Israeli hospitals innovate to rehabilitate
One of Israel’s major achievements post 7 Oct 2023 has been how Israeli hospitals have developed protocols for treating the 139 returning hostages from Gaza. They had to cater for children who had suffered abuse and adults suffering severe psychological and physical injuries.
Edan returns
In a moment of profound relief and national significance, Edan Alexander an Israeli-American IDF soldier was freed after 584 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza. His return marks the first release of a male IDF soldier kidnapped on Oct 7 2023, and the last known living American hostage held by the terror group.
Lag B’Omer
In advance of his appearance at Tzfat’s Lag B’Omer festival, popular rapper Nissim Black implored world Jewry to spread more light as the most powerful way forward to vanquish its enemies. Meanwhile, thousands celebrated Lag B’Omer in Meron, northern Israel.
The miracle of Israel’s rebirth
We are the people of Israel – a people of hope. An inspirational hi-tech video.
One of the best
Ted Belman, editor of IsraPundit, has passed away at the age of 87. His relentless activism on behalf of the Jewish State will be sorely missed. Thankfully Peloni is continuing his legacy as the new editor.
Declaration Day
The Israel Forever Foundation hosted a gala celebration at the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem on Declaration Day, May 14, the 77th anniversary of Israel’s establishment. 18 foreign ambassadors were joined by dozens of Jewish organizational leaders, Israel activists, journalists and social media influencers.
Restoring the Little Western Wall
Israel has begun renovation and maintenance work at the Little Western Wall, a lesser-known section of the Western Wall located in the (sensitive) Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. The section of Herodian-era wall is just 190 yards north of the main plaza, adjacent to the Iron Gate.
Sheba’s mental health spin-off
Israeli startup Mentaily, founded in response to the aftermath of Oct 7 2023, has taken on the LIV AI mental health platform developed by Sheba Medical Center (see previously). LIV simulates clinical psychiatric assessment, addressing the acute lack of mental health professionals and services.
More than a bakery
Another tale of resilience as the Tosha Bakery between Acre and Rosh Hanikra in Israel’s far north had to close due to Hezbollah rockets. The owners opened a pastry stand in Nahariya until they could return to Tosha, clean up and repair their equipment and recover. With help from JNF-USA.
Technion awarded Shield of Appreciation
On 28 May, Israel’s Technion Institute will receive the Defense Minister’s Shield for 2025 in recognition of its outstanding support for military reservists. The Shield is granted to organizations and institutions that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to reservists.