Israelis usually flee to Europe during hot summers to experience European weather - but this week’s heatwave made the blistering temperatures here seem normal. But whether or not the countries are well equipped with air conditioning, it seems none are particularly ready with a plan for the effects of climate change.

And to another hot topic- the U.S involvement in the Middle East and Israel, in particular, we speak to historian and foreign policy luminary Walter Russell Mead on his new book, which inquires into the historical roots of America’s support for Israel, and the misconceptions about the strength of the Jewish state that led to him writing it.

Plus - a story involving a cat and an Israeli MK gets mentioned in both our award categories.

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