October 2006

British expert: Israel needs new image
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
The Foreign Ministry hosted a seminar in an attempt to boost Israel’s worldwide image bringing to light its positive attributes with the Brand Israel conference.
Northern farmers pleased, but wary of future
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Despite the harsh criticism against the management and the results of the war in Lebanon, some farmers in the north of Israel have expressed their satisfaction with the new situation created, but still warn of future unrest as Hizballah is not seen, but may return sooner than later.
Israeli experts train Iraqi engineers
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
A group of Iraqi engineers in the field of irrigation and agricultural planning had recently visited a special training center in Jordan, founded by the Peres Center for Peace, which took part in a special training project called “the Culture of Water.”
Israeli jets roar over Beirut
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
For the first time since the end of the Lebanon war in August, Israeli Air Force jets roared over the skies of the Dahiya district, the Hizballah stronghold neighborhoods in southern Beirut. No bombs were reported dropped, but the roaring sound of the jets caused some panic among the local residents.
IDF planning further actions in Gaza
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
It seems like the recent calls for an expanded ground incursion into Gaza coming recently from civilians, former army officers, and politicians, will be answered soon with several planned operations in different parts of the Strip.
IDF targets weapons storage facility in Gaza
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
On Monday, the Israel Defense Forces carried out an aerial attack in the southern Gaza Strip, targeting the house of a terrorist, used for the storage of weaponry.
Bar Refaeli promotes tourism to Israel
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2006
International actress and model Bar Refaeli agreed to the request of Tourism Minister Yitzhak Herzog to appear free of charge for the purpose of promoting Israel’s tourism industry and participate in the opening ceremony of the Israeli booth in the international travel fair to be held in London next week.
Police, marchers, brace for gay parade confrontations
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2006
Jerusalem police have expressed their concerns over the upcoming Gay Pride Parade which will take place in Jerusalem next Friday, especially after voices from inside the ultra-orthodox community say they will present a counter-march in protest and do not promise to stay non-violent throughout the parade.
Terror suspects nabbed in Um al-Fahm
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2006
Three Palestinians were arrested late Sunday in the Arab-Israeli city of Um al-Fahm for allegedly planning a terror attack inside Israel. Two of the three terror suspects arrested are residents of the Palestinian Authority and one is an Israeli citizen. In addition to the three, security forces also arrested two Palestinians illegally housed in Israel.
Peretz: Hamas-Fatah conflict could reach Israel
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2006
In a security briefing during the weekly cabinet meeting, Defense Minister Amir Peretz reported that there is an escalation in the conflict between Hamas and Fatah, and that the internal Palestinian conflict could ultimately be directed towards Israel.
UN: Cartographer to survey Shabaa Farms
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2006
The UN has appointed a cartographer to draw the border lines of the disputed Shabaa Farms in the northern Golan Heights. The cartographer will use all data available to the UN in order to reach a topographic definition for the land.
Canadian FM: We will continue to stand by Israel
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2006
Canadian Foreign Minister Peter McKay spoke at an event in Montreal and said that the Israel-Canada relationship is based on mutual friendship and any threat to the security of Israel is also a threat to the security of Canada.
Olmert apologizes for Lebanese coast incident
Posted on Monday, October 30, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert apologized to Germany for the incident that took place between the Israel Defense Forces and the German navy off the Lebanese coast last week.
40 percent drop in tourism since war
Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2006
The government will conduct a special discussion regarding the crisis in the tourism industry in Israel after estimates show a sharp decrease in tourism traffic since the war in Lebanon this summer.
Israeli Arab indicted for attack attempt
Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2006
A 20-year-old woman from the Arab-Israeli town of Tira was indicted on Sunday for allegedly planning an attack in the Spaghetim restaurant in Ra’anana as a part of a terror cell established by a Kalkilya resident in May of 2006.
Argentina court compensates Jewish couple
Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2006
A Court of Appeals in Argentina required a Buenos Aires resident to pay $11,500 (35,000 Pesos) to a Jewish couple, to whom she refused to rent an apartment because they were Jewish.
Israel boycotts Le Pen’s daughter
Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2006
An official delegation from the European Parliament, which was due to arrive in Israel Sunday has cancelled their trip at the last minute after Israel had sent a message that one of the delegates, the daughter of French extreme-right-wing leader Jean-Marie Le Pen, is a persona non grata in Israel.
Israel denies using uranium-enriched weapons in Lebanon
Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2006
The Foreign Ministry and the Israel Defense Forces denied reports by the British newspaper, The Independent, which claimed Israel used uranium-based munitions, including uranium-tipped bunker-buster bombs against Hizballah in Lebanon this past summer.
Foreign Minister cancels trip to Qatar
Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2006
Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni decided to decline her invitation to attend an event, which will be held by the United Nations in Qatar's capital Doha on Sunday. This was decided after Israel learned that a Hamas delegation would also be participating.
Shabbat Commentary
Posted on Friday, October 27, 2006

Noach Noah: Genesis 6:9 – 11:32; Isaiah 54:1 – 55:5
In this week’s portion we meet one of the first righteous men, Noah. Through the righteousness of one person all of mankind was saved. That was always the case in history, through the few and the remnant, God was gracious and restrained from destroying all of Israel.
Armenian parliamentarian’s remarks cause storm
Posted on Friday, October 27, 2006

Vartan Ayvazian, a member of the Armenian parliament, caused a political storm when he made anti-Semitic statements concerning a drilling company in Armenia.
Israelis assist North Ireland’s peace process
Posted on Friday, October 27, 2006

While peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians have virtually come to a halt since Hamas’ rise to power, some regular citizens, both Israelis and Palestinians have decided to lend their hand in resolving other international conflicts. The first stop: Northern Ireland.
Ultra-orthodox ready to sabotage gay parade
Posted on Thursday, October 26, 2006
While homosexuals around the world are slated to gather in Jerusalem on November 10 for the World Gay Pride Parade, the ultra-Orthodox of Israel are setting the stage to hold mass protests to sabotage the parade.
Israel: We did not attack the German ship
Posted on Thursday, October 26, 2006
Defense Minister Amir Peretz spoke with German Defense Secretary Franz Josef Jung and made it clear that reports of Israeli Air Force missiles attacking a German ship off the coast of Lebanon were false.
LAX boosts security with help of Israeli experts
Posted on Thursday, October 26, 2006
With the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) a number one target for a terrorist attack by Al-Qaeda, a team of security experts from Israel’s Shin Bet (Israel secret services) and Ben Gurion International Airport experts visited L.A. to make recommendations for improving airport security.
No intention to act for public appeasement
Posted on Thursday, October 26, 2006
Defense Minister Amir Peretz spoke on Tuesday in front of troops at the Israel Defense Forces Southern Command of the Gaza Division and expressed his sentiments regarding the public pressure to act forcefully in Gaza, saying that public pressure is not a motivation to act.
Terrorists plan major attack on Israel
Posted on Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Fatah may be gearing up for a showdown with its rival Hamas, but terror cells throughout the Gaza Strip are planning to align with Hamas for large-scale attacks against Israeli positions along the Gaza border in the coming days.
Israel kicks off branding campaign
Posted on Wednesday, October 25, 2006
In an effort to change Israel’s image around the world, the Israeli foreign ministry has announced the beginning of a re-branding campaign for Israel which will attempt to depict it as a peaceful and advanced country, and not a country of war and aggression.
Livni to visit Persian Gulf
Posted on Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni could be the first Israeli foreign minister to visit the Persian Gulf country of Qatar in over 10 years as she is contemplating an invitation by the heads of that emirate to attend a conference there next week.
Why don’t Jews establish state in Europe?
Posted on Wednesday, October 25, 2006
In an interview with the German Der Spiegel Magazine, Palestinian Foreign Minister Mahmoud al-Zahar says that Israel is a foreign element in the Middle East and asks “why don't the Jews establish their state in Europe?” In an interview conducted a few months ago by the Chinese news agency, Zahar said he dreams of a map where Israel does not appear. Now, however he is ready for Israel to appear, but only in Europe.
Student petition reaches UN
Posted on Wednesday, October 25, 2006
A group of 30 high school students from Haifa presented Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Danny Gillerman (photo), with a petition calling for the immediate release of the three kidnapped soldiers, Gilad Shalit, Ehud Goldwasser, and Eldad Regev.
Oriental Jews staking their claims
Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2006
In light of possible peace talks with the Palestinians, acting Justice Minister Meir Sheetrit (Kadima) has revived an old plan to record and document the lost property and belongings of all Jews who were expelled from Arab countries and fled to Israel and to other places around the world.
Haim Saban supports Hillary for 2008
Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Israeli-American media mogul Haim Saban is calling for the Democratic Party to support the candidacy of Hillary Clinton to the presidency of the United States to be held in 2008.
39 Pounds of Israeli pride in Hollywood
Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2006
A little Israeli pride in Hollywood: The movie of Israeli director Dani Menkin, “39 Pounds of Love,” has won the Media Access Award for best documentary film. The award ceremony is held each year for media organizations which allow for the exposure of stories about people with disabilities.
Israel’s political strategy need not change
Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni said in a speech yesterday that Israel does not have to change its political strategy to solving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict because of the Lebanon war.
Germany takes command of naval force in Lebanon
Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2006
As of October 16, Germany has assumed the command of the international naval forces off the coast of Lebanon charged with preventing arms smuggling into Lebanon through the sea.
Olmert: Don't repeat mistakes made 60 years ago
Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke yesterday in front of a conference in Tel Aviv and said that it is impossible that a leader of a nation who is member of the United Nations who is calling for the annihilation of another people, to be accepted as a legitimate leader.
Muslims worldwide to celebrate Eid al-Fitr
Posted on Monday, October 23, 2006
Millions of Muslims from all corners of the world are beginning the celebration of the holiday of Eid al-Fitr Monday, commemorating the handing down of the contents of their holy book, the Koran, to the Prophet Mohammed about 1400 years ago and marking the conclusion of the month long fasting holiday of Ramadan.
Israel complains to UN about Iran
Posted on Monday, October 23, 2006
Israel handed an official complaint to the United Nations Security Council and General Assembly against Iran for the statements of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (photo) who said this week that the end of Israel is near.
Hizballah using Israeli made missiles?
Posted on Monday, October 23, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke during the weekly cabinet meeting and reported to the cabinet that during his meetings last week in Moscow, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov claimed that during the war, Hizballah used Israeli made “Gil” anti-tank missiles to fire at Israel Defense Forces troops.
Peretz: Lebanon flights – legitimate
Posted on Monday, October 23, 2006
Defense Minister Amir Peretz said during the weekly cabinet meeting that the intelligence gathered in south Lebanon indicates a rebuilding of Hizballah and an increasing flow of weapons from Lebanon to Syria. “As long as these efforts are continuing, the reconnaissance flights of Israeli Air Force planes over Lebanon are legitimate.”
Voices growing for Gaza offensive
Posted on Monday, October 23, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert will convene the security cabinet this week to discuss possible options for a massive ground offensive in the Gaza Strip in light of the continuing rocket attacks into Israel, the massive smuggling of arms, and the fact that there has not been progress to release kidnapped soldier, Gilad Shalit.
Report: Syria relinquishes aspiration to sit on the Galilee
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2006
A senior Syrian official who is close to the upper echelons of the Syrian regime told Channel 2 News Arab analyst Ehud Yaari that Syria has agreed to give up sitting on the Galilee in any future peace agreement with Israel. The official was also involved in past negotiations between Israel and Syria.
Peres: Many want to see me as president
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2006
In an interview with Israel Channel Two’s Meet the Press, Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres said that he knows there are many people who would like to see him as president of Israel. “It’s their right, not my obligation,” he said.
Syrian psychiatrist on her way to Israel
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2006
Dr. Wafa Sultan, the Syrian-American psychiatrist who was made famous by speaking out against Islam in a television debate earlier this year, met with the Israeli Consul General to Los Angeles Ehud Danoch. During the meeting Sultan agreed to visit Israel and the two began discussing specific dates for the visit.
Peres: Treat Ahmadinejad as Hitler
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2006
Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres said that there is a need to treat Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (photo)as the modern-day Hitler and present him to the world as such.
Ambassador to Germany: Jews no longer feel safe
Posted on Sunday, October 22, 2006
In an interview to the German Neue Osnabruecker Zeitung, Israeli Ambassador to Germany Shimon Stein said that he is concerned by the rise in power of extreme right-wing organizations in Germany, the increase in the number of Nazis in the country, and the rise in anti-Semitism. Stein said that the tendency of the neo-Nazi groups to use violence is also on the rise.
Shabbat Reading
Posted on Friday, October 20, 2006
Beresheet - In the Beginning: Genesis 1:1–6:8; Isaiah 42:5–43:10

With the words, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth,” God begins His writing to man. Readers of the Word are inspired and enlightened anew every year when the cycle of Sabbath readings begins once again.

McDonald’s target of protests
Posted on Friday, October 20, 2006
Even the Holy Land isn’t immune to raucous protests that have nothing to do with the hot political issues that dominate the landscape here. Jerusalem was one of 60 cities around the world where protestors gathered this week to campaign against the fast food chain McDonald’s.
Bringing Israelis home
Posted on Friday, October 20, 2006
A delegation from the Ministry of Immigration and Absorption led by Minister Ze’ev Boim will head to the United States and Canada this week to host job fairs aimed at offering to Israelis competitive jobs back home.
Iran gives Hamas $50 million to thwart Shalit’s release
Posted on Thursday, October 19, 2006
An Israeli newspaper reported that Iran had transferred $50 million to the Hamas leadership in Damascus in order to thwart the release of kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit.
Ethiopians oppose Christian evangelists
Posted on Thursday, October 19, 2006
Christian Ethiopians who evangelize Jewish Ethiopians in Israel will be blacklisted and not allowed to marry within the community, leaders of the Ethiopian Jewish community have decided.
Defense Minister, settler leader discuss evacuation
Posted on Thursday, October 19, 2006
Defense Minister Amir Peretz met with a senior settler leader in an attempt to come to an agreement concerning the evacuation of 10 illegal outposts in Judea and Samaria.
Israeli wounded in shooting
Posted on Thursday, October 19, 2006
An Israeli man is recovering from gunshot wounds sustained when terrorists opened fire on his car last night on a highway in the Judea-Samaria region.
Olmert, Putin discuss Iranian threat
Posted on Thursday, October 19, 2006
The Iranian nuclear threat and the possibility of Teheran using weapons of mass destruction in the near future was the focus of Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
Israel, Russia celebrate 15 years of relations
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
In commemoration of the 15 year anniversary for the renewed diplomatic relations between Israel and Russia, the foreign ministers of both countries exchanged diplomatic notes praising the scope and diversity of relations between the countries today. The visit of Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to Moscow emphasizes the level of ties between the two nations and the importance Israel holds to its relations with Russia.
NATO Secretary General to visit Israel
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Following Israel’s cooperation to be one of the first nations to support NATO’s counter-terrorism patrols in the Mediterranean, Ambassador Alessandro Minuto-Rizzo, Deputy Secretary General of NATO, is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Sunday and meet with Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni on a three-day visit.
Poll: 66 percent think Katsav must resign
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
A poll fielded by the Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reveals that two thirds of the Israeli public believes President Moshe Katsav must resign his post due to the police recommendation to indict him on major charges including obstruction of justice, sexual misconduct, and rape.
Olmert: Russia doesn’t want a nuclear Iran
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
On the eve of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that he believes Russia does not wish for a nuclear Iran. He added that Russia understands that the Iranian threat is not only a threat to the existence of Israel but a danger to the entire world.
In honor of International Day of the Elderly
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
In honor of the International Day of the Elderly data was released revealing that there are 687,500 people 65 years or older living in Israel.Half of the elderly in Israel live without a pension or little pension and live only from their life insurance. Twenty-five percent of the elderly in Israel live below the poverty line.
First incident between int'l force and Hizballah
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
A first incident between the newly deployed international force in southern Lebanon and the Hizballah was recorded this week as Spanish troops were encountered by Hizballah forces and were not allowed to continue with their mission.
Olmert favors a non-party presidential candidate
Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2006
In light of police recommendations to indict President Moshe Katsav for sexual misconduct and rape, and with rumors of his resignation, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said he prefers a non-party presidential candidate for the State.
British MP apologizes for comparing Israeli tactics to the Nazis
Posted on Tuesday, October 17, 2006
British Parliamentarian Andrew Turner of the Conservative Party was forced to apologize for equating Israel’s attacks on the Lebanese infrastructure and its citizens to the tactics carried out by the Nazis.
Olmert opposes Peretz outpost evacuation plan
Posted on Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has announced his opposition to the plans of Defense Minister Amir Peretz to begin evacuating illegal outposts in the West Bank within two weeks. The plan calls for an initial two week window where a dialogue with the settlers could lead to peaceful evacuations of the outposts.
FM encourages Israelis to apply for UN jobs
Posted on Tuesday, October 17, 2006
The Israeli Foreign Ministry is encouraging Israeli citizens to apply for a number of positions with the United Nations now open to Israelis. The selection process is similar to the cadet recruitment of Israelis by the Foreign Ministry.
Olmert calls on Siniora to meet
Posted on Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert took the opportunity during his speech at the opening ceremony of the Knesset’s winter session on Monday to invite Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora to meet with him directly and without any mediators to talk about peace between the two nations.
Pressure increases to stop Lebanon flyovers
Posted on Tuesday, October 17, 2006
The international pressure to stop Israeli Air Force flights over Lebanon has been increasing in the past days. The United Nations is demanding that Israel stop their flights over Lebanon because they constitute a breach of the ceasefire agreement within UN resolution 1701.
Israel and NATO getting together
Posted on Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Israel and NATO have approved a long-term plan for cooperation in 27 different areas including fighting terrorism, intelligence sharing, arms development and management, protection against unconventional weapons, military doctrine and training, civilian emergency planning, and dealing with natural disasters.
Government vote to save Jerusalem forests
Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006
It has come down to this. The Israeli government is due to vote on Tuesday on the highly controversial housing development project which will encroach deep into the forests west of Jerusalem, destroying acres of natural wooded lands and recreation areas enjoyed by many local residents.
Report: Syria ready to strike Israel
Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006
In an intelligence briefing during the Cabinet meeting on Sunday, Brigadier-General Yossi Beyditz, head of the Research Department in the IDF Directorate of Military Intelligence, warned that Syrian president Bashar Assad is preparing his military for a confrontation with Israel.
Gaza: Hamas smuggling anti-aircraft missiles
Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006
In reaction to intelligence reports by military intelligence saying that Hamas has smuggled several anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles into the Gaza strip, Defense Minister Amir Peretz said that there is a need to step up the offensive activities against the weapons smugglers into Gaza. This includes striking areas of suspected tunneling activities that are being used for smuggling weapons and other contraband into Gaza from Egypt.
Olmert leaves for Moscow
Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert will leave Tuesday for a two day official visit to Russia where he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. In addition Olmert will meet with leaders of the local Jewish community and will visit two synagogues.
Peretz: Arad’s fate in Iran’s hands
Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006
Defense Minister Amir Peretz, who spoke at a ceremony commemorating 20 years since Ron Arad was last seen alive, said that the working assumption is that Ron Arad is still among the living, and that Israel sees Iran as holding the key to his fate.
Complaisance with North Korea will bring nukes to Iran
Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said in the weekly cabinet meeting that whoever takes the North Korean nuclear problem lightly, will get nuclear weapons in Iran, and ultimately in the hands of Al Qaeda.
Sderot celebration disturbed by rockets
Posted on Sunday, October 15, 2006
Two Kassam rockets were fired at the city of Sderot Saturday evening just as the holiday celebrations of Simchat Torah (Hakafot) were coming to a close. Residents left the area and took shelter. No injuries or damage was reported.
Ron Arad comrades protest in Jerusalem
Posted on Sunday, October 15, 2006
With the 20th anniversary of the disappearance of navigator Ron Arad approaching, his comrades held a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's Office condemning the lack of efforts being made to determine the fate of their missing friend.
Israel satisfied with North Korea sanctions
Posted on Sunday, October 15, 2006
Israel has expressed its satisfaction with the UN Security Council’s decision to impose economic and military sanctions on North Korea in reaction to the nuclear test it conducted last week.
Dichter, Ayalon to advise US on security
Posted on Sunday, October 15, 2006
Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter (photo) will address a law enforcement conference in the US and will share from his experience both in law enforcement and in fighting terrorism. He will be joined by MK Ami Ayalon who will also speak at the conference.
Hizballah cancels major Ramadan rally
Posted on Sunday, October 15, 2006
It seems that Hizballah is showing signs of weakness within Lebanon: The organization has decided to cancel the central rally commemorating the Jerusalem Day celebrations this year.
Israeli girls become Internet cult symbols
Posted on Friday, October 13, 2006
Two young Israeli women shot to fame with their three-minute dance video posted on an Internet site.

Lital “Tasha” Mizel and Adi “Dishka” Frimmerman, both 22 and living in Ramle posted their lip-synching interpretation of rock group The Pixies, “Hey,” which has become the fourth most-watched video of all time with 10 million viewers.

Brothers serve in two wars for two countries
Posted on Friday, October 13, 2006
In Israel, it is common to have two or more family members serving in the army or security services at the same time. But the Ben Ari family can boast two family members serving in two wars on the globe for two different armies.
Mashaal: Proud of kidnapping; Still won’t recognize Israel
Posted on Thursday, October 12, 2006
The political leader of Hamas Khaled Mashaal said this week that he does not intend on officially recognizing Israel and its right to exist in order to pave the way towards a Palestinian unity government with Fatah.
Wafa Sultan wants to visit Israel
Posted on Thursday, October 12, 2006
Wafa Sultan, psychiatrist and former Muslim, who is a harsh critic of Islam, says she wishes to visit Israel and intends to do so in the very near future.
Ya’alon: Arab propaganda working in Israel
Posted on Thursday, October 12, 2006
Former Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. General (Res.) Moshe “Bogy” Ya’alon said on Wednesday that the Arab propaganda as to the legitimacy of the State of Israel to exist as a Jewish state has been most successful, and has also taken root among Israelis themselves.
Syria rejects call for Assad visit
Posted on Thursday, October 12, 2006
Syrian officials rejected the proposed visit to Israel in response to a call made Wednesday by Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres for Syrian President Bashar Assad to prove his intentions for peace by visiting Jerusalem.
Israel allows fifth minaret on Temple Mount
Posted on Thursday, October 12, 2006
Plans to build a fifth minaret on the Temple Mount seem to go as planned as Jordanian officials say they did not encounter any Israeli opposition to the proposed plan, to be implemented as early as next year.
Peres: Assad should come to Israel
Posted on Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres said Wednesday morning in an interview that Syrian President Bashar Assad should come to Jerusalem if he is truly serious about peace talks with Israel.
Hizballah will remain armed
Posted on Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Hizballah will remain armed and fully operational in southern Lebanon despite the newly deployed UN forces, until Israel withdraws from all Lebanese territory and ceases it air, sea and land violations, according to Nabih Berri. The Lebanese parliament speaker made these comments in an interview with the British newspaper The Guardian on Wednesday.
Ghajar: between a rock and a hard place
Posted on Wednesday, October 11, 2006
The Arab village of Ghajar on the Israeli-Lebanese border has been in a tough spot for the past six years. Ever since Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000, the village has been split right down the middle between Israel and Lebanon making it a hotbed for both intelligence transfer to the Hizballah, and narcotics traffic into Israel.
Thousands march in Jerusalem
Posted on Wednesday, October 11, 2006
The 49th annual Jerusalem Sukkot march took place yesterday in the capital city with participants and supporters from all corners of the globe. The theme for this year: supporting the IDF and security forces.
Doubletalk: Abbas not requiring recognition
Posted on Wednesday, October 11, 2006
After repeated vows that Hamas must recognize Israel’s right to exist, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas tells an Arabic-language television station that there is no obligation to recognize Israel, including by his own party.
Israel: North Korean nuke test might encourage Iran
Posted on Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Israel has officially joined the international condemnation of North Korea’s nuclear test yesterday calling it provocative and irresponsible and expressed concern that it will encourage Iran to accelerate its nuclear development plans.
Olmert: next confrontation will be different
Posted on Tuesday, October 10, 2006
In a meeting with firefighters and paramedics in his sukkah in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that if Israel is ever drawn into another confrontation, it will be completely different than the ones we have been used to because the weapons have changed, the battlefield has changed, and so have the identities of the parties involved.
UN official justifies kidnapping of soldiers
Posted on Tuesday, October 10, 2006
A severe confrontation broke out this week between the Israeli ambassador to the UN in Geneva and Jean Ziegler, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food who justified the kidnapping of the Israeli soldiers in Lebanon and said that Hizballah is not a terror organization.
Israel pleased with new UN Chief
Posted on Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Israel has expressed its satisfaction with the nomination of South Korean Foreign Minister Ban Ki-Moon to be the next Secretary General of the United Nations. The UN Security Council has unanimously selected Ki-Moon for the position and is only waiting for the formal approval of the General Assembly. Ki-Moon will start working on January 1, 2007.
Criticism of South Africa for Hamas contact attempt
Posted on Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Diplomatic officials in Jerusalem are sharply criticizing South Africa for attempting to open a dialogue with the Hamas government, and receive President Mahmoud Abbas’ approval for the meeting.
Tourism returns to north for Sukkot
Posted on Monday, October 09, 2006
It seems like the holiday of Sukkot came just in time. The tourism operators and site owners in the north could not have asked for a better holiday gift: tourists. And lots of them.

Hundreds and thousands of tourists, both from Israel and abroad, have flocked to the tourists sites and nature reserves in the north of Israel over the past holiday weekend with capacity levels higher than ever in the parks and occupancy in the 90 percent levels in Galilee hotels and guest houses.

Nazi chants during soccer game in Germany
Posted on Monday, October 09, 2006
Players from the Jewish soccer club TuS Maccabi of Berlin from the sixth regional amateur league in Germany were the subject of numerous anti-Semitic chants and left the pitch in the 78th minute in their match against VSG Altglienicke from eastern Berlin.

The players complained to the German soccer administration and claimed that the referee refused to intervene when fans and even a few players shouted at them slurs such as, “gas the Jews,” “Auschwitz is coming back,” and “Fuehrer, Fuehrer.”

Public campaign against Presidential rule in Israel
Posted on Monday, October 09, 2006
In light of the recent talks and legislative suggestions on changing the governing system in Israel, the Israel Democracy Institute has initiated an outdoor ad campaign titled “Presidential regime – a dangerous gamble! Parliamentary reform – a smart fix.”
Students from Israel to visit Germany
Posted on Monday, October 09, 2006
Israeli high school students who showed their knowledge of Germany got a special prize from the German Embassy in Israel: A two week trip to Germany where they will spend time with teens their age, be hosted by German families and will tour all over the country.
Olmert to Christians: Jerusalem will not be divided
Posted on Monday, October 09, 2006
In a recorded address delivered to a gathering of 5,000 Christian believers who arrived in Israel for the Sukkot holiday in conjunction with the International Christian Embassy, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert stressed the importance
Pro Palestinian protesters attack ambassador to Ireland
Posted on Sunday, October 08, 2006
Dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters tried to violently attack Israel’s ambassador to Ireland during a visit to a university and attempted to block his way outside of the campus. Local police managed to intervene and let him leave unharmed.
Israel: No intention of attacking Syria
Posted on Sunday, October 08, 2006
Israeli officials have said over the weekend that despite what the Syrians believe, Israel has no intention to attack Syria. This statement comes in reaction to the words of President Bashar Assad who said that his country was ready for an Israeli offensive at any moment.
Sukkot celebrations begin
Posted on Sunday, October 08, 2006

EN GEDI – Despite a war just a few months ago in the summer, thousands of Christian tourists came to Israel to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, or Sukkot.

Closure on West Bank, Gaza for Sukkot holiday
Posted on Sunday, October 08, 2006
Because of the Sukkot holiday and numerous threats of terror attacks, Israel has imposed a complete closure of the West Bank and Gaza and has raised its level of alert for the holiday.
New at Israeli schools: Christianity classes
Posted on Sunday, October 08, 2006
Israel’s Education Ministry is contemplating adding a new program to be included in the matriculation exams for Jewish students: A study of Christianity. Currently only Arab Christian students are allowed to take these courses, but in the future Jewish students will be able to take the courses as well.
Yom Kippur: Hundreds of thousands of DVDs rented
Posted on Friday, October 06, 2006
It is known as the Shabbat of Shabbats, the holiest day of the year, but tens of thousands of Israelis flocked to video stores nevertheless to rent movies for Yom Kippur, a day when almost nothing is opened and the nation fasts.
Russian synagogues to get free Sukkot paraphernalia
Posted on Friday, October 06, 2006
More than 3,000 sets of the four species for the Sukkot holiday are being sent, free of charge, to Jewish communities all over Russia.
Shabbat-Reading and Commentary
Posted on Friday, October 06, 2006

SUKKOT – a special reading for the Feast of Tabernacles

Leviticus 22:26 – 23:44; Numbers 29:12-16; Zechariah 14:1-21

Tunnels equip new Hamas army
Posted on Thursday, October 05, 2006
Intelligence officials have expressed concern over the expanding Hamas forces in the Gaza Strip and expect a confrontation with the Israel Defense forces in the very near future. Hamas has been building a trained and armed force of over 7,500 fighters which is not just a large guerilla force but a very organized military force.
Muslim cop refuses to guard Israeli embassy
Posted on Thursday, October 05, 2006
A Muslim police officer who refused to guard the Israeli embassy in London was reassigned to another post and is under investigation for being excused from his assignment.
Peretz: Troops need more training
Posted on Thursday, October 05, 2006
Defense Minister Amir Peretz said the army should significantly increase training exercises of both regular and reserve soldiers, establish standards of operational fitness and organize war reserve stores.
Jewish cemeteries in Russia desecrated
Posted on Thursday, October 05, 2006
During Yom Kippur in the Russian cities of Tver and Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) nearly 150 Jewish and Tatar graves were desecrated with swastikas and graffiti being painted on them. Many of the graves were severely damaged.
IDF strikes Kassam launchers in Gaza
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
In two separate air strikes on Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces destroyed two vehicles carrying Kassam launchers in northern Gaza and a weapons storage facility in southern Gaza. Five terrorists were wounded in the attacks.
Peres meets with Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres who is visiting Berlin to receive an award for his efforts toward peace met with Hollywood actors Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher.
Rabin and Begin Centers in danger of closing
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
The Rabin Center and the Center for the Heritage of Menahem Begin, which were both established by law, are under the threat of being shut down after the government cut about 55 percent of their budgets.
Ukrainian president offers Israel cooperation on missile defense
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
President of Ukraine Victor Yushchenko met with Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres and offered strategic cooperation in the area of ballistic missile defense systems and satellite control systems.
Olmert to visit Russia
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert will leave on October 17 for a two-day visit to Russia where he will meet with President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This will be Olmert’s first visit to Russia since he took office.
Government to investment in education for the north
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that through the end of 2007, the government will invest 2.8 billion Shekels in improving the quality of life of residents of the north. “I believe that these investments will propel the quality of life in the area to a whole new level,” Olmert said during a meeting of the special Cabinet for the strengthening of Haifa and the north.
Rice to ask Olmert to strengthen Abu Mazen
Posted on Wednesday, October 04, 2006
United States Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will arrive on Wednesday for a brief visit in Israel and the Palestinian Authority which will last less than 24 hours, where she will examine creative ways to strengthen Abu Mazen and strengthen the ties between him and Prime Minister Olmert.
Kassams could cause deterioration in region
Posted on Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Israel has filed a formal complaint with the president of the UN Security Council and the Political Division of the UN following the intensifying Kassam rocket firing at Israel in the past weeks.
Malaysia to deploy troops in Lebanon despite Israeli objection
Posted on Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Malaysia will send 300 soldiers to the international force in south Lebanon despite Israel’s objection. Israel has been strongly opposed to the Malaysian troop deployment mainly because during the war Malaysia has publicly supported Nasrallah and Hizballah.
Happy Birthday! Olmert celebrates 61 years
Posted on Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert celebrated his 61st birthday this weekend. This is his first birthday as a Prime Minister.
Sony Studios will boost the children of the North
Posted on Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Sony Picture Studios announced that it will try to lift the spirits of Israeli children who endured the war in the north and will contribute money toward rebuilding the nation’s forests.
Fuad: Israel should assassinate Nasrallah
Posted on Tuesday, October 03, 2006
National Infrastructure Minister and member of the Security Cabinet Binyamin “Fuad” Ben Eliezer (Labor) said this weekend that Israel should assassinate Hizballah chief Hassan Nasrallah when the time is right.
General closure on Judea, Samaria, Gaza Strip lifted
Posted on Tuesday, October 03, 2006
The removal of the general closure that was imposed on Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip prior to the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, between September 29th and October 3rd, was lifted. In light of security assessments made by the political echelon the decision was made to lift the closure.
Evangelicals to hold prayers for Israel
Posted on Sunday, October 01, 2006
Close to 30 million Evangelical Christians in 100,000 churches in over 100 nations are expected to take part in a “Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem” on Sunday. The event is held annually on the first Sunday of every October, until the coming of Messiah, and is intended to coincide with the Yom Kippur season.
Israel withdraws troops from Lebanon
Posted on Sunday, October 01, 2006
The Israel Defense Forces has withdrawn the last of its troops, two and a half months after entering Lebanon. The IDF has reduced the number of soldiers stationed over the border over the past few days. Under the cover of darkness, IDF tanks and armored vehicles began moving across the Lebanese side of the border, returning to Israel.
Police on highest alert for Yom Kippur
Posted on Sunday, October 01, 2006
The police are raising the security alert to the highest level on Sunday throughout the country, particularly in cemeteries. On Yom Kippur, the police will reinforce its forces around synagogues.
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