opposition to the Islamic Republic rather than a political movement, questioning why it was prohibited while other political symbols continue to appear at international sporting events. The conversation evolved into a broader examination of what participants described as selective enforcement and double standards within major international institutions.
Attention then turned to the International Criminal Court, where Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan was suspended amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Darshan-Leitner noted that Shurat HaDin had previously filed legal action against Khan, arguing that his actions regarding Israel deserved scrutiny. The panel discussed whether the suspension could impact arrest warrants previously issued against Israeli officials and whether confidence in those decisions would now be undermined. For the panelists, the controversy raised larger questions about accountability within international organizations that frequently position themselves as moral authorities.
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This week's episode of All CAPS brought together host Nitsana Darshan-Leitner and panelists Sarai Givaty, Titi Ayanaw and India Naftali
(Photo: From the episode)
The conversation also focused on growing concerns within Jewish communities abroad, particularly in New York. Panelists criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani's decision not to participate in the city's annual Israel Day Parade and pointed to increasing security concerns surrounding Jewish institutions and public events. Drawing from firsthand experiences at this year's parade, the discussion highlighted the unprecedented security measures in place and what participants described as an increasingly hostile environment for Jews in some Western cities. The panel reflected on the importance of public displays of Jewish pride and the ongoing challenge of combating misinformation about Israel.
Another segment examined a controversial case in the United Kingdom involving the death of 18-year-old Henry Novak. The panel criticized British authorities after reports that police handcuffed the teenager following a stabbing while investigating claims made by the attacker. The incident sparked a broader discussion about policing, social tensions and the role of ideology in public institutions. Panelists argued that Western societies are increasingly struggling to balance public safety, free expression and political sensitivities, often with troubling consequences.
The centerpiece of the episode was an interview with Israeli chef Raz Shabtai, whose Miami restaurant became the first kosher establishment in the world to earn a Michelin star. Shabtai described the achievement as the realization of a lifelong dream and a milestone not only for himself but for Israeli cuisine and Jewish culinary culture.
Born in Jerusalem and later relocating to the United States, he spoke about the challenges of pursuing excellence within kosher dining, an area many believed could never compete at the highest levels of global gastronomy. Rather than accepting those limitations, Shabtai said he was motivated to prove that kosher cuisine could stand alongside the world's finest restaurants.
Throughout the interview, Shabtai repeatedly emphasized humility, hospitality and community. He spoke about the overwhelming support he received from Israelis, Jewish communities and fellow chefs after receiving the Michelin distinction. While his restaurant also was targeted by politically motivated negative reviews following the announcement, he insisted that food should serve as a bridge between people rather than another battleground for politics.
His goal, he said, is to create a place where guests can leave their differences at the door and simply enjoy a shared experience. Shabtai also delivered an emotional message to young people who feel overlooked or underestimated, encouraging them to remain true to themselves and continue pursuing their dreams regardless of what others may say.
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The centerpiece of the episode was an interview with Israeli chef Raz Shabtai
(Photo: From the episode)
In the episode's Shurat HaDin segment, Darshan-Leitner highlighted a formal letter sent to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling for action against proposed Irish legislation targeting goods produced in Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria. According to the organization, the measure represents discriminatory treatment because similar restrictions are not applied to products originating from other disputed territories around the world. The letter argues that singling out Israeli commerce while ignoring comparable cases elsewhere amounts to economic discrimination and strengthens international boycott efforts directed at the Jewish state.
The episode concluded with a lighter story about an albino buffalo in Bangladesh that has become a global internet sensation due to its resemblance to U.S. President Donald Trump. Nicknamed "Donald Trump," the buffalo became so popular that local authorities intervened to prevent it from being sold and transferred it to a protected environment. The panel joked about the unusual celebrity status of the animal and ended the program on a humorous note after an episode largely focused on serious international developments.
As always, All CAPS balanced sharp political analysis with stories of resilience, achievement and optimism. Whether discussing international courts, economic pressure campaigns, rising antisemitism or a historic culinary breakthrough, the episode highlighted the challenges facing Israel while also showcasing the people and accomplishments continuing to elevate Israel's standing on the world stage.
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To learn more about Shurat HaDin's legal efforts to defend Israel and combat antisemitism around the world, visit Shurat HaDin – Israel Law Center.
First published: 15:16, 06.14.26