Israel Active

The IDF Home Front Command has lifted all remaining restrictions on communities along Israel’s northern border, initially imposed due to hostilities with Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah. It allows displaced residents to return home on 2nd Mar.

Less than two weeks after their release from Hamas captivity, former hostages Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Agam Berger, Daniella Gilboa and Karina Ariev have asked to return to the army. The army responded that they needed more time to recover and that it was too soon.

For the first time in its history, the prestigious Genesis Prize often called the "Jewish Nobel" has been awarded to a non-Jew. Argentine President Javier Milei received the 2024 honor in recognition of his strong support for Israel and his deep personal connection to Judaism.

The Israel on Campus Coalition’s Geller International Fellowship gives US students confidence to advocate for Israel. The six-month program included a 10-day trip9 to Israel and the UAE to experience the budding Emirati-Israeli relationship under the Abraham Accords.

On the Jewish festival of Tu B’Shevat (New Year for Trees) Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) held a tree-planting ceremony in Biriya Forest. It also marked KKL-JNF’s ongoing commitment to rehabilitating Israel’s northern forests.

On the Shabbat following release from captivity, Agam Berger, Karina Ariev, Naama Levy, Liri Albag, and Daniela Gilboa, attended morning prayers where they recited the traditional “Hagomel” blessing, which gives thanks for surviving a life-threatening ordeal.

Ex-hostage Alexandre ‘Sasha’ Troufanov celebrated his release by donning tefillin (phylacteries worn during prayers) for the first time in his life. Helped by Rabbi Berel Lazar of Moscow, he then recited the “Shema Yisrael” prayer. His mother had urged Israelis to light Shabbat candles.

During her national service, Eden was assigned to “OneFamily - overcoming terror together,” and worked at Loewenstein rehab hospital. She met Avi, a critically injured Golani Brigade commander. A friendship flourished between them - and now they are getting married.

Israel’s Ministry of Social Affairs has unveiled a structured support plan for the tens of thousands of northern residents returning to their homes from Mar 1.  Social workers and therapists have been provided with guidelines; families should visit their homes in stages to plan repairs and redecoration.

Israel’s HiBob (see previously) is showing its appreciation to its employees, granting 1,800 options to every employee who served more than 30 days of IDF reserve duty during the Swords of Iron War. HiBob’s CEO highlighted military service as “a cornerstone of Israel’s strength.”