the State of Israel – מדינת ישראל
Informative Articles & Videos
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The Hot Debate Around Israeli Immigration
This 5-page editorial gives a brief background of the debate around migrants in Israel. Some feel that it is Israel’s ethical and moral responsibility to allow asylum seekers refuge in
The Case for an Egalitarian Prayer Space at the Western Wall
Leslie Sachs, executive director of the Women of the Wall, shares her mission in this clip (02:21) put out by popular left-leaning Israeli news hub Haaretz. Since 1988, the organization
American Jews Send a Message About Western Wall Controversy
In this i24NEWS clip (03:22), Eli Yishai, the former leader of Israel’s Orthodox Shas party, responds to a message from America’s Conservative and Reform Jewish communities about the Western Wall
Traditional Eastern European Jewish Food in Israel
Featuring Jewish food expert, Joan Nathan, this video (01:59) gives viewers a taste of traditional Jewish delicacies from Eastern Europe at an eatery in the ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak.
Moroccan Cuisine in Israel
Produced by the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this video (02:26) highlights Moroccan cuisine in Israel, visiting restaurants that specialize in the ethnic food that has become so deeply integrated
A Taste of Ethiopia in Jerusalem
As part of a tour of Jerusalem’s famous Machane Yehudah outdoor market, this video (07:33) brings viewers to an Ethiopian store in the center of Jerusalem that brings traditional Ethiopian
In Search of Israeli Cuisine
This trailer (05:17) provides a taste of the 2016 award-winning documentary “In Search of Israeli Cuisine,” which presents a portrait of the complexity of the Israeli people through their diverse
The Profile and Experiences of Israel’s French Community
From the website of Bar Ilan University’s Alumni, this article examines the profile and experiences of Israel’s recent wave of French immigrants. Largely fleeing France due to a rise in anti-Semitism.
The Ethiopian Jews of Israel: Background & Contributions
This video (03:52) provides a basic introduction to the origins and history of Ethiopia’s Jewish community, their mass aliyah to Israel beginning in the 1980s, and their integration into Israeli
The Challenges Facing Ethiopian Immigrants in Israel
Produced to mark the 20th anniversary of Operation Solomon, the covert mission in which almost 15,000 Ethiopian Jews were airlifted to Israel in 36 hours in 1991, this video (03:19)
Israel’s Diverse Population: Challenges & Successes
This informative video (06:12) explores the experiences of Israel’s diverse immigrant population, with a focus on the Jewish immigrants from Ethiopia and the USSR and non-Jewish economic migrants and refugees
An Art Exhibit Revealing Tales of Soviet Immigration to Israel
This i24NEWS segment (05:11) showcases an art exhibit at the Israel Museum that explores the challenges experienced by Soviet immigrants to Israel. The artist, Zoya Cherkassy, uses pop art and
The Challenges Facing French Immigrants to Israel
In wake of the massive aliyah of Jews from France in recent years, this i24NEWS segment (04:53) explores the challenges facing French immigrants in their new home, including economic hardships,
The Challenges & Influence of Israel’s Russian Immigrants
This CNN news segment (02:33) explores Israel’s large community of immigrants from Russian, including the economic and social challenges they face and the major influence they have had on Israeli
Meski Shibru: The First Ethiopian Actress in Israel
In this video (03:19) produced by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Israeli actress and singer, Meski Shibur, tells the story of her Aliyah to Israel, including the challenges of
Rabbi Sharon Shalom: The First Ethiopian Rabbi in the State of Israel
In this dramatic video (04:17), Rabbi Sharon Shalom tells the story of his harrowing journey to Israel through Sudan in 1982, as part of the exodus of the Beta Israel
MK Ksenia Svetlova’s Aliyah Story
In this video (05:40), in Hebrew with English subtitles, Member of Knesset Ksenia Svetlova tells the story of her aliyah to Israel from the USSR following a rise in antisemitism,
The Life & Contributions of Natan Sharansky
In this inspiring video (04:54) from the Jewish Agency for Israel, Natan Sharansky summarizes his fascinating life story and his career of commitment to the Jewish people all over the world.
Innovation: Africa – Bringing Israeli Innovation to African Villages
This video (03:14) introduces the important work of Innovation: Africa, an Israeli NGO that has brought innovative Israeli solar technologies to more than 100 villages in seven African countries. So far,
S.Y. Agnon: Winner of Israel’s First Nobel Prize
In an article from Commentary Magazine titled ‘Filling the Artistic Void’, rabbi and writer Meir Y. Soleveichik discusses the profound and timeless work of the writer who earned Israel its
Begin on Shared Nobel Prize with Sadat
Hear Menachem Begin‘s public response to having been announced as one of the two winners of 1978’s Nobel Peace Prize in this news clip (1:08) from the AP Archive. Begin
Rabin, Peres, and Arafat Share 1994 Peace Prize
This news clip (2:14) from the AP Archive covers the 1994 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and some of the aftermath faced by its winners—Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, Israeli Foreign
Daniel Kahneman On Our Two Systems of Thinking
In this clip (4:22) from British news hub The Guardian, Israeli-American psychologist Daniel Kahneman breaks down the concept of slow and fast thinking and explains why it matters. Simple though
Israel Boasts the Most Vegans Per Capita in the World
This article, from the magazine Israel21c, reports that Israel has the most vegans per capita in the world, due to the initiative of the non-profit organization, “Vegan-Friendly.” Vegan-Friendly’s leader, Omri
Hershko and Ciechanover Explain The Ubiquitin System
Take a user-friendly visual tour of the discovery that won Israelis Aaron Ciechanover and Avram Hershko the 2004 Nobel Prize in Chemistry in this excerpt (2:50) from the YES docuseries “The
A Talk With Aaron Ciechanover
Renowned Israeli biologist Aaron Ciechanover explains his research in protein degradation in this clip (2:19) from Israel’s official YouTube channel. Along with fellow Israeli laureate Avram Hershko and American laureate
Israel’s First Nobel Prize in Science
This clip (3:18) from Haifa’s Technion Institute introduces Israel’s first Nobel prize winners in science: Avram Hershko and Aaron Ciechanover. They were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2004 along
Robert Aumann: If You Want Peace, Prepare For War
In this clip (2:42), Israeli-American Nobel prize winner Robert Aumann explains what mathematics and game theory have to do with nuclear weapons, the Cold War, and the “amazing sixty years” between
A talk with Robert Aumann
Hear Israeli-American mathematician Robert Aumann speak about the contribution that earned him and Thomas Schelling 2005’s Nobel Prize in Economics in this clip (2:41) from the official YouTube channel of
A Brief History of Yiddish Food in Israel
This clip [02:13], from the documentary film, “Make Hummus Not War,” offers a brief history of Ashkenazi (Eastern European Jewish) food in the Israel. Acclaimed food writers Janna Gur
Ada Yonath: Israel’s First Female Nobelist
Learn how Israeli Nobelist Ada Yonath went from a childhood of intense poverty to an adulthood of innovation and international acclaim in this clip (5:52) from the home of her
Dan Shechtman reminisces about his early years
Israeli Nobel prize-winning scientist Dan Shechtman sits down with 21see and reminisces about his early years in this clip (2:16). His passion is contagious as he recalls what moved and
A talk with Dan Shechtman
In this clip (3:53), hear about how Dan Shechtman, Israeli winner of the 2011 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, came to discover quasicrystals, as well as the vehement opposition he faced
Celebrating Michael Levitt’s Nobel prize
This video clip (5:33) follows Israeli-American-British biophysicist Michael Levitt’s emotionally-charged morning on the day of the announcement that he was one of three winners of 2013’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Meet Nobelists Arieh Warshel and Michael Levitt
Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at scientists Arieh Warshel and Michael Levitt in this excerpt (3:53) from “The Nobelists,” a YES documentary about Israel’s Nobel prize winners. Learn why Warshel loves Pac-Man,
Arieh Warshel explains his prize-winning work
In this brief clip (1:43) from the University of Southern California, renowned Israeli biochemist and biophysicist Arieh Warshel explains in simple terms the scientific research that earned him the Nobel
Why Israelis Love Eurovision
In light of Israel’s 2018 victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, which resulted in Israel hosting the competition in 2019, this article analyzes why Israelis have always been such big
Idan Raichel: Bringing Collaborative Israeli Music to the World
This exclusive interview (07:34) with iconic Israeli musician Idan Raichel (07:34) reveals his thoughts on the power of collaborative music, representing Israel abroad, and his solo career. Raichel is the
Israeli Musicians Strike a Note Abroad
This video (03:20) explores the recent phenomenon of Israeli musicians making it in the international music scene, especially New York. Mentioning both established and up-and-coming musicians, the video discusses what
Static & Ben El On Their Success Abroad
From the KTLA news channel in Los Angeles, this interview (02:07) puts the spotlight on Static & Ben El, an Israeli musical pop duo made up of Liraz Rousseau (Static)
Omri Casspi: The First Israeli in the NBA
This video [04:09], published by the Sacramento Kings after drafting Omri Casspi, the first Israeli to ever play in the NBA, shows his journey from Maccabi Tel Aviv to the NBA.
Israel: The Birth of a Nation (Documentary)
Produced by the History Channel, this comprehensive documentary (1.5 hours) chronicles the establishment of the State of Israel by British historian, Sir Martin Gilbert. Using archive film, photographs and interviews,
How’s life in Israel, according to the OECD?
This brief, data-based article published by the OECD Better Life Index overlays some of the OECD’s social findings with its economic figures, pointing to a far more complex picture of
OECD exposes a bipolar Israel
While the OECD’s recent economic report indeed heaps a great deal of praise upon Israel, that is only half the picture, points out Amiram Barkat in this brief but powerful
Economy strong but social equity low, OECD report shows
This write-up of a joint event hosted by the OECD and the Taub Institute for Social Policy Studies in Israel sheds light on the diverse findings from the OECD’s most
The destruction of the kibbutzim and the myth of “the periphery”
This blog post by journalist Asaf Shimoni, independent contributor to the Times of Israel, suggests a surprising link between Israel’s neglected periphery and the high incidence of kibbutzim located there.
Is soccer enough to raise Be’er Sheva’s social status?
This insightful article from the Jerusalem Post looks at the case of Be’er Sheva and asks whether a peripheral community can ever truly upgrade to ‘central’ status. Be’er Sheva, long
Israel’s periphery extends far beyond geographic borders
This thought-provoking read from popular Israeli news outlet Haaretz explains three terms frequently heard in Israeli media but often misunderstood: the periphery, the frontier, and the center. While the Israeli public
Discussions of LGBT Issues in the Knesset
Produced by SocialTV in 2017, this video (03:18) features members of the Knesset, activists, and members of the LGBT community discussing the most pressing issues facing the community during the
PM Netanyahu: Solidarity With LGBT Community & Jerusalem Pride Parade
In this official video (01:50), produced on the day of Jerusalem’s Pride Parade in 2016, PM Benjamin Netanyahu encourages people to support the LGBT community. Condemning violence against the LGBT
A Tale of Two Prides: Tel Aviv vs. Jerusalem
This article in Out Magazine compares the euphoria of Tel Aviv’s Pride Parade with the intimacy and urgency of Jerusalem’s Pride Parade. The author, Brian Schaefer, references instances of violence at previous
Why Tel Aviv Is One of the Most LGBT-Friendly Cities in the World
This article from The Culture Trip travel website describes Tel Aviv as a haven for the local LGBT community and tourists, thanks to its world-renowned Pride Week, plethora of gay
Tel Aviv: A “Gay Haven” or “Pinkwashing” Distraction?
This Associated Press video (02:30) highlights Tel Aviv as one of the world’s most gay-friendly cities for locals and tourists alike, focusing on the open atmosphere, exciting night life, annual
Public Opinion Survey on the Rights of Same-Sex Couples
This article reports the findings of a public opinion survey conducted in honor of the 2018 Jerusalem Gay Pride parade by Hiddush, an organization working towards religious freedom and equality
20 Years of Tel Aviv Pride and a Comparison to Jerusalem
In this i24NEWS interview (05:38), long-time LGBT activist Avi Soffer discusses 20 years of the annual Tel Aviv Pride Parade, including what has changed over the past two decades, what
Summary of LGBT Rights in Israel
This page presents a concise view of the rights of the LGBT community in Israel, from the website of Equaldex, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBT movement around the world.
A Critical Examination of Israeli LGBT Advancements: Genuine Progress or Attempts at Elevated Global Status?
This academic article from the Yale Review of International Studies examines advancements in Israeli law, society and culture to gauge whether Israel’s perceived progressive attitude toward the LGBT community is a genuine
LGBTQ Activist on the Surrogacy Law and Community Rights
In this video (05:19), produced by i24NEWS in light of the 2018 law prohibiting single men and gay couples from state-supported surrogacy rights, LGBTQ activist Yonatan Feffer discusses the progress
MFA: Legal Equality for Israel’s LGBTQ Community
This article from the official website of the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs summarizes the legal status of Israel’s LGBT individuals and families, emphasising their equality and protection under the law
More funding towards education in the periphery? Yes please, but don’t stop there
Allocating more funding to elementary schools in Israel’s periphery is an important first step but it can’t end there, argues education activist Dalia Perez in this 3-minute read from the
Improving education in the periphery through affirmative action
Affirmative action could be the solution to closing the education gap between Israel’s advantaged and disadvantaged communities, according to this enlightening blog post from the Taub Center for Social Policy
A look at education in Israel’s Ultra-Orthodox community
This statistical report from the the Israel Democracy Institute looks at the longstanding education gap between Israel’s Haredi and general populations, suggesting that it is currently in a state of
The key to breaking cycle of poverty in Israel lies in education
The OECD’s recent report on Israel’s economy reveals some disturbing findings about the national prevalence of social inequality, explains this blog post from the OECD Ecoscope. Inequality of education among
Education gaps between Jews and Arabs are closing
Despite the seemingly enormous gaps that national statistics reveal between Arab and Jewish education, this article from The Times of Israel suggests that when socio-economic factors are taken into account, the
Changing the status quo for Israeli Arabs
This clip from PBS NewsHour (8:47) addresses the systemic inequality present between Israel’s Arab and Jewish populations, from early childhood education all the way up to higher education, employment, and
Driving innovation in Israel’s periphery
An Innovation Driven Economy in the Periphery: A National Priority is a chapter from the Israel Innovation Authority‘s 2018 report on all things Israel and innovation. Thorough and research-based, this chapter
Exclusion of minorities not the only problem with Israel’s economy
While Israel’s economic boom has no doubt left some minority groups behind, this article posits that the problem is in fact much broader than it seems. The glaring exclusion of
Poverty and economic inequality on the decline
This informative article analyzes Israel’s lack of socio-economic equity as evidenced by the demographic divide present among its poor. Data from the National Insurance Institute shows both gains and losses
A data-based snapshot of Israel’s poor
This 7-page report put out by the Meyers-JDC-Brookdale Institute—a leading center for applied social research in Israel—provides an overview of Israel’s poor. Haredim, Israeli Arabs, and families with four or more children are
Poverty hits some groups harder than others
This brief clip from i24NEWS (2:10) explores not only the general prevalence of poverty in Israel but also the demographic makeup of those living under the poverty line. Researcher John
Prevalence of poverty in the Haredi community
Israel’s Haredi community continues to suffer from far higher poverty rates than the general population despite that the rates are indeed declining. This statistical report put out by the Israel
How and why to attract doctors to Israel’s periphery
This academic article from the Israel Journal of Health Policy Research outlines the importance of bringing more primary healthcare physicians to Israel’s peripheral regions. As compared to the communities in
Inadequate healthcare and general inequity in the periphery
Residents of Israel’s periphery have poorer access to public resources—including education, transportation, and healthcare—than residents of its central regions. As a result of inadequate medical care, these citizens experience lower
The health of the Arab Israeli population
Data from the Central Bureau of Statistics’ (CBS) Social Survey indicates a significant health gap between Israel’s Jewish and Arab populations. A study from the Taub Center for Social Policy
Even in the same city, Arab infant mortality rates far higher than among Jews
A recent Health Ministry report finds wide gaps between Jewish and Arab citizens’ health outcomes, according to this article from the Times of Israel. With life expectancy lower and infant
Live long and prosper: health in the Haredi community
The Israeli Haredi community has researchers scratching their heads: How is it that a group of such low socio-economic standing experiences better health and greater longevity than its more prosperous
Haredim self-report ‘very good’ health despite inferior care
Objective statistics show a growing gap between the healthcare afforded to Israel’s Haredi and general populations. Nonetheless, recent studies suggest that this may not align with how the Haredi citizens
The Causes & Early Stages of the Second Intifada
Written by Ziv Hellman, a founding member of Peace Watch, the watchdog group reporting on the implementation of the Oslo Agreements, this concise article examines the early stages of the
Background & Causes of the Second Intifada
Written by Jeremy Pressman, Director of Middle East Studies at the University of Connecticut, this lengthy article from The Journal of Conflict Studies outlines the background and causes that led to
Some groups are still being excluded from Israel’s Labor Market
At the end of 2018, research found Israel’s labor market to be in relatively good shape. And yet, even amid the economic growth, we continue to find glaring opportunity gaps
Integrating the Haredi population into Israel’s workforce
Two groups of the Israeli population have long been underrepresented in its growing workforce: Arab women and Haredi men. This in-depth article from the Israel Democracy Institute focuses on the latter,
The Palestinian Authority’s Responsibility for the Outbreak of the Second Intifada
Written by Lt. Col. (ret.) Jonathan D. Halevi, a senior researcher of the Middle East and radical Islam at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, this thorough article aims to debunk the myth
Ensuring equal opportunities for Arab citizens
This informative clip (1:46) put out by the Israel Democracy Institute explores why more than a third of young Arab citizens are neither employed nor acquiring the necessary education or
Israel promises billions of shekels to Arab citizens to help narrow social gaps
In this news clip (6:14) published by Amotat Sikkuy—a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing equality between Palestinian Arab citizens and Jewish citizens of Israel—Mayor Mazen Ghanaim and Sikkuy’s executive co-director Rawnak
Israeli government to inject half billion shekels into periphery
In attempts to lessen the opportunity gaps between Israel’s center and its periphery, the government announced in 2018 plans to invest generously in four of its underfunded—yet promising—peripheral communities. Max
High rates of unemployment in Israel’s North: epic fail or future opportunity?
With unemployment rates in Israel’s peripheral regions soaring, many wonder what can be done to reverse the trend. In this op-ed from the Israel Democracy Institute, Nasreen Hadad Haj-Yahya questions what
A critical look at Israel’s problematic healthcare system
This Times of Israel blog post by Professor Naomi Chazan explores the less-than-glamorous side of Israeli healthcare—inequitable accessibility, inadequate resources, low doctor-patient ratios, and widespread underfunding. “Nothing exemplifies Israel’s crisis of
Wealth Inequality in Israel: 2nd Highest Among OECD Countries
This brief video [01:34] from i24News, an Israel based international news channel, reports that in 2016 Israel was ranked among the 34 OECD countries (Organization for Economic Co-oeperation and Development)
Israel’s healthcare is tops, but will it last?
In 2018, Israel ranked 6th worldwide in Bloomberg’s annual Health Care Efficiency Index. But will Israel succeed in maintaining its high ranking in years to come? This brief article from
What can America learn from the Israeli healthcare system?
This i24NEWS clip (3:30) contrasts the American healthcare system to its Israeli counterpart. While American medical care is prohibitively expensive for a large percentage of the population, Israeli care is
Arab-Jewish Relations Index 2017
This report summarizes the findings of the 2017 Arab-Jewish Relations Index, an annual survey conducted by Professor Sammy Smooha of the University of Haifa concerning the relationship between Israel’s Jewish
The Status of Arabs in Israeli Society
This video from i24NEWS (16:00) presents a heated debate between Sami Abu Shehadeh, an Arab-Israeli historian, politician and community leader, and Yoram Sheftel, a Jewish-Israeli defense attorney and radio host, about the
The State of Israeli Democracy: How Do Israelis Feel About Israel?
This informative video (02:11) presents the findings of the Israel Democracy Institute’s 2016 Israeli Democracy Index, an annual survey of how the Israeli public feels about government institutions, the Jewish and democratic
What Jews & Arabs Think of the Role of Arabs in Israeli Society
In this informative video (02:11) from 2018, Nasreen Hadad Haj-Yahya, Co-Director of the Arab-Jewish Relations Program at the Israel Democracy Institute, presents the findings of a study on the complex relationship
Murder of Young Woman in Arab-Israeli Village Sheds Light on Police Inactivity
This i24NEWS segment (02:19) from 2018 examines the problem of violence against women in Israeli society in general and Arab-Israeli communities specifically through the murder of 16 year old Yara Aroub from
“Honor Killings” in Arab-Israeli Society & Israel’s Response
Produced by CGTN, this news segment (02:48) explores the phenomenon of so-called “honor killings” in Arab-Israeli society and whether the Israeli government and police are doing enough to protect women and
Violence Against Women in Israel and the Middle East
Produced in the wake of the 2018 protests against violence against women, in this i24NEWS segment (07:06), journalist Mohammad Al-Kassim and activist Gabriella Dekalo Dor explore the phenomenon of violence against
Comparing Israeli & American Affirmative Action Programs in Universities
In this article from the Huffington Post, Sigal Alon, associate professor in the department of sociology and anthropology at Tel Aviv University and the author of Race, Class, and Affirmative Action,
Sayed Kashua: Arab-Israeli Journalist Discusses Identity, Zionism & Inequality
In this short video (01:57), Sayed Kashua, a Hebrew-language author, journalist and comedian, discusses his identity as a Palestinian Arab citizen of Israel, his rejection of Zionism, and his frustration
Ayman Sikseck: Arab-Israeli Author Discusses Identity & Compassion
In this first half of this video from i24News (00:40-08:00), Arab-Israeli author, Ayman Sikseck discusses the challenges of bridging his Israeli and Arab identities, especially in times of conflict. Filmed
Nasreen Qadri: Arab-Israeli Singer Talks About Her Identity & Music
In this short interview (02:55), in Hebrew with English subtitles, Nasreen Qadri discusses her identity as an Arab, Muslim Israeli who sings in both Arabic and Hebrew and will perform
Lucy Aharish: Arab-Israeli News Anchor Lights the Independence Day Torch
Produced by i24News in 2015, this video (05:54) introduces Lucy Aharish, a Muslim Arab-Israeli news anchor, reporter and television host who was one of twelve Israeli personalities chosen to light a
Thoughts from an Israeli, Arab, Muslim IDF Soldier
In this short video (01:17), Yahya Mahamid, an Israeli, Arab, Muslim from the Arab city of Uhm al Fahm, describes his pride in volunteering to serve in a combat unit in
Arabs Volunteering in Israel’s National Civil Service: Both Sides of the Story
In Hebrew with English subtitles, this news segment from Channel 2 News (08:53) explores different perspectives on the question of Arab citizens of Israel volunteering in Israel’s National Civil Service,
Fighting for the Enemy? Arab-Israelis Who Reject & Support Military Service
Produced by RT global news channel, this news segment (03:16) explores both sides of the controversy over Arab-Israelis serving in the Israel Defense Forces. Produced in 2012, at a time
Why Are More Israeli-Arabs Enlisting In The IDF?
Produced by the ILTV independent media company dedicated to defending Israel with balanced reporting, this video (04:00) explores the growing phenomenon of Israel’s Arab citizens volunteering to serve in the
Cultural Figures & Average Citizens Embracing Palestinian Identity
In Hebrew/Arabic with English subtitles, this video (05:37) explores the trend of Arab citizens of Israel beginning to identify more as Palestinians than Arab-Israelis. Through interviews with Tamer Nafar, an Arab
Arab Identity in a Jewish & Democratic State
In this thorough article, Karin Tamar Schafferman of the Israel Democracy Institute examines the complexity of Arab self-definition and the relationship between Arabs and Jews in Israel in order to
Arab Identity & Building a Shared Society
In this thought-provoking lecture (10:13) from the Shalom Hartman Institute, Rawnak Natour, an Arab-Israeli activist, discusses the factors that contribute to her complex identity and the challenges of building a shared
Israeli-Arabs Residents of Umm al-Fahm Discuss Identity & Their Future
Produced by The Media Line, an American non-profit news agency dedicated to producing contextual and nuanced reporting from the Middle East, this video (04:37) explores the complex identity of Israel’s Arab citizens
Jewish Identity Versus Israeli Identity: A New Generation
In this i24News segment (06:49), Dr. Yair Caspi explores the emergence of a new phenomenon of young Israeli Jews from across the religious spectrum picking and choosing from among the
What Does Israel’s Nation-State Bill Mean for Israel’s Minorities?
Produced by i24 News, this news segment (08:36) introduces Israel’s Nation-State Law, specifically examining its impact on the country’s minority populations and various responses to the passing of the law. After
A Debate on Israel’s Policy Toward African Migrants
This i24News report (13:42) presents a debate between Yonatan Jakubowicz, Director of PR at the Israeli Immigration Policy Center, and Joshua Sobol, playwright and activist against Israel’s migrant policies. It presents
Israel’s African Asylum Seekers: What Needs to Be Done
Written by Irwin Cotler, a former minister of justice and attorney general of Canada, this Times of Israel article urges Israel to stop inciting the public against asylum seekers and set up
Why Israel Shouldn’t Deport African Asylum Seekers
Written by Rabbi Susan Silverman, a Reform rabbi, activist and author, this article from Moment Magazine criticizes Israel’s controversial policies toward African migrants and asylum seekers, arguing for Israel to
In Defense of Israel’s Policy Toward Illegal African Migrants
Written by Dr. Emmanuel Navon, an Israeli international relations expert, this Times of Israel blog post from 2018 defends Israel’s controversial policy toward illegal African immigrants as consistent with international law
Illegal Migrants & Refugees in Israel: Major Trends and Background Information
Created by the Jewish Federations of North America in 2018, this thorough 23-page long report provides important information about economic migrants and asylum seekers in Israel. The article defines key terms,
Exploring the African Migrant Dilemma in Israel
Produced by i24News in 2018, this informative news segment (02:21) summarizes the different perspectives in Israel towards the thousands of African migrants and asylum seekers, legal and illegal, currently living
Asylum-Seekers in Israel: Background and Figures
From the ASSAF Aid Organization for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Israel, this 4-page long document provides an introduction to the issue of asylum seekers in Israel, including some important statistics and
Everything You Wanted to Know about Eritreans in Israel But Were Afraid to Ask
Produced by the African Refugee Development Center in Israel, this informative video (03:09) clears up some important “myths and facts” surrounding the issue of Eritrean asylum seekers in Israel, including the
Israel’s Religiously Divided Society: Graphs
Produced by Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about global trends, this thorough article summarizes the findings of the 2014-2015 study, which provides insight into Israel’s polarized society,
Introducing Israel’s Minority Communities
From the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this article introduces each of Israel’s minority population groups, including Muslim Arabs, Bedouin Arabs, Christian Arabs, Druze, and Circassians. After providing information about each
Nation-State Law Explainer: What Is It & Why Do So Many People Oppose It?
From the Israel Democracy Institute, this succinct article provides basic information about Israel’s controversial Nation-State Law, including what it is, why so many people oppose it, and a brief explanation
Everything You’ve Heard About Israel’s Nation State Bill Is Wrong
Written by David Hazony, the executive director of the Israel Innovation Fund, this thorough article from The Forward defends Israel’s Nation-State Law, arguing that it is comprised of mostly symbolic declarations
An English Translation of Israel’s Nation-State Law
From the website of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, this 3-page long document presents an unofficial English translation of Israel’s controversial Nation-State Law, a Basic Law with quasi-constitutional status that enshrines Israel
Dan Senor: How Israel Became a Leader in Business Innovation
In this CNBC news segment (06:46), Dan Senor, co author of Start-Up Nation: The Story of Israel’s Economic Miracle, discusses some of the unique factors that have helped Israel become a
Why Are Arab Israelis So Underrepresented in the Start Up Nation?
This article from Business Insider presents the perspective of Itzik Frid, CEO of a venture capital firm and startup incubator focused on Arab-led startups, on why Arab Israelis are so grossly underrepresented in
Israeli Arabs Seeking Greater Share in Country’s Start-up Success
In this article from Business Insider, Tova Cohen discusses some of the factors that limit Arab Israelis from succeeding in the tech sector of the Start-Up Nation, including scarce funding,
Israel: Start-Up Nation for All…Or Is It?
Produced by Appleseeds Academy, an Israeli nonprofit that aims to bridge the digital divide between the Start-Up Nation and Israel’s geographic and social periphery, this video (01:38) questions whether Israel
How Did Israel Become the Start-Up Nation?
Produced by VisuakPolitik, a YouTube channel about global politics and international events, this video (09:33) explores how a country as small and turbulent as Israel managed to become one of the world’s
Failure: The Surprising Fuel in Israel’s Startup Engine
In this article from ISRAEL21c, Abigail Klein Leichman shows how the attitude of Israel’s Start-Up industry toward failure contributes to its ultimate success. Interviews with some of Israel’s most successful
Economic Freedom: The Key to the Start-Up Nation’s Success
Providing a brief economic history of the State of Israel, this video (03:50) shows how Israel’s shift from a socialist state to a free-market economy based on Milton Friedman’s school of
Community Collaboration: The Secret of Israel’s Hi-Tech Success
From collaborative co-working spaces to informal mentorship programs, this short video (02:06) attributes Israel’s success as a Start Up Nation to the willingness of successful entrepreneurs to share their ideas, knowledge
Thou Shalt Innovate: How Israeli Ingenuity Repairs the World
In this inspiring video (06:18), Avi Jorisch, entrepreneur and author of Thou Shalt Innovate: How Israeli Ingenuity Repairs the World, explores the disproportionate role Israel plays in creating innovative solutions to some of
Innovation in Israel & the Palestinian Territories
Produced by WIRED UK, a publication about life-changing people, trends and ideas, this video (18:58) is this the first of five in a documentary series about the tech industry in
Six Transformative Days: A Primer on the Last 50 Years
This comprehensive article looks back on how the Six Day War transformed Israel – for better or for worse. Recalling how Israeli society moved from terror to euphoria in just
The Paratroopers who Founded Gush Emunim & Peace Now and Israel’s Wary Center
Written by Yossi Klein Halevi, author of “Like Dreamers: The Story of the Israeli Paratroopers Who Reunited Jerusalem and Divided a Nation,” this important article traces the story of two
Gush Emunim: The Ideology & History of the Settlement Movement
Written by Conservative rabbi, educator and Israeli tour guide, Ed Snitkoff, this article provides a thorough introduction to the Gush Emunim religious-Zionist movement, committed to establishing Jewish settlements in the territory
West Bank Settlements: Q&A
From My Jewish Learning, this balanced article provides an overview of the controversial Israeli settlements in the West Bank, conquered by Israel during the Six Day War. Careful to present both sides of this
The Territories After the Six-Day War: 1967-1981
From My Jewish Learning, this informative article provides an overview of Israel’s relationship and policy toward territories conquered in the Six Day War – the Sinai Peninsula, the Gaza Strip, Jerusalem, the
Myths & Facts: The Six Day War
Created by the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America, a pro-Israel media-monitoring and research organization, this article explores myths and facts surrounding the Six Day War, including the role of
Causes & Consequences of the Six Day War
Compiled by the Britain Israel Communications and Research Center in 2017, this 10 page PDF document outlines the causes and consequences of the Six Day War, including the regional background and
CAMERA: The Six Day War Website
Created by the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America, a pro-Israel media-monitoring and research organization, this website is entirely dedicated to the Six Day War. With sections about
IDF: The Military Story of the Six Day War
Produced by the Israel Defense Forces in Hebrew with English subtitles, this video (09:04) describes Israel’s military victory against four enemy armies on three fronts during the Six Day War. With
A Reporter Reflects 50 Years Later on the Effects of the War: Now & Then
In this PBS NewsHour video segment (06:09), former correspondent Terence Smith reflects on his coverage of the Six Day War fifty years later. He emphasizes how, in the immediate aftermath of
Six Days of Miracles: The Religious Significance of the Six Day War
Created by the World Mizrahi religious Zionist organization, this uplifting video (10:09) interprets Israel’s surprising and total victory in the Six Day War as a modern-day miracle. Employing biblical language, the
BBC Archives: The Immediate Aftermath of the Six Day War
From the archives of the BBC, this video (04:52) presents the immediate aftermath of the Six Day War, reported live from Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Tel Aviv right after the war. The
The Geopolitical Context for the Six Day War
With a focus on geopolitical context, this informative, neutral, animated video (04:04) provides an excellent historical overview of the regional and international relations leading up to the Six Day War, including
How the Six Day War Changed the Map of the Middle East
Produced by History, an American television network, this video (04:21) provides a brief introduction to the Six Day War, including basic historical context, the major events of the conflict, and the
The Six Day War Project #11-12: The Aftermath of the War & the Peace Process
This post presents the last two videos in the Six Day War Project, a mini-series of twelve short videos about the dramatic events and impact of the Six Day War, produced
The Six Day War Project #5-10: Each Day of the War
This post presents videos 5-10 in the Six Day War Project, a mini-series of twelve 2-5 minute long videos about the dramatic events and impact of the Six Day War, produced
The Six Day War Project #1-4: Causes of the War
This post presents the first four videos in the Six Day War Project, a mini-series of twelve 2-5 minute long videos about the dramatic events and impact of the Six
Intifada vs. Jihad: The Religious Roots of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
In this short video (03:58), Mordechai Kedar, an Israeli scholar of Arabic culture, suggests that the root of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict is religious, as opposed to geopolitical or economic. He
Myths & Facts: The First Intifada
Written by Mitchell Bard, Executive Director of the American–Israeli Cooperative Enterprise and Director of the Jewish Virtual Library, this pro-Israel article explores myths and facts surrounding the First Intifada, including
IDF Commander of West Bank Recalls the First Intifada
Produced by Al Jazeera, a state-funded Qatari news network, this video (02:18) includes an interview with the IDF Commander of the West Bank during the First Intifada. He explains why Israel called up
Hamas & Fatah: 25 Venomous Years
Produced by Euronews, this video (02:27) provides a basic introduction to Hamas, including the origins, strategy, ideology and leadership of the organization, recognized as a terrorist organization by many countries.
The First Intifada: The Content and Consequences of the 1987 Palestinian Uprising
An excerpt from Howard Sachar’s “A History of Israel: From the Rise of Zionism to Our Times, this thorough article provides a relatively balanced introduction to the causes, nature and
Different Academic Perspectives on the First Intifada
From ProCon.org, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization that promotes critical thinking and informed citizenship by presenting controversial issues in a straightforward format, this article presents three short short introductions to the First
The First Intifada: Anti-Israel Lies & Intra-Palestinian Violence
From Jewish Virtual Library, a project of the American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise (AICE), this pro-Israel article presents the catalysts and nature of the First Intifada, emphasizing the role of false rumors against Israel in
Yitzhak Rabin’s “Iron Fist” Policy Splits Israelis
Published in the Chicago Tribune during the First Intifada, this article presents the mixed Israeli response to then-Defense Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s orders to respond to the Palestinian uprising with an Iron
How the First Intifada Transformed the Arab-Israeli Conflict
Written by Professor Avraham Sela for Haaretz, Israel’s left-leaning newspaper, this thorough article analyzes how the First Intifada influenced the future of the Arab-Israeli conflict, shifting it from an international
The Story of an IDF Soldier & A Palestinian Protester During the First Intifada
Produced by Martin Fletcher, an author and former NBC News’ Middle East correspondent, this video (05:27) follows the story of an Israeli soldier and Palestinian protester during the First Intifada.
An IDF Soldier During The First Intifada: “It Changed Me Forever”
In this personal article, Ori Weisberg recalls his experiences as a Labor Zionist lone soldier during the First Intifada, emphasizing how his participation in the events created tension between his
The First Intifada: Historical Context, Causes & Outcomes
Produced by OVO, an online video encyclopedia, this link opens up a relatively balanced video presenting an overview of the First Intifada, including the historical context of the uprising, the political and ideological
The First Intifada: Causes, Evolution & Consequences
Produced to mark 30 years since the beginning of the First Intifada by Al Jazeera, a state-funded Qatari news network, this video (02:48) provides a moderate Arab perspective on the causes
A Search for Solid Ground: The First Intifada Through Israeli Eyes
Filmed in 1989, during the First Intifada, this video clip (11:03) is an excerpt from the PBS documentary, “A Search for Solid Ground,” which presents the Israeli perspective on the Palestinian Intifada
What Were the Intifadas?
Created by NowThis News, a liberal American media company, this informative video (05:11) presents an overview of the First and Second Palestinian Intifadas, including the political, economic and ideological causes, the violent and
Statement by the Arab League upon the Declaration of the State of Israel (May 15, 1948)
This post presents the text of the cablegram sent from the Secretary General of the Arab League to the Secretary General of the United Nations following the Declaration of the
Why the Arabs were Defeated in 1948
Published in Al Jazeera, a state-funded Qatari news network, this article explores the different explanations offered by historians for the Arab defeat in the Israeli-Arab War of 1948, known by Israel
The 1948 War Through Arab Eyes
Written by Salman Masalha, a Druze Israeli poet and writer, this article reveals the rhetoric published in Arab newspapers prior to the Arab-Israeli War of 1948, known by Israel as the
A Detailed Timeline of the War of Independence
From the Zionism-Israel Center advocacy website, this link opens up a thorough chronology of events from November 1947 – September 1949. In addition to information about the many events noted
Clash of Nationalisms: Arabs in Zionist Thought
From My Jewish Learning, this article by Scott Copeland, head of education for Onward Israel, explores the conflict between Jewish and Arab nationalist movements beginning in the late 19th century, as well as
Israel’s War of Independence: Background, Major Battles & Repercussions
This thorough article by Matt Plen,Chief Executive of Masorti Judaism in the UK, provides a relatively balanced overview of the historical background, timeline, major battles and outcomes of Israel’s War of Independence
The 35 Heroes of Gush Etzion (Video & Teachers’ Guide)
This post provides excellent educational resources about the 35 soldiers who were killed during the War of Independence trying to bring supplies to the kibbutzim in the besieged Etzion Bloc
Israel’s Legal Founding & the War of Independence
Created by PragerU, a Conservative American educational non-profit organization, this video (05:23) shows how the founding of the State of Israel, often accused of being illegitimate, was actually completely legal under international law.
The Jewish Underground in 1947-1948: Haganah, Irgun, Stern
In this video (04:52), filmed at a pro-Israel conference in 2009, Israeli historian Benny Morris explains the three underground Jewish military organizations involved in the fighting of 1947 and 1948:
Who Are the Palestinian Refugees?
Produced by the BBC, this news segment (06:14) explores the Palestinian refugee crisis, including the creation of Palestinian refugees in 1948, the poor conditions in refugee camps, the commitment of the
Maps: 1947-1967
From the website of the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this post presents three useful maps in understanding the development of the State of Israel’s borders and the War of
The Truth About the Refugees: Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Featuring Danny Ayalon, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Israeli Ambassador to the US, this animated video (05:30) suggests that the Palestinian refugee crisis is being perpetuated by Arab leaders and the United Nations
Comparing Jewish & Palestinian Refugees
Created by PragerU, a Conservative American educational non-profit organization, this video (04:22) compares the well-known narrative of Palestinian refugees from the Israeli-Arab War of 1948 with the lesser-known story of the Jewish refugees
The 50 Years War: Israel and the Arabs – 1948 War + Background
A clip from the 1999 PBS documentary “The 50 Years War: Israel and the Arabs,” this video (08:21) presents a relatively balanced introduction to the Arab-Israeli War of 1948, including
History in Five: The War of Independence
From the History in Five YouTube Channel, this educational video (05:11) presents an overview of Israel’s War of Independence, including historical background, a timeline and maps explaining the development and
From the Veterans: Different Perspectives on the War of Independence and Israel Today
Produced by Haaretz, a liberal Israeli news source, this video (04:16) presents interviews with two Israelis who fought in the War of Independence and have very different perspectives on the war
Battles on the Road to Jerusalem During the War of Independence
Produced by i24News to mark 70 years since the establishment of the State of Israel, this video (05:26) looks back on some of the fiercest and most significant battles of the War
The Arab-Israeli War of 1948 & Nakba Explained
Created by TRT World, a Turkish international news channel, this video (05:29) explains the causes and implications of the Arab-Israeli War of 1948, known by Israelis as the War of Independence and by
The Battles of the Paratroopers in the Six Day War
From the official website of Ammunition Hill, this link provides detailed information about the role of the Paratrooper Brigade during the Six Day War, including the conquest of Ammunition Hill
Soldiers Describe the Battle for Ammunition Hill & Jerusalem: 50 Years Later
Written by journalist Paul Auster to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Six Day War, this article from the Jerusalem Post describes a meeting of the surviving soldiers who fought
Israeli & Jordanian Veterans Meet On Ammunition Hill 50 Years Later
This article from the Times of Israel describes a unique encounter between Israeli and Jordanian veterans of the Six Day War on Ammunition Hill, 50 years after the war. The
PM Ariel Sharon’s Address at the Jerusalem Day Ceremony at Ammunition Hill
This post presents the text of then Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s speech at the Jerusalem Day Ceremony at Ammunition Hill on 6 June 2005, in which he pays tribute to
Inspired by 1967: A Panel Discussion with Yossi Klein Halevi, Michael Oren & Nir Barkat
Held in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Six Day War, this video (17:30) presents a panel discussion about the impact of the war and the reunification of Jerusalem
The Battle for Ammunition Hill: An Interview with Abraham Rabinovitch
In this video (05:12), Abraham Rabinovich, author of “”The Battle for Jerusalem,” describes the battle for Ammunition Hill, including the strategic importance of the site, the lack of preparedness of the
Ammunition Hill Memorial Site: Telling the Story
Produced by the Jewish National Fund, this video (02:09) describes the Memorial Site of Ammunition Hill as a symbol of Jewish and Israeli heroism. With clips from the head tour guide of the
IDF Veteran Yaki Hetz Returns to Ammunition Hill: 50 Years Later
In this video (04:19), produced by i24News to mark 50 years since the Six Day War, Yaakov “Yaki” Hetz, a decorated IDF veteran returns to Ammunition Hill, recalling the fear, chaos and ultimate
The Strategic Importance of the Battle for Ammunition Hill
This video (07:40) recalls the bloody battle of Ammunition Hill, explaining why this strategic site needed to be conquered in order to liberate the Old City of Jerusalem. With useful
Interviews with Soldiers from Ammunition Hill: 40 Years Later
In this video (04:02), three IDF veterans recall the bloody battle of Ammunition Hill during the Six Day War. With honesty, humor and pain, they describe the lack of preparation, the
The Battle for Jerusalem in the Six Day War: Survival of a Nation
Produced by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, this moving video (08:29) tells the story of Israel’s 1967 battles for Jerusalem and the ensuing liberation of the Old City and the Western
The Conquest of Armon Hanatziv in 1967
From the Ammunition Hill Memorial Site website, this lengthy article provides a detailed account of the military conquest of Armon Hanatziv by the Jerusalem Brigade in the Six Day War.
The History of the Old City of Jerusalem
From HaAtika, the official website of the Old City of Jerusalem, this post presents a concise history of the Old City, from King David’s conquest of the city in 1000
Liberating the Old City of Jerusalem: A Personal Story
Created by the Israel Defense Forces, this moving video (01:04) recalls the liberation of the Old City of Jerusalem and the Western Wall in the Six Day War through the
Why Israelis and Palestinians Both Claim Jerusalem
Created by Vox, a liberal-leaning American news and opinion website, this video (05:00) explains the religious and historical reasons why both Israelis and Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital, serving as a major obstacle
Zionism in Animation: 1967 – Jordan’s Incredible Mistake
Part of The Jewish Story In Animation, a Zionist educational initiative, this animated video (02:12) tells the complex story of the beginning of the Six Day War between Israel and Egypt, Jordan and Syria
Zionism in Animation: The Six Day War
Part of The Jewish Story In Animation, a Zionist educational initiative, this animated video (02:42) tells the story of the Six Day War between Israel and Egypt, Jordan and Syria in 1967, focusing
Zionism in Animation: How the State Of Israel was Born
Part of The Jewish Story In Animation, a Zionist educational initiative, this animated video (03:05) tells the story of the establishment of the State of Israel, starting from the early
The Conflicting Visions of Four Main Sectors of Israeli Society
In this fascinating article by Prof. Yedidia Stern, Vice President of the Israel Democracy Institute, the author outlines the character and vision of four major ideological groups in Israeli society: the secular
Women of the Wall: Liberating the Western Wall Again
Created by the Women of the Wall in 2013, this promotional video (05:03) introduces the goals and challenges faced by this multi-denominational feminist organization whose goal is to secure the rights of
How Do We Find a Torah for a Jewish Democracy?
In this video (05:53), created in celebration of Israel’s 70th birthday, Rabbi Dr. Donniel Hartman argues that the model of total separation of religion and state is neither practical nor
The Renaissance of Jewish Study Among Secular Israelis
This lengthy article by Rachel Delia Benaim and Yitzhak Bronstein explores how a new generation of Israelis has begun to bridge the religious-secular divide, synthesizing Torah study and liberalism to create a new form of
An American Jewish Educator’s Journey into the World of Israeli Secular Torah Study
In this personal account, American Jewish educator, Rabbi David Kasher, describes the growing world of secular Israeli organizations devoted to Torah study. He compares American Jewish religious pluralism and Israeli
Is Israel the Nation-State or Religious State of the Jewish People?
Produced by the Israel Democracy Institute, this video (02:05) features Yair Sheleg exploring how the ultra-Orthodox monopoly over religious life in Israel has led to a growing rift between Israeli and Diaspora Jewry. He describes the
Rabbi David Stav: State and Religion in Israel
Produced on the eve of the Jewish New Year in 2014, this video (05:35) features Rabbi David Stav summarizing religion-state issues in Israel over the past year. He refers to
Religion & State: The Kosher Monopoly
Produced by the Israel Democracy Institute, this video (01:49) features Dr. Shuki Friedman, Director of the Center for Religion, Nation and State, describing the financial, ethical and democratic issues with the current monopoly of the ultra-Orthodox Chief
Liberal Judaism in Israel
This introductory article presents the attitudes toward the liberal Reform and Conservative/Masorti streams of Judaism in both official status and public opinion in Israel. After outlining the basic institutions of
CNN Segment on Ultra-Orthodox Army Draft in Israel
Produced by CNN, this short news segment (03:44) presents the tension between the ultra-Orthodox sector of Israeli society and the State of Israel, particularly in regards to the economic and
A Jewish Anti-Zionist Perspective to Drafting the Ultra-Orthodox to the IDF
Produced by True Torah Jews, an anti-Zionist ultra-Orthodox movement, this video (05:53) presents an extreme perspective on the controversial efforts of the Israeli government to alter the status quo and
2018 Israel Religion & State Index
Put together by Hiddush: Freedom of Religion for Israel, this 29-page document presents the findings of the 2018 Israel Religion & State Index, exploring complex issues of Israel’s identity as a Jewish
Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie: America, Israel, and the Perfect Jewish Democracy
Produced by Hiddush: Freedom of Religion for Israel, this short video (03:22) presents an interview with Israeli-American educator, writer and performance artist, Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie, in which he speaks about about the
Israel’s Religiously Divided Society
Produced by Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about global trends, this thorough video (19:01) provides insight into Israel’s polarized society, exploring the different ways in which
Is Israel a Theocracy?
Created by Natan’s Notes,a YouTube Channel that provides “clear answers to tough questions,” this minute-long video shows how Israel is not a theocracy, but rather a democracy that has some
Religion & State in Israel: Symbiosis or Separation?
Through interviews with Jerusalem residents, rabbis and intellectuals, this introductory video (03:01) outlines the tension between religion and state in the creation of a Jewish democratic state. The interviews are
Can Israel be Both Jewish & Democratic?
In this short video (03:46), Rabbi Velvel Belinsky suggests that in order for Israel to be both a Jewish and democratic state, it needs to first define its core identity, values
Religion & State in Israel: The Marriage Quandary
This introductory video (05:11) explores the possibility of civil marriage in a Jewish democratic state where personal status issues are currently under the monopoly of the ultra-Orthodox Rabbinate. Prominent religious and political
A Religious-Zionist Perspective on Civil Marriage in Israel
In this short video (04:11) created by Ne’emanei Torah Va’Avodah, a national religious lobbying group that advocates for more moderate policies on religion and state issues, well-known leaders in the Orthodox
25 Years After Oslo Accords, Mideast Peace Seems Remote as Ever
Written in 2018, 25 years after the US-brokered Oslo Accords between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), this lengthy New York Times article examines the failure of the peace
Separation of Religion and State: How Jewish Should Israel Be?
In this video (03:15), Rabbi Avi Novis-Deutsch, Dean of the Schechter Rabbinical Seminary, discusses the role of Judaism in Israel, arguing that state legislation should never dictate how individuals practice
Moshe Koppel: Saving Religion from the State
In this thought provoking video (05:18), Moshe Koppel argues for the separation of religion and state in Israel in order to protect Judaism from the influence of politics. Author of “Religion
The Religion-State Status Quo: From Ben Gurion to Today
This post presents resources from the Israel Democracy Institute exploring the development of legislation regarding religion and state in Israel – from David Ben Gurion’s original “status quo” letter until
MK Michaeli: The Role of Secular Jews in the Jewish State & Nation
In this important video (05:23), MK Merav Michaeli responds to the 2017 Western Wall and conversion controversies with a strong message about the essential role that secular Jews play in Israeli society
A Realistic Solution To The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
In this article from Forbes, Avi Melamed suggests an out-of-the-box approach to solving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, outlined as a realistic interim agreement made in conjunction with key Arab countries until
Israel-Palestinian Peace: One-State, Two-State Solutions Explained
This news article from USA Today briefly summarizes the one-state and two-state solutions proposed to bring an end to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. Published within the context of President Donald Trump’s apparent
Traditional Narratives of Israeli and Palestinian History
This important article by Paul Scham provides a concise side-by-side chart comparing the traditional Israeli and Palestinian narratives from the birth of the modern Zionist movement in 1882 through the
StandWithUs: 10 Things to Know About Israel
This beautifully designed booklet from Stand With Us outlines the basic pro-Israel Zionist narrative in 10 points, including the ancient roots of the Jewish people in the land of Israel, their
Wikipedia: The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
This Wikipedia article provides a thorough and relatively balanced overview of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, including the modern history of the region and the Peace Process, and an explanation of key
A Timeline of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (1917-2018)
This timeline from the BBC provides a brief survey of the key events in the modern history of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, from the British Mandatory period until present day.
Everything You Need to Know About Israel-Palestine: A Guide to the World’s Most Controversial Conflict
Created by Vox, a liberal-leaning American news and opinion website, this interactive website serves as comprehensive guide to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, from the basic history, ideology and context to an exploration of
Interactive Crisis Guide to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Created by The Council on Foreign Relations, this thorough guide to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict allows users to learn about the history and complexity of the conflict through interactive maps, videos, and
7 Things to Consider Before Choosing Sides in the Middle East Conflict
Written in the context of the 2014 Israel-Gaza Conflict, this article from the Huffington Post argues that by supporting secularism, democracy and a two-state solution and opposing Hamas, settlement expansion
A Systematic View of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
In this refreshing article from The Systems Thinker, David Peter Stroh applies the principles of systems thinking to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict in order to pinpoint destructive cycles and propose possible solutions.
Why Support a Two-State Solution?
Created by Habonim Dror South Africa, a Jewish Labor Zionist Youth Movement, this video (04:17) claims that the two-state solution is the only option for Israel as a sustainable, secure, and
What if Israel-Palestine Became a United Federation?
Created by Amazingly, a YouTube channel about history, government, and interesting facts, this thought-provoking video (02:47) explores what the one-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict could actually look like, claiming that a
Are Israeli Settlements the Barrier to Peace?
Created by PragerU, a Conservative American educational non-profit organization, this video (04:32) challenges the commonly held view that Israel’s policy of building civilian communities in the West Bank is the reason there is
The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: 10 Myths Preventing Peace
Created by the Jerusalem Institute of Justice, a non-profit human rights organization dedicated to defending rule of law and democracy for all people in the Middle East, this thought-provoking, creative video
The Middle East Problem: Palestinian Rejectionism
Created by Dennis Prager of PragerU, a Conservative American educational non-profit organization, this provocative video (05:39) argues that the root of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict lies in the Palestinian’s refusal to
Crash Course World History: Conflict in Israel and Palestine
Created by Crash Course, an educational YouTube channel started by Hank and John Green, this informative and humorous video (12:52) presents an introduction to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, claiming that what is often seen as
The Israel-Palestine Conflict: A Brief, Simple History
Created by Vox, a liberal-leaning American news and opinion website, this informative video (10:19) presents an introduction to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, starting from the early 20th century. While putting the conflict
The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: One Land, Two Narratives
Created by the Council on Foreign Relations, an independent American think tank and publisher, this thought provoking video (06:57) frames the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within the enduring challenge of accommodating two
Why Are Israel and Palestine Fighting?
Created by NowThis News, a liberal American media company, this educational video (04:07) presents a relatively balanced introduction to the history of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, starting from the early 20th
How the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Began
Created by the American TV Network, History, this educational video (06:28) presents a relatively balanced survey of the history of the land of Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from biblical
Educational Resources for Exploring the Western Wall Controversies
This post provides three different resources designed to help guide discussions and programming concerning some of the religious and political controversies surrounding the Western Wall. Created in 2003, some of
Rabbi Sacks on Jerusalem: The 50th Anniversary of Reunification
In this moving video (7:15), Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, the previous Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, tells the moving story of the Jewish love affair with Jerusalem. He describes how the
With These Hands: Stories of Israel’s Heroic Immigrants
This short video produced for Israel’s 68th birthday tells the stories of the everyday heroes that build Israel’s unique society, from war hero and farmer to teacher and midwife. Celebrating
The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (Text & Video)
This post provides resources about the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, including a short video with information and excerpts from the historic event, a 13 minute video of
The Impossible Transition Between Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut
In this 6:20 long video, Daniel Gordis describes the challenge and meaning behind the transition between the deep grief of Yom Hazikaron – Israel’s Memorial Day, and the joy and celebration
How Ultra-Orthodox Israeli Jews Mark Yom Ha’atzmaut
This article from the Jerusalem Post explores how Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jews in Israel mark the birth of the secular State of Israel. Through interviews with both public figures and average people
Yom Ha’atzmaut: How the Jewish State is Celebrated in Israel & Abroad
This article from My Jewish Learning provides a thorough introduction to Yom Ha’Atzmaut, focusing on the various religious and secular customs that have developed to celebrate this special day in different communities
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Traditional Practices - Learn How
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Want to make Tahini? It’s Easy, delicious, and super healthy.
Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, is a nutrient-rich healthy dip which is very popular in Israel. This video from the Haaretz YouTube channel shows how quick and simple it
A simple recipe for Homemade Pita
Learn how to make Israel’s favorite and most versatile bread, pita, with this video [06:48] from Chef John on the Food Wishes channel. Though pita is often sold in stores,
How to make Shakshuka–easier than it seems
This video [01:12] from the Haaretz YouTube channel, illustrates how to make the North African dish, Shakshuka, a flavorful mix of of spiced tomatoes, onions, red peppers, and poached eggs.To
How to Make Israeli Salad
You’ll find Israeli salad in almost every restaurant, home, or family get together– it’s a staple in the quintessential Israeli meal. Watch this video from Haaretz’s YouTube channel to find
How to Make Delicious Homemade Hummus
This video [03:56], from Adam and Joanne’s inspiredtaste.net, reveals the secret to making fresh, homemade, creamy hummus. Bring the taste of Israel home with you by preparing this simple, easy to
HaTikvah: The National Anthem of the State of Israel
This video presents Israel’s national anthem, HaTikvah (The Hope), with on-screen Hebrew, English and transliterated subtitles. Adapted from a poem written in 1877 by Naftali Herz Imber, a Jewish poet from
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Customs
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Prayer for the Women of the Wall
This post presents the Hebrew and English text for a special prayer written for the Women of the Wall, by Rahel Sharon Jaskow. The Women of the Wall is an
A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all People
This prayer for peace and reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all people was written by Rabbi Sam Feinsmith for T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights. Rabbi Feinsmith is a Jewish educator, innovative prayer
An Original Yom Ha’atzmaut Amidah Prayer for Justice & Peace
This post offers 19 original prayers for Israel, based on the themes and structure of the 19-part Amidah prayer. The prayers were compiled by T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights,
The Masorti Movement’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut
This link opens up a PDF file of Twilight: Moving from Memorial to Independence, a ceremony written by the Masorti Foundation for Conservative Judaism in Israel to mark the transition between Yom
Beit Tefilah Israeli’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut
This link opens up a PDF file of Havdalah: A Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut, a Hebrew and English ceremony written by Beit Tefilah Israeli that celebrates Israel’s national
An Amended Prayer for IDF Soldiers
This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for a new version of the prayer for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, amended by Dr. Alex Sinclair to reflect the
The Traditional Prayer for IDF Soldiers
This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional prayer for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, which is often recited in Zionist synagogues on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. The prayer,
The Traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel
This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel, which is often recited in Zionist synagogues on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. The prayer
Rabbis for Human Rights: A Prayer for the State of Israel
This post presents the English and Hebrew texts of a prayer for the State of Israel that encourages people to return to the root of Yom Ha’atzmaut, and pray for the
Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut
This PDF booklet contains an Orthodox evening service for Yom Ha’atzmaut in Hebrew and English. Although the basis for the Yom Ha’atzmaut liturgy was written by Israel’s Chief Rabbinate in 1949,
What else?
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The Human Side of Israel’s Nobelists
Meet Israel’s recent Nobel prize winners in this Times of Israel article titled ‘Lives of struggle, rejection, vindication: The essence of Israel’s ‘Nobelists’’. The article is based on Israeli filmmaker Uri Rosenwaks’s
The Thousand Faces of Menachem Begin
Meet the many personas that former prime minister Menachem Begin hid behind during his younger years in this short clip (0:43). Although he would later go on to become one
Op-Ed: The Worst Man Ever To Win the Nobel Peace Prize
In an op-ed from the Times of Israel titled ‘The Worst Man Ever to Win the Nobel Peace Prize’, journalist Jay Nordlinger expresses a passionate opinion about the darker back-story
Chef-Artist Moshe Segev breaks the mold
The magazine,“From the Grapevine,” features this interview with top Israeli chef, Moshe Segev. Segev owns 11 restaurants in Israel, serves as the head chef at the prime minister’s residence, owns
President Clinton Remembers Yitzhak Rabin
Former President Bill Clinton has a surprising response when asked to recall his toughest moment as president in this clip (2:43) from the Queen Latifah Show. Learn about the warm personal
Traditional Moroccan Jewish Cuisine in Israel
Moroccan Jewish culture has largely influenced Israeli culture, and one can see this clearly from the popularity of Moroccan food throughout Israel. This video, published by Israel’s official YouTube channel, features
A Taste of Sarona Market’s Diverse Israeli Cuisine
Explore Tel Aviv’s chic Sarona Market through four delicious cuisines showcased in this video [02:22], published by Israel’s official YouTube channel. Stop in for a lunch of locally sourced Rainbow
Israeli Chef Yotam Ottolenghi Discusses his new dessert cookbook, “sweet”
This video [04:30] from “CBS This Morning,” features Yotam Ottolenghi, an Israeli chef who became successful through his London-based restaurants and award-winning cookbooks. Ottolenghi grew up in Jerusalem, served in
7 Israeli Singers to Watch in 2018
This article from ISRAEL21c presents a roundup of a few up-and-coming Israeli singers who are developing solid fan bases across the world, including electronic-pop artist, Natan Goshen, melodic duo, JonZ,
16 of the Best Greatest-Hits Albums from Iconic Israeli Artists
A crash course in Israeli music from ISRAEL21c, this article presents a roundup of the best “greatest hits” compilation albums from Israel’s most influential artists throughout the decades. Highlighting the most
What’s so Good About Israeli Breakfast?
Israel is known for its lavish breakfasts which include fresh salads, different cheeses, spreads, breads. Watch this video [01:10], published by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, for a taste of
9 Popular Israeli Snacks You Should Try
This article, from Israel 21c, an online news magazine reporting on a variety of current in events in Israel, covers nine top Israeli snacks: Bamba, Krembo, Bissli, pretzels (Beigel), Klik,
What Is the Most Popular Street Food in Israel?
This video [01:43], published by the official YouTube channel of the state of Israel, highlights the most popular street food in Israel: shakshouka, felafel, and sabich, served around the clock
Eurovision 2019: The Musical
Produced by KAN DIGITAL, the official Israeli broadcasting body for the Eurovision Song Contest, this satirical video features Eurovision co-host, Lucy Ayoub, and Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation reporter, Elia Grinfeld, welcoming
Chef Nir Mesika Brings Modern Israeli Cuisine to NYC with his Successful Restaurant, Timna
In this video [02:32], Good Morning America features Israeli Chef Nir Mesika, the owner of Timna restaurant in NYC. Voted “Best New Restaurant” in 2015 by USA Today, Timna offers
Shaya Restaurant: Where Modern Israeli Cuisine meets Southern Flavors
This video [04:50], from CBS’s “The Dish,” features acclaimed Israeli-American chef, Alon Shaya. Alon won “Best Chef” in 2015 and in 2016 his restaurant, Shaya, won “Best Restaurant” from the James
Award Winning Chef Michael Solomonov Popularizes Israeli Cuisine in the United States
In this video [04:42], published by 70 Faces Video, a digital media channel dedicated to telling the story of the Jewish people, Michael Solomonov tells his moving story of how
Netta Barzilai on Representing Israel & Bridging Gaps
In this i24NEWS segment (04:13), filmed before her victory at the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest, Netta Barzilai expresses what an honor and privilege it is for her to represent Israel on
Top Israeli Chef Eyal Shani Discusses His Israeli Cuisine Innovations
This interview [04:42], published by My Jewish Learning, a nondenominational Jewish media platform, features Israeli celebrity chef, Eyal Shani. The owner of restaurants in Israel, Europe, and New York, Shani
Chef Einat Admony, the Ultimate “Balaboosta”
Published by the Michelin guide to restaurants, this video [04:17] features Israeli chef Einat Admony, the owner of three highly successful restaurants in NYC, including “Balaboosta,” (Yiddish for an exceptional homemaker). Admony
Israel Reacts to Netta’s Eurovision Victory
This i24NEWS segment (05:34) recaps the euphoric reaction in Israel to Netta Barzilai’s victory in the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest, including all night partying in the streets of Jerusalem and
MFA Promotional Video for Tel Aviv Pride Parade
Produced by the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs and featuring tourists from all over the world, this promotional video (02:07) celebrates the joy, energy and endless parties of Tel Aviv’s
Tel Aviv Through a Gay Painter’s Eyes
This video presents a slideshow of Rafi Perez’s paintings, which use vibrant colors and naive images to depict the “golden age of the gay community” in Tel Aviv. This article
How to use the Start-Up Nation Finder
This short video [01:36] by Start-up Nation Central, shows users how to navigate the Start-up Nation Finder, a free online platform which offers up-to-date information on Israel’s innovation ecosystem. The site
Ariel Sharon On Visiting the Temple Mount
This video clip (01:21) from September 29, 2000 features Ariel Sharon, then Israel’s opposition leader, explaining his controversial visit one day earlier to the Temple Mount. Citing the holiness of the
PA Minister: Intifada Planned Since Camp David
This short clip (0:45) from December 5, 2000 presents Imad Falugi, the Palestinian Authority’s Minister of Communications, revealing that the Second Intifada was not started because of Ariel Sharon’s visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque
StandWithUs: African Migrants & Asylum Seekers Fact Sheet
This 2-page long fact sheet from Stand With Us outlines the challenges faced by Israel in regards to African migrants and asylum seekers as well as a survey of the responses by the
Holocaust Survivors Urge Israel to Help Refugees
This CNN news segment (01:53) reports on Holocaust survivors calling for Israel to take in refugees. Although this video is not specifically talking about Israel’s controversial policy towards African migrants and
Three Responses to Israel’s Migrant Challenge
Written by the Jewish People Policy Institute in 2018, this thorough 10-page long report provides background information to Israel’s migrant challenge and current policies, followed by a table presenting three
What Do Locals Think of the Nation-State Law?
Created by TRT World, a Turkish international news channel, this video (04:45) reveals what random local Jews and Arabs on the streets of Jerusalem think about Israel’s controversial 2018 Nation-State Law, which legally
Equality Topping on a Nation-State Pizza?
Produced by the Israel Democracy Institute in Hebrew with English subtitles, this creative video (01:59) criticizes Israel’s controversial Nation-State Law for failing to ensure quality to all citizens. It is a dark comedic sketch
In Defense of Israel’s Nation-State Law
In Hebrew with English subtitles, this video (03:15) features Matan Peleg, CEO of Ir Tirtzu, defending Israel’s controversial Nation-State Law. He explains that Israel has many other Basic Laws that protect
Created in Israel, Part of Your Life
Produced by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this humorous video (01:42) reveals how many Israeli inventions an average person benefits from in his daily life without even realizing it, from cherry
7 Life-Changing Israeli Inventions
Produced by the official YouTube Channel of the State of Israel, this humorous video (02:12) highlights seven innovative Israeli inventions that are changing the world in the fields of medical technology,
Why Is Israel Called the Start-Up Nation?
This short video (01:29) presents some of the statistics that have led to Israel’s global reputation as the Start-Up nation, as well as the impact of mandatory military service in
Seeds Tech-Entrepreneurial Program: Working Toward Equality in the Start-Up Sector
Created by Seeds Tech-Entrepreneurial Program, a start-up accelerator that trains aspiring entrepreneurs from Israel’s social and geographic periphery, this document summarizes the inequality of Israel’s tech start-up industry and shows how
Infographic: Israeli Innovation Must Break New Ground
From an article from the Israel Innovation Authority about how Israeli innovation must break new ground in order to benefit all citizens, sectors, regions and spheres of life, this infographic
Infographic: Tel Aviv’s Start-Up Ecosystem
From an article from NoCamels about Tel Aviv’s start-up ecosystem, this infographic presents a visual map of the city’s tech scene, including the number of start-up companies, international R&D centers, accelerators
Infographic: How Did Israel Become the Start-Up Nation?
Created by OneRagtime based on the book Start Up Nation: The Story of Israel’s Economic Miracle, this post presents a useful infographic that clearly depicts some of the major factors that
Interviews with Nine People About the Six Day War
Written by Conal Urquhart for the British newspaper, The Guardian, this lengthy article presents nine different personal perspectives of the Six Day War. Among those interviewed about their experiences before,
The Story Behind the Six Day War’s Most Famous Photo
Produced by the Christian Broadcasting Network, this short interview (04:26) with photographer David Rubinger reveals the story behind the iconic picture of the Six Day War of three paratroopers in front of
A Timeline of the Six Day War
Created by the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America, a pro-Israel media-monitoring and research organization, this useful post presents a concise timeline of the major historical events leading up to, during
Arab Political Six Day War Cartoons
This post presents ten political cartoons published before and during the Six Day War. Contributing to fear in Israeli society and the confidence in Arab society, the images all depict
The Six Day War Scroll: The Story of Yom Yerushalayim and the Six Days of Deliverance
In this video (05:35), Dr. Hagai Ben-Artzi introduces his book, “The Six Day War Scroll,” which tells the miraculous story of Israel’s victory in the Six Day War with an emphasis on
Six Day War Maps
This post presents three important maps for understanding the impact of the Six Day War: Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs maps of Israel’s borders before and after the Six Day
With What Shall I Bless Him?
Written by Rachel Shapira in memory of her classmate Eldad Krock, a young reservist killed in the in the Six Day War, this this sad song is about an angel blessing
CAMERA: The Six Day War Website
Created by the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America, a pro-Israel media-monitoring and research organization, this website is entirely dedicated to the Six Day War. With sections about
BBC Archives: The Immediate Aftermath of the Six Day War
From the archives of the BBC, this video (04:52) presents the immediate aftermath of the Six Day War, reported live from Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Tel Aviv right after the war. The
IDF Commander of West Bank Recalls the First Intifada
Produced by Al Jazeera, a state-funded Qatari news network, this video (02:18) includes an interview with the IDF Commander of the West Bank during the First Intifada. He explains why Israel called up
Intifada: An Israeli Computer Game from The First Intifada
This video (08:43) presents a computer game released in Israel during the First Intifada, in which the player is an Israeli soldier whose mission is to stop the rioting and stay
Footage of Typical Violence from The First Intifada
With no context or narration, this short video (01:15) presents footage of typical violence between Palestinians and Israeli soldiers during the First Intifada, including mobs of Palestinian youth throwing rocks at
The Story of an IDF Soldier & A Palestinian Protester During the First Intifada
Produced by Martin Fletcher, an author and former NBC News’ Middle East correspondent, this video (05:27) follows the story of an Israeli soldier and Palestinian protester during the First Intifada.
An IDF Soldier During The First Intifada: “It Changed Me Forever”
In this personal article, Ori Weisberg recalls his experiences as a Labor Zionist lone soldier during the First Intifada, emphasizing how his participation in the events created tension between his
Haim Hefer: Yes, It’s Possible
This song was originally written as a poem by iconic Israeli poet, Haim Hefer, who served in the Palmach during the War of Independence, during the first truce of the
Statement by the Arab League upon the Declaration of the State of Israel (May 15, 1948)
This post presents the text of the cablegram sent from the Secretary General of the Arab League to the Secretary General of the United Nations following the Declaration of the
Natan Alterman: Elifelet
Performed here by the IDF for Memorial Day, this song, written as a poem by Natan Alterman in 1959 and put to music by Sasha Argov, tells the story of
Letters from Jerusalem: 1947-1948
This link provides a sample of letters that capture the spirit of the new country from the book “Letters from Jerusalem, 1947-1948” by Zipporah Porath, a young American woman who came to
A Detailed Timeline of the War of Independence
From the Zionism-Israel Center advocacy website, this link opens up a thorough chronology of events from November 1947 – September 1949. In addition to information about the many events noted
The 35 Heroes of Gush Etzion (Video & Teachers’ Guide)
This post provides excellent educational resources about the 35 soldiers who were killed during the War of Independence trying to bring supplies to the kibbutzim in the besieged Etzion Bloc
Maps: 1947-1967
From the website of the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this post presents three useful maps in understanding the development of the State of Israel’s borders and the War of
Natan Alterman / Yehoram Gaon: The Silver Platter
This haunting song conveys the great sacrifices upon which the State of Israel was establishment. Soon after the release of the UN Partition Plan of 1947, Chaim Weizmann, who would
A Map of Each Day of the War of Independence
This short illustrative video (01:17) depicts the land lost and gained by each side on every day of the Arab-Israeli War of 1948 through a color coded map with changing borders.
PM Ariel Sharon’s Address at the Jerusalem Day Ceremony at Ammunition Hill
This post presents the text of then Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s speech at the Jerusalem Day Ceremony at Ammunition Hill on 6 June 2005, in which he pays tribute to
Trailer for “In Our Hands: The Battle for Jerusalem”
This video (1:31) is a trailer for the Christian Broadcasting Network’s documentary, “In Our Hands,” which tells the story of the battle for Jerusalem in the Six Day War. Combining dramatic
Liberating the Old City of Jerusalem: A Personal Story
Created by the Israel Defense Forces, this moving video (01:04) recalls the liberation of the Old City of Jerusalem and the Western Wall in the Six Day War through the
Kol Ami B’Seder: The State of Israel
This educational resource by Yaara Salamon-Michaeli from the Kol Ami Jewish Peoplehood Leadership Academy provides biblical, historical and philosophical sources exploring the significance of the State of Israel in Jewish tradition and the
How the Nation-State Law Challenges Israel’s Democratic Character
This ABC News segment (07:11) features Liam Getreu, the Executive Director of the New Israel Fund Australia, describing the opposition of many to Israel’s controversial Nation-State Law, which enshrines the State
The IDF Sings Unetanneh Tokeh to a Melody Inspired by the Yom Kippur War
To the backdrop of footage from the Yom Kippur War, this moving video shows the IDF Chief Cantor Ltc. Shai Abramson and IDF soldiers singing the prayer “Unetanneh Tokef” to the
Tzelofhad’s Daughters: A Feminist Poem About the Western Wall
This thought provoking poem by progressive Jewish feminist, Abby Caplin, draws a parallel between the biblical Daughters of Tzelofhad and the modern Women of the Wall. Both groups fight for gender equality
The Western Wall: A Poem
This poem by Anthony Shacknofsky conveys the significance of the Western Wall through a poetic summary of the history of this sacred site, from the days of the Temple, through destruction
A Selection of Yehuda Amichai’s Poems About Jerusalem
This post offers the English translation of a selection of poems about Jerusalem, written by the iconic poet, Yehuda Amichai, who spent much of his life in the city. Some of
Footage from the Liberation of the Western Wall and the Temple Mount in 1967: “The Temple Mount is in Our Hands”
This short video from the Israel Defense Forces presents actual footage from the historic moment when Israeli soldiers overcame Arab troops and reached the Western Wall during the Six Day
Quotes from Israeli Leaders Upon the Liberation of the Western Wall in 1967
An excerpt from a longer article about the liberation of the Western Wall in the Six Day War in 1967 and the Israeli commitment to preserving freedom of worship for
Haim Hefer: The Paratroopers Are Crying
In this moving poem, Israeli songwriter, poet and writer, Haim Hefer, poetically describes the historic moment of the liberation of the Western Wall by Israeli paratroopers in the Six Day War
Educational Resources for Exploring the Western Wall Controversies
This post provides three different resources designed to help guide discussions and programming concerning some of the religious and political controversies surrounding the Western Wall. Created in 2003, some of
S.Y. Agnon’s Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech
This post presents the audio recording (Hebrew) and translated text of a short excerpt from Israeli author Shai (Shmuel Yosef) Agnon’s acceptance speech after being awarded the Nobel Prize for
Address by Israeli President Ezer Weizman in Germany
This post presents the full text of President Ezer Weizman’s famous speech in a joint session for the two chambers of parliament in the Federal Republic of Germany in 1996.
November 29, 1947: The Story of a Vote (Video & Amos Oz Excerpt)
This post provides resources about the fateful vote of November 29, 1947, when the United Nations General Assembly voted in favor of the Partition Plan, a three-minute long vote which
A Prayer for the Palestinian People
This English prayer for the Palestinian people was written by Matt Adler to be recited in synagogue in addition to the prayer for the State of Israel. Adler, a gay activist
With These Hands: Stories of Israel’s Heroic Immigrants
This short video produced for Israel’s 68th birthday tells the stories of the everyday heroes that build Israel’s unique society, from war hero and farmer to teacher and midwife. Celebrating
The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (Text & Video)
This post provides resources about the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, including a short video with information and excerpts from the historic event, a 13 minute video of
Prayer for the Peace of Israel During Wartime
This prayer for the peace of Israel during wartime was written by the late Rabbi Ron Aigen for T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights. Rabbi Aigen was the senior rabbi of the
A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all People
This prayer for peace and reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all people was written by Rabbi Sam Feinsmith for T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights. Rabbi Feinsmith is a Jewish educator, innovative prayer
An Original Yom Ha’atzmaut Amidah Prayer for Justice & Peace
This post offers 19 original prayers for Israel, based on the themes and structure of the 19-part Amidah prayer. The prayers were compiled by T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights,
How a Popular Zionist Folk Song Became a Protest Anthem: Video & Guiding Questions
This post presents a song with guiding questions from the Masorti Movement in Israel that can be used to teach about the ideological changes that have taken place in Israel since
The Masorti Movement’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut
This link opens up a PDF file of Twilight: Moving from Memorial to Independence, a ceremony written by the Masorti Foundation for Conservative Judaism in Israel to mark the transition between Yom
Beit Tefilah Israeli’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut
This link opens up a PDF file of Havdalah: A Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut, a Hebrew and English ceremony written by Beit Tefilah Israeli that celebrates Israel’s national
Music
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Be My Friend for Peace, the Remix
This techno mashup by Tel Aviv-based artist Noy Alooshe (2:30) re-cuts famous words spoken by late Israeli Nobel prize-winning politician Shimon Peres in his bid for peace. In 1994, then-Foreign Minister
Noga Erez: Dance While You Shoot
This is the official music video for the song that gained Noga Erez international recognition after it was used by Apple in an advertising campaign in 2017. Trained in jazz music,
Lazer Lloyd: Rockin’
This video of a live festival performance features American-Israeli singer-songwriter and guitarist, Lazer Lloyd, one of the few artists playing Americana, folk and blues in Israel. Popular throughout the United
David D’Or: Hagidi Li
This is music video for a Hebrew pop song by Israeli singer, composer and song-writer, David D’Or, Israel’s representative at the 2004 Eurovision Song Contest. A countertenor with a vocal range of
Ester Rada: Life Happens
This is the music video for the most famous song by Ester Rada, an Israeli singer of Ethiopian origins who has a unique cross-cultural sound reflecting Ethio-Jazz, funk, soul, and
Asaf Avidan: Reckoning Song (One Day)
This video presents the original version of the song which ultimately brought Israeli singer-songwriter Asaf Avidan to international success. Originally from Jerusalem, Avidan is best known for his unique voice,
Balkan Beat Box: Move It
This is the official music video for a high-energy song by Balkan Beat Box, an Israeli musical group that plays a creative blend of Jewish, Balkan, Middle Eastern, Gypsy punk,
Orphaned Land: Norra El Norra
This is the official music video for a song derived from the Yom Kippur prayer service by Orphaned Land, a progressive Israeli heavy metal band that combines Jewish, Arabic and
David Broza: East Jerusalem / West Jerusalem (ft. Wyclef Jean)
This music video features Israeli superstar, David Broza, and Grammy award winning American rapper, Wyclef Jean, singing a duet about Broza’s coexistence project, “East Jerusalem West Jerusalem.” The collaborative peace
Yemen Blues: Um Min Al Yaman
This music video presents the unique sounds of Yemen Blues, a blend of traditional Yemenite, West African, jazz, and funk music. Led by Israeli musician of Yemenite origin, Ravid Kahalani,
Infected Mushroom: Becoming Insane
In a combination of Spanish and English, this music video presents a popular song by Infected Mushroom, a successful Israeli musical duo comprised of Erez Eisen and Amit Duvdevani that
The Idan Raichel Project: Mi Ma’amakim (From the Depths)
This music video presents one of the most popular songs from the Idan Raichel Project, a unique, intercultural, collaborative musical initiative that integrates musicians of different styles from around the world
Static & Ben El: Tudo Bom
This is the official music video for the English version of Static & Ben El’s hit song, “Tudo Bom,” featuring Colombian singer, J Bavlin. The Israeli pop duo, made up of Liraz
Avi Toledano: Hora – 2nd Place in Eurovision (Horragate, UK, 1982)
This video present’s Israel’s entry in the 1982 Eurovision Song Contest in Harrogate, United Kingdom, “Hora” by Avi Toledano,which earned Israel second place in the international competition. In this up-beat, nostalgic
Ofra Haza: Chai – 2nd Place in Eurovision (Munich, 1983)
This video present’s Israel’s entry in the 1983 Eurovision Song Contest in Munich, “Chai” by Ofra Haza. The song earned Israel second place in the international competition for the second consecutive
Medley of All of Israel’s Eurovision Songs (1973-2018)
This video (07:25) presents short clips of each of Israel’s performances at the Eurovision Song Contest from 1973-2018. For a list of each of Israel’s entry’s to Eurovision, including the
Netta: Toy – Israel’s 4th Eurovision Victory (Lisbon, 2018)
This video present’s Israel’s winning song in the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon, “Toy” by Netta Barzilay, a global symbol of feminism and diversity, described by some as the
Dana International: Diva – Israel’s 3rd Eurovision Victory (Birmingham, 1998)
This video present’s Israel’s winning song in the 1998 Eurovision Song Contest in Birmingham, “Diva” by Dana International, a transgender woman and one of Israel’s most successful singers ever. The first
Gali Atari & Milk & Honey: Hallelujah – Israel’s 2nd Eurovision Victory (Jerusalem, 1979)
This video present’s Israel’s winning song in the 1979 Eurovision Song Contest in Jerusalem, “Hallelujah” by Gali Atari & Milk & Honey. The up-beat, optimistic song inspires people to unite
Izhar Cohen & Alphabeta: A-Ba-Ni-Bi – Israel’s 1st Eurovision Victory (Paris, 1978)
This video present’s Israel’s winning song in the 1978 Eurovision Song Contest in Paris, “A-Ba-Ni-Bi” by Izhar Cohen and Alphabeta. The up-tempo disco song explores the way in which humans
Miri Aloni & the IDF Nachal Band: A Song for Peace
Written by Yaakov Rotblit and composed by Yair Rosenblum, this controversial song was first performed by the IDF Nachal Infantry Ensemble in 1969, during the War of Attrition between Israel
Subliminal: Biladi (My Country)
Released in 2002, during the Second Intifada, this song by Israeli rapper Ya’akov “Kobi” Shimoni (known by his stage name Subliminal) reveals a frustration with the cycle of violence and
DAM: Born Here
In Hebrew with English subtitles, this music video features the iconic Palestinian hip-hop group DAM rapping about the discrimination they experience in their hometown of Lod, an Israeli city with
Shadia Mansour: Al Kufiyyeh (The Arabic Scarf)
This music video features Shadia Mansour, “the first lady of Arabic hip-hop,” and M-1, an American rapper and activist, rapping about the “kufiyyeh” (Arabic scarf) as a symbol of Arab identity
The Kingdom of the Hermon
Written by Yovav Katz, composed by Effi Netzer, and performed by the Military Band of the IDF in 1968, “Kingdom of the Hermon” is written as a love song from
Naomi Shemer / Nachal Band: Tomorrow
Written by Naomi Shemer for the Nachal Military Band, this optimistic song which dreams of a time of peace and prosperity in Israel became popular following Israeli victory in the Six
Ron Eliran: Sharm El Sheikh
Written by Ron Eliran during the Six Day War, this song commemorates Israel’s capture of Sharm El Sheikh, a city on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Eliran volunteered to
Haim Hefer / Arik Lavi: Nasser is Waiting for Rabin
Written in the “waiting period” before the Six Day War, this upbeat song was written by Haim Hefer and performed by Arik Lavi to mock the Egyptian president and boost national
With What Shall I Bless Him?
Written by Rachel Shapira in memory of her classmate Eldad Krock, a young reservist killed in the in the Six Day War, this this sad song is about an angel blessing
Chava Alberstein: My Daughter, Are you Cyring or Laughing?
Written after the Six Day War, this iconic Israeli song describes a young girl from Kibbutz Gadot not knowing how to react when she emerges from a bomb shelter in
Colonel Bagshot: Six Day War
From the 1971 album, “Oh, What a Lovely War,” many believe that this depresssing anti-war song entitled “Six Day War” by the British rock band, Colonel Bagshot, is indeed about
Shlomo Artzi: New Land
Released during the First Intifada, this song is written as a continuous conversation between fathers and sons over the course of generations as they journey toward “a new land.” The
Ehud Banai & the Refugees: Stir the Cement
Released by Ehud Banai and The Refugees during the First Intifada, this song is written from the perspective of a Palestinian day laborer who travels from Gaza to work in
Nurit Galron: After We’re Gone, Let the Flood Come
Released by Israeli singer Nurit Galron during the First Intifada, this controversial song criticised the Israeli public (and those living in the bubble of Tel Aviv, specifically) for willfully ignoring the
Chava Alberstein: Had Gadya
Written by Chava Alberstein during the First Intifada, Had Gadya is based on an Aramaic song from the Passover Haggadah. While Alberstein’s lyrics mostly come from the traditional text, the
Si Himan: Shooting & Crying
Written by Si Himan during the First Intifada, this haunting song explores the effects of war and violence on Israeli society and psyche. Entitled “Shooting and Crying,” this popular phrase refers
Haim Hefer: Yes, It’s Possible
This song was originally written as a poem by iconic Israeli poet, Haim Hefer, who served in the Palmach during the War of Independence, during the first truce of the
Natan Alterman: Elifelet
Performed here by the IDF for Memorial Day, this song, written as a poem by Natan Alterman in 1959 and put to music by Sasha Argov, tells the story of
The Song of the Palmach
This song (until 01:52) was the anthem of the Palmach, the elite fighting force of the Haganah, the underground army of the Yishuv during the British Mandate of Palestine. Founded
Yaffa Yarkoni: In the Plains of the Negev
Originally written in Russian by P. Mamaychuk in 1943 with music by L. Shokhin, this song was translated to a Hebrew marching song called “There, Far in the Forest,” which was
The Nachal Band: Song of Friendship
Written by Haim Gouri at the end of the War of Independence and most famously sung by The Nachal Band, a military entertainment troupe, this moving song is a memorial
Yaffa Yarkoni: Bab el Wad
Written by Haim Gouri, composed by Shmuel Farshko and performed by Yaffa Yarkoni, this moving song commemorates the battles of Bab El Wad / Sha’ar Hagai during the War of
Natan Alterman / Yehoram Gaon: The Silver Platter
This haunting song conveys the great sacrifices upon which the State of Israel was establishment. Soon after the release of the UN Partition Plan of 1947, Chaim Weizmann, who would
IDF Central Command Variety Ensemble: Guard of the Walls
Written in 1977, this classic Israeli folk song by the Central Command Variety Ensemble of the Israel Defense Forces (Pikud Hamercaz) is written through the eyes of IDF soldiers, expressing their
Meir Ariel: Jerusalem of Iron
“Jerusalem of Iron” was written by Israeli singer-songwriter Meir Ariel following the Six Day War to the melody of Naomi Shemer’s famous “Jerusalem of Gold.” After taking part in the costly
Sabaton: Counterstrike – A Heavy Metal Song About the Six Day War
This video presents a song about the Six Day War by Sabaton, a Swedish heavy metal band who’s songs recount historical battles. The lyrics, provided below, tell the story of
Ammunition Hill Song
Written by Yair Rosenblum and Yoram Taharlev, this famous song (in Hebrew with English subtitles) tells the story of the bloody battle on Ammunition Hill during the Six Day War. Ammunition
Koolulam: 1000 People Sing Bob Marley’s “One Love” in Jerusalem
This inspirational video presents 1000 people of different backgrounds who gathered together to sing “One Love” by Bob Marley in English, Hebrew and Arabic at the Tower of David in the Old
Women of the Wall: Can’t Keep Quiet
Created by the Women of the Wall, this music video puts footage from the organization’s controversial monthly Rosh Chodesh minyan at the Western Wall to the backdrop of “Quiet” by MILCK,
Israeli Rock Music’s Spiritual New Sound
This article by Yossi Klein Halavei explores the unique phenomenon of “secular” Israeli rock music becoming more inspired by Jewish ideas and liturgy, as well as the historical and political
HaDag Nachash: The Sticker Song (with educational guide)
Released in 2004, amidst the Second Intifada, this hip-hop song is a collection of Israeli bumper stickers representing the full spectrum of religious and political ideologies that make up Israel’s diverse and often
Alma Zohar: Out of Egypt
This song by Israeli artist, Alma Zohar, criticizes current Israeli policy and public attitudes toward African refugees seeking safety in Israel in light of the history of the Jewish nation
Kobi Oz & Rabbi Nissim Messika: Elohay (with educational guide)
This post presents “Elohay” by Kobi Oz, along with a printable educational guide including the Hebrew and English lyrics, explanatory footnotes for the lyrics, and guiding discussion questions. Written as an ode and
Kobi Oz: Prayer of the Secular (with educational guide)
This post presents “Prayer of the Secular” by Kobi Oz, along with a printable educational guide including the Hebrew and English lyrics, explanatory footnotes for the lyrics, and guiding discussion
Bear Your Banner to Zion: An Early Zionist Anthem
Written in the context of the First Zionist Congress of 1897, this early Zionist anthem captures the enthusiastic pioneering spirit of the early Zionist movement. The lyrics, displayed onscreen in
One More Brother: A Song About the Conflict
This powerful song expresses the hopelessness of the endless cycle of violence of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as well as a desire for peace. It was written by Israeli rapper The Big Fishi
Hatikvah: A Controversial Version of the Israeli National Anthem in Arabic Musical Style
Released in honor of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel, this controversial version of Israel’s national anthem was produced by Israeli artist, Daniel Saadon, in
Ein Li Eretz Acheret / I Have No Other Country: An Iconic Zionist Song
Written by Israeli singer-songwriter Corinne Allal in 1989, during the First Intifada, this moving song, performed here by Gali Atari, expresses the eternal Jewish connection and commitment to the land and
Hadag Nachash: Genesis
Released in 2004, amidst the Second Intifada, this hip-hop song expresses some of the seemingly eternal aspects of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, including the senseless violence, the hope for peace, and
Muki: Songs of War & Peace
This post presents two songs about the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict by the Israeli singer and rapper, Muki. Written in 2002, in the midst of the Second Intifada, “Talking About Peace” expresses the
Bukra Fi Mishmish (When Pigs Fly): Israeli & Palestinian Youth Sing for Peace
Produced by Heartbeat, a creative social change organization that unites Israeli and Palestinian youth musicians, this music video features Israeli and Palestinian youth singing about the hope for a seemingly impossible
In My Heart: A Hebrew/Arabic Song for Peace
This touching video features Israeli singer, David Broza, and Palestinian singer, Wisam Murad, singing a peace song about their deep shared connection to the Land of Israel/Palestinian. Sung in both Hebrew
A Palestinian Incitement Song Threatening Terror Attacks
This threatening animated music video warns “Zionists” of deadly terrorist attacks and kidnappings. Sung in Arabic with onscreen English subtitles, this song is an example of Palestinian incitement media that encourages
This Land Is Mine: A Story of Eternal War and Conquest
This dramatic animated video presents “This Land is Mine,” a song that tells the story of the wars in the Land of Israel/Palestine, from prehistoric times until today. With a
The IDF Sings Unetanneh Tokeh to a Melody Inspired by the Yom Kippur War
To the backdrop of footage from the Yom Kippur War, this moving video shows the IDF Chief Cantor Ltc. Shai Abramson and IDF soldiers singing the prayer “Unetanneh Tokef” to the
Naomi Shemer: Yerushalayim Shel Zahav / Jerusalem of Gold
This popular Israeli song written by Naomi Shemer describes the Jewish people’s age-old yearning for and ultimate return to Jerusalem. Released just three weeks before the outbreak of the Six Day War
Yossi Gamzu: The Kotel (The Western Wall)
Written by Israeli lyricist Yossi Gamzu and performed by Israeli singer Ofra Haza, the song HaKotel conveys the significance of the Western Wall by the stories of three people who pray there:
Here in the Land of Our Forefathers: Israeli Folk Song
This video presents an Israeli folk song that captures the early pioneering spirit of the pre-State days, written by Yisrael Dushman and composed by Chanina Karchevsky. The lyrics, which can
How a Popular Zionist Folk Song Became a Protest Anthem: Video & Guiding Questions
This post presents a song with guiding questions from the Masorti Movement in Israel that can be used to teach about the ideological changes that have taken place in Israel since
L’Shana Haba’ah: Next Year in Jerusalem
This song captures the eternal Jewish hope and prayer for the return to Jerusalem. Even though the Jewish people have technically returned to the city of Jerusalem, this song is still
HaTikvah: The National Anthem of the State of Israel
This video presents Israel’s national anthem, HaTikvah (The Hope), with on-screen Hebrew, English and transliterated subtitles. Adapted from a poem written in 1877 by Naftali Herz Imber, a Jewish poet from
The Traditional Prayer for IDF Soldiers
This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional prayer for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, which is often recited in Zionist synagogues on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. The prayer,
The Traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel
This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel, which is often recited in Zionist synagogues on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. The prayer
Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut
This PDF booklet contains an Orthodox evening service for Yom Ha’atzmaut in Hebrew and English. Although the basis for the Yom Ha’atzmaut liturgy was written by Israel’s Chief Rabbinate in 1949,