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Israel Now Days.

Vision & Innovation
Arts, Letters, and Culture as Windows on Israeli Life & Identity
Modes of Jewish Identification & Expression in Israel
Land and Us – Sustaining, Relating, and Living
Social Trends and Social Justice
Majorities and Minorities in Israel
The Conflict: Peace and Power
Israeli Politics & Elections

Background - Onward Israel Recommends

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Tribes, Identity & Individual Freedom in Israel

Written by Natan Sachs and Brian Reeves and published by the Center for Middle East Policy, this 23-page long article examines the history and implications of Israel’s attitudes and policies toward individual autonomy,

The Population of Israel

Published by the Jewish People Policy Institute in 2015, this 24-page long study provides a thorough analysis of Israel’s demographic characteristics and trends in order to influence policy-making that will increase the Jewish character

Arab Citizens of Israel Early in the Twenty-First Century

Written by Arik Rudnitzky, project manager of the Konrad Adenauer Program for Jewish-Arab Cooperation at the Moshe Dayan Center, this 137-page long study assesses the political and social situation of Israel’s Arab citizens early in the twenty-first

‘What makes one an Israeli?’ Negotiating identities in everyday representations of ‘Israeliness’

Written by Rakefet Sela Sheffy from Tel Aviv University’s Unit of Culture Research, this 19-page long article explores the construction of an Israeli identity not found in public political discourse, based on open responses to

State and Religion in Israel: Possible Scenarios

Written by Shlomo Hasson, this 104 page booklet examines the role of religion in Israeli society. The author explores four fundamental struggles of this subject – the place of religion in public life,

Israel’s Religiously Divided Society (Pew Research Center, 2016

Produced by Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about global trends, this 237-page long report provides the full findings of the 2014-2015 study, which provides insight into Israel’s polarized society,

After the Zionist Revolution: Patterns of Jewish Collective Identity among Israeli Jews

This thorough article compares the findings of the The Jewish People Policy Institute’s Israeli Pluralism Survey (2016) and the Pew Research Center’s survey (2014-2015), the results of which were published as “Israel’s Religiously Divided

The Middle East Since 9/11

Written by Jacob L. Shapiro, Director of Analysis for Geopolitical Futures (GPF), this in-depth article analyses how the Middle East was transformed by the massive changes sparked by 9/11, including the West’s war against terror,

War & Ethics in the IDF Ethical Code

Adapted from a lecture by Moshe Halbertal, Israeli philosopher, professor and co-author of the Israeli Army Code of Ethics, this article from the Shalom Hartman Institute discusses the challenges the Israel Defense Forces faces

Israel, the Start-Up Nation, is Failing Most of Its Entrepreneurs

In this article from Haaretz, Ora Cohen reveals Israel’s failure to foster small and medium-sized start-ups that are not in the tech hi-tech industry, and how this affects both consumers and businesses. Readers

Dan Senor: The Start-Up Nation at 70

In his address (21:06) at the Jewish Funders Network 2018 International Conference in Tel Aviv, Dan Senor, co author of Start-Up Nation: The Story of Israel’s Economic Miracle, discusses how Israel’s role in

Israel at 70: The ‘Start-up Nation’ Celebrates Innovation

Produced by i24NEWS in celebration of 70 years since the founding of the State of Israel, this video (04:26) looks back on Israel’s short-but-impressive history of innovation, despite significant challenges, and explores what drives

How Did Israel Become “Start-Up Nation”?

This article from the Freakonomics website is an interview between Dwyer Gunn and Saul Singer, co-author of “Start-Up Nation: The Story of Israel’s Economic Miracle,”, in which the author describes the culture behind Israel’s economic

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 immediate catalysts, the

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Why Didn’t the 2-State Solution Ever Take Off?

This video (15:01) explores the contentious question: Why not just divide Israel into 2 separate states — one for Jews and the other for Palestinians? In fact, there have been at least 6 separate

4,000 Years of Jerusalem’s History in Under 2 Minutes

Hang on tight! Journey through 4,000 years of Jerusalem’s history in under 2 minutes with this animated clip from ‘Unpacked’. Get the timeline straight as you learn about the battles, people, and significant moments that

Dream Doctors Medical Clowns in Israel

Meet some of Israel’s happiest social justice activists in this clip (2:51). Dream Doctors is a non-profit organization that sends medical clowns to hospitals and emergency scenes all over Israel. In this particular clip, 2 such clowns

Will Israel Solve the International Water Crisis?

As water becomes a growing international concern, many countries are turning to Israel as a model for successful solutions, as this video (4:49) shows. For example, nearly 90% of Israel’s wastewater is treated and

Israeli Technologies Tackling Plastic Pollution

This video (02:35) highlights innovative Israeli technologies being used to combat plastic pollution in Israel and around the world, including compostable bioplastic packaging, advanced recycling technologies, and natural organisms that transform plastic into green

Israeli Agriculture Technologies

Produced by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this video (02:49) highlights seven Israeli agricultural technologies and companies that are making farming more efficient and sustainable in Israel and around the world, including drip

Israeli Renewable Energy Policy: Past and Present

Written by Dr. Alon Tal and Naomi Lisptein, this thorough journal article provides a detailed overview of Israel’s renewal energy policy, from the early days of the state through the publishing of the article

Solar Energy to Electricity in Israel: Government Policy & Technology

This abstract presents a summary and recommendations from the “Energy Forum 30: Solar Energy to Electricity in Israel” at the Technion Israel Institute of Technology in 2013. It discusses the government policies supporting

Innovative Solar Energy Technologies in the Negev

Produced by Negev Energy, the company behind the innovative renewal energy projects in Israel’s Negev Desert, this video (03:38) with English subtitles describes the three different technologies being employed in order to harness

Israel’s Solar Energy Industry: Accomplishments & Challenges

From ILTV, this short video (01:19) discusses the strides and setbacks in Israel’s journey to achieve its goal of having 10% of its energy come from renewable sources by 2020. Despite a strong solar energy industry and

Innovative Israeli Solutions to Global Ecological Challenges

Produced by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this informative video (02:07) highlights how Israel uses innovative technology to transform limited natural resources into sustainable forms of power, including water recycling and desalination and solar,

Angels on the Israel National Trail

This article from ISRAEL21c describes the unique concept of “Trail Angels,” Israeli citizens who generously open their homes and hearts to hikers along the Israel National Trail, providing strangers with a place to sleep,

Introducing the Israel National Trail

Produced by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this short video (02:06) introduces the Israel National Trail, a unique hiking trail that is approximately 1000 km long, stretching from Kibbutz Dan in Northern Israel

Hiking in Israel: A Favorite National Pastime

From Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this article explores the centrality of hiking in Israeli culture, including the biblical roots of this national pastime, how it is fostered in the educational system, and descriptions

The Ethiopian Israeli Population: Facts & Figures

Published by the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute in 2018, this 4 page long report provides facts, figures and statistics about different aspects of the Ethiopian community in Israel, including demography, education, employment and general integration

Ethiopian Israelis: Statistics, Goals & Challenges

From the website of the Ethiopian National Project, this article presents background information and facts about the Ethiopian community in Israel, including the challenges they face, and statistics about demographics, education, socio-economic status,

The Situation of Ethiopian Jews in Israel

From the Jewish Virtual Library, this thorough article summarizes issues facing the Ethiopian community in Israel, including demographics, income and employment, education, discrimination and the challenges facing immigrants. Despite significant socio-economic gaps and discrimination, the

Discrimination Against Ethiopians in Israeli Society

Produced following the July 2019 killing of Ethiopian-Israeli, Solomon Tekah, by an Israeli police officer, this i24NEWS segment (04:47) explores racism and discrimination against Israelis of Ethiopian descent in Israeli society. Through an interview

How Israel’s Younger Voters Have Grown More Conservative

Written following the April 2019 elections, this article from the Jerusalem Post explores how young Israeli Jews have become more conservative over the years, especially in regards to issues of security and Jewish

A Guide to Israel’s 2019 Elections

Created by the Israeli Democracy Institute, this thorough website provides useful information about the different political parties running, along with other relevant election news. The site provides a page for each party, including a

How Do General Elections in Israel Work?

Produced by CNN, this informative video (01:28) summarizes the way in which Israel’s political system operates, including how the Knesset is set up, for whom voters vote, and how a coalition is established.

‘Prisoners of War’ – the Precursor to ‘Homeland’

In this short clip (1:44), Gideon Raff discusses his award-winning Israeli televisions series ‘Prisoners of War.’ The format for the series was sold to various international broadcasters to be adapted for local audiences. Fox

‘Fauda’ Star Explains Inspiration Behind Hit Show

Co-creator and lead actor Lior Raz talks about his inspiration for the show ‘Fauda‘ in this interview (4:34) with Fox News. Based on the life experiences of Raz and other co-creater Avi Issacharoff,

Israeli Premiere of ‘Hostages’

In this clip (4:04), hit Israeli TV series ‘Hostages‘ co-creators Rotem Shamir and Omri Givon chat with The Israel Bureau at the show’s premiere. Bought on paper by CBS before the Israeli team

Behind the Scenes of CBS’s ‘Hostages’ Pilot

In this behind-the-scenes look (3:15) at the pilot of CBS’s ‘Hostages‘, hear from the show’s executive producers and lead actors about some of the controversial characters and plot lines they portrayed. ‘Hostages’ is the

‘8 New Israeli Writers You Need to Read Right Now’

Looking for a good summer read by an up-and-coming Israeli writer? In ‘8 New Israeli Writers You Need to Read Right Now‘, Beth Kissileff has you covered. Meet the first Ethiopian woman to

‘When the World Became White’

This Times of Israel article by reporter Mitch Ginsburg celebrates Dalia Betolin-Sherman’s work and budding contribution to the Israeli literary scene. Born in Ethiopia in 1979, Betolin-Sherman crossed the Sudan by foot along with

Q&A with Ofir Touché Gafla

In this casual interview (8:21) put out by “On the Map”, meet Ofir Touché Gafla: a highly talented Israeli author with a cult-like following both in Israel and abroad. His first book, The World

Dror Mishani on His Early Literary Influences

Dror Mishani reflects on his early literary influences in this brief clip (1:21). Mishani is an up-and-coming Israeli crime writer and literary scholar whose award-winning novels have already won several prizes both in

Ayelet Gundar-Goshen’s Award-Winning Debut Novel

In this clip (6:53), Ayelet Gundar-Goshen speaks about her award-winning 2012 debut novel One Night, Markovitch. Gundar-Goshen is a relative newcomer on the Israeli literary scene, but her her work has been met

Ari Shavit’s best seller wrestles with Israel’s complexity

In this PBS NewsHour interview (7:46), prolific author and reporter Ari Shavit shares some of his complex views on the Israeli-Arab conflict. Shavit, the former senior correspondent at popular left-leaning news outlet Haaretz, is best

Up Close and Personal with A. B. Yehoshua

Published by the Dan David Prize committee, this clip (3:14) introduces one of Israel’s most beloved and internationally acclaimed writers: A. B. Yehoshua. Yehoshua has been hailed by the New York Times as the

First Israeli to Win Man Booker Prize

Published by i24NEWS, this news clip (1:52) celebrates Israel’s first win, and winner, of the Man Booker International Prize in 2017. Israeli writer David Grossman took home the prestigious U.K.-hosted prize, awarded for “continued

Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

This animated book summary (5:39) walks us through the New York Times bestseller by Israeli writer, historian, and professor Yuval Noah Harari. Recommended as a must-read by the likes of Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg,

Remembering Amos Oz

PBS NewsHour pays tribute to one of Israel’s most internationally acclaimed thinkers and writers in this clip (3:26). Born in Jerusalem to European, right-wing Zionist parents, Amos Oz forged his own way, changing his

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, solar energy has

The Four Wars of Israel/Palestine

In this important article, Prof. Michael Walzer re-frames the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict into four simultaneous and continuous wars: the Palestinian war to destroy Israel, the Palestinian war for an independent state that will end

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, the documentary tells

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 life in Israel.

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 article from Israeli

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 of the OECD’s most recent economic survey

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. He posits that

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 known as one

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 is aware of

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 second annual day

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 community around the

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 Jerusalem marches, which

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 establishments, extensive municipal

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 Pride Parade and

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 in Israeli society.

Concise 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. Citing the legal

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 expression of the

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 of LGBTQ rights

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 and the inclusiveness

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 Jerusalem Post. Students

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 Studies in Israel.

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 flux. While more

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 children and adolescents

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 contrast is far

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 daily experiences of

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 outlines a number

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 certain groups—namely Israeli

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 for Israel’s minority

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 found to be

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 Gal discusses why

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 Democracy Institute sheds

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 the center, peripheral

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 life expectancy, higher

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 mortality rates higher

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 Studies in Israel

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 counterparts? Taub Center

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 experience their own

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 in the labor

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, exploring why employment

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 skills to enter

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 Schindler, business reporter

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 lies behind the

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 governance more painfully

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 Globes explores why

Israel’s Water Supply: From Shortage to Surplus

In this video [07:57] produced by PBS NewsHour, Martin Fletcher reports on how Israel has increased its water supply dramatically in just a few years. Israel has incorporated water recycling, conservation, and desalination–

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 universal, equitable, and

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 and Arab citizens.

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 status of Israel’s

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 characters of the

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 between Arabs and

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, compares the 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 with inequality in

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 during the 2014

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 anywhere, even in

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 torch in the official

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 the Israel Defense

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, an alternative to

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 Israel Defense Forces

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 rapper, and a

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 determine whether true

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 society in Israel.

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 through interviews with

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 various traditions and

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 listing some of

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 the ethical, legal

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 a proper refugee

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 use its innovative

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 and the practice

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, differentiating between “economic migrants,”

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 in Israel. While

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 realities on the

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 Israel’s general policy.

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, revealing the deep

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 of the perspective

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 that simply reaffirm

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 as the nation-state

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 the tech workforce

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, discrimination, not serving

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 is truly the

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 innovation leaders. While

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 entrepreneurs reveal how

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 thought saved the

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 and networks with

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 the word’s greatest

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 Israel and the

Start-Up Nation for All

In this important article from the Jerusalem Post, Dena Weiss suggests that demographic changes have created a new reality where providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all sectors of Israeli society is a

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 members of the

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 geographic and political

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 explains how the

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 Fist policy of

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 non-violent aspects of

King Abdullah I of Jordan: As the Arabs See the Jews (1947)

This link provides the full text of an article written by King Abdullah I of Jordan in The American Magazine in November, 1947, six months before the declaration of the State of Israel

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 refugees and their

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 for political purposes,

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 Zionists, the ultra-Orthodox,

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 women to pray

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 ideal in a

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 Israeli values.

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 secular Torah study,

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 exclusion of liberal

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 efforts to pass

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 Rabbinate over the

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 each movement in

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 social implications of

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 increase the draft

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 and democratic state.

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 challenges that 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 Secular, Traditional, Religious

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 lows that

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 conducted in Hebrew,

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 and goals from

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 leaders discuss the

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 Religious Zionist community explain

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 Judaism in the

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 and State

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 today. Highlighting issues

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 and the Jewish

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 timelines accessible through intuitive

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 times until today.

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Ehud Banai: Black Work

This 1980s protest song by Ehud Banai expresses the challenges and discrimination facing the Ethiopian community in Israel. To see the full Hebrew and English lyrics, click here.

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 and Egypt. The

Shlomo Artzi: Murder Report

Written by iconic Israeli folk-rock singer-songwriter, Shlomo Artzi, this song reflects on the 1995 assassination of then-Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, comparing it to the assassination of American President John F. Kennedy in 1963.

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 morale at a

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 northern Israel to

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.” It subtly explores controversial

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 effects of 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 original song ends

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 to the psychological

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 become the first

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 battles for Jerusalem

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 City of Jerusalem.

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, which became the

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 events that have

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 polarized society. The

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 as a persecuted

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 duet to his

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 questions. Written from

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 in 1967, when the Old

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