The nomination marks the 10th time an Israeli film has been up for Best Foreign Language Film. Director Joseph Cedar said, “We were aware that initial screenings had been warmly received, but still we were very surprised.” Also good article on the powerhouse of Israeli cinema.
http://www.israelhayom.com/site/newsletter_article.php?id=2844
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4181725,00.html