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In the 9th Feb 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Released hostages are role-models for Israeli resilience.
l Israeli medicines can navigate the body.
l More Arabs enjoy careers in Israel’s medical professions.
l Educating the next generation of hi-tech Israelis.
l $1 billion profit in 2024 for Israeli cybersecurity Checkpoint.
l Israeli jazz band leader won a Grammy award.
l Read details of a 1,900-year-old Jewish court case in the Land of Israel.
· Click here to see the 2nd Feb newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours with a great intro, (TY Ted Belman) IsraPundit, and Joan Swirsky (email her to get daily news). Also (TY Sandra) for translating it into German here, and Hebrew here, and with (TY) Claude into French here. Also (TY Barbara) into Spanish here. (Please forward this newsletter to German-speaking, Spanish-speaking, French-speaking and Hebrew-speaking contacts. Also please visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/verygoodnewsIL.
· Please click here, to donate (a small or large amount) to help me publicize VeryGoodNewsIsrael.
· Click here to keyword SEARCH almost any topic in the IsraelActive archives (over 26,000 articles).
· If someone wishes to be added to the free email subscription list, they should either click here or send a request (with their name, and the subject “Subscribe”) to michael.goodnewsisrael@gmail.com
POSITIVE NEWS IN A WAR
Private concert for freed hostages. (TY Yanky) Hanan Ben Ari, one of Israel's favorite singers, gave a private performance for Liri, Karina, Daniela and Naama and their families in hospital. The unique 2-hour “welcome home” concert included his latest release, “Today I woke up happy.”
Now it’s personal. Fans of UK soccer team Tottenham Hotspur celebrated the release of hostage and Spurs fan Emily Damari. One fan said, “I don’t know her, I’ve never met her, but there was something very personal about her not just being a British hostage but being a Spurs fan.” (Ed - Something to think about!)
https://www.timesofisrael.com/tottenham-soccer-fans-celebrate-release-of-hostage-emily-damari/
Thai ex-hostages get residency status. (TY WIN) The five Thai hostages released on Jan 30 have been granted Israeli residency status. Thaenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakhan, Sriaoun Watchara, Saethao Bannawat and Rumnao Surasak can stay in Israel if they wish, after their recovery. See them reunited with their families.
https://www.jns.org/thai-hostages-reunite-with-families-in-israel/
https://www.jns.org/israel-grants-released-thai-hostages-residency-status/
I chose faith. In footage of her helicopter flight from Gaza to hospital, released hostage Agam Berger wrote and displayed a message to the world. It said, “I chose a path of faith and I returned through a path of faith.” Agam observed Shabbat, fasted Tisha b’Av; wouldn’t eat non-kosher meat, or cook for her captors on Shabbat.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/403158 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYY9Rhow-Z8
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/403132
https://www.jns.org/female-captive-found-siddur-in-hamas-captivity-fasted-on-tisha-bav/
Supporting hostages with braided hair. The four female IDF soldiers released on Jan 25 had their hair braided by Agam Berger, who was released a week later. She had also braided the hair of some of the children released in Nov 2023. Many Israeli women, including El Al staff, have braided their hair as a sign of solidarity.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-839980
See Agam at her sister’s IDF graduation. Another article featuring released hostage Agam Berger. It features Agam at the IDF graduation ceremony for her younger sister Bar where Agam presented Bar with her graduation award ribbon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5eXP6a4wdo
How Gadi survived. 80-year-old released hostage Gadi Mozes was held for 483 days in isolation. He walked 7km a day up and down his tiny room. He solved mathematics problems in his head. He persuaded his captors to give him books in English, and he kept a daily diary which Hamas confiscated before his release.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/pacing-7km-a-day-in-a-tiny-cell-rationing-grains-of-rice-hostages-stories-emerge/ https://www.thejc.com/news/israel/hostage-gadi-mozes-shares-how-he-kept-his-sanity-in-captivity-bm64zyhy https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/01/31/hero-hostage-managed-to-convince-hamas-to-give-him-books-in-english/
Life restarts. Despite still suffering from broken ribs and a bullet wound in his hand, released hostage Keith Siegel refused a wheelchair, wrapped himself in an Israeli flag, and walked from the IDF helicopter to the hospital. His youngest daughter Shir, who got engaged before Oct 7, can now set the date for her wedding.
How a Muslim Arab saved 32 from Hamas. (TY Nevet) On Oct 7 2023, Bedouin Israeli Yunis Alkarnawi hid 8 Israelis and 24 Thai workers on the farm he manages and then convinced Hamas terrorists not to enter the farm. Yunis has three members of his family currently serving in the IDF.
https://jewishinsider.com/2025/01/shalev-biton-yunis-alkarnawi-bedouin-israeli-nova-survivor-oct-7/
Building resilience – BGU events. Ben Gurion University are holding several US-location events to describe how BGU faculty and students are leading the way forward for the Negev and Israel after October 7th. Hear them in Miami FL (Feb 25), Boca Raton FL (Feb 26) or Houston TX (Feb 27).
https://americansforbgu.org/events/resilience_miami_beach/
https://americansforbgu.org/events/boca_2025/
https://americansforbgu.org/events/houston-2025/
Stray dog saves IDF soldiers. (TY Aubrey) During an IDF operation in Jenin, a stray dog tugged at the leg of a soldier and led him to a blanket. He lifted the blanket to reveal a massive explosive device. The heroic dog is now living in Israel. (see photo of device and dog at link)
https://vinnews.com/2025/02/02/a-stray-dog-saves-the-lives-of-idf-soldiers-in-jenin/
A brighter Jewish future. The 3rd annual International Yael Foundation Conference in Limassol, Cyprus, attracted 200+ Jewish thought leaders from 37 countries to discuss advancing Jewish education. They heard from Israelis impacted by Oct 7 2023 and understood that Jews globally had strengthened their Jewish identity.
https://www.jns.org/education-and-beyond-yael-foundation-summit-gets-underway-in-cyprus/
IDF’s new leader. Maj. Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir quoted King David’s Psalm 18 in his first speech after being nominated as the next IDF chief of staff. “I have pursued my enemies, and overtaken them; and did not turn back till they were consumed”. And, “Israel will produce its own weapons, enabling it to face any threat.”
https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/incoming-idf-chief-israel-will-prove-to-enemies-it-is-powerful-determined-to-win/ https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/403289
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Therapies bypass the liver. Tel Aviv University researchers are able to encode cell therapy to target specific diseases without causing toxic side effects on the liver. Their first example encapsulates mRNA nanoparticles in lipids that are only absorbed in the intestine, telling it to generate IL-10 for curing colitis and Crohn’s disease.
https://en-lifesci.tau.ac.il/news/sbcr_peer_mrna_2025
https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202408744
Targeting autoimmune diseases. (TY Nevet) Israel’s Pepticom (see here previously) is to accelerate the development of its oral IL-17 inhibitor program, targeting improved treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Can you smell the coffee? (TY Israel21c) Researchers at Israel’s Weizmann Institute found that lack of a sense of smell often leads to depression, anxiety and other health issues which link to a reduced lifespan. They also discovered that sighing every 5 minutes or so helps prevent the collapse of alveoli in the lungs.”
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52650-6
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
A great year for donated shares. The shares that startups donated to Israel’s Tmura (see here previously) resulted in more than NIS 10 million being given to worthy causes in 2024 - the second highest since it was founded in 2002. Most went to groups involved in resilience, rehabilitation, and reducing social disparities.
https://www.israel21c.org/donating-stock-options-for-the-greater-israeli-good/
Huge rise in Arabs employed in Israeli healthcare. Since 2010 there has been a massive increase in Israeli Arab medical professionals. Current (vs 2010): 25% of Israeli doctors are Arab (was 8%), Nurses 27% (17%), dentists 27% (19%), Pharmacists 49% (28%). Arabs constitute some 20% of Israel’s population. Apartheid?
https://www.jns.org/swell-of-arabs-in-israeli-healthcare-since-2010-study-suggests/
Briefing Portuguese MPs. (TY Nevet) The Israeli non-profit ELNET (European Leadership Network) hosted a delegation of Members of the Portuguese Parliament. They visited Oct 7 sites and met a survivor and a hostage family member. They also visited Yad Vashem, the Holy Sepulchre, and the Wailing Wall.
https://elnetwork.eu/country/israel/elnetisraelmfa-portuguesempsdelegation/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBOlWWAulWc
Educational Travel Summit. (TY Nevet) The Israel Educational Travel Alliance held its first-ever Leaders’ Summit in Israel. Some 140 representatives from 100+ member organizations reviewed educational Israel travel programs post Oct 7. The pledged to bring over 53,000 participants to Israel in 2025 (up from 35,500 in 2024).
Are we asking the wrong questions? Jerusalem’s Rabbi Daniel Rowe (whom I knew in the UK before making Aliyah) makes a good point here. Instead of lamenting why the Jewish State isn't treated the same as other countries, why not focus less on fitting in and more on standing out? Perhaps by being more Positive?
https://www.jns.org/the-pro-israel-camp-is-asking-the-wrong-questions/
What a hoot! (TY Yanky) The Israeli initiative to use barn owls for natural rodent pest control (see here previously) is now global. Experts from 12 countries held their annual conference in Greece including new attendees from Germany, Georgia, and Ukraine. They plan to replicate the model in the USA and Asia.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Preventing food wastage. Israel’s StePacPPC (see here previously) and its partner Windham Packaging have developed a range of its bulk modified-atmosphere packaging to extend the shelf life of fresh produce headed to foodservice outlets - predominantly restaurants, hotels, and canteens. It is already having success in the US.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15vtSMqdZafcjxrrR5EDxjGvq-a0N0oZV
Wiz exposes DeepSeek. Israeli security giant Wiz uncovered a major security flaw in China’s new AI chatbot DeepSeek. In a routine scan, Wiz found DeepSeek had left a publicly accessible database unprotected, exposing digital software keys, backend operational details, and chat logs containing user prompts from its AI assistant.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/sensitive-data-from-deepseek-exposed-to-web-warns-israeli-founded-cyber-firm/ https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/h12yfsooyx
Israeli agritech in Los Angeles. Please register for this event on Feb 10 featuring eight Israeli agritech startups Hoffman & Hoffman, AgriNoze, Edete, NETA (transforming agricultural waste), Acclym, SolarWine, Tevel Aerobotics, and CarobWay.
https://lu.ma/v8p4urmk https://www.hw-well.com/ https://www.acclym.com/ https://www.solarwine.ai/
AI in the classroom. Israel’s Education Ministry is implementing a nationwide program to integrate artificial intelligence into the nation’s school system. It includes training 70,000 teachers to use AI in classrooms and bringing in 3,000 training mentors from over 400 tech companies to help adapt AI tools.
https://www.jns.org/israel-unveils-groundbreaking-ai-education-plan-for-2025/
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/lde52kasn
Teaching robotics in kindergartens. It’s never too early to prepare children for the world of tomorrow. In a pilot of the first initiative of its kind, Israel’s Education Ministry is integrating robotics into 500 kindergartens across Israel. Pupils will make tracks for robots, solve puzzles, program through play, and create performances.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-840420
Generating a world with AI. Israel’s Decart (see here previously) has developed the app Oasis that attempts to replicate the game Minecraft, but using generative artificial intelligence. The AI-driven simulation uses "next-frame prediction" to anticipate player actions to generate scenery and construction sites.
https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/h1tn3clikx https://oasis.decart.ai/introduction
Field test for anti-drone systems. Nine defense companies and startups conducted a second test to the Defense Ministry of some 20 drone interception solutions at a simulated testing field in the Negev (see here previously). They were from IAI, Aerobotics, Rafael, Elbit, Robotican, Xtend, General Robotics, Smart-Shooter, and Tamar.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/syddsjwkkl https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDUqPFjswlI
An accelerator for outer space. Israel-based global innovation hub Creation-Space is launching Space Venture - an accelerator program to create space-tech startups. Each will receive up to $250,000, plus tech support, access to research facilities, test sites, and workshops by top experts from NASA and the deep space industry.
Two more BIG winners. In addition to the award to Israel’s OncoHost (see here previously), two other Israeli startups won 2025 BIG Innovation awards from the Business Intelligence Group. ICL Group won in the agriculture category and Trax Retail of Singapore and Tel Aviv won in the retail category.
https://www.israel21c.org/3-israeli-companies-win-2025-big-innovation-awards/
Trustworthy online voting. Israel’s Sequent is the world’s first end-to-end verifiable and transparent online voting platform. It has successfully conducted more than 200 elections in 10 countries for local municipalities, government bodies, and the private sector. It will be used for 1.7 million voters in the 2025 Philippines election.
https://www.israel21c.org/a-technology-that-may-finally-make-online-voting-the-norm/
Print your spectacles coating. Israel’s flō Opics has developed a solution for coating optical lenses using digital printing technology. It revolutionizes hard-coatings, tinted, and photochromic lenses, which can be applied on a pixel basis rather than just one option for the whole lens.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/h13w12eyjx https://www.flo-optics.com/coating-solution/
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Israeli AI programs to be in US AI plans. David Sacks, chair of US President Trump’s Council of Advisers on Science and Technology, and Elon Musk have agreed to integrate Israel’s artificial intelligence programs into the US administration’s plans to massively expand AI development, estimated at half a trillion dollars.
https://worldisraelnews.com/netanyahu-meets-with-doge-chief-elon-musk/
NIS 1.2 billion for IDF suppling startups. In 2024, some 300 security startups received NIS 1.2 billion of orders from the Ministry of Defense for urgent tech solutions for the IDF in Gaza and Lebanon. 30% went into tech for autonomous vehicles and a similar amount for cyber-tech. The rest went to sensors, digital, and AI.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/ry1a7pp00jg
United to restart in March. United Airlines is to resume flights to Israel in March, becoming the first U.S. carrier to renew services to Tel Aviv halted due to the war. United will initially fly from Newark’s Liberty International Airport on Mar 15, with daily service beginning two weeks later on Mar 29.
https://worldisraelnews.com/united-airlines-to-restart-service-to-israel-in-march/
Latin America invests in Israel. Leapfrog Innovation Powerhouse (LIP) Ventures is investing $90 million in Israeli startups from a group of 200 high-net-worth individuals and family offices across Latin America. The VC is boosting Israeli talent and helping Israeli entrepreneurs be exposed to the LATAM region.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sjjaoeroje
$1 billion of profit. Israeli Cybersecurity company Check Point closed 2024 with $2.56 billion in revenue, a 6% growth compared to 2023. For the first time, Check Point’s annual profit surpassed the billion-dollar mark.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/s1o001jkd1x
Happy with your choppers? (TY Yanky) The Irish government promised not to buy anything Israeli. But its recent purchase of 4 Airbus helicopters included Helionix flight systems made by Israel’s Elbit. Yanky suggests that they remove the systems. The helicopters won’t fly, but it’s vital that Ireland preserves its integrity!
https://www.thejournal.ie/new-helicopters-will-have-israeli-tech-despite-govt-aim-to-avoid-kit-from-the-country-6601446-Jan2025/ https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/irish-airbus-h145m-helicopters/
Startup investment – to 9th Feb 25: Oligo Security raised $50 million; Finout raised $40 million; Flō Optics raised $35 million; Seraphic Security raised $29 million; Bigabid raised $25 million; Pepticom raised $6.6 million; Lowental Hybrid raised $5 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Persian leopards return to Israel. (TY Yanky) El Al has flown two young rare Persian leopards to their new home at the Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem from the Dvůr Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic where they were born. There are fewer than 1,000 Persian leopards in the world – the last one in the Upper Galilee was seen in 1960.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/403066
Top 100 wine. The US publication Wine Spectator selected White Label Judean Hills 2021 from Israeli winery Flam for its Top 100 Wines of 2024 list. “full-throttled core of red currant, blackberry, dried flower and dusty earth flavors…shows a spine of graphite that brings focus and drive to the round, lush palate…” and more!
https://www.israel21c.org/israeli-wine-makes-wine-spectators-top-100-of-2024/
https://www.flamwinery.com/en/ https://www.flamwinery.com/en/product/white-label/
See the colors of Jerusalem. (TY Sharon) February in Jerusalem is full of color. A new lion, the Botanical Gardens, purple irises, white roses, lemon trees, Jerusalem Theater art, and (of course) yellow ribbons.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/02/02/watch-as-the-pendulum-swings-february-begins-in-jerusalem/
Best large Jazz Ensemble album. Israeli musician Dan Pugach won a Grammy award in the category of Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album with his compilation title “Bianca Reimagined: Music for Paws and Persistence.”
https://www.danpugach.com/ https://www.youtube.com/danpugach
Even more good. The song that all Israel is singing. Tamid Ohev Oti (Od Yoter Tov).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEmjeU-62PM
Israel’s wheelchair dance champion. Major feature article about Israel’s Tomer Margalit (see here previously) who didn’t let paralysis prevent her from becoming a world class dancer.
https://www.israel21c.org/disabled-ballroom-dancer-taking-on-the-world/
THE JEWISH STATE
A 1900-year court case. A 1,900-year-old papyrus (the longest ever found in the Judean desert) recently deciphered for the first time reveals a Roman trial of two Jews (Saulos and Gedalias) in the land of Israel on the eve of the Bar Kochba revolt (132-135 CE). Saulos may have been a “rebel”, trying to redeem Jewish slaves.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/fraud-forgery-and-sedition-1900-year-old-papyrus-records-roman-trial-against-jews/ https://www.jewishpress.com/news/archaeology-news/roman-era-papyrus-unveils-tax-evasion-and-slave-trade-scam/2025/01/29/
Torah scrolls for battle conditions. Israel’s Military Rabbinate has unveiled a portable Holy Ark containing a Torah scroll. Army rabbis designed it to be worn like a backpack, which can be converted into a small podium, or bimah, for reading scripture. It is weatherproof and designed to prevent damage from humidity.
https://www.jns.org/idf-unveils-portable-torah-scrolls-for-field-conditions/
Thai officials offer thanks at the Kotel. (TY UWI) A delegation of senior Thai government officials, including Thailand’s Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, plus Thailand’s military chief of staff, visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem, after five Thai hostages were freed from Hamas captivity.
https://www.jns.org/top-thai-officials-visit-western-wall-after-citizens-freed-from-gaza/
Nb’N’s 2024 achievements. Last year, Nefesh b’Nefesh helped 3,700 North American Jews make Aliyah. It launched IMAP (International Medical Aliyah Program) which helped 519 doctors and healthcare professionals make Aliyah. And it gave the Maor Youth Prize (see here previously) to 9 exceptional young Olim.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1804552066974540 https://www.imap.org.il/
https://www.jpost.com/aliyah-with-nbn/article-836309
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In the 2nd Feb 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l An Israeli university offers full scholarships to freed Gaza hostages.
l An Israeli life-support system is being deployed to US hospitals.
l The Head of Hadassah hospital saved a passenger on an El Al flight.
l Israeli organizations saved lives in Las Angeles and Georgia.
l See how cows are milked on an autonomous Israeli dairy farm.
l Israeli tech will protect India and its trains.
l You can behave like an animal at a new Israeli zoo.
l Buy a home in Israel – while you can.
· Click here to see the 26th Jan newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY) Aviva) United With Israel, (TY Ted Belman) IsraPundit and Joan Swirsky (email her to get daily news). Also (TY Sandra) for translating it into German here, and Hebrew here, and with (TY) Claude into French here. Also (TY Barbara) into Spanish here. (Please forward this newsletter to German-speaking, Spanish-speaking, French-speaking and Hebrew-speaking contacts. Also please visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/verygoodnewsIL.
· Please click here, to donate (a small or large amount) to help me publicize VeryGoodNewsIsrael.
· Click here to keyword SEARCH almost any topic in the IsraelActive archives (over 26,000 articles).
· If someone wishes to be added to the free email subscription list, they should either click here or send a request (with their name, and the subject “Subscribe”) to michael.goodnewsisrael@gmail.com
POSITIVE NEWS IN A WAR
On a clear day you can see Damascus. Israel’s internal risks may have deteriorated by the release of hundreds of terrorists, but at least its external geographic security situation has improved substantially.
https://www.jns.org/on-a-clear-day-you-see-damascus-a-rare-visit-to-mount-hermon/
Up close with the Arrow defense system. (TY Yanky) Serving 24-hour shifts in vault-like rooms across the country, 136th Battalion soldiers face the ballistic missile threat against Israel at all times. Ultimately, one person decides when to press the button to intercept a ballistic missile launched thousands of kilometers away.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sy3beemvjx
Full scholarships to former hostages. (TY Yanky & ToI) The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is offering full scholarships for a three-year academic degree (both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs) to all released hostages. It will also establish a fund to pay the fees, when they reach adulthood, of children held hostage by Hamas.
https://www.afhu.org/2025/01/27/hebrew-university-announces-scholarship-fund-for-released-hostages/
An ice bath works wonders. Biokineticist Nikia Blumenthal offers IDF combat soldiers a cold plunge to promote physical and emotional healing. She packs her car with a portable bath and 100kg (220 pounds) of ice and drives to IDF bases or army refreshment stations. (Disclosure - I attend Nikia’s Netanya stretch classes)
https://www.israel21c.org/an-icy-bath-can-work-wonders-for-soldiers-bodies-and-minds/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Natural antibiotic is safe. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s Omnix Medical (see here previously) has completed Phase 1 trials of its lead antimicrobial, nature-derived, peptide OMN6 on 80 patients to show its safety. It is now starting Phase 2 FDA-approved clinical trials to establish its efficacy, especially on superbugs.
https://www.clinicaltrialsarena.com/news/omnix-medical-approval-anti-infective-trial/
Life-support for US hospitals. (TY Atid-EDI) ART 100 cardiopulmonary bypass systems from Israel’s Inspira Technologies (see here previously) are to be deployed in hospitals on the US East Coast. The system takes over the functionality of the heart and/or lungs in critical care patients.
Clowns relieve the ultimate pain. (TY Irene) This article features medical clowns alleviating both physical and mental suffering - for children and adults. (Aside, I went to see a friend in hospital recently who was visited by clowns while he was on a video call to his work office. “You’re at the circus!” his colleagues exclaimed.)
https://momentmag.com/israeli-medical-clowns/
Restoring the lives of wounded IDF soldiers. This article describes the life-saving work of the charity Belev Echad (see here previously). It facilitates the recovery of wounded men and women of the IDF through physical, medical, legal, emotional and financial support. And sometimes it requires a miracle.
https://belevechad.nyc/ https://belev-echad.org/en/home/
Predicting the next accident. The AI accident prediction system (see here previously) built by the IDF for Israel’s United Hatzalah, really works. It sent a team to the Azrieli Mall in Ramat Gan just as someone began suffering a heart attack. With 14% of UH’s volunteers on IDF reserve duty, the system is literally a life-saver.
https://www.jns.org/how-life-saving-ai-tech-used-by-united-hatzalah-was-born-out-of-oct-7/
Does your DNA define you? Israel’s OMGene is developing an AI decision-support system based on personal genetic information. It links the genome to a database of health, psychological, and social characteristics, from thousands of individuals and generates recommendations e.g., on sleeping, relationships, hobbies, health etc.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-omgeneai-using-dna-and-ai-to-identify-our-strengths-1001499609
Are your proteins good? Researchers from Israel’s Weizmann Institute have developed IPHOMED - a method for mapping all the proteins in a person’s microbiome. Some act as natural antibiotics, killing good bacteria and possibly causing inflammatory bowel disease. Problem proteins in food can also be mapped.
https://wis-wander.weizmann.ac.il/life-sciences/we-know-what-you-ate-detailed-protein-maps-assess-intestinal-health https://www.cell.com/cell/abstract/S0092-8674(24)01429-6
Targeting genetic diseases. Israel’s Averna Therapeutics (formerly Exsilio Therapeutics) is using gene editing to develop medicines to cure rare genetic diseases. Averna’s leadership includes Tal Zaks who was Chief Medical Officer at Covid-19 vaccine developer Moderna. Averna has already raised $82 million in funds.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-tal-zaks-israeli-startup-targets-rare-genetic-diseases-1001500636
Get a good night’s sleep. Prof. Giora Pillar, head of Sleep Clinics at Clalit Health Services in Haifa and the Western Galilee, gives plenty of advice to those who are losing sleep during these difficult times.
https://www.ynetnews.com/health_science/article/bjttx00ilkl
Hospital director saves heart patient on El Al flight. Prof. Yoram Weiss, director general of the Hadassah Medical Organization, saved a man having a heart attack during an El Al flight to Miami. Weiss administered oxygen, provided medication, and had the flight diverted to Athens. The passengers applauded in appreciation.
https://www.ynetnews.com/travel/article/rkh3yhydkg
Surgeon returns to reconstruct faces. Dr Alan Billig performs facial reconstructive surgery at Hadassah in Jerusalem. He won the 2024 Best paper award for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery journal. The ex-IDF medic graduated in New York, qualified in Israel, and practiced in Toronto. Now he’s back.
https://www.jpost.com/aliyah/article-834140
9 startups to improve UK healthcare. The Dangoor Health-Tech Academy has selected nine Israeli health-tech startups for its program to advance the UK healthcare ecosystem. They are Impilio, Kai.AI, Shela Health, Predose, Thrive Together, Sensomedical Labs, Treat Me, Anydish, and Seegnal.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/ry2dgxniye https://sensomedical.com/home/
https://www.israel21c.org/9-israeli-startups-to-help-uk-improve-its-healthcare/
https://impilo.health/ https://www.shela.health/ https://www.predose-tech.com/
https://www.thrivetogether.health/ https://www.treatme.ltd/entreatme
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Housing for lone soldiers. (TY UWI & I24 News) At the Kibbutz Hannaton Educational Center in the Galilee, the pre-Army (“mechina”) gap year program aims to support lone soldiers - immigrants serving in the IDF without family in Israel - by providing housing and community support.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_O5vlRNCfk
Holocaust museums in the Muslim world. Tel Aviv University has highlighted new and planned museums in the Muslim world commemorating the Holocaust. They include the Shaar Hashamayim Holocaust Museum in Indonesia, a permanent exhibition in Dubai, and a new museum being built in Albania.
https://www.jns.org/shoah-museums-in-muslim-world-cited-as-small-light-in-the-tunnel/
https://www.jns.org/first-permanent-holocaust-exhibit-comes-to-muslim-majority-indonesia/
https://www.jns.org/uae-becomes-first-arab-gulf-country-to-open-holocaust-education-exhibit/
https://www.jns.org/new-museum-to-provide-comprehensive-look-at-albanian-jewish-life/
Israeli & Argentinian University partnership. Israel’s Ben Gurion University has signed an academic and cultural agreement with Argentina’s Instituto Universitario Isaac Abarbanel. It covers joint research, student partnerships, Zionism & Israel studies, and interfaith relations projects. Additional initiatives are planned.
https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/news-and-articles/mou-between-bgu-and-iuia/
International courses at Tel Aviv University. Some readers (or their children or grandchildren) may be interested in studying at Tel Aviv University. Degree courses, master’s and MBAs – all taught in English.
https://study.tauintl.tau.ac.il/
Saving a rare butterfly. KKL-JNF’s conservation work (see here previously) recently expanded to protect the Tomares Nesimachus, one of Israel’s rarest butterflies. It will only lay its eggs on the large-fruited milk-vetch plant – so KKL-JNF grew seedlings and planted them in the Begin Forest to reintegrate the butterfly.
https://www.israel21c.org/how-israelis-rallied-to-save-an-endangered-butterfly-species/
Our Swedish European MP ally. (TY Rhoda) Swedish MEP Alice Teodorescu Mawe is Israel’s top European ally. As Sweden’s sole center-right Christian Democrat member of the European Parliament, the staunch advocate for Jews and Israel is leading the fight against Jew-hatred masquerading as anti-Zionism.
Saving lives in LA. Some of the recent activities performed by Israeli humanitarian organization SmartAID in Los Angeles include providing power to a dialysis clinic and home-based dialysis patients. They have provided clean water and Wi-Fi Internet; they also coordinate distribution of supplies and donated goods.
https://www.israel21c.org/smartaid-regional-officer-describes-lifesaving-efforts-in-la/
https://www.smartaid.org/projects/urgent-los-angeles-wildfire-appeal
Fast response to Hurricane Helene. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks, in partnership with Hispasat, swiftly provided additional satellite capacity in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The extra bandwidth enabled first responders and utility workers to operate effectively during Georgia State’s recovery efforts.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Students design together. (TY Nevet /ADL) Students from San Diego Jewish Academy worked with students from Israel’s Sha’ar Hanegev to design a community space for the war-impacted community. They studied the region’s culture, needs and also urban planning. Then using state-of-the-art technology they built a 3D model.
Hyperspectral imaging for better tomatoes. (TY TPS) Scientists at the Hebrew University, Bar-Ilan Uni, and the Volcani Institute used a handheld hyperspectral camera, plus AI-software, to monitor unripe tomatoes and predict future quality. They will now build an low-cost portable device to help farmers maximize crop yields.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/israeli-ai-innovation-transforms-tomato-farming-efficiency/
Monitoring the bees. (TY Atid-EDI) Israeli companies Hazera Seeds and BeeHero (see here previously) are testing BeeHero’s Pollination Insight Platform (PIP) for monitoring pollinators in seed production fields. IoT sensors in fields collect data including on bees’ visits to flowers and environmental conditions.
https://www.hazera.com/category/crops/
Eradicating the mosquito. Israel’s Diptera.ai (see here previously) aims to reduce the population of mosquitos killing some one million people each year from malaria. The pilot of its sterile insect technique (SIT) system at Kibbutz Tzora cut local mosquito numbers by 94%. It now plans an African field trial this year.
https://www.israel21c.org/this-startup-fights-malaria-by-releasing-more-mosquitoes/ https://diptera.ai/about/
Robots milk cows. Israel’s Afimilk (see here previously) has launched a robotic milking system for farms with 500 to 5,000 cows. The cows are herded in; the robots arrive, sanitize the udders, attach milking cups, remove them after milking, disinfect the teats, take 3D images and collect data about each cow.
https://www.israel21c.org/revolutionary-robotic-milking-system-for-500-to-5000-cows/
https://www.afimilk.com/parlor-automation/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWq6lWQdKM4
Female Israeli astronaut. (TY WIN) NASA has confirmed that it will send the first Israeli woman astronaut into space. Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Gila Gamliel said, “We in Israel have now begun the process of searching for our candidate among our brave women.”
https://www.jns.org/israeli-female-astronaut-will-go-to-space-with-nasa/
Italy joins Israeli moonshot. Israel Space Agency director general Brig. Gen. Uri Oron and Italian Space Agency president Prof. Teodoro Velente signed a memorandum of understanding for collaboration on Space IL's Beresheet 2 mission to the moon. The joint budget for the mission is estimated to be over €10 million.
Progress for Iron Beam. Rafael chairman Yuval Steinitz said that Israel's Iron Beam laser air defense system is set to become operational in the second half of 2025. Its effective range (around 10km) continues to increase and the project team has bypassed the absorption effect of the atmosphere.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-iron-beam-set-for-deployment-this-year-1001500840
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Inflation rate falls again. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell by 0.3% in Dec 24 (more than analysts expected), after its 0.4% fall in Nov. At the end of 2024, Israel’s annual inflation rate was 3.2% (down from 3.4% at the end of Nov 24.) Prices of fresh fruit and veg fell again, this time by 5.6%.
Foreign airlines flock back to Israel. In the last 3 weeks, 14 leading airlines have announced resumption of Israel flights. They include Wizz Air, Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa Group (including Swiss & Austrian), British Airways, Air France, Delta Airlines, and Air India.
$6 million for joint US-Israel projects. The BIRD Foundation is providing another $6 million of funding for five new joint US-Israeli projects. Israel companies involved are Medasense (anesthesia monitoring), Qedma (Quantum errors), RespirAI Medical (chronic monitoring), SpotItEarly (cancer odor), and TriEye (sensors).
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/syfylqjd1l https://www.qedma.com/
Night vision binoculars for US Army. Elbit Systems of America has received a $139 million order for more Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular (ENVG-B) systems to the US Army (see here previously). The Augmented Reality systems also provide holistic situational awareness in all weather and visibility conditions.
Barak 8 for Indian navy. India has bought over 70 ship-mounted MRSAM (medium-range surface-to-air missile) systems from Bharat Dynamics, Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) partner in developing the Indian version of the Barak 8 air defense system. The contract is worth around $340 million.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-iai-wins-340m-air-defense-contract-with-indian-navy-1001500405
Safer trains in India. (TY Atid-EDI) The advanced safety systems of Israel’s Rail Vision (see here previously) are to be introduced to the Indian market. Indian Railways, which operates India's national railway system, boasts one of the largest rail networks in the world, with approximately 15,000 locomotives.
Battery material for Europe. Israel Chemicals Limited (ICL) has partnered with Hong Kong’s Shenzhen Dynanonic to produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode active material in Europe. ICL says that LFP is a critical solution for the future of Europe’s energy transition. ICL will build a new factory in Spain.
Exits, mergers & acquisitions – to 2/2/25:. Israel’s TopGum acquired Canada’s Island Abbey Nutritionals. Israel’s Zencity acquired UK’s Commonplace for some millions of dollars. Israel’s Hub Cyber Security has acquired Israel’s BlackSwan Technologies. US Tenable acquired Israel’s Vulcan Cyber for $150-180 million.
Startup investment – to 2/2/25: UVeye raised $191 million; DarioHealth placed $25.6 million of shares; Token Security raised $20 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
A warm week in Jerusalem. (TY Sharon) Quite a few events to interest Jerusalemites this week including the early flowering of the capital’s almond trees, US President Trump’s inauguration, and Walter Bingham’s 101st birthday. Ad 120, Walter. https://rjstreets.com/2025/01/26/oh-what-a-week-in-the-warm-jerusalem-january/
An innovative zoo. (TY Nevet /ADL) In Beersheba’s new Midbarium experiential animal park (aka “zoo”), 15 interactive experiences enable visitors to “walk in the shoes” of the animals to understand how they survive and thrive in their habitats. E.g., to fly like a bird, lurk like a crocodile, or navigate in the dark like a bat.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-836443 https://midbarium.co.il/ https://midbarium.co.il/en/
https://www.mandelfoundation.org.il/english/About/News/Pages/Midbarium-launch.aspx
Israeli hockey to debut in USA. The Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv, two leading clubs from the Israel Elite Hockey League (IEHL), will face off at New York’s UBS Arena on 23 Mar. It marks the first time Israeli professional hockey teams will compete on North American ice.
https://www.israel21c.org/israeli-hockey-teams-make-history-with-first-american-match/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmsjJPRFzKM
THE JEWISH STATE
Mezuzahs from Australia to the Negev. KKL-JNF has built temporary homes in Kibbutz Ruhama for Kibbutz Kfar Aza residents whose houses were destroyed by Hamas on Oct 7 2023. KKL-JNF Australia held an event where participants crafted handmade mezuzahs and hamsas - each to be affixed to one of the homes.
https://www.jns.org/wire/residents-of-kibbutz-kfar-aza-receive-handmade-mezuzahs-from-australia/
Surge in diaspora Jews buying Israeli homes. Jews from overseas are rushing to buy Israeli apartments - 1,900 in 2024, 50% more that in 2023. Jerusalem was the most popular city, at 100 purchases per month. The French are immigrating in large numbers, whereas Americans and the English are not in a hurry to move, yet.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-israeli-home-purchases-by-foreign-residents-jump-50-1001500598
Shoah survivors make Aliyah. Sixty-eight Holocaust survivors moved to Israel since Oct. 7, 2023. The oldest new immigrant who survived the Shoah was 98, while the youngest was 81. Nine went to live in my city of Netanya. Of the 123,715 Israeli survivors, 257 are older than 100.
https://www.jns.org/68-shoah-survivors-made-aliyah-during-swords-of-iron-war/
Mizrachi missions to Israel. World Mizrachi is now registering participants for its 2025 3-day missions for those who plan to be in Israel during Yom HaAtzmaut, Yom Yerushalayim, Shavuot, Thanksgiving or the secular New Year. They include meeting inspirational speakers and visiting places off the beaten track.
https://mizrachi.org/missions/OPEN/
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RQ9o_fWADCK7Jd9D6duXyY2QdO7fAmUW/view
The JNF-USA in January. This month’s newsletter from JNF-USA’s CEO Russell F. Robinson highlights its work building a new medical center in Kiryat Shmona, disability support in northern Israel, a culinary school, the Alexander Muss High School, and Shabbat for Israel on May 2nd.
https://www.jnf.org/menu-3/news-media/robinson-reports/robinson-report-january-2025
2,000-year-old inscription deciphered. Researchers from Israel’s Bar-Ilan University have deciphered the Aramaic inscription on a pottery shard discovered in the 1980s at the Alexandrium Fortress (Sartaba) in the Jordan Valley. They used Israeli advanced imaging technology to read ““Eleazar bar Ger… from Beit Akiman.”
https://www.ynetnews.com/travel/article/hknx2uruyg
250126
In the 26th Jan 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Joyful scenes as released Israeli female hostages are reunited with their families.
l Positive news for sufferers of blocked blood vessels, strokes and arthritis.
l Donating to Israeli charities? Check their “Seal of Effectiveness”.
l New Israeli technology combines digital and traditional learning.
l Three end-of-year reports highlight the strength of Israel’s economy.
l An Israeli won the Houston marathon.
· Click here to see the 19th Jan newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY) Aviva) United With Israel, (TY Ted Belman) IsraPundit and Joan Swirsky (email her to get daily news). Also (TY Sandra) for translating it into German here, and Hebrew here, and with (TY) Claude into French here. Also (TY Barbara) into Spanish here. (Please forward this newsletter to German-speaking, Spanish-speaking, French-speaking and Hebrew-speaking contacts. Also please visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/verygoodnewsIL.
· Please click here, to donate (a small or large amount) to help me publicize VeryGoodNewsIsrael.
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POSITIVE NEWS IN A WAR
Reunited! The heartwarming scenes of the three released women hostages greeting their parents. The news of their freedom was announced on every El Al airplane, followed by cheers and applause from passengers. And hot off the press, scenes of the latest 4 female soldier hostages being reunited with their families.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9O_ibCnMZjk
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-el-al-announces-hostage-release-on-all-airborne-flight/
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/402843
114 donated sets of tefillin. A Jewish girl from Brooklyn, New York, has founded the organization Tefillin On Us, that supplies tefillin to IDF soldiers who are non-religious or cannot afford them but wish to wrap daily. Since Oct 7 2023, it has donated 114 pairs of tefillin - each costing over $1,000.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-amazing-initiative-donates-tefillin-to-needy-idf-soldiers/
Look who started wearing tefillin. (TY Laura B) The father and brother of Romi Gonen (one of the women hostages released on 19 Jan), decided to start wearing tefillin about 2 months ago.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O0H3OwCT182A23xKVoLfF58T4OgRgotR/view
Shabbat meeting to save lives of hostages. (TY Yanky) The Israeli cabinet, including Shabbat-observant ministers, debated the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal long into Shabbat. They adhered to the rabbinical dictum “Pikuach nefesh docheh Shabbat” – rescuing a life takes precedence over the rules of Shabbat.
Caring for wildlife in a war. The KKL-JNF Agamon Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (AWRC) in the Galilee’s Hula Valley has continued to treat injured wildlife throughout the war. It provides care to thousands of animals, from birds of prey to small mammals. It also serves as a hub for research and public education.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-837176
Our response is a new factory. Israel’s Strauss’s Group chairperson Ofra Strauss told the Globes "Returning to the North" conference that the company this year will open a new factory for plant-based milk products in Ahihud, about 9km East of Akko (Acre). She linked the theme of building to the return of the hostages.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-ofra-strauss-new-factory-in-north-is-our-response-1001500101
Thai workers return to Negev farms. Some 9,000 Thai agricultural workers who survived the Oct 7 2023 Hamas attacks went back home (39 others were murdered and 8 are still held hostage). Almost all 9,000 have since returned, many to the communities that came under attack that day - heartwarming to their Israeli friends.
https://www.jns.org/thai-farm-workers-attacked-on-oct-7-return-to-negev-farms/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Fast track for blocked blood vessel treatment. (TY Atid-EDI) The US FDA has granted Fast Track Designation to Israel’s BioGenCell (see here previously) for the development of BGC101 – its lead candidate for treating severe Critical Limb Threatening Ischemia (CLTI).
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/biogencell-receives-fda-fast-track-140000739.html
European approval for stroke therapy. Israel’s Brain.Q (see here previously) has received the CE-Mark for its BQ 2.0 system, designed to reduce disability following ischemic stroke, the number one cause of disability worldwide. Brain.Q is also enrolling in the EMAGINE II pivotal study to seek US-FDA clearance.
Positive proof of concept for arthritis treatment. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Raphael announced positive proof-of-concept clinical study results of its HPC1 non-psychoactive cannabinoid-based formula developed for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. 12 adult participants reported lower pain levels and better sleep quality.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/raphael-pharmaceutical-announces-positive-proof-130000207.html
https://www.raphaelpharmaceutical.com/
Innovation in Cardiovascular Interventions. Israel recently held the 2024 conference on innovation in interventional cardiology (ICI) for the 29th year in Tel Aviv. Levron Medical won the $200,000 Jon de Haan Innovation award for its Cardio-Respiratory Physiological Assist (CRPA) Treatment..
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/tech-and-start-ups/article-829448 https://icimed.org/
https://www.levron-medical.com/
Revolutionizing healthcare in the South. The new Mor Institute's Be'er Sheva branch allows residents to get cancer screening, low-radiation CT scans, virtual colonoscopies, eye care services such as retina consultations and OCT exams, cardiac tests like Holter monitoring and vascular ultrasounds, bone density tests, and more.
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-836357
Training for the best doctors. With medicine being so complicated, all major medical centers are establishing programs to help junior doctors improve the quality of treatment and research. Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical Center has established its “Elite Residency and Training Center” for 100+ doctors learning a specialty annually.
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-834346
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Teaching Hebrew to benefit Bedouin kids. A unique course connects Ben-Gurion University students to Bedouin highschoolers near Beersheva. The BGU students earn necessary academic credit, while the Bedouin students significantly improve their Hebrew to enter academia and achieve inclusion in Israeli society.
https://www.israel21c.org/teaching-bedouin-kids-hebrew-improves-their-opportunities/
Efficient charities. Israeli non-profit Tav Midot assesses Israeli charities and awards a “seal of effectiveness” on those that pass its scrutiny as to professionalism, efficiency and “value for money”. Over 150 Israeli non-profits are valid holders of Midot Seal of Effectiveness, granted for a period of up to three years.
https://www.midot.org.il/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/The-Midot-Seal-of-Effectiveness-02.pdf
https://midot.org.il/tav-midot
Weizmann goes green. Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science is switching to the use of only green electricity and is becoming an almost fully renewable energy campus. It will supplement its own 12% solar energy with green, solar-derived electricity from the Enlight company to cover all the electricity consumption of its campus.
https://wis-wander.weizmann.ac.il/campus/weizmann-institute-science-moves-100-green-electricity
Israeli passports get stronger. The Henley Passport Index ranks the Israeli passport as the 19th strongest in the world (up two places from last year and six from 2023). Israeli passport holders can now enter 170 countries without a visa. Only the United Arab Emirates is higher in the Middle East region.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-passport-among-worlds-top-20-strongest/
https://www.henleyglobal.com/passport-index https://www.henleyglobal.com/passport-index/ranking
Congressional Friends of Judea and Samaria. Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) has launched the congressional Friends of Judea and Samaria caucus to support legislation rejecting the term “West Bank” and to foster ties between Israel and the United States. They don’t say the US was founded on ‘West Bank-Christian’ principles.
https://www.jns.org/tenney-launches-congressional-friends-of-judea-and-samaria-caucus/
Sharing Israeli agritech know-how. Yosef Abramowitz, CEO of Israel’s Energiya has set up a new non-profit Gigawatt Impact to share Israeli agrivoltaics expertise with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States. Agrivoltaics is the dual use of land for solar-energy production and agriculture.
https://www.jns.org/israel-to-share-agritech-know-how-with-hbcus-in-the-us/
Israel could help solve Syria’s water crisis. Interesting article, explaining why Syria is suffering a severe water crisis and devastated agriculture resulting from water mismanagement, over extraction, and Turkey’s damming of the Euphrates river. Ironically, Israelis could help solve the crisis, but will Syria ask them?
https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/bjts9a3pkl
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Tech course to develop disability aids. Israel’s Technion Institute has launched its Disability Breakthrough Technology course. It aims to train students in social-technological entrepreneurship with an emphasis on solutions for people with disabilities and rehabilitation. It is even more important in light of the ongoing war.
https://ats.org/our-impact/technion-students-tackle-disability-challenges-with-tech-innovation/
https://www.technion.ac.il/en/2024/12/assistive-technology-for-people-with-disabilities/
AI partners for recruitment. Israel’s Revealense (see here previously) has joined with Israel’s Iverse to use AI to help recruiters assess candidates. Revealense’s Illuminator, analyzes movements, and Iverse‘s “diagnostic psychologist” identifies cognitive skills, performance capabilities, interpersonal skills and organizational fit.
https://www.israel21c.org/2-ai-companies-join-forces-for-next-gen-employee-recruiting/
https://www.i-verse.online/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7RSFN6EQlc
Protecting against AI cyber threats. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s CyTwist has launched its detection engine to combat the rise of AI-generated malware. The advanced behavioral analysis of CyTwist Profiler identifies new threats in real time, stopping attackers before they can cause harm.
https://securitybrief.co.uk/story/cytwist-unveils-engine-to-detect-ai-powered-cyberattacks https://cytwist.com/
The world’s first four-door convertible electric hypercar. Ari Teman is the founder of startup Jovari, whose mission is to produce the world’s first four-door convertible electric hypercar – in Israel. Each buyer can customize the design of their luxury family vehicle. Jovari has joined NVIDIA’s Inception program for startups.
https://www.israel21c.org/worlds-first-4-door-convertible-ev-to-be-made-in-israel/ https://jovari.com/
https://vimeo.com/563191214/ef57c69ab9
Water and Sun. Israel’s national water company, Mekorot, has issued a tender for the supply, installation, and maintenance of photovoltaic systems to be installed on buildings and water reservoirs across the country. The energy will operate desalination plants, water treatment facilities, and facilitate water distribution.
https://www.jpost.com/environment-and-climate-change/article-838342
Agritech for Latin America. Israel’s Phytech operates in Peru and Chile, with services extended to growers in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Guatemala, and Mexico. Phytech uses proprietary plant and field condition sensors. Also, hydraulic water monitoring provides clear visibility into tank level, pumps, filters and valves.
No-cow milk from oats. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s Plantopia (formerly Pigmentum – see here previously) originally focused on lettuce as a production platform for milk (casein) proteins. It has now switched to using sprouted oats, as they can deliver higher expression levels of all four casein proteins.
https://finder.startupnationcentral.org/company_page/plantopia
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79OAvDDQXAw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYX40hSz8E0
Vegan meat that feels like real meat. Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Dr. Mohammad Ghosheh and Prof. Yaakov Nahmias apply cutting-edge materials science on vegan meat alternatives, to replicate the texture and structure of traditional meat. https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-838115
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-54939-y
Bio-devices and bio-chip lab. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel is investing in a $30 million research lab for development of bio-devices and biochips. To be built by Israel Aerospace Industries and Beckermus Technologies, its goal is to harness engineering and AI to create groundbreaking biotech solutions in medicine, agriculture, energy, etc.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sk5ntkfsjl https://www.beckermus.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pD2DcYJDxW0
Sustainable airplane fuel. Israel’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Knowledge Center (iSAF) was inaugurated at the Technion, supported by the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, and in partnership with Boeing. The center will work towards achieving local production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF – see here).
https://www.technion.ac.il/en/blog/article/isaf-launched-at-technion/
Safer Israeli trains. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Rail Vision (see here previously) is to install its MainLine obstacle detection system on Israel Railways’ trains to prevent potential collisions and maintain smooth operational flow. Meanwhile, Israel Railways and Israel’s Odysight.ai will develop an AI visualization system.
https://ir.railvision.io/news-releases/news-release-details/rail-vision-receives-israel-railways-regulation-approval-its https://www.odysight.ai/press/odysight-ai-and-israel-railways-partner-to-develop-advanced-ai-powered-visualization-system-to-prevent-derailments-and-enhance-railway-safety/
The ultimate learning solution. Israel’s Jotit transforms the classroom experience in the digital age, from streamlining organization to improving handwriting skills. Jotit brings "digital-paper" to the classroom, allowing students and teachers to enjoy the benefits of both digital and traditional methods.
https://www.jotit.io/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kuZM271IWY&t=7s
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
A much better year for Israeli tech. According to the Israeli Tech Review 2024 by IVC Data and Insights and LeumiTech, 2024 was far better for Israeli tech than 2023. In summary, 40% more capital raised; an increase of 15% in the number of rounds; more multinational companies opened; and 7 new unicorns (only 4 in 2023).
https://www.ivc-online.com/Home/_atscid/7_134353_74097202_2985293_0_Tdetjdxtjpwh8psh8
Israel’s tech ecosystem evolved despite the war. (TY Nevet) Startup Nation Central reports that Israel’s hi-tech GDP grew by 2.2% in 2024. It was due to funding, a record $15.8 billion in mergers and acquisitions and mature companies driving innovation and global integration. Cybersecurity remained Israel’s tech cornerstone.
Strong investor confidence. (TY Atid-EDI) The normally anti-Israel “Economist" has rated Israel as the 6th strongest economy of 2024. It cited Israel’s strong macro figures with the low unemployment rate and the performance of the stock market strengthening the country’s situation in recent months.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-indicators-point-to-high-investor-confidence-in-israel-1001497442
Shekel at two-year high against Dollar. The Israeli Shekel reached its strongest level against the US Dollar for two years – 3.541 to the US$. The Bank of America expects the shekel to continue to strengthen if the ceasefire agreements are fully implemented.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-shekel-strongest-for-two-years-against-us-dollar-1001500186
18 years of natural gas. Israel’s Energean has agreed to provide 12 billion cubic meters of natural gas to power the power plants of Israel’s Dalia and Eshkol power plants. It will be sufficient for the next 18 years and cost some $2 billion. https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-energean-signs-2b-dalia-power-plants-gas-deal-1001500211
The ear of Finland’s police. Israel’s Silynxcom (see here previously) has won a 4-year contract worth up to $2 million, to supply advanced in-ear communication systems to the national police of Finland. It comprises new-generation high-noise protection Clarus systems, with Silynxcom’s unique “talking from the ear” technology.
On eagles’ wings. Airlines that have announced they are restoring Israel flights include Air India, Air France, Transavia, Air France, EasyJet, British Airways, ITA Airways; Wizz Air, and the Lufthansa Group (Swiss, Austrian, Brussels, Lufthansa, Eurowings. https://www.passportcard.co.il/en/airlines-flying-to-israel/
$30 million of orders. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks (see here previously) has won $30 million of orders in the last two weeks. It includes $18 for In-Flight Connectivity Solutions (Wi-Fi on planes), and $9 million from major satellite operators for SkyEdge IV and SkyEdge II-c satellite communications.
https://www.gilat.com/pressreleases/gilat-receives-approximately-5-million-in-orders-from-us-defense-customers-2/ https://www.gilat.com/pressreleases/gilat-receives-9-million-in-orders-for-multi-orbit-skyedge-platforms/ https://www.gilat.com/pressreleases/gilat-receives-over-3-million-in-orders-to-support-leo-constellations-2/
Combating domestic violence in Alabama. Israel’s SuperCom (see here previously) has won a new contract to provide its advanced GPS tracking and domestic violence (DV) monitoring solutions to a government agency in Alabama. It is SuperCom's 5th new US state since Aug 2024 and its 10th USA contract in just 60 days.
A bigger Gong. Israel’s Gong (see here previously) has taken a 3-year lease for 3,600sqm of space in Ramat Gan at a cost of NIS 30 million. It will house many of its 380 Israel-based employees, plus the hundreds of developers it is recruiting at its Israeli R&D center. Gong has over 4,500 customers for its AI sales products.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/r1mq5x0d1g
Exits, mergers & acquisitions – to 26/1/25:. US Metropolis has acquired Israel’s Oosto (formerly AnyVision) for $125 million. Israel’s MIND CTI is acquiring Germany’s Aurenz for up to $1.88 million.
Startup investment – to 26/1/25: Elios Health raised $60 million; Mitiga.io raised $30 million; Package.ai raised $14 million; Jotit raised $10 million; Doti.ai raised $7 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Jerusalem – a city of contrasts. (TY Sharon) The streets of Jerusalem are quiet in the warm winter sunshine. But building continues and the holy city echoes with prayers and hope for the return of more hostages.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/01/19/see-jerusalem-a-city-of-contrasts/
Israel is blooming. Israel is basking in the warmest winter for many years. In the sunshine the first almond tree of the season has bloomed in the KKL-JNF’s Mevo Hamma Forest in the Golan Heights, at least three weeks before the traditional start of Spring on Tu Bishvat. (New Year for Trees).
https://www.jpost.com/environment-and-climate-change/article-837959
From survivor to Eurovision star. Yuval Raphael, is Israel’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025. Raphael, 24, won the "Rising Star" competition on Jan 22, singing ABBA’a Dancing Queen. She survived the Oct 7 2023 Nova music festival when Hamas terrorists murdered 1,200 people.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jn4nMOYvDSw
Houston marathon winner. Haimro Alame (34) won the Chevron Marathon in downtown Houston in 2:08:17 - the first Israeli victory in the Houston Marathon’s history. He celebrated by waving Israel’s flag, saying, “the win is not for me but for my country”. Alame immigrated to Israel from Ethiopia with his parents 20 years ago.
https://jewishbreakingnews.com/israeli-flag-flies-high-as-national-hero-dominates-houston-marathon/
THE JEWISH STATE
Stone mentions Roman tax imposed during Talmud period. Israeli and American archaeologists have uncovered a Roman boundary stone over 1,700 years old with a Greek inscription. These stones were used to implement Roman Emperor Diocletian’s harsh taxation laws, which are mentioned in the Jerusalem Talmud.
https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/archaeology-around-the-world/article-838505
250119
In the 19th Jan 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Mother of three is a part-time PhD student and an IDF Command Center manager.
l Israeli Professor boosts the immune system to slow the aging process.
l Nine inspiring prize-winning young immigrants give hope for Israel’s future.
l Four teams of Israelis are helping combat California’s wildfires.
l Israeli technology could prevent future wildfires.
l Nvidia is investing half a billion dollars in a new Israeli development center.
l Israelis thought “outside the box” when stranded on a snowy mountain.
l Two ancient structures unearthed from the Kingdom of Judah.
· Click here to see the 12th Jan newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Ted Belman) IsraPundit and Joan Swirsky (email her to get daily news). Also (TY Sandra) for translating it into German here, and Hebrew here, and with (TY) Claude into French here. Also (TY Barbara) into Spanish here. (Please forward this newsletter to German-speaking, Spanish-speaking, French-speaking and Hebrew-speaking contacts. Also please visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/verygoodnewsIL.
· Please click here, to donate (a small or large amount) to help me publicize VeryGoodNewsIsrael.
· Click here to keyword SEARCH almost any topic in the IsraelActive archives (over 25,800 articles).
· If someone wishes to be added to the free email subscription list, they should either click here or send a request (with their name, and the subject “Subscribe”) to michael.goodnewsisrael@gmail.com
POSITIVE NEWS IN A WAR
150 lone soldiers join the IDF. Over 150 young immigrants from the US, Canada, UK, and other countries are currently arriving in Israel as part of the Garin Tzabar Scouts program. After four months in an absorption program they will enlist in the IDF. Garin Tzabar has supported 7,000+ lone soldiers during its 33 years.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-836917
US students cheer up wives of reservists. The NGO Israel Resilience together with the OU-JLIC (Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus) has given US students volunteering in Israel the task of giving support to the wives of IDF reservists. They visit, hand them gift cards, and offer them thanks.
https://www.jns.org/us-students-launch-initiative-to-support-wives-of-idf-reservists/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hNL_dBC3us
Better than before. On Oct 7 2023, homes, fields and vehicles at Kibbutz Nirim were destroyed by Hamas terrorists and their supporters. Almost immediately afterwards, rebuilding and renovating began. Kibbutniks and external contractors are busy making Nirim bigger and better, safer and stronger than ever before,
https://www.jns.org/bigger-and-better-than-ever-rebuilding-nirim-after-oct-7/
Rehabilitating tourism in the North. The Jewish Agency for Israel is establishing a fund to rehabilitate the tourism industry in the north of Israel. Businesses impacted by the war - mainly those in tourism - can receive a low cost loan up to NIS 650,000. Since Oct 7 2023, the Agency has lent NIS 350 million to 8,000+ businesses.
https://www.jns.org/wire/the-jewish-agency-signs-agreement-to-rehabilitate-the-north-of-israel/
Northern hospitals come up for air. (TY Yanky) Several hospitals across northern Israel have spent 14 months in fortified underground bunker-like facilities. Now, since the ceasefire, they are leaving the crowded and dark conditions and returning to normal. Staff and patients are delighted to be breathing fresh air again.
Student of courage. On Oct 7 2023, Coral Hamo Goren - a Ph.D. student at Israel’s Technion, mother of three, and operations officer in the IDF was called to manage a command center near the Gaza border. When she can, she commutes between Gaza and Haifa, submits papers, attends courses, and keeps up with research.
https://ats.org/our-impact/on-the-front-lines-of-war-and-academia/
Voices of Iron. (TY UWI) 50 pro-Israel public diplomacy professionals, activists and social-media influencers were presented with the inaugural “Voices of Iron” award in a ceremony held at the Knesset auditorium. They were honored for their “Iron Dome” advocacy “blowing lies out of the sky” during the Swords of Iron war.
https://www.jns.org/voices-of-iron-award-honors-online-israel-advocacy-warriors/
Huge post-Oct 7 giving boom. (TY Yanky) Overseas charities bring hope to Israel’s frontline communities. The Diaspora Ministry estimates over $1.4 billion in foreign donations since Oct 7 2023. This article focuses on the Jewish Agency, KKL-JNF, Keren Hayesod, UJIA, Jewish Federations of North America, and the Joint.
Yeshiva hosts injured soldiers. Yeshivat Hakotel hosted injured IDF soldiers, members of the Lifros Knaf nonprofit, who came to Jerusalem as part of a rehabilitation trip. They were welcomed by the students and heads and, during Shabbat, they were given a guided tour of Jerusalem’s Old City and the Jewish Quarter.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/402198 https://www.lifroskanaf.co.il/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Immunotherapy can slow aging process. Israel Prize winner, Weizmann Institute’s Prof. Michal Schwartz and her research team are working on a groundbreaking treatment to boost immune cells relevant to the brain, cure brain diseases, and slow the aging process. Schwartz founded Israel’s ImmunoBrain (see here previously).
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-scientist-in-peer-reviewed-study-immunotherapy-treatment-could-slow-aging-process/ https://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(24)00882-1
Huge rise in organ donations. Israel’s National Transplant Center has reported that a record number of heart transplants (36) were performed in Israel in 2024. There was also a 6% rise in the number of kidney transplants to 469, including 313 from living donors. Also see article about those who have donated a kidney to a stranger.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/402203
https://www.israel21c.org/why-danny-newman-gave-his-kidney-to-a-stranger/
Scientists identify a new blood group. (TY Yanky) In 1972, doctors discovered a woman missing a surface molecule found on all other known red bloods. 50 years later, Israeli and UK researchers have finally identified it as a new blood group, “AnWj-negative”. It will help provide better care for these patients.
https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-identify-new-blood-group-after-50-year-mystery
Understanding chronic pain. (TY ATS) Researchers from Israel’s Technion were part of a team that has discovered why only some whiplash injury patients, suffer from chronic pain. It is related to their brain’s memory communication system, plus if they had high anxiety after the injury - literally “painful memories”.
https://technologytangle.com/new-study-identifies-brain-activity-predicting-chronic-pain-after-whiplash-injuries/ https://www.nature.com/articles/s44220-024-00329-8
Treating cardio-metabolic diseases. Bar-Ilan University’s Dr Sivan Spitzer and EU colleagues won a €22 million EU-IHI grant for CAREPATH - a 5-year project to use cutting-edge tools to ensure diabetic, obese, and heart patients take their medication. It involves international researchers, plus companies led by Novo Nordisk.
https://www.biu.ac.il/en/article/582866
OncoHost wins BIG. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s OncoHost (see here previously) has won a 2025 BIG Innovation Awards for Healthcare. BIG (Business Intelligence Group) CEO Russ Fordyce said, "We're thrilled to spotlight OncoHost as a shining example of innovation making a profound impact globally."
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Nine remarkable youths. Non-profit Nefesh b’Nefesh awarded its Maor (“light”) Youth Prize to nine young new immigrants who have enriched Israeli society during 2024. Their work includes with Big Sister – Little Sister, Ezra Youth, Mesamchim, tzitzit-tying, Israeli Scouts, Shuk Otef, Lonely Bench, and Lone Soldiers.
https://www.jns.org/nefesh-bnefesh-awards-maor-youth-prize-to-nine-olim/
https://refuavesimcha.co.il/en/activities/mesamchim/ https://shop.shukotef.co.il/home
Women in the IDF. 86% of IDF units accept women. 50% of IDF doctors are women. There is an all-women tank crew who saved several communities on Oct 7 2023 (see here previously). The Israeli Air Force has a unit of five female UAV operators (see here previously).
https://www.jns.org/forged-in-fire-gaza-war-showcases-womens-integration-into-the-idf/
The sound of resilience. (TY Mara) Three members of the IDF’s Special in Uniform band performed at Beth Yeshurun in Houston, Texas as part of Jewish National Fund-USA’s commitment to support Israel’s resilience. The talented IDF soldiers with disabilities performed before an enthusiastic audience.
Tech hub for Bedouin women. The Bedouin village, Zarzir, beween Nazareth and Haifa, is home to the world’s only tech hub and co-working space for Bedouin women, run by a program called Samana (see here previously). All of the women live nearby and work primarily as QA engineers for tech companies.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/bkptfstujl
From swastika to Star of David. Interesting video (Hebrew with English subtitles) of how descendants of Nazis in a German town became some of Israel's biggest supporters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PdnB-oCBdY
Genesis Prize winner. Argentine President Javier Milei was awarded the 2025 Genesis Prize (known as the “Jewish Nobel Prize”) in recognition of his support for Jewish causes and the Jewish State. His pro-Israel tenure has become a defining feature of his time in office. https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/402302
https://www.jns.org/jewish-nobel-recognizes-mileis-support-for-israel/
Strong ties with Ghana. Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel met with Ghana’s newly elected President John Mahama after attending his inauguration. She discussed how Israel can share its know-how in agriculture, technology and food security. Israel’s ambassador to Ghana, Roey Gilad, added renewable energy.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-deputy-fm-in-ghana-as-ties-grow-stronger/
Israeli teams head to California fires. Israel’s SmartAID has teams fighting California wildfires and using solar-telecommunication trailers to assist evacuees and responders. IsraAID is sending volunteers and aid professionals; Zaka is already there, plus teams of Israeli firefighters and protection experts are on their way.
https://www.israel21c.org/israeli-ngo-sends-team-to-help-fight-la-wildfires/
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/402161 https://israfan.com/p/israeli-rescue-aid-california-wildfires
https://x.com/EretzIsrael/status/1877888346141110590
https://www.jns.org/israeli-fire-protection-experts-to-assist-with-la-wildfires/
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Israelis dazzle at CES 2025. Dozens of Israeli startups showcased at the 2025 CES conference in Las Vegas. Many of the 140,000 attendees visited Israeli pavilion to see Bzigo, Capsulab, Carteav, CorrActions, Hailo, iRomaScents, Neoja, SavorEat, SolCold, Spicerr, Synoia, TempraMed, Visual Layer, and Visionary.ai.
https://www.israel21c.org/dozens-of-israeli-consumer-tech-startups-dazzle-at-ces/
https://www.neoja.co.il/en https://www.wishpro-global.com/ (Synoia)
https://spicerr.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dXk3pm32Qk
Other Israeli startups at CES. Among the Israeli or Israeli-connected startups pitching at CES 2025 were DoubleVerify (advertising trust) and Whilx (Tire pressure),
https://doubleverify.com/ https://www.whilx.tech/
Using AI to improve airport efficiency. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s IntellAct (see here previously) is reducing airline delays with AI. It has completed several pilots and participated in the SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) project in 2023, demonstrating the value of AI at the Spanish Palma De Mallorca Airport.
https://aerospaceglobalnews.com/news/operators-seek-out-ai-for-smarter-airport-turnarounds/
Is your software legal? Companies not only need to check that their computer software is licensed, it also mustn’t contain AI generated code that is subject to copyright. With its new Provenance and Attribution capability, Israel’s Tabnine (see here previously) checks that, plus a great deal more.
An “Iron Dome” to fight wildfires. Israel’s FireDome is developing a wildfire defense system, modeled after the Iron Dome. It shoots capsules of eco-friendly fire retardant to create a protective barrier. Then AI vision and sensors detect and extinguish spot fires. FireDome aims to begin Israel tests in May, and in the US in 2026.
A more accurate rocket. As international worries about collateral damage in Gaza, the IDF has replaced its aging Romach rockets which had an accuracy range of under 10 meters. Elbit’s new Bar rocket can go further, is highly precise, and has a more sophisticated navigation mechanism appropriate for diverse environments.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-837601
Urbanism on the desert’s edge. NUR (Negev Urban Research) is the first lab of its kind in Israel, launched by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Its aim is to develop data-based and digital processes and tools to help create sustainable and prosperous cities on the edge of a desert.
https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/news-and-articles/nur-negev-urban-research-lab-opens/
A companion for caregivers. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s Intuition Robotics (see here previously), developer of the ElliQ companion for seniors, has now launched the ElliQ Caregiver Solution. The Caregiver App tracks the ElliQ owner’s health and activity and sends alerts, plus it provides setting of care goals for ElliQ to promote.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
2024 funding exceeded $12 billion. Startup Nation Central has identified a significant number of unreported funding rounds by Israeli startups. It raises the total investment in 2024 to $12.2 billion ($10.6 billion reported) - 31% higher than in 2023. There was also $15.8 billion worth of hi-tech exits.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/syasalxvyx
https://finder.startupnationcentral.org/reports/2024-annual-report
Nvidia’s $500 million AI R&D lab. Chip giant Nvidia is to invest more than $500 million in a new Israeli AI research data lab. The 10,000 sqm facility at the Mevo Carmel Science and Industry Park near Yokne’am, will be among the “largest, most powerful data center labs in Israel,” Nvidia said in a statement.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rjvfhbsw1x
New direct flights to New York. (TY JNS) From Feb 8, Israeli airline Arkia is launching direct flights, three times a week, between Tel Aviv and New York. The route will be operated in partnership with TechAir, a company established by Israel’s High-Tech Forum. https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-837286
https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/01/13/arkia-launches-direct-flights-from-tel-aviv-to-new-york/
Women funding women. Israel’s Women Funding Women program is the first of its kind to connect women entrepreneurs with top-tier women investors to address the funding gap in AI. Until Feb 4, WFW offers a $1M investment to support women-led AI startups, which deliver a 35% higher return on investment than men.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/h13posbw1e
Millions of prohibited items detected. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s Seetrue (see here previously) has now been installed at 100 checkpoints in 10 countries. In 2022 it prevented 500,000+ prohibited items from getting aboard planes and into venues. In 2024 this had soared to around three million.
https://www.israel21c.org/ai-threat-detection-tech-moves-airport-security-lines-faster/
Four awards for ThetaRay. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s AI-driven financial crime detection company ThetaRay (see here previously) recently received four prestigious industry awards. Deloitte Technology Fast 500, CrossTech Product Innovation Award, Top 100 Financial Technology Company, and a Banking Tech Award.
Upper Galilee hotel re-opens. (TY Yanky) The Galilion in Israel's Hula Valley is set to become the first hotel in Upper Galilee to resume operations following a 14-month closure due to the war. The hotel has undergone an extensive NIS 5 million renovation, emerging as a symbol of recovery for the war-affected northern region.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-836511
Exits, mergers & acquisitions – to 19/1/25:. US blockchain giant Chainalysis acquired Israel’s Alterya (its second Israeli takeover in a month) for an estimated $150 million. Chinese tech giant Lenovo has acquired Israeli enterprise storage company Infinidat, which was valued at over $1 billion; Lenovo plans to establish a development center in Israel.
Startup investment – to 19/1/25: Orchid Security raised $36 million; Qbiq raised $16 million; Reeco.io raised $15 million; Lava Network raised $12 million; Nilus raised $10 million; ControlMonkey raised $7 million; Spikerz raised $7 million; Momentick raised $5 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Desert sculpture park. (TY Yanky) The Desert Sculpture Park lies just east of Mitzpeh Ramon on the edge of the Ramon Crater. The 22 works were created by local and international artists who used the large, heavy rocks found locally to excite the senses. It was established in 1962, renovated in 1986, and made accessible in 2021.
https://www.desertsculpture.info/en/the-desert-sculpture-park/ https://mitzpe-ramon.co.il/en/park/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC5s6Tt_f2M
Favorite cities to visit. (TY Laura B) Travel + Leisure Readers’ 10 Favorite Cities in Africa and the Middle East of 2024 included Jerusalem at number 3 and Tel Aviv at number 8.
https://www.travelandleisure.com/wba-2024-cities-africa-middle-east-8665810
Fauda star performs for bereaved youth. (TY Yanky) 400+ bereaved Israeli youth had a Chanukah surprise when Fauda star and singer/songwriter Idan Amedi arrived by helicopter for a private performance at their Kibbutz Revivim winter camp. The kids also went “sandboarding”, rappelling, and had therapeutic sessions.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-star-idan-amedi-surprises-bereaved-youth-at-chanukah-camp/
Young basketballers come to Israel. Maccabi Israel Sports Experience has brought a team of half a dozen young talented internation basketball players to live, train and play at Maccabi World Union’s campus in Ramat Gan, Israel. Several have long-term dreams of playing in Israel professionally.
https://video.i24news.tv/en/9e44d596-82e6-4c4c-8a1c-96f84ae49bd5/content/6366864254112
We built an igloo! Due to a “navigation” error, three Israeli snowboarders were trapped at the summit of a freezing mountain in Japan for nearly 24 hours. The men, who are all IDF reservists, couldn’t be rescued immediately because of weather conditions. So they built an igloo and huddled together to stay warm.
https://worldisraelnews.com/we-built-an-igloo-israelis-rescued-from-freezing-mountain/
THE JEWISH STATE
Ancient structure unearthed in Jerusalem. (TY Ron M) A 220 sqm 1st Temple-period structure has been uncovered in the City of David, Jerusalem. The eight rooms include an oil press, a winepress, a possible altar, and a standing stone. It was in use until the 8th century BCE, when King Hezekiah restored Jewish worship.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/in-first-researchers-find-where-jerusalemites-prayed-before-temple-became-only-game-in-town/ https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/article-837507
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ASjN-AD5e4
Ancient farmhouse unearthed near Beersheba. (TY Yanky) The Israel Antiquities Authority and KKL-JNF have excavated artifacts at the 2,600-year-old, 4-room Mirsham farmhouse just north of Beersheba. It was likely constructed during the reign of Judean King Menashe (697-643 BCE) and demolished 100 years later.
Young Zionist Voices. Z3 Project will present the Young Zionist Voices GLOBAL DIGITAL LAUNCH EVENT on Tues Jan 28 at 10am PT, 1pm ET, 6pm ET & 8pm Israel time. It will feature some of the most important young activists, thinkers, and doers in the Jewish world. Register (free) below. Plus other events.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/young-zionist-voices-global-digital-launch-tickets-1129127664239
https://jewishpriorities.substack.com/p/meet-the-young-zionist-voices-announcing
250112
In the 12th Jan 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Massive increase in Israel’s PR budget.
l Life-saving Israeli treatments for the brain, heart, and traumatic stress.
l Golan Druze rush to become Israeli citizens.
l Two innovative Israeli laser systems perform valuable non-military functions.
l Israeli sustainable device for keeping farm produce fresh is so cool.
l A dozen Israeli companies doubled their US market value in 2024.
l Light one candle for Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul & Mary, who “Puffed” magic songs.
· Click here to see the 5th Jan newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Aviva) United With Israel, and (TY Ted Belman) IsraPundit. Also (TY Sandra) for translating it into German here, and Hebrew here, and with (TY) Claude into French here. Also (TY Barbara) into Spanish here. Please forward this newsletter to German-speaking, Spanish-speaking, French-speaking and Hebrew-speaking contacts. Also please visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/verygoodnewsIL.
· Please click here, to donate (a small or large amount) to help me publicize VeryGoodNewsIsrael.
· Click here to keyword SEARCH almost any topic in the IsraelActive archives (over 25,800 articles).
· If someone wishes to be added to the free email subscription list, they should either click here or send a request (with their name, and the subject “Subscribe”) to michael.goodnewsisrael@gmail.com
POSITIVE NEWS IN A WAR
800 French teenagers volunteer. A delegation of some 800 French teenagers traveled to Israel, thanks to the Jewish Agency’s Israel Experience program and Mosaic United’s Shalom Corps. They have been packing food packages for the poor, helping MDA and Yad Sarah, volunteering at IDF bases and working in agriculture.
https://www.jns.org/800-french-teens-in-israel-to-volunteer-bolster-ties-with-europe/
NFL Legends love Israel. (TY UWI) NFL legends Nick Lowery (ex-Chiefs & Jets) and Tony Richardson (Cowboys, Chiefs, Vikings & Jets) touched down in Israel last week on a solidarity visit. After meeting hostage families, Lowery told President Herzog, “We’re here to say we love and support you - no matter what.”
https://www.jns.org/we-love-and-support-you-nfl-legends-pay-solidarity-visit-to-israel/
600 international students at BGU. Despite the war, 600 students from 64 countries have come to Israel to study at Ben-Gurion University. BGU's International Academic Affairs Office offers personalized support for students worldwide, from visa assistance to organizing social activities.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-836625
Surge in Haredi recruits. (TY UWI) The IDF reported that 338 Haredim enlisted in the past week - 211 as combat soldiers, and 127 as combat supporters. The IDF also successfully inducted the inaugural cohort of the “Hashmonayim” (Hasmonean) Brigade, plus a second Haredi cohort for the Border Guard.
https://tps.co.il/articles/israeli-army-reports-surge-in-haredi-soldiers-338-recruited-in-past-week/
$100 million recovery. Itamar Ben Hemo, co-founder of Israel’s Rivery (see here previously) was serving in the reserves in Gaza when he was shot in the chest by Hamas terrorists. He was rushed to hospital in 45 minutes where despite almost dying, he recovered and eventually sold his company to Boomi (US) for $100 million.
THAAD intercepts Houthi missile. U.S.-supplied THAAD air defense system successfully intercepted its first ballistic missile, launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen. “18 years waiting for this” says one of the American soldiers operating the system. https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/401411
Semiconductor giant bets on Israel. Great article detailing how computer giant Applied Materials has been investing in its Israeli R&D center, despite the war. Having 15% (300) of its workforce in the IDF, it brought back retirees, rented a hotel for displaced families and gave financial and psychological help to employees.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/y4hfl2v34
$150 million for PR. In the new budget, Israel’s Foreign Ministry will receive an extra $150 million for public diplomacy - more than 20 times that typically allotted in past years. One focus will be US college campuses, in cooperation with US Jewish groups and the Diaspora Affairs Ministry.
Gaza desalination plant restarts. (TY Yanky) I don’t know why this has not been widely reported (oh yes I do!). The Deir el-Balah desalination plant in central Gaza has resumed operations. Since being reconnected to Israel’s electricity grid last month, the plant has produced thousands of cubic meters of drinkable water per day.
https://www.voanews.com/a/desalination-plant-quietly-resumes-operations-in-gaza/7914345.html
Galilee forests will regenerate. 20,000+ dunams of Galilee forest have been consumed by fires ignited by Hezbollah rocket strikes and interceptor fragments. But KKL-JNF’s chief forester Gilad Ostrovsky is sure that once burnt trees have been removed, the forest will regenerate naturally. Just as Israelis will return to the North.
https://www.jns.org/restoring-the-galilee-forest-a-five-year-journey-of-renewal-and-hope/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Treating cerebral aneurysms. Israel’s EndoStream Medical, which has just been acquired by Japan’s Kaneka, specializes in developing an innovative implant for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. EndoStream’s “Nautilus” has been used in hundreds of patients globally to block blood flow to the aneurysm.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/bkdyeeaikg https://endostream.com/
https://vimeo.com/727320916 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16800-brain-aneurysm
Microsensors for the heart. (TY TPS & WIN) Israel’s Microtech (part of Medinol – see here previously) has begun human clinical trials of their microsensor platform, to measure atrial pressures, vital for the treatment of heart failure. The tiny device is implanted and uses ultrasound to communicate, reducing hospitalizations.
https://medinol.com/news/microtech-announces-first-human-case-of-implantable-microsensor-for-heart-failure-2/ https://medinol.com/microtech-2/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_QxgazSF_U
HBOT for PTSD. At the Shamir Medical Center, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) - breathing pure oxygen in pressurized chambers - is proving to be a game-changer for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) sufferers, with 70% reporting lasting relief. See here previously.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZYhLJfeCWU
How bacteria resistance can be neutralized. A study by Tel Aviv University reveals how plasmids - small circular DNA fragments - neutralize bacterial defense mechanisms. It opens a door to combating antibiotic resistance. Plasmids could also break down pollutants, fix carbon dioxide, and improve gut bacteria.
https://en-lifesci.tau.ac.il/news/foreign_dna/news/sbcr https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07994-w
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07994-w
Milk fat is good for you. Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Israel’s Agriculture Research Organization have discovered that the fat globules in milk deliver beneficial pro-biotic bacteria and prevent the formation of harmful bacteria. The finding can lead to better infant milk and healthy milk products.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/israeli-research-reveals-new-possibilities-for-custom-dairy-products-to-boost-gut-health/ https://en.huji.ac.il/news/small-milk-fat-globules-promote-good-bacteria-study-reveals
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996924007506
Miracles at Schneider. In 2024, Israel’s Schneider Children's Medical Center treated 55,000 children in its Emergency Rooms; 1,500 in intensive care; 874 babies in neonatal intensive care; six children received a new heart; 39 had organ transplants; 60 had cochlear implants; plus 3,000+ dialysis and 270,000+ outpatient visits.
https://www.fos.org.il/en/donate (Israelis) https://chaischneider.org/donate/ (USA)
https://system.smartgiving.org.uk/charities/8530/make-donation (UK)
Distinguished investigator. Ben Gurion University Prof Assaf Zaritsky has been honored with a 2024 Allen Distinguished Investigator Award. It includes $1.5 million for a project exploring how cellular structures called organelles form dynamic networks during the process of stem cell differentiation into neurons.
https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/news-and-articles/zaritsky-allen-distinguished-investigators-award/
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Race for inclusion. 400+ North American young Jewish leaders participated in ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran’s third “Race for Inclusion,” a celebration of ability at every level. Gap-year and college students were joined at the Negev village finish line by ADI patients, and raised more than $23,000 for post-trauma treatments.
https://www.jns.org/wire/adis-third-race-for-inclusion-ignites-hope-in-the-negev/
Cognitive potential for individuals with Down syndrome. A new study by Israeli researchers found that adults with Down Syndrome demonstrated higher cognitive performance compared to adolescents in many areas. It suggests the continued potential for learning and development into the mid-40s.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/400992
The most accessible website. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Wix.com earned the 2024 Web Almanac report’s “Most Accessible Website Platform CMS” and “Best SEO Performer”. It noted Wix's strong performance in key accessibility metrics compared to industry peers. Accessibility features include tools, templates and presets.
Druze support for Israel. (TY UWI) Afef Abed, a member of Israel’s Druze minority, officially took the Knesset seat vacated by Likud MK Yoav Gallant. He is the first Druze MK in the current government’s coalition. Meanwhile, the numbers of Golan Druze applying for Israeli citizenship has soared.
https://www.jns.org/afef-abed-takes-gallants-knesset-seat-becoming-first-druze-coalition-mk/
https://www.timesofisrael.com/taboo-no-more-one-in-five-golan-druze-now-holds-israeli-citizenship/
Reducing the number of animal road deaths. Thousands of wild animals are accidentally killed on roads in Israel each year. The organization Safe Wildlife Crossings aims to restore wildlife populations by improving the connectivity for wildlife to traverse between habitats and reducing roadkill.
https://www.ynetnews.com/environment/article/rkkpwdpsyl
https://www.safewildlifecrossings.com/en
Former UK defense chief praises Israel. Former UK Chief of the Defence Staff, General (Retd.) Sir Nicholas Patrick Carter, said that Western armies learned a lot from Israel, especially in 1967 and 1973. It was very important that UK and Israeli militaries work together and train together.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-weve-all-gained-from-israels-experience-1001497981
Training campus student leaders. Some 40 pro-Israel student leaders from 30 North American universities arrived recently in the Jewish state as part of an initiative sponsored by Hasbara Fellowships with IsraelAmbassadors.com. They gained tools and inspiration, to educate, combat hate and safeguard students.
https://www.jns.org/student-leaders-arrive-in-israel-to-participate-in-campus-advocacy-training/
1,500-year-old monastery discovered. A 1,500-year-old Byzantine monastery is being unearthed near Kiryat Gat in southern Israel. It features a unique mosaic with a Greek inscription from Deuteronomy 28:6, Findings include a sophisticated winepress, coins, marble, metal and glass vessels, and a great quantity of imported ware.
https://worldisraelnews.com/ancient-monastery-uncovered-in-southern-israel/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRKBQhVVytM
Lost and found. A 10-year-old Israeli boy out on a school trip in Jerusalem unearthed a cross medallion between 100 and 200 years old. He found it in the city’s southwestern Ein Karem neighborhood, a venue venerated by Christians as the birthplace of John the Baptist. It was crafted using a micro-mosaic technique.
https://www.jns.org/10-year-old-boy-finds-century-old-cross-medallion-in-jerusalem/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umJvjEjHh8k
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Lasers for communication. An open-space laser communication system for the high-speed transfer of data won first place at Jerusalem College of Technology’s ninth annual “Great Minds Hackathon,”. It can solve situations such as massive events like music festivals, where cellular towers are overwhelmed by user demand.
https://www.jns.org/wire/open-space-laser-communication-system-wins-top-prize-at-tech-hackathon/
Lasers for farms. KKL-JNF Jewish National Fund is developing the world’s first laser-based “chaser” to keep tens of thousands of migrating gray cranes from decimating farmers’ fields. A camera and AI detects the birds and a laser beam “chases” the cranes away without harming them. It aims to be ready for Oct 2025’s migration.
Smart hoses to scare the birds. Our feathered friends are also a nuisance around fish ponds and solar farms. Israel’s Nobify has created an advanced array of sensors linked to a network of hoses suspended over fish farms and floating solar panels arrays. An AI-powered detection platform detects birds and activates the nearest hoses.
https://www.israel21c.org/can-smart-hoses-save-fish-farms-from-feathered-foes/ https://www.nobify.ai/
Protecting biodiversity. KKL-JNF has launched a conservation operation to save rare plants at risk due to urban expansion near Israel’s Kiryat Gat Forest. Seeds and bulbs will be replanted and monitored in the protected environment of nearby Plugot Forest, which is a safe distance from future development.
https://www.israel21c.org/endangered-israeli-plants-find-new-home-in-urgent-rescue-op/
AI in the IDF. The Israeli Defense Ministry has announced a new AI and Autonomy Administration, tasked with leading the research, development and acquisition of artificial intelligence and autonomous capabilities for all branches of the IDF. It will unite stakeholders from academia, the IDF, startups and the defense industry.
https://www.jns.org/israels-new-ai-initiative-is-set-to-enhance-its-military-edge/
TV reporter uses AI to speak. Israeli Channel 12’s Moshe Nussbaum has ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) which distorts his natural voice. But using AI technology and an avatar (digital twin) he could make a comeback. For some strange reason Channel 12 wouldn’t name the system, but readers may guess it is Israel’s D-ID (see here).
https://apnews.com/article/israel-news-ai-voice-technology-text-speech-als-9a207784f0fe0287a25aa80256c50102 https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2025/Jan/08/israeli-tv-reporter-regains-his-ability-to-speak-with-the-help-of-ai
Automating engineering design. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s bananaz brings AI to R&D design, with tools for engineering teams to eliminate inefficiencies of traditional design workflows and save time and money across the production process. It automates processes such as design validation, change tracking, and error detection.
https://www.bananaz.ai/ https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/bk9x8thx1x
Max Planck Society opens Jerusalem office. (TY Atid-EDI) The Max Planck Society’s new office in Jerusalem aims to strengthen scientific partnerships between Israel and Germany. It will serve as a crucial hub for maintaining and expanding connections between the Max Planck Society (see here) and Israeli researchers.
https://www.mpg.de/23817894/max-planck-society-opens-office-in-israel
The first off-grid apartment. (TY Hazel) A Tel Aviv apartment building is Israel’s first to use a solar battery and hybrid converter to sell energy to the grid and run shared building facilities in power outages. It is part of “Sun for Everyone” - a joint project of the Israeli Energy Forum, KKL-JNF and Israel’s Energy Ministry.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/in-first-tel-aviv-apartment-building-turns-to-solar-energy-storage-for-emergency-use/ https://sunforeveryone.org/
Flame retardant technology breakthrough. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel Chemicals Ltd (ICL – see here previously) has launched VeriQuel R100, an innovative, phosphorus-based flame retardant designed for insulation products, such as those used for over 70% of commercial roofs. It is more sustainable than traditional retardants.
Cool solution to fresh produce. Israel’s Natural Offset Farming (NOF – see here previously) has developed a device to cool all fruits and vegetables immediately after harvesting, killing pathogens and increasing shelf life. The NOF Cooling device is small, portable, and doesn’t rely on electricity.
https://www.israel21c.org/farms-cut-food-loss-with-innovative-cooling-device/
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Inflation rate falls. Israel’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell 0.4% in Nov, more than analysts expected. Israel’s annual inflation rate for the 12 months to Nov fell to 3.4% from 3.5% in Oct. mostly due to decreases in the price of fresh fruit and vegetables. Meanwhile, Israel’s reserves of foreign currency rose by over $1 billion.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-november-cpi-fell-further-than-expected-1001496854
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-israels-forex-reserves-back-on-the-rise-1001496316
Foreign investors bet strong on Israeli tech. OurCrowd founder and CEO Jon Medved gave an upbeat assessment on how foreign markets are reacting to Israel’s ongoing war and the impending change of American leadership. He expected Israel to outperform its global peers in cybersecurity and defense technology.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hjq1etdl1e
Israeli stars on Wall Street. (TY Nevet) 12 Israeli companies, or companies with a connection to Israel, rose by more than 100% on the Nasdaq index during 2024. They include Eco Wave Power (+1,050%), Allot (187%), Hippo (175%), Beamr Imaging (154%), TAT (149%), Lemonade (143%), Teva, and NovoCure.
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-834747
Eilat to Athens flights to resume. From Feb 7, Israeli airline Israir is to operate twice-weekly direct flights between Athens and Israel’s Ramon airport, 11 miles north of Eilat. It is expected to add additional routes to Europe, taking tourists straight to the Red Sea resort city without flying via Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport.
https://www.jns.org/international-flights-from-israels-ramon-airport-to-restart-next-month/
Autonomous buses in South Korea. Israel’s Foresight (see here previously) is to develop advanced 3D perception solutions for South Korea’s Bumhan Motors to build semi- and fully autonomous electric buses. They will be required to operate in various conditions, including harsh weather and poor lighting.
Nvidia partners Arbe Robotics. Israel’s Arbe Robotics (see here previously) has announced that it will integrate its ultra-high-definition perception radar with Nvidia's DRIVE AGX platform, a high-performance AI computing system for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. Arbe’s share price rose significantly.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/bylieuf8yx
Exits, mergers & acquisitions – to 12/1/25: Israeli private equity firm Adam Partners is to buy Israeli drip irrigation company Metzerplas . It will pay NIS 206 million for 75% of Metzerplas. Israel’s Lusha is acquiring Israeli behavioral intelligence platform developer Novacy for an estimated several million dollars. Japan’s Kaneka has acquired Israel’s Endostream Medical for an estimated $100 million.
Startup investment – to 12/1/25: PrettyDamnQuick raised $25 million; Jones Agency raised $15 million; Fermata raised $10 million; bananaz raised $5.3 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Hula Valley nature reserve re-opens. Detailed report about the re-opening of the Hula Valley nature reserve (see here previously). https://www.jns.org/hula-valley-nature-reserve-reopens-to-visitors-after-wartime-closure/
Avdija soars in Portland. Israeli NBA basketball player Deni Avdija (24) is experiencing a career surge in the Pacific Northwest after being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. He was a finalist for December Player of the Month in the Western Conference, averaging 16.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-nba-sensation-deni-avdijas-career-soars-in-portland/
Israeli helps Vermont win first championship. (TY Nevet) Israel’s Yaniv Bazini scored 14 goals for the University of Vermont’s Division I soccer team this season, making him one of the top scorers in the entire country and propelling Vermont to its first championship. He clutched an Israeli flag as he lifted up the trophy.
THE JEWISH STATE
Device helps amputees put on tefillin. (TY Ron M) ALYN Hospital and Sheba Medical Center have developed a device enabling amputees to put on tefillin independently. It is already helping injured soldiers, restoring dignity and accessibility. “It gave me back my independence,” said one user.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/r1gevz7ujg
From Jerusalem to Japan. Israel’s Foreign Ministry is to fly a stone from the Western Wall to the upcoming 2025 World Expo to be held in Osaka (Apr to Oct). Israel Antiques Authority representatives will assist with its (temporary) removal. Five years ago a stone from the Kotel was transported to a US exposition.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-836770
New beginnings on Jerusalem streets. (TY Sharon) Israel’s capital city was full of Chanukah, construction and color, to welcome 2025. Thanks, Sharon, for including a link to VeryGoodNewsIsrael.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/01/05/january-2025-hanukkah-and-new-beginnings-in-jerusalem/
Don’t let the light go out. Peter Yarrow, the Jewish member of the 60’s folk group Peter, Paul & Mary, passed away last week at the age of 86. Remember “If I had a hammer”, “Where have all the flowers gone?” and “Puff the magic dragon”? Peter’s “Light one candle” recalls the Maccabees Chanukah fight to preserve Judaism.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1cRXgDFiSs https://www.peteryarrow.net/bio (see awards)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qu_rItLPTXc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z15pxWUXvLY
250105
In the 5th Jan 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Numerous technical advances in Israeli rehabilitation therapy during the war.
l Two major Israeli breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
l Israel spends millions on technical and Hebrew skills for its Arab citizens.
l Israeli eye doctors restored the sight of hundreds of Ethiopians.
l Israel and the US team-up on cyber training and cleantech projects.
l Low cost airline Wizz Air, and 5 others, resume services to Israel.
l Israeli actress Gal Gadot had brain surgery when 8 months’ pregnant.
l Israeli archaeologists unearthed ancient artifacts linked to Chanukah.
· Click here to see the 29th Dec newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen. Also (TY Sandra) for translating it into German here, and Hebrew here, and with (TY) Claude into French here. Also (TY Barbara) into Spanish here. Please forward this newsletter to German-speaking, Spanish-speaking, French-speaking and Hebrew-speaking contacts. Also please visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/verygoodnewsIL.
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POSITIVE NEWS IN A WAR
Medical advances from the war. The New York Post describes many of Israel’s rehabilitating innovations created as a direct result of the war with Hamas and Hezbollah. It focuses on Israeli reservist and New York native Aaron Bours who was shot in both legs but is now well on the road to recovery.
IDF enlistment rates increase. (TY Yanky) IDF figures show high motivation among recruits, with a high Nov-Dec enlistment rate for combat roles. The number of women joining combat roles rose 28%, attributed in part to a gender-specific unit in field intelligence and a new female infantry mobility training track.
David’s Brigade. (TY Yanky) The IDF is forming the David Brigades - a reserve division for troops aged 38-58. It will comprise five brigades totalling 15,000 soldiers that will strengthen border defenses. Most of the reservists are volunteers with extensive experience gained during both their military service and civilian lives.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/b14ezrkr1l
Frequent flier points to IDF reservists. (TY Aubrey) El Al is honoring IDF reservists who have served 100 days or more since Oct. 7, 2023 with 100 frequent flyer points for each day of their reserve duty. El Al has already distributed more than 20,000 free flight tickets to reserve IDF soldiers.
Three new ambulances for Samaria. Three new bullet-proof ambulances have been donated to Magen David Adom (MDA) for deployment in Samaria communities. Two were donated by the Akiva Fund in Switzerland while the third was donated by the Samaritans Purse organization in memory of Hersh Goldberg-Polin.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/401251
IDF helps 127 Gazan patients get overseas care. In the last week, Israel facilitated the transfer of 127 Gazan patients, mostly children, to the United Arab Emirates. In recent months, Israel has allowed 1,055 patients and caregivers, to pass through the Kerem Shalom Crossing for treatment in 13 countries.
What was good about 2024? Israel21c summarized the positive side of last year. Volunteering, humanitarian aid, rebuilding the south, recovery in the north, air defense, Air Haifa, Olympic medals, Eurovision, medical research, science awards, cybertech, AI, emergency response, wave energy, quantum computing, and more.
https://www.israel21c.org/reasons-to-be-hopeful/
What happened in 2024? Good news can be extracted from this Israel Hayom summary of 2024. Aliya surge, Argentine hostages rescued, swimming medal in Doha, top Pizza restaurants, 1st response to Iran, Eurovision, 4 hostages rescued, Haniyeh, Olympic gold, pagers, Nasrallah, Sinwar, 2nd response to Iran, ceasefire & Syria.
https://www.israelhayom.com/2024/12/31/its-a-wrap-2024-feature/
Soldier rescues dog from Gaza. For the past three months, Tal, a convoy driver in the IDF Paratroopers Brigade has been raising Chiquita, a friendly rottweiler dog he rescued from Gaza. Tal paid for Chiquita to be vaccinated, neutered and kept in kennels for eight months until he finished reserve duty.
https://www.jns.org/soldier-rescues-dog-from-gaza/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Dual cancer therapy nanoparticles. (TY WIN) Tel Aviv University researchers have developed bio-degradable nanoparticles to simultaneously deliver two chemicals to tumors that express the P-Selectin protein. The dual combination needs to arrive at the same time to be most effective.
https://tps.co.il/articles/hope-for-cancer-patients-israeli-european-team-unveils-innovative-dual-drug-nanoparticle-therapy/ https://www.science.org/doi/full/10.1126/sciadv.adr4762
Cancer therapy targets a “bad” enzyme. Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel’s Weizmann Institute and the University of Tokyo have created the peptide D’20 that targets and inhibits an enzyme called Matrix Metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7). MMP7 helps cancer cells invade surrounding tissues.
How cells define their identity. (TY TPS) Researchers from Jerusalem's Hebrew University and Edinburgh University, Scotland, uncovered how critical proteins, called transcription factors (TFs), define cellular identity. It raises the possibility of converting skin cells into heart cells, or insulin-producing cells to cure diabetes.
https://phys.org/news/2024-12-reveals-transcription-factors-dna-architecture.html
The benefits of intermittent fasting. A study led by Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Dr. Ido Goldstein has discovered that repeated fasting (e.g. on alternate days) triggers a cellular memory mechanism in the liver, improving its response to future fasting events, offering new insights into metabolic regulation.
https://www.israel21c.org/scientists-decode-health-benefits-behind-intermittent-fasting/
https://academic.oup.com/nar/advance-article/doi/10.1093/nar/gkae1161/7915244?login=false
EU approval for CBC device. (TY Atid-EDI) PixCell Medical (see here previously) has achieved EU certification for its HemoScreen Complete Blood Count (CBC) analyzer. It is the first such device to pass the new, strict, European In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation (IVDR). It already is US-approved.
https://www.pixcell-medical.com/news/hemoscreen-cbc-ivdr-certification/
“Digital Pharmacist” for the UK. (TY Atid-EDI) The UK Government’s G-Cloud 14 framework now includes the clinical decision-support software platform from Israel’s Seegnal eHealth (see here previously). UK NHS trusts, hospitals, and clinics can now easily procure Seegnal's "Virtual Digital Pharmacist".
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDkjr4c5yeg
EU funds Schizophrenia research. A consortium led by Prof. Hossam Haick of Israel’s Technion Institute has secured an eight million Euros grant from the European Union, for early diagnosis and monitoring of schizophrenia. The VOLABIOS project will analyze biomarkers derived from various sources in the body.
https://www.technion.ac.il/en/2024/12/towards-early-diagnosis-of-schizophrenia/
Predicting emergencies. Israel’s United Hatzalah first responder organization has implemented an Artificial Intelligence system developed by the IDF 8200 intelligence unit. It analyzes 18 years of historical emergency data and in trials has achieved a 85% accuracy rate in predicting locations and times of emergency events.
https://www.israel21c.org/using-ai-to-predict-where-and-when-medical-crises-may-occur/
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
10 million. Now it’s official (see here previously). Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics has confirmed that Israel's population numbers approximately 10.027 million. 21% (2.1 million) are Arabs.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/401584
Accelerating Arab tech in Jerusalem. Israel’s Innovation Authority is providing $2.7 million over 5 years for Jinnovate, Jerusalem’s first Arab sector health-tech accelerator, currently supporting a portfolio of 14 early-stage startups. Jinnovate was launched by Mahmoud Khweis, founder of Arab IT training company Techlinic.
https://www.israel21c.org/new-accelerator-fosters-innovation-in-arab-society/
https://jinnovate.tech/ https://techlinic.com/
$200 million for Arabs to improve Hebrew skills. The Israeli government is to advance Hebrew language proficiency among Arabic speakers, with a budget allocation of NIS 744 million ($202 million). Its aims include to foster social integration, boost employment prospects, and reduce crime in Arab communities.
https://www.jns.org/israel-spending-202-million-on-improving-arabs-hebrew-skills/
35 new Haredi police officers. A group of former yeshivah students have completed a three-month training course (the sixth in 2024) to become certified members of the Israel Police. About 150 to 200 haredi men currently serve with another 50 slated to join a new police training course that begins in January.
https://www.jns.org/35-haredi-men-become-israeli-police-officers/
4 years of Abraham Accords. Some 100 U.S. leaders met in the U.S. Capitol to celebrate the 4th anniversary of the Abraham Accords, signed in the fall of 2020, which initiated the normalization of Israeli relations with several Arab countries. There are 28 daily flights to the UAE from Tel Aviv. (See write-up of our recent trip.)
https://www.jns.org/one-democrat-many-gop-complaints-at-capitol-event-marking-abraham-accords-anniversary/ https://israelseen.com/lynette-ordman-our-trip-to-dubai-was-quite-overwhelming-wow/
Floyd does it again. Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather donated $1 million to Israeli emergency NGO United Hatzalah (UH) at their Miami Gala. Floyd also gifted a UH logo-shaped diamond necklace to philanthropist Dr. Miriam Adelson, in recognition of her unwavering support for Israel. The event raised a total of $14 million.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-floyd-mayweather-donates-1-million-to-united-hatzalah/
Global village. The World Zionist Village in Beersheva was the focus of talks at the JNF-USA Global Conference for Israel (see here previously). Watch Col Richard Kemp as he revealed he met a British soldier who had been blown up in Afghanistan and was saved thanks to an Israeli-developed blood-clotting agent.
https://worldzionistvillage.org/newsletter
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL1Tw9k_VE2SEq1T2R7JfIorVEUUbVKFO
Restoring sight in Ethiopia. (TY Ron M) A team of 15 Israeli medics have just completed their latest mission to Ethiopia where they treated nearly 1,000 patients, restoring sight to hundreds. They also restored the eyesight of over 500 blind people with cataracts, distributed canes to a school for the Blind, and spectacles to others.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-835776
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Israeli ag-tech on show in Michigan. Five Israeli agriculture technology companies exhibited to 5,000+ attendees at the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They were Agam Greenhouse Energy Systems, CropX, NESS Fertigation, Robotic Perception and TierraSpec.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-agricultural-companies-present-tech-at-michigan-farm-expo/
5 new joint US-Israeli cleantech projects. The US and Israeli governments (via BIRD Energy) has awarded a total of $7.5 million to five joint US-Israel cleantech projects. The Israeli startups involved are Lucy Borchard Shipping (hydrogen-diesel engines), Nitrofix, OASIX Energy, Phinergy, and Plasticback (PVC recycling).
https://www.lubor.co.il/ https://www.plastic-back.com/
CYBERDOME. The annual joint Israeli-US cyber defense exercise, “CYBERDOME IX,” was conducted by the U.S. Cyber Command and the IDF’s J6 and Cyber Defense Directorate and Intelligence Directorate. It included battlefield simulations that tested both offensive and defensive strategies.
https://www.jns.org/israel-and-us-conclude-joint-cyber-defense-exercise/
Better wind turbines. (TY Atid-EDI) Louisiana's Gulf Wind Technology is using technology from Israel’s Stratasys to improve the efficiency of designing its wind turbines. Stratasys’s Neo® stereolithography (SLA) technology reduced the design and fabrication cycle for wind tunnel models from 30 - 40 days to just 3 - 4 days.
https://investors.stratasys.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/920/gulf-wind-technology-leverages-stratasys-3d-printing-to https://www.stratasys.com/en/resources/case-studies/gulf-wind-technology/
Fighting crime in North America. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Cognyte Software (see here previously) has received an additional follow-on order totaling over $2 million, from a leading North American law enforcement agency. Cognyte’s technology ensures the safety of communities across a wide geographic region.
Innovative water technology. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Plas-Fit - Tavlit manufactures high performance water filters, sprinklers, and (via its Terranos subsidiary) implements irrigation systems for agriculture in South America and Africa. https://israelagri.com/smart-efficient-and-built-to-last-just-what-your-system-needs/
Super-sensitive hearing. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Silynxcom (see here previously) has launched its latest product that detects distinct and potentially life-threatening drone humming, while simultaneously maintaining hearing protection in high-noise environments.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
4th best pension program. (TY Laura B) Israel ranked 4th of 48 countries for quality of retirement income systems, according to the 2024 Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index. Netherlands, Iceland, Denmark and Israel all had overall scores above 80. The average of all countries analyzed was 63.4. The U.S. scored 60.4.
https://www.gobankingrates.com/money/economy/countries-with-better-pensions-than-united-states-according-to-experts/ https://www.mercer.com/en-us/insights/investments/market-outlook-and-trends/mercer-cfa-global-pension-index/
Six airlines resume flights. (TY Yanky) Six airlines are resuming their services to Tel Aviv: Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air, Romanian low-cost airline Biz, Polish airline Lot, Spanish carrier Air Europe, Air Baltic; and Bulgaria Air. Biz began its inaugural Israel route in August.
https://www.jns.org/six-airlines-resuming-service-to-israel/
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-six-airlines-to-resume-israel-flights-over-next-week-1001496951
16.000 Indian construction workers. 16,000 workers have come from India to work in Israel’s building sector over the past year – and Israel has plans to bring thousands more. Indian workers often can make three times what they would back in India. https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20241230-indian-workers-replace-palestinians-in-israel-s-building-sector
Vegan meat in LA and NYC. The cultured, non-GMO soy protein-based products of Israel’s Chunk Foods (see here previously) are now available in independent grocers in Los Angeles and New York City. Chunk Foods won Plant Based Meat Product of the Year at the Fourth Annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards.
https://www.israel21c.org/israeli-plant-based-meat-comes-to-us-retailers/
IAI accelerates three more US startups. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel Aerospace Industries has selected three US technology startups (Dalus, Lola Vision & Nefeli Air) for its second North American CATALYST program.
$10 billion raised in 2024. Israeli high-tech companies raised $9.58 billion in 2024 across 443 fundraising rounds. This marks a 38% increase in capital raised and a 13% increase in the number of rounds compared to 2023 when $6.9 billion was raised. https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/r1nydncsjl
Exits, mergers & acquisitions – to 5/1/25: Israel’s Nova has acquired Germany’s Sentronics Metrology for approximately $60 million.
Startup investment – to 5/1/25: Atlas Invest raised $11 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Israeli art exhibited in Miami. An exhibition in Miami titled HOME | LAND features works from 40-plus classic and contemporary Israeli artists. 120+ pieces in a mix of media, including paintings, sculptures, prints, textiles, digital art and photography provide a multifaceted view of the landscape of the Jewish state.
Ben Gurion’s artifacts auctioned. Israel’s Benetivei Udi non-profit and Curio Auctions have been auctioning artifacts belonging to David Ben Gurion – Israel’s first Prime Minister. Proceeds will help build Beit Udi a center for the Nitzanim program - providing tech training for thousands of youths from the Negev and Galilee.
https://www.jns.org/wire/auction-features-historic-artifacts-from-israels-first-prime-minister/
https://www.curioauctions.com/beitudi-auction
“10 Commandments” tablet fetches $5 million. A tablet purporting to date from 300 - 800 CE and containing the Samaritan version of the biblical Ten Commandments, sold for $5.04 million at a Sotheby's auction. The buyer is anonymous and the tablet will be housed in an Israeli museum.
https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/archaeology-around-the-world/article-834246
https://www.jns.org/samaritan-ten-commandments-tablet-sells-for-5m/
Colors and candles in Jerusalem. (TY Sharon) Chanukah lights brightened Jerusalem streets, to end 2024.
https://rjstreets.com/2024/12/29/in-jerusalem-the-year-ends-with-colors-and-candles/
European Hotelier of the Year. (TY Yanky) David Fattal, founder and CEO of the Fattal Group, is the first Israeli to win a Grand Prix award in the European Hotelier of the Year category at the 2024 Hospitality Awards in Paris. Fattal owns the Fattal and Leonardo hotel chains. The French Minister of Tourism presented the award.
Gal Gadot’s surgery. Last week’s newsletter featured Moriel Indek who had a tumor removed from her brain while she was pregnant (see here previously). Israeli actress Gal Gadot has just revealed that she had brain surgery to remove a blood clot in February when she was eight months pregnant with her fourth daughter.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/401497
THE JEWISH STATE
Chanukah miracle – policewoman wakes up. Hadassah Medical Center announces a major improvement in the condition of policewoman Hodaya Halperin, who was shot in the head about a month ago in Pisgat Ze’ev (see here). She has regained full consciousness and is communicating with her family and the medical staff.
Chanukah menorah from rocket parts. Israeli police constructed a unique Chanukah menorah from pieces of rockets fired into Israel by Hezbollah over the last year. The symbolic project, dubbed “Lighting up the North,” was carried out by two police sappers who defused thousands of rockets, missiles and drones.
https://www.jns.org/israel-police-sappers-make-chanukah-menorah-from-hezbollah-rockets/
https://worldisraelnews.com/israel-police-sappers-make-chanukah-menorah-from-hezbollah-rockets/
The largest Chanukiah. The largest Hanukkah menorah in the world cannot be lit. It is made of 25,000 balloons and stands in Schneider Children's Medical Center in Petach Tikva. It was constructed by a team of 100 volunteers from the Tikva Umarpe organization, and a rappelling crew.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/401338
Hasmonean King’s treasure unearthed. A hoard of coins which once belonged to the Hasmonean King Alexander Jannaeus (103 – 76 BCE) was discovered in Israel’s Jordan Valley on the second day of Hanukkah. Alexander Jannaeus was the great-nephew of Judah Maccabee.
More Chanukah articles. A rare 1,700-year-old oil lamp has been discovered, depicting the Temple menorah. Other articles include six other Chanukah-related archeological discoveries, and a Chanukah tour of Jerusalem.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/401327
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_-TU9kgSoE
Birthright celebrates 25 years. Birthright Israel marks its 25th anniversary by bringing 6,500 participants this winter to support the recovery of Israel’s tourism sector. More than 300 international groups will engage in volunteer programs and diverse internships across Israel.
https://www.jns.org/birthright-celebrates-25th-anniversary/
