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/
