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A year and a half after its opening as part of the rapid response operation to receive war wounded, The Hadassah Women's Organization and Hadassah management officially inaugurated the new state-of-the-art rehabilitation center in Israel this evening.
The Gandel Rehabilitation Centre at Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital began receiving wounded from the war known as "Iron Swords" a year and a half ago, and hundreds of victims of the fighting and difficult events in the south and north of the country have been rehabilitated there.
This week, the center was officially opened in a moving ceremony attended by rehabilitated soldiers, the President of the State, the Prime Minister, the President of the Hadassah Women's Organization, the Chairman of the Hadassah Board of Directors, and the medical center's management and staff.
The center, whose construction was primarily funded by the Gendel family, originally from Australia, features a therapeutic pool with a modular floor that adapts to patients' needs, state-of-the-art patient lifts, computerized systems for measuring range of motion, and an advanced gait analysis laboratory.
The Gendel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital was inaugurated this week, on Monday, October 27, in a moving ceremony that marked the official opening of this extensive complex, one of the largest and most advanced in the Middle East, following the rehabilitation of more than 2,050 patients.
The inauguration event, spearheaded by the Hadassah Women's Organization (Hadassah, the Zionist Women's Organization of America), the medical center's management, and its board of directors, was attended by the President of the State of Israel, Yitzhak Herzog, and the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, survivors of the War of the Iron Swords, donors, friends of the Hadassah Medical Center and its staff, as well as Ethel Fainstein, director of HI Mexico and Latin America for over 25 years, whose work was crucial to this achievement. Representatives and directors of Diariojudío Mexico and international newspapers, such as Silvia Golan, were also present.
The event took place a year and a half after the rehabilitation departments opened in January 2024. Construction of the center, which was still underway when the war broke out, was accelerated to quickly treat the numerous wounded, given the severe shortage of rehabilitation beds in the State of Israel.
These days, Hadassah decided to take a break from her intense work toexpress its gratitude to everyone who participated in the creation of the center.
To date, more than 2,050 wounded individuals have been rehabilitated at the new rehabilitation center, over 350 of whom were injured in the war. All of them received treatment in the areas of orthopedics, neurology, modular hydrotherapy pools, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy, utilizing the most advanced robotic technologies and smart devices in the field of rehabilitation. They were supported by a large team of professional and experienced therapists: nurses, doctors, occupational therapists, nutritionists, physiotherapists, psychologists, social workers, and speech therapists.
During the event, the stories of several patients from the center were shared. With great determination and the support of the professional teams, they recovered from their injuries through remarkable rehabilitation and continued to strive with every step and movement to reintegrate into their lives.
The "Avenue of Renaissance" was unveiled to the participants at the ceremony on Mount Scopus. This project, which has been developing for years since the decision was made to establish the new rehabilitation center, includes the footprints of IDF Chiefs of Staff and senior security officials from throughout the years, along with the footprints of those wounded in Israel's wars. Each Chief of Staff chose a soldier whose story deeply moved them, and together they symbolically imprinted their footprints, representing rebirth and the shared path to recovery.
The new center opened its doors thanks to a major fundraising campaign conducted by the Hadassah Women's Organization and Hadassah International. This national project originated with Dalia Itzik, Chairwoman of the Hadassah Board of Trustees and former Speaker of the Knesset, and was funded by the State of Israel. The center was named Gendel in honor of John and Pauline Gendel of Melbourne, Australia, who run the Gendel Foundation and are considered the center's largest donors in recent years. They made a multimillion-dollar donation—the largest the foundation has ever made to projects worldwide—which they dedicated to its creation.
President Yitzhak Herzog said: "The Gendel Rehabilitation Center offers the essential gift to every human being: hope. Hope to heal the soul and strengthen the body, hope for independence, hope to dream again, hope to achieve and realize their dreams.
During this long war, Michal and I visited countless wounded. Time and again, we saw helicopters land one after another, sometimes almost without pause, bringing heroes in olive-green uniforms, heroes bearing the Hadassah logo. And here we saw how, in an instant, Hadassah medical teams transformed into elite units fighting for the lives of combatants. Here at Hadassah, skilled hands, generational experience, unwavering determination, and boundless wisdom joined forces with the finest professionals and the most loyal messengers of the healthcare system in the State of Israel.Dear friends, with your own hands, you are rebuilding the State and society in Israel." May the work of rebuilding that begins here bring healing and recovery to each of us, and to all of us together
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “Hadassah Women’s World Organization, Dalia Itzik, Chair of the Hadassah Board of Trustees, Prof. Yoram Weiss, Director General of Hadassah Medical Center. Thank you for everything you do for Hadassah patients, with patience and discretion. I want to tell you: you are extraordinary. You have excellent doctors and you do magnificent work.
I came here at the beginning of the war, about two years ago, with a congressman from Florida. We toured the wards of the wounded, and it was very difficult. I have seen terrible things on the battlefield, but seeing these young heroes who had lost limbs and suffered serious injuries was moving. Seeing their courage, their indescribable hope… I had to hold back my emotions; it was a great inspiration to me.
Here at Hadassah, I have witnessed a level of medical commitment, meticulous care by the medical teams that is unparalleled in the world. The doctors here are the best professionals. The rehabilitation center that is…” “This building is much more than just a rehabilitation center.” This building, what we see here, is a building of hope and of the new world of tomorrow, and that is what I saw in the eyes of the wounded soldiers. I want to thank everyone at Hadassah for their work helping the wounded reintegrate into life.
Ms. Carol Ann Schwartz, President of the Hadassah Women’s World Organization: “We joined the national mission and inaugurated the Gandel Rehabilitation Center ahead of schedule, driven by a sense of calling to treat and rehabilitate the wounded. The mission we joined is far from over. Many of those being rehabilitated face physical and mental challenges daily, and their struggle has lasted for months and even years. We are committed to continuing to support and assist them every step of the way.” The generosity that made the creation of the center possible reflects the trust and determination of Hadassah Women’s Organization members and supporters worldwide in Hadassah’s activities and mission. We will continue working for the heroes and heroines who risked their lives, in the long rehabilitation process they are undergoing, and for all people in Israel who need medical care and rehabilitation.
Ms. Dalia Itzik, Chairwoman of the Hadassah Board of Directors, stated: “Immediately after October 7, we all understood the magnitude of the situation and mobilized to bring forward the emergency opening of the rehabilitation center by a year and a half. Since then, thousands of people have received treatment at the center, including hundreds of soldiers and war victims.” Investment in infrastructure and equipment, along with intensive fundraising efforts, has made it possible—thanks to the extraordinary generosity of many people in Israel and around the world—to establish the most advanced rehabilitation system in the Middle East, for the benefit of those heroes and heroines who deserve to reintegrate into life stronger than ever. Hadassah Medical Center is a beacon of wisdom and knowledge, with exceptional teams and cutting-edge technologies. They all work together at the Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital and lead the field of rehabilitation in the State of Israel, for both soldiers and civilians.”
Professor Yoram Weiss, Director General of Hadassah Medical Center, stated: “For over a year and a half, the teams at the Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Mount Scopus have demonstrated their remarkable capacity for recovery and emotional and psychological support, with unwavering professionalism, humanity, and compassion. Every soldier or civilian who enters our rehabilitation system makes us their ally, and our Hadassah staff are by their side every step of the way, at every moment, and with every achievement, no matter how great. The Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Mount Scopus impresses everyone not only with its appearance and size but also with the essence and soul it embodies. It puts into practice the principles of mutual guarantee and Zionism, core values of Hadassah, and enables those undergoing rehabilitation to begin a new life strengthened and prepared for various challenges, accompanied on their return home with the same spirit of victory and determination.”Diplomacy.co.il congratulates The Hadassah Women's Organization and Hadassah management for this remarcable achievementPhotos Silvia G. GolanMore pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan
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Kibbutz Be’eri, 26 October 2025
The Asia-Pacific Embassies in Israel held a solemn commemoration ceremony at Kibbutz Be’eri on 26 October 2025, to honor the foreign nationals from the Asia-Pacific region who lost their lives during the Hamas attack on 07 October 2023.
The ceremony took place at Kibbutz Be'eri, where four Filipinos, two Sri Lankans, and one Australian were killed. Two Thai workers who worked in the kibbutz were also abducted and later killed in Gaza. The body of one Thai national remains in Gaza.
Ex-hostages, survivors, and bereaved families joined diplomats, Israeli government officials, and members of the Be’eri community in the ceremony. The program included messages of remembrance delivered by MFA Asia-Pacific Deputy Director General Aviv Ezra, a wreath offering by Population and Immigration Authority Director General Boaz Yosef, candle-lighting rites, interfaith prayers led by a Catholic priest and a Buddhist monk, and tribute performances.
In his message as Dean of the Asia-Pacific Ambassadors, Vietnamese Ambassador Ly Duc Trung recalled the Ambassadors’ earlier request to the Israeli Government to look into issues concerning the safety and welfare of foreign workers in Israel. These include, among others, safety and shelter during conflict, the cancellation of “Basket of Services” fees, salary deductions, no work–no pay policies, restrictions on sectoral mobility, and visa matters.
“We believe that the best way to remember those who are no longer beside us is by paying due attention to those who are beside us. The remembrance, healing, and pursuit of peace are therefore indeed more meaningful,” the Vietnamese envoy noted.
In his message of remembrance, Deputy Director General Ezra paid tribute to the foreign nationals who perished, noting that as they are part of Israeli society, their deaths are also Israel’s loss. He thanked friends from Asia who reached out to Israel, prayed for them, and shared their grief. “We are better together, we are stronger together,” he said.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the courage of foreign caregivers who survived the attack and continued to care for their elderly wards, as well as to the families of foreign nationals who remain unaccounted for. Participants offered prayers for the swift return of all remaining victims’ bodies, particularly the three Be’eri residents and foreign nationals (one Thai, one Tanzanian).
Among the victims remembered were nationals from Australia, Cambodia, China, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. They had come to Israel to work, study, and build better futures for their families back home. Their lives and contributions—particularly those of foreign caregivers, agricultural workers, and students—were acknowledged as integral to Israeli society and its recovery.
Through this collective act of remembrance, the Asia-Pacific Embassies reaffirmed the solidarity between their countries, Israel, and the international community in the shared pursuit of healing and peace. It also underscored the sacrifices and immeasurable contributions of foreign workers to Israeli society, highlighting the importance of ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being.
“May their memories be a blessing — Yehi zichram baruch.”
Photos courtesy of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines to the State of Israel
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Debate for Peace successfully completed its fourth international delegation to the United Nations headquarters in Vienna, bringing together exemplary Model United Nations (MUN) and diplomacy students from 12 different schools. This program remains a key platform for nurturing young leaders’ understanding of global issues, diplomacy, and peace initiatives.
This year’s delegation took part in a notable conference titled “A Sustainable Future of Peace Starts Now—With Education: SDG 16,” emphasizing the crucial role of education in fostering peaceful, inclusive societies. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which advocates for justice, strong institutions, and peaceful coexistence worldwide. The conference was organized by the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), with support from the UNODC Youth Mainstreaming unit
Throughout their visit, the students participated in insightful briefings and discussions with several UN organizations, including UNOOSA, UNHCR, UNODA, and UNODC. They also met with representatives from the International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the Austrian Foreign Ministry, and prominent think tanks such as the International Institute for Peace. Additionally, the delegation engaged with the leadership of the EU Delegation to International Organizations in Vienna and the US Mission to the UN (USUNVIE), gaining vital knowledge about diplomatic procedures and international collaboration.
A major highlight of the trip was a three-hour session dedicated to Youth and Peacebuilding. The event featured speakers from the missions from Burkina Faso, Mexico, and the Philippines, Jean-Luc Lemahieu, former Director at UNODC, and Ms. Paloma Munne- Youth mainstreaming specialist at UNODC, as well as civil society representatives. Four Debate for Peace students participated as panelists, sharing insights into the challenges facing youth in the peacebuilding arena and discussing ways that adults can support young leaders in creating positive change and fostering dialogue.
At the conclusion of the panel, the Youth Ambassador for Peace award was bestowed by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) upon members of Debate for Peace, and the Global Women Peace Ambassadors award was given to several panelists by the Women’s Federation for World Peace.
The participating students represented a broad spectrum of educational institutions, including Hand In Hand, Atid Raziel, Ohel-Shem, Al Hikma High School, Deshalit High School, Darca Begin Gedera, Schmidt Schule, Meitarim, Al Galil High School, Prishtina High School, Ort Hilmi Shafie, and El Ein Jouiner High School. Their active involvement illustrates the potential of youth to contribute meaningfully to peace efforts at a global level.
The US Mission to the UN in Vienna stated “We were delighted to welcome a remarkable interfaith student group this week for an engaging discussion on our work with Vienna-based international organizations. These bright young leaders posed thoughtful, challenging questions about our work in Vienna and engaged in meaningful dialogue on today’s most pressing world issues. Engagements like this help America invest in the leadership potential of the next generation ensuring strength, safety, and prosperity for generations to come.”
The Women’s Federation for World Peace stressed the importance of cooperation and endurance in peacework: “To work for peace is a continuous effort- one has to be ready and alert at all times- ready to get involved when a conflict is starting- get the parties to talk it out- also being ready listen to each other, then to find a peaceful solution together…
We have to all share this responsibility to make this world a safe place for everyone. Therefore we cooperate as a network with like minded people and initiatives!! No one can do it all alone!”
Debate for Peace extends its sincere appreciation to all partners and organizations that facilitated this delegation. Special gratitude was expressed to the Women’s Federation for World Peace Vienna office (WFWP), International Institute for Peace (IIP), Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria, US Mission to the UN (USUNVIE), Delegation of the European Union to the International Organisations in Vienna, International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), UN Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Steven Aiello
Director, Debate for Peace
Visit our website: http://debateforpeace.org/
Read our books: https://www.amazon.com/dp/
Listen to our podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.
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Photos credit Hala Abu Saria / Debate for Peace
Press Office US Mission to the UN in Viena
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When was the last time you pampered yourself ? Onyx Radiance – Where Beauty Meets Innovation
Onyx Radiance is a pioneering beauty & wellness Israeli brand specializing in mineral-infused smart textiles designed to enhance skin, hair, and overall well being. By transforming everyday fabrics into active, therapeutic solutions, Onyx redefines the way we sleep, heal, and glow.
Founded in Israel in 2019, the brand has been growing rapidly and is now attracting strong interest from international markets. With a vision to become the global leader in smart active textiles for health, beauty, and sleep, Onyx continues to push the boundaries of innovation.
Backed by science, Onyx is conducting a clinical trial led by world-renowned dermatologist Prof. Artzi at Sourasky Medical Center, Israel’s most advanced cosmetic dermatology practice.
We spend a third of our lives sleeping – shouldn’t our textiles work for us while we rest? With Onyx Radiance, they do.
Get 20% off with the coupon code GOLAN20. No double discounts apply.
The Anti- Aging Silver-Ions Pillowcase – Sleep Your Way to Radiance
Wake up every morning with firmer, fresher, glowing skin thanks to the power of silver-ion minerals embedded into the fabric. These ions create a clean, antibacterial sleep environment that supports skin vitality, helps reduce blemishes, smooth fine lines, and even strengthens hair roots.
Beyond beauty, many users have reported surprising benefits – from easier breathing, fewer allergy symptoms, reduced snoring and migraines, to a calmer, deeper sleep.
This pillowcase is more than just skincare – it’s your nightly ritual for radiant skin, better rest, and a refreshed you.
The Zinc Therapeutic Pillowcase – Beauty Sleep Redefined
Wake up to clearer, calmer skin with the Therapeutic Zinc Pillowcase. Infused with the natural cleansing power of zinc, it helps reduce acne, soothe irritation, calm facial inflammation, balance oil, and fight bacteria and fungus – all while you sleep.
Unlike harsh treatments, it doesn’t dry out your skin, making it perfect for sensitive or easily irritated skin. Zinc also supports a healthier scalp, fights dandruff, and restores natural shine to your hair.
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The Therapeutic Zinc Head Wrap – A World-First Innovation
Every hair type faces daily damage – from sun exposure, pollution, and even the friction of your pillow – leading to frizz, breakage, and weakened roots. The ONYX Zinc Head Wrap is the first and only product of its kind in the world, turning a simple accessory into a breakthrough beauty treatment.
Made from 100% breathable cotton and infused with a unique antimicrobial zinc complex, this revolutionary head wrap doesn’t just protect your hair – it helps treat treat it. Zinc calms and balances the scalp, reduces dandruff, strengthens roots, and restores natural shine, while also protecting against harmful microorganisms.
Say goodbye to frizz, tangles, and bad hair days. With the Zinc Head Wrap, beauty meets science in a world-exclusive innovation that keeps your hair smooth, strong, and radiant – day and night.
The Zinc Shirt – Skincare You Can Wear
Meet the most innovative creation – the Therapeutic Zinc Shirt. Made from 100% breathable cotton and infused with an antimicrobial zinc complex, it combines comfort, style, and advanced skin therapy in one.
The power of zinc works around the clock to calm irritation, reduce inflammation, balance oil, and fight bacteria and fungi that cause breakouts, odors, and skin discomfort. From acne and eczema to seborrhea and psoriasis, this shirt helps your skin stay clearer, calmer, and healthier.
Lightweight, washable, and ultra-comfortable, it’s perfect for everyday wear, sports, or even as sleepwear – giving you skincare benefits wherever life takes you.
The First-Ever Smart Hijab- The Zinc Hijab (Head Scarf) – Beauty, Comfort & Innovation
Wearing a hijab or headscarf for long hours often traps moisture and heat, creating the perfect environment for irritation, breakouts, scalp imbalance, and even hair thinning. That’s where the ONYX Therapeutic Zinc Hijab changes everything.
Made from 100% soft cotton and infused with a groundbreaking zinc complex, this innovative hijab actively fights bacteria and fungus, calms the skin, prevents blemishes, and helps reduce inflammation. At the same time, it balances scalp oils, reduces dandruff, and strengthens hair – supporting healthier, fuller, and shinier locks.
This isn’t just a hijab – it’s a smart textile revolution that combines tradition, comfort, and science to keep you looking and feeling your best all day.
Get 20% off with the coupon code GOLAN20. No double discounts apply.
Made in Israel
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Amazing Israeli Success: Israeli researchers and companies awarded over 1.1 billion euros between 2021-2024 as part of the Horizon Europe program
The data demonstrates outstanding Israeli excellence across all sectors:
- Academia: 605 researchers received grants totalling approximately €592 million.
- Industry: 386 companies received grants totalling approximately €228 million.
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): 40 companies received grants totalling €95 million.
- EIC Accelerator program: An additional €242 million was awarded to Israeli companies participating in the European Union's EIC Accelerator program.
- ERC grants: Israel remains among the leading countries in securing prestigious European Research Council (ERC) grants, with 390 researchers receiving funding amounting to €489 million.
- Consortium projects: 626 Israeli researchers and companies have successfully integrated into collaborative European projects, contributing to initiatives worth approximately €234 million.
- Green Deal (Climate & Sustainability): In an area of growing global importance, 195 Israeli researchers received €110 million in funding for projects addressing climate and sustainability challenges.
ISERD, the Israeli Horizon Directorate at the Innovation Authority, and the European Union Delegation to Israel will hold a ceremony this evening, recognizing these achievements presenting an award to the Israeli researchers and companies who won Horizon Europe grants during 2021-2024.
ISERD management and its steering committee, which includes the Planning and Budgeting Committee of the Council for Higher Education (CHE), the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Israel Innovation Authority, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will recognize awardees’ achievements at tonight’s event. The event will highlight the important cooperation with Europe, a partnership that significantly contributes to establishing Israel as a leading country with international reputation in research, development, and innovation - from breakthrough basic research to practical applications benefiting Europe and the world.
The program has opened opportunities for Israeli companies and researchers to establish strategic collaborations with European partners, enabling a combined approach into addressing technological, environmental, and social challenges. Additionally, Israel is integrated into a broad network of European research infrastructures and participates in flagship projects in disruptive fields such as quantum technologies, graphene, and brain research.
Gila Gamliel, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology: "Israel’s success in the Horizon Europe program is a powerful testament to our scientific and technological excellence. More than €1.1 billion awarded to Israeli researchers and companies in just three years is not merely an impressive economic achievement—it is global recognition of Israel’s status as a leading innovation nation.
In these challenging times, scientific collaboration with Europe serves as a strategic bridge, enhancing our capabilities and contributing to global climate, health, and technology solutions. I am particularly proud that 390 Israeli researchers have been awarded the prestigious ERC grants, positioning Israel at the forefront of groundbreaking research.
The Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, together with the Israel Innovation Authority, will continue to invest in building these scientific bridges —delivering unparalleled returns to Israel’s economy, academia, and industry."
Alon Stopel, Chairman of the Israel Innovation Authority, Chairman of ISERD’s Steering Committee, and Chief Scientist at the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology: "Israel’s broad participation in the Horizon Europe program is a testament to its status as a global innovation hub—one that transcends borders and drives global impact. Collaborations with academic institutions, research labs, and leading industries across Europe open new doors for Israel to develop groundbreaking technologies, advance cutting-edge scientific research, and solidify its position as a key player in the global economy. These achievements are proof of Israel’s innovation and excellence, underscoring its role as a strategic partner in shaping the future of science and technology."
Prof. Yossi Mekori, Chairman of the Council of Higher Education Planning and Budgeting Committee: "The European R&D programs are of paramount strategic importance in advancing Israeli research, strengthening cooperation with the European community, and ensuring Israel's position as a leader at the forefront of global science. We are particularly proud of the impressive successes of Israeli researchers in European Research Council (ERC) grants, among the most prestigious and competitive grants in the world. These achievements reflect the high level of academic research in Israel, and we are committed to continue encouraging the participation of our researchers in such programs."
Mr. Dimiter Tzantchev - EU Ambassador to the State of Israel: "Israel’s high-tech leadership and the EU’s strong research base make Horizon Europe a win-win. Together, we accelerate green and digital transitions, boosting resilience and competitiveness. This partnership is not just about funding projects—it’s about building a more sustainable, resilient, and knowledge-driven future for both Europe and Israel. This is a win-win cooperation for Europe and Israel, where the final result is greater than the sum of its parts. I would like to encourage talented researchers and innovators to continue using all available opportunities offered by Horizon Europe. I would like to underline the importance of Science Diplomacy in addressing common challenges as a means to bring peace and stability to the Middle East region. The EU strongly supports Israel’s engagement with regional partners for advancing solutions to global and regional challenges.
Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority: "Despite geopolitical shifts and global challenges, excellence and innovation are universal languages—and the ongoing success of Israeli researchers and companies in the Horizon Europe program proves this time and again. Israel continues to lead in innovation, and the impressive number of prestigious grant awards reflects its standing as a key strategic partner in Europe and worldwide.
Scientific and technological collaborations are not only a growth engine for Israel’s economy but also strengthen our international ties, cementing Israel’s position as a global knowledge hub at the forefront of research and development.
Despite attempts by certain actors to hinder Israel’s integration into the global arena, the results speak for themselves—scientific and technological cooperation with Europe has not only persisted but expanded. Israel is recognized as a leading partner, thanks to its groundbreaking innovation and unique capabilities, and the Israeli industry remains an integral force in developing cutting-edge technological solutions that will benefit the global economy and society as a whole.
Examples of projects and research that received funding
[Consortiums]
ICT
IBM Israel is participating in the TEADEL project, which began in September 2022. The project includes 17 partners and focuses on "data lakes" where large amounts of data are stored and processed. The project offers cloud innovation to improve data analysis capabilities while maintaining privacy and security. The project also works towards energy efficiency and improves the operation of "data lakes."
Mellanox, an Israeli company, is participating in the SMARTEDGE project, which began in January 2023. The project involves 14 partners and focuses on building a distributed artificial intelligence network, prioritizing privacy, personal security, and reliability. The project develops fast processing capabilities, data fusion, and the ability to share between different devices using dynamic communication networks. The work in the project is diverse and involves demonstrations in various sectors including healthcare, automotive, cities, and factories.
Security
EKON is participating in the B-prepared project, which began in October 2023. The project involves 14 partners and is designed to improve civil preparedness for natural disasters. To address the danger posed by various natural disasters, the B-prepared project has chosen to use innovative technologies to teach citizens useful skills for dealing with disasters. The project focuses, among other things, on developing platforms for mobile phones and virtual reality (VR) where various games can be developed and played to teach participants how to behave during natural disaster events. The project also includes a system for monitoring and measuring the readiness of platform users.
EIC Accelerator
Health
GENETIKAPLUS LTD received an EIC Accelerator grant that began in June 2022. The company works to develop innovative tools for dealing with depression. To upgrade medicine's ability to deal with depression, in this project the company is developing innovative blood test analysis using a broad screening method against existing medications. The screening helps promote personalized medicine in which each patient will receive tailored, rapid treatment to improve work processes and coping with depression.
EIC Pathfinder
Energy
Storage Drop and Professor Gershon Grossman from the Technion received an EIC Pathfinder grant as part of a consortium of 7 partners that began operating in September 2024. The project involves developing an innovative and efficient cooling system using carbon dioxide. The development of energy-efficient cooling technologies can impact our lives in various areas, including: food storage, computing centers, cooling with air conditioners, and improving environmental quality.
ERC
Social Sciences
Professor David Friesem from the University of Haifa received an ERC grant active from October 2022. The research aims to study Neolithic societies in the Eastern Mediterranean and examine cultural impacts of environmental changes that led to social changes. The research conducted around the Carmel area includes analysis of soil samples and subsurface samples and combines bio-archaeology, geo-archaeology, and offers innovation in these research fields.
Professor Shulamit Michaeli from Bar-Ilan University and Professor Yitzhak (Tsachi) Pilpel from the Weizmann Institute of Science received an ERC grant that began in May 2023. The project, led by the Pasteur Institute in France, focuses on studying evolutionary mechanisms and their impact on human diseases. The researchers are examining how Leishmania parasites, which cause severe diseases in humans, exploit genomic instability to improve their survival. The project aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that allow these parasites to regulate their gene expression through changes in gene dosage, including amplification of whole chromosomes, chromosomal regions, or individual genes. Understanding these mechanisms may provide new insights into the development of diseases such as cancer, where genomic instability plays a central role.
Dr. Shira Chapman from Ben-Gurion University received an ERC grant that started in October 2024. The project focuses on developing innovative quantum models for understanding quantum gravity theory in space. Its goal is to create a quantum analogy using advanced tools from the field of quantum information, including measures such as entanglement, complexity, and chaos. The project is expected to significantly impact the study of quantum gravity and offer practical applications in this field.
https://innovationisrael.org.il/iserd/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065044051971 ISERD - Israel-Europe R&D Directorate
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan
