Israel Active

The first official Somaliland delegation arrived in Israel. Its mission was to establish professional ties and explore how Israeli water technology and agricultural expertise can help address urgent development needs back home.

The election of Siniša Karan as the new President of the Republic of Srpska (Serb Republic) will deepen ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Netanyahu sent a message of congratulations. In January, the PM hosted two Bosnian Serb leaders in Jerusalem.

Israel facilitated the transportation of 140,000 tarpaulins to the residents of Gaza ahead of the winter. The IDF has also supplied 370,000 winter items for its troops.

The founders of Israel’s Wiz (sold to Google for $32 billion) have pledged 1% of Wiz’s shares for future donations through the Merit Spread Foundation.

The IDF marked a milestone in inclusion with the inauguration of the Douglas Unit, a new initiative dedicated to soldiers with disabilities and special needs. One soldier, Maayan Mangadi is autistic and nearly mute. She received her IDF uniform from her brother in the elite Matpa Unit.

Michal Mizrahi, a teacher at ORT Singalovski High School, made a spare schoolroom into a small retail shop. Students can help themselves to new and nearly new clothing without embarrassment. Some students chose items not only for themselves but also for younger siblings at home.

Israel’s Bereaved Families Law has been amended to provide additional funds and support for IDF orphans. An orphan is recognized up to the age of 30. It includes monthly stipends to orphans up to age 40, and a one-time grant for orphans over 40.

Druze communities in the Golan Heights (originally supporters of Assad of Syria), are increasingly aligning with Israel. Many have joined IDF-linked local defense units to protect their homes and future. See video.

Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem celebrated the hatching of a black-footed penguin chick - a species in decline and in serious danger of extinction. The new chick, named Ofek, is currently 37 cm tall and weighs only 1 kg. In the future, it could reach up to 70 cm, and weigh between two and five kg.

Dutch NGO Christians for Israel have planted 150,000 tulips in Israel, including more than 50,000 that are blooming throughout the Gaza border area.