184. Michal Herzog, First Lady of Israel

This week on Difficult Women, Rachel Johnson is joined by Michal Herzog, First Lady of Israel, in a rare and timely interview recorded during her official visit to London. With unflinching honesty and emotional depth, Herzog reflects on the profound trauma that Israel has endured since the October 7th attacks - an event she describes as a national wound that has yet to begin healing. Speaking as both a public figure and a mother, Herzog opens up about her and President Isaac Herzog’s ongoing efforts to meet with over 1,300 bereaved families, the humanitarian toll of war, and the need to address trauma and mental health in the shadow of conflict. She also shares her belief in the power of women’s leadership and expresses hope for a future peace - one that prioritises security, dignity, and the next generation on both sides of the conflict.