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- Written by Silvia G. Golan
In an initiative by Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), 300 supporters and donors from 33 countries have arrived in Israel for a solidarity mission. This distinguished delegation, which includes KKL presidents, CEOs, and board members, are in Israel to reinforce support for its residents and authorities facing the ongoing war. Over the past year, these international supporters have demonstrated unwavering commitment to Israel, contributing extensively to aid for displaced residents, local authorities, and the restoration of forests damaged by enemy actions.
The opening event took place last night (Sunday) at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem, featuring President Isaac Herzog, KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski, and other prominent Israeli figures.
President Herzog opened the event with a poignant address, stating: "Since October 7th, we have seen the unique nature of our people shine strongly through the cracks of crisis. We have seen our people drop everything at first call to protect and defend their brothers and sisters, their communities, and their country. We have seen the most beautiful face of our civil society, responding to emergency with generosity and selflessness. And we have seen Jews and supporters from around the world proclaim with a crystal-clear voice: 'Hineini! We are here!'. We are here to offer comfort and immediate aid to Israel’s suffering communities. Here to carry Israel in our hearts. And here to help rebuild. This, friends, is the legacy of KKL- JNF. A historic organization that has built upon the goodwill of Jews around the world to make Israel blossom and grow from the very beginning. Today again, we will make that forest - and every other site of destruction - sites of rebuilding, regeneration, and rebirth."
The event was dedicated to honoring the victims, survivors, and heroes of the October 7th attacks. Participants heard moving accounts of bravery and resilience, focusing on the transition from memory to hope and revival. Among the featured stories were those of Eden Nimri and Oshri Moshe Butzhak. Captain Eden Nimri, who fell during the first day of the war engaged in a fierce gunfight with terrorists at the Nahal Oz outpost, saving the lives of several soldiers with her team. Captain Oshri Moshe Butzhak, who was killed in December 2023 in Gaza during a confrontation with terrorists, exhibited exceptional courage as he led his troops through a complex battle.
KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski addressed the attendees, stating: "The history of the Jewish people is not merely a sequence of expulsions and pogroms; it is a narrative of resilience and growth emerging from these challenges. It embodies the spirit of rising from the ashes, recognizing the present, and holding hope for the future. This evening represents a significant connection between Jewish communities worldwide and the current developments in Israel."
Throughout the war, KKL-JNF has undertaken extensive efforts to provide sustainable support to residents in the Western Negev and northern Israel, as well as to local authorities affected by the violence. The organization has invested hundreds of millions of shekels in rebuilding devastated communities and constructing temporary housing for displaced residents. KKL-JNF has also allocated substantial funds for firefighting efforts, immediate and long-term support for security forces and residents, and the rehabilitation of KKL-JNF forests damaged by terrorist activities during the war.
During the event, a special film was presented, highlighting the global rise of antisemitism and its severe impact on Jewish communities worldwide.
Through its various offices, KKL-JNF is committed to combating antisemitism with innovative educational initiatives while promoting tolerance and solidarity. As Ifat Ovadia-Luski emphasized during the event: "Especially against the backdrop of ongoing security tensions, the arrival of KKL representatives from around the world to witness our efforts to cultivate and develop the land is both impressive and inspiring. We at KKL-JNF will continue to serve as a bridge connecting the Jewish diaspora to Israel, addressing the challenges of rebuilding while providing mutual support to communities facing antisemitic incidents over the past year."
The evening also featured a moving film symbolizing "Revival," with performances by siblings Michal and Roee Greenlick, whose brother IDF officer Shauli, a singer, was tragically killed while fighting in Gaza.
In the coming week, the mission will visit various sites, primarily in Israeli communities near the Gaza Envelope, to review key projects that have received significant funding over the past year. The delegation will also engage with local leaders to understand the post-conflict needs and challenges, aiming to support reconstruction and restore normalcy to southern communities.
Photo credit Silvia Golan
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- Written by Silvia G. Golan & Tony Levy
The HIT Holon Institute of Technology once again honors the achievements of prominent and outstanding leaders who have made significant contributions in the fields of science, innovative technologies, the development and implementation of advanced security systems, medicine, and healthcare, as well as in fostering bridges of friendship and peace between nations. This year, five distinguished laureates were awarded Honorary Degrees by HIT at a ceremony held on September 10, 2024, at the Center for Innovation and Peace, in honor of Shimon Peres, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and the ninth President of Israel.
Prof. Eduard Yakubov, President of HIT, stated, "HIT is proud to award honorary degrees to remarkable individuals of exceptional influence, each of whom has made a unique and significant contribution to Israeli society. For nine years, the Institute has awarded honorary degrees. This year, in light of the ongoing war and the current situation, we have decided to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to security, society, medicine, and the Israeli high-tech industry. The awarding of these degrees serves as recognition and appreciation for their profound and tireless efforts in advancing the State of Israel and society as a whole."
Among the awardees:
In the Field of Medicine
Professor Mordechai Shani – who was awarded the Israel Prize in 2009, successfully led the Shiba–Tel HaShomer Hospital for 33 years. He also served as the Director General of the Ministry of Health. Additionally, Professor Shani is the Founder and Chairman of the Management Committee of the Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research. He initiated and led revolutionary reforms, including the national health insurance law and mental health reform.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mordechai_Shani
In the Field of Innovative Technologies:
Dr. Orna Berry – is recognized as the first woman to lead the Israeli high-tech industry, establishing herself as a successful entrepreneur, computer scientist, and influential leader. She made history by becoming the first Chief Scientist Officer in the Israeli government, a role during which Israel embarked on its journey to becoming a Startup Nation - a transformation that is still regarded as remarkable. Currently, she serves as the Director of Google Cloud and continues to play a pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge technologies both in Israel and globally. Dr. Berry has also developed programs aimed at enhancing Israel's national research infrastructure in quantum science and technology, as well as in artificial intelligence and data science.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orna_Berry
In the Field of Science:
Professor Daniel Zajfman – is a world-renowned physicist who served as the President of the Weizmann Institute of Science. He has participated in groundbreaking projects, including the development of particle accelerators. In an interview, Professor Zajfman stated, "Excellence comes from the bottom up. We hire the best scientists and then trust them to do their best without directing them. They need to believe that they are working on their own mission, rather than being directed toward a specific goal—such as 'finding a cure for a particular disease.' We say, 'just research,' and great things come out of that. Over the years, I have increasingly realized my role in protecting the space and freedom of our scientists." Professor Zajfman has made significant contributions to the advancement of scientific education in Israel, investing heavily in making science accessible to the periphery through the establishment of educational centers.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Zajfman
In the Field of Security and Defense Industry:
Boaz Levy – CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries, is recognized as one of the top 10 defense industry leaders of 2024, according to Aviation Week. He successfully led the development of the "Iron Dome" and "Barak 8" defense systems, which have become integral to Israel's defense infrastructure. Under his leadership, numerous satellites and defense systems have been launched into space. Boaz Levy is regarded as a pivotal figure in the global defense industry.
https://www.iai.co.il/about/management/boaz-levy
In the Field of Public Affairs:
The esteemed expert and bridge-builder, Boris David Kandow, Honorary Consul of Uzbekistan to Austria, tirelessly promoted international trade partnerships between Western countries and the former Soviet Union during the Cold War. He actively worked to reduce and eliminate nuclear weapons stockpiles, contributing to global stability. As a trusted advisor to the Presidents of Central Asian countries, he frequently organized parliamentary delegations to the White House and other nations. Kandow has made significant contributions to strengthening academic ties between HIT and scientific institutions in Uzbekistan.
Given the extremely challenging circumstances resulting from the war in our country, HIT Holon Institute of Technology deeply appreciates the contributions of these honorary laureates. We are inspired by their unwavering leadership in preserving and reinforcing the fundamental values of the State of Israel and Israeli society, which they uphold and pass down from generation to generation.
VIP representatives attend the ceremony:
Mr. Jakhongir Aminov - Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the State of Israel
Mr. Sherzod Shavkatbekov - Council of the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the State of Israel
Mr. Mukhtar Yskak - Deputy Ambassador of the Republic the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Israel
Ms. Assel Ustenova - 1st Secretary of the Republic the Republic of Kazakhstan to the State of Israel
Ms. Aydan Karimli - 3rd Secretary Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the State of Israel
Mr. Yoel Razvozov - Deputy Minister of Tourism
Ambassador Dan Oryan – Director of Civil Diplomacy Israel MFA
Mr. Mr. Cohen Pinchas (Pini) - Chairman of the HIT Board of Trustees
Prof. Eduard Yakubov – HIT President
Prof. Adir Pridor - Chairman of the Executive HIT Committee
Photo credit Silvia Golan
More Pics & videos at Facebook Diplomacy Israel / Israel Diplo / Silvia G Golan
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- Written by Silvia G. Golan
In order to celebrate Romanian Language Day - one of the most important events in the diplomacy of culture, designed to highlight the diversity and spiritual wealth of various Romanian-speaking communities in the world - the Romanian Institute of Culture from Tel Aviv organized and hosting an event dedicated to the personality and work of the writer Panait Istrati, described by Marin Sorescu as "the first Solzhenitsyn in European literature".
This event took place at the institute, in Romanian and Hebrew, on Monday, September 2
The event was attended by
- The Israeli journalist Benny Ziper, who will talk about his research that he did at the "Panait Istrati" house in the city of Raila - a museum that preserves manuscripts, books with a dedication, rare editions, first editions, documentary photos - documentary
- The Israeli journalist Benny Ziper, who will talk about his research that he did at the "Panait Istrati" house in the city of Raila - a museum that preserves manuscripts, books with a dedication, rare editions, first editions, documentary photos - documentary
material intended for the study of the life and work of Panait Istrati;
- Zamfir Blanc, curator of the "Panait Istrati" museum and deputy director of the city museum in Raila, with a lecture and video on "Panait Istrati and the Jewish world in his time";
- Lucian-Zev Hershkowitz, historian and librarian at the National Library of Israel, with a lecture on "Jewish Aspects in the Panait Istrati Writings".
- Zamfir Blanc, curator of the "Panait Istrati" museum and deputy director of the city museum in Raila, with a lecture and video on "Panait Istrati and the Jewish world in his time";
- Lucian-Zev Hershkowitz, historian and librarian at the National Library of Israel, with a lecture on "Jewish Aspects in the Panait Istrati Writings".
The work of Panait Istrati (1884-1935), written in French and Romanian, has been translated into more than 30 other languages.
In the stories and novels he wrote, he describes the world of the proletariat, whom he knew closely in his city of Braila and in the Danube Delta, where he met a mixture of peoples and religions, as well as in the various cities of Europe he passed through during his life. Among the subjects ,the favorites in his literary work are due to the fascination for the East, which for Istrati was a source of general knowledge and self-knowledge, of liberation and of light. Likewise, wandering and nomadism are also important themes in Istrati's work, since the concept of wandering fits his extroverted, hasty and excited nature. Among his most famous works are "Kira Kirlina", "The Deer of Baragan Field", "Kudin", "The Old Englishman", "Sunrise", "Confession for the Defeated".
"Fanait Istrati was discovered by the French author Romain Rollin in the early 1920s - of the last century.
"Fanait Istrati was discovered by the French author Romain Rollin in the early 1920s - of the last century.
Panait Istrati quickly became one of the most famous writers in the world. Except for a few cases, he wrote his work in French, but kept the atmosphere, thought and features of the Romanian language. Later, he rewrote a large part of his work in his native language.
"He is the writer whose work is marked by love of man and love of freedom - the only human asset for which one must sacrifice everything: money, glory, health, life, and even his personal freedom" - wrote Zamfir Blanc, curator of the "Fanait Istrati" treasure and deputy director of the city museum in Raila.
The Romanian Institute of Culture in Tel Aviv is pleased also to present the exhibition of paintings
"Surrealism, Music and Flowers" by the Romanian-born Israeli artist Paul Simo.
The official opening took place on Thursday July 25 at 18:00 in the presence of the artist and distinguished guests.
Paul Simo is a native of Capilinita (Hergita district) who graduated from the Bard School of Popular Art, Romania. After immigrating to Israel in 1989, he continued to work in the field of art and decorative painting. Paul is an active member of the Netanya Artists Association who exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in Israel and abroad including Romania, Hungary, China, South Korea and the USA and won prestigious awards
The exhibition is open until
24.09.2024
Entry is free but you need to book in advance
For more information and to register for a visit
Tel.: +972-3-696 17 46,
Photo courtesy of The Romanian Institute of Culture in Tel Aviv
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- Written by Stephen Abrahams
On Friday morning, 6 September at the Jerusalem Theatre, a reception was hosted by the ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the State of Israel, H.E. Ms. Pannabha Chandraramya, featuring the foremost figure in Asian fashion photography, Mr Nat Prakobsantisuk entitled "Be-Live", on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of bilateral relations between the two countries.
The ambassador opened the exhibition by thanking all present and welcoming Mr. Nat Prakobsantisuk on his second visit to Israel. She dolefully emphasized her condolences to all hostages and their families and mentioned their release. She, voluntarily, has not finished her tour in Israel as she feels deeply responsible for the remaining 6 Thai hostages still in captivity and did not feel entirely comfortable passing on this predicament to her successor. She thanked the management of the Jerusalem Theatre and mentioned Mrs.Tali Friedman in helping to make it possible for the exhibition to be held at the Theatre.
Warmly welcomed was Mr. Naor Shiri, a member of Knesset and head of the Israel - Thailand Friendship parliamentary group who responded that it was a privilege for him to be present.
H.E. Ms Chandraramya stated that "The Exhibition is Homage to a Landscape" with metaphorical significance as the photographer's content was primarily scenes of places of worship including churches, mosques and the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Nazareth. He also has numerous photographs of Buddhist temples in Thailand and of worshipers "His Intention is an Attempt to Create a Deeper Understanding Between Two Peoples and is Not Only a Celebration of 70 Years of Bilateral Relations".
The ambassador asked me to inform readers that viewing to the public is until Monday, 30 September and that the proceeds of all sales will be donated by the Embassy and by Mr. Prakobsantisuk to the Jewish National Fund (K.K.L) who will use the money to plant trees in various forests owned by the Foundation. A great deal of forestry has suffered severe damage as a result of explosions and deliberate fire during the incumbent war.
When I introduced myself to Mr. Prakobsantisuk with the intention of hearing the motivating force and philosophy inspiring his work,he informed me that he creates "hypothetical realities" which can exist in any life situation. His belief is essentially Buddhist and "The Acceptance of Freedom of Religion and Personal Belief is a Necessary Right of Everyone to be Respected by Others". The "Dignity of Difference and Respect Without Dogma" being a central pillar of his belief system. His work is marked by a strong sense of empathy and narrative of his unique style. He poignantly stated that "Buddhism Believes in Changing the Protagonist and Not in Influencing, Judging and Changing the Thoughts of Others".Most importantly "Universitaly" is expressed in his work and thus based on the integral aspect of respect.
In the exhibition, images of Thailand and Israel alternate, presenting a mesmerizing presentation of images and glimpses from two worlds. He lives and works in Bangkok and travels extensively in Asia as he specializes in fashion photography. His sister, who is his personal assistant and manager, joined him on this trip and it was enlightening to speak to her as she impressed me by her urbanity and world travels.
Last but not least, he stated that " His Art was a result of his belief in Buddhism which served as the driving force of his creativity".
Guests enjoyed an array of Thai delicacies namely "Chicken Pad Thai" which is stir fried noodles with egg, chicken and tamarind paste, savoury crispy noodles, tapioca balls with tofu filling, Thai sweet coconut sticky rice popped with egg custard, grilled salmon and crispy fried shallots as well as shredded coconut and sesame. Another table consisting of fresh fruit beautifully presented and cheese was also available for those adverse to oriental fare as well as wine and fresh fruit juices.
telaviv.thaiembassy.org/en/index
Address: David Marcus St 20, Jerusalem
Phone: 02-560-5755
The Director and staff of Diplomacy.co.il share their good wishes to the Ambassador, to Mr. Nat Prakobsantisuk , to the Embassy Staff and to the people of Thailand on this auspicious occasion
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- Written by Stephen Abrahams
At a photographic exhibition,commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liquidation of the "Kovno Ghetto" entitled "Back to Kaunas", by acclaimed photographer, Mr Michael Shubitz who works for German television as well as being a film artist, was hosted on Sunday,1 September at the Jerusalem theatre by the ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the State of Israel,H.E. Mr. Audrius Bruzga in association with the Embassy of Lithuania to Israel,the Lithuanian Institute of Culture,the Association of Lithuanian Expatriates in Israel and the Fristo Stiftung.This exhibition was originally created by Mr. Shubitz for "Kaunas 2022 European Capital of Culture",
One of the most well-known ghettos in the German - occupied east was the Kovno ghetto.Between 1920 and 1939, Kaunas, was the country's capital and largest city.In 1939, it had a Jewsih population of approximately 32 000 which was 1/4 of the city's population.
Soon after occupying the area, German officials established a civilian administration for the local district under SA Major General Hans Kramer.Under his auspices, in July and August 1941, German occupation officials concentrated the remaining Jews, some 35 000 people, in a ghetto established in Slabodka.It was an area of small primitive houses and no running water. After the Ghetto was liberated by the Soviet army on 1 August 1944, 500 Jews survived in forests and bunkers.
Mr. Michael Shubitz,whose Father had miraculously survived the ghetto by giving a false name when taken as a prisoner from the 7th fort to be executed, was saved.This fact was confirmed years later when Mr. Shubitz met Prof. Porat, whose speciality was the "Kovno Ghetto". In addition to the afore -mentioned he was a policeman in the ghetto, who collaborated with the Jewish underground. As mentioned in his speech, this exhibition was a cathartic experience for him as his parents never spoke of their past. The only remnant from the Shubitz family,also on display, was a family photo that survived the war, which included his Father as a boy taken on the occasion of his sister's immigration to Palestine.
Present were survivors of which two spoke.Dr. Shalom Kaplan Eilati spoke passionately in Hebrew saying that the 12 elongated photographs of the survivors' portraits "is a sad memorial to the 220 000 Lithuanian Jews that perished". Of the 25 000 Jews that entered the ghetto, 4 500 survived which accounts for 7%. Of the 5 000 children below the age of 13, that entered the ghetto, only 250 - 300 remained.
Dita Sperling - Zupoich, who celebrated the anniversary of her 102nd birth in April 2024 in Tel Aviv, was unfortunately not present. Aharon Barak, former president of the Supreme Court and Prof. Tzi Garfunkel,a world authority on the "Dead Sea transform" and a renowned former Professor of Geology at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem department of Earth Sciences were also not present.Other prominent figures that survived "Kovno Ghetto" and were not present was a former commander of the U.S. army's prestigious "Green Berets" as well as a former Fire Chief of New York city.
Another survivor, Mrs. Sarah Kupelowitz also spoke and mentioned her experiences.
A moving moment was when I introduced myself to a child survivor. Abracha,who immigrated to Israel four years ago from Chicago.He was accompanied by his son,Eli,an prominent figure at the Ihr David foundation as well as his grandson who recently finished his matriculation exams.
H.E. Mr. Andrius Bruzga.spoke with pathos referring to the ubiquitous posters "Bring Them Home" uniting us into "The Faith of the Family".As a token of appreciation he also presented each survivor with a bouquet of flowers.
Mr. Shai Schnitzer, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Lithuania to the State of Israel and president of :president of S.Schnitzer Diamonds Ltd".in Ramat Gan,N.Y. and Hong Kong and Mr. Dani Dayan, chairman of Yad Vashem also graced us with their presence.
www.diplomacy.co.il cannot sufficiently express their gratitude,thanks and appreciation to the Ambassador and to Mr. Shubitz whose invaluable effort,sacrifice and tenacity actualized this memorable vernissage. Also thanks to Mr. Jonathan Hanig,a professional photographer who worked for no fee and gave us permission to publish his photos.
Photo credit Jonathan Hanig
