In the 21st Sep 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Israel’s Iron beam laser defense system is now operational.
l Israeli scientists have discovered cellular treatments for diabetes and cancer.
l Fiji has opened its embassy in Jerusalem.
l Israeli scientists accidentally discovered how to build micro optical devices.
l Despite initially being banned, an Israeli documentary won an award in Toronto.
l The public can walk in the footsteps of Jewish pilgrims 3,000 years ago.
· Click here to see the 14th Sep newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) 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 27,300 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
Iron Beam is ready and powerful. Israel’s Defense Ministry has announced that its "Iron Beam" is now operational. Batteries will be deployed across the country within the coming months. The system can intercept drones, mortars, rockets and missiles. It will dramatically reduce the cost of defending against airborne attacks.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-867735
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rjbxpdooee
Christian NGO fortifies Israel. (TY JNF-USA) Pastor Jentezen Franklin and his Ministry (JFMM) are installing 800 fortified safe rooms in Israeli border communities that previously had no inside protection.
https://jentezenfranklin.org/blog/fortify-israel-rescue-lives-shape-history
198 new Haredi combat unit recruits. In the first of the Sept IDF drafts, 240 ultra-Orthodox Jewish men enlisted in combat and combat support positions. 198 joined combat units while 42 were placed in combat support roles. https://www.jns.org/idf-recruits-240-haredi-men-in-september-draft/
A natural memorial. The historic amphitheater in Gvar’am Forest near Gaza has been restored and reopened. The site is the official memorial for the 68 IDF soldiers who fell during Operation Protective Edge. The natural complex also contains 68 oak trees, a botanical garden, and will serve as a community and cultural hub.
https://www.kkl-jnf.org/about-kkl-jnf/green-israel-news/green-israel-news-2025/i100_08092025.aspx
https://www.jpost.com/consumerism/article-867110
A chance to breathe. Israeli non-profit OneFamily organized a 3-day retreat at Utopia Orchid Park, Kibbutz Bahan near Netanya for 47 widows and 120 children who lost spouses and parents on or after 7 Oct 2023. OneFamily also runs summer camps and regular activities for children and siblings of victims.
https://www.jns.org/from-utopia-orchid-park-to-netanya-relatives-of-oct-7-victims-heal-together/
90% of residents have returned. Over 2,500 Israelis have moved to Gaza border communities, bolstering the over 90% of residents living in the area before the Hamas-led onslaught nearly two years ago, who have since returned home. The new arrivals include 50+ families who moved to the 13 worst affected communities.
Swiss raise $1.4 million for Yad Sarah. The Swiss Friends of Yad Sarah raised $1.4 million at its inaugural gala in Zurich, Switzerland. It will fund Yad Sarah initiatives supporting the rehabilitation and healing of individuals in Israel since 7 Oct 2023. https://www.jns.org/wire/inaugural-swiss-friends-of-yad-sarah-gala-raises-1-4-million-to-support-healing-in-israel/ https://yadsarah.org/3009-2/
A musical response to the PR war. A group of pro-Israel musicians and songwriters have launched Right Side Music to get the truth out, harmoniously. They create and stream music that clearly differentiates good from evil, particularly when it comes to Israel’s war with the legions of terror.
https://www.jns.org/a-musical-response-to-israels-pr-war/ https://right-side-music.com/
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=EpwV9_eraDU (“Palace of Lies” – United Nations General Assembly)
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=1aIyZnFbOu0 (Bring them Home – 1,000 musicians)
Another response – go visit Israel. One group of high school teachers (mostly non-Jewish) from Springfield Massachusetts were given first-hand experience about the true situation in Israel.
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/educating-the-educators-a-trip-to-israel-for-public-school-teachers/
When non-Jews volunteer. (TY Yanky) A beautiful comment from Keenan Simms, volunteer on Sar-El, helping on IDF bases. “You walk into a coffee shop in Israel, and you tell people that you're not Jewish but you're here to help and you see grown men cry."
https://www.thejc.com/news/israel/non-jewish-brits-volunteering-idf-cfzrpmed
Nova survivors celebrate wedding and baby. I missed this article from Dec 2024. Maia and Oshri Bouganim escaped the 7 Oct 2023 Hamas attack and married just days later. After a little over a year, they celebrated the birth and circumcision of their first son, “the baby we've been blessed with is nothing less than a great miracle”.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/sj39uqhnkx
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Discovery could cure diabetes and cancer. Scientists at Israel’s Ben Gurion University have discovered how cells control energy levels and have developed molecules that lowered blood glucose levels in lab tests. The scientists believe these could form the basis of tools to cure diabetes, cancer, and other metabolic disorders.
https://scienmag.com/cells-employ-synchronized-traffic-control-system-to-regulate-nutrient-availability-and-energy-balance/ https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/news-and-articles/discovery-reveals-cellular-control-of-energy-balance-and-blood-sugar-levels/ https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-62103-3
Gene therapy for IBD. Tel Aviv University researchers have developed a targeted method of delivering locked nucleic acids (LNAs) using lipid nanoparticles, achieving therapeutic effect against inflammatory bowel disease in preclinical models - without side effects. It could also be used for heart diseases, and Parkinson’s.
https://tautrust.org/gene-therapy-shows-promise-for-inflammatory-bowel-disease/
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-63037-6
Gene therapy to treat hearing loss. Scientists from Tel Aviv University have introduced an innovative gene therapy method to treat impairments in hearing and balance caused by inner ear dysfunction. The research is featured in the EMBO Molecular Medicine magazine and highlighted on its cover.
https://english.tau.ac.il/research/gene-therapy-preserves-hearing
https://www.embopress.org/doi/full/10.1038/s44321-025-00275-7
https://www.embopress.org/toc/17574684/17/9
Diet can directly influence brain aging. Researchers from Israel’s Ben Gurion University and in Harvard and Leipzog, have uncovered innovative biological evidence that diet can directly influence brain aging. The Good Mediterranean Diet reduced proteins Galectin-9 and Decorin, which were very high in degenerated brain ages.
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-867578#google_vignette
https://www.nutritioninsight.com/news/green-mediterranean-diet-lowers-brain-aging-proteins.html
https://www.clinicalnutritionjournal.com/article/S0261-5614(25)00235-3/fulltext
Autoinjector stops blood loss in 5 minutes. (TY TPS) Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, together with the IDF Medical Corps, have unveiled a new autoinjector that could drastically reduce deaths from severe bleeding. It delivers Tranexamic Acid (TXA) to stabilize blood clots and reduce blood loss.
Minimally invasive heart valve replacement. (TY Hazel) Israel’s TruLeaf Medical (see here previously) successfully implanted its RoseDoc docking device in two patients in India. It is the first step in a two-stage catheter-based procedure to replace faulty tricuspid and mitral valves, without open-heart surgery.
https://www.ynetnews.com/health_science/article/rkfmvzyjxx#google_vignette
The eyes have it. Researchers from Tel Aviv University and Sourasky Medical Center (“Ichilov”) have measured patients’ memory just by tracking their eye movements as they watched animation videos. It can measure memory in subjects who cannot speak, such as infants, patients with brain injuries, or even animals.
https://english.tau.ac.il/research/memory-through-eye-movements
https://www.nature.com/articles/s44271-025-00305-7
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Learning together. Beit Issie Shapiro in Raanana has inaugurated Beit Raz, an inclusive early-childhood campus designed to integrate toddlers with and without disabilities from birth to age 3. And already, Beit Raz is to host professionals from UK Jewish children and families charity, Norwood – the UK’s oldest Jewish charity.
https://www.jns.org/beit-issie-shapiro-opens-inclusive-early-childhood-campus/
https://www.thejc.com/community/norwood-announces-collaboration-with-leading-israeli-disability-charity-luyt370s https://beitissie.org.il/en/26429/
Israeli Druze students support Syrian brethren. Three Israeli Druze studying at Herzliya’s Reichman University are using their academic skills to raise awareness of the desperate plight of the Druze in Syria. Together they study cognitive psycholinguistics, leadership, and public diplomacy. A formidable trio.
https://www.jpost.com/consumerism/article-863878
Strengthening ties with USAF. The UK Ministry of Defence (who trained me in 1975) has banned training Israelis (see here & here). In contrast, the United States and Israeli Air Forces are totally aligned. They recently concluded a weeklong strategic forum focused on strengthening operational cooperation and joint planning.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-us-air-forces-strengthen-ties-at-weeklong-conference/
Transforming life in African villages. Israeli NGO Tevel b’Tzedek (see here previously) has developed a model for transforming village economies by comprehensively addressing their challenges. It improves access to water, seeds, fertilizer, agricultural knowledge, a way to store harvests and to bring them to market together.
https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/whats-important-now-remembering-who-we-are/
Rwandan Muslim leaders visit Israel. 12 Rwandan Muslim religious leaders arrived in Israel for a six-day visit. The group, including two women, toured the Al-Aqsa Mosque, an Israeli-Arab community, a Bedouin village, and the mixed Israeli city of Jaffa, as well as some of the sites devastated by Hamas on 7 Oct 2023.
https://www.jns.org/rwandan-muslim-religious-leaders-visit-israel/
Fiji’s Jerusalem embassy. The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, together with Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar, opened Fiji's embassy in Jerusalem - Israel's capital. Fiji joins the USA, Guatemala, Kosovo, Honduras, Papua New Guinea, and Paraguay. Argentina will hopefully be next.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/415102 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Okf1JVHLYgw
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
3D micro-optics discovered by accident. Researchers at Tel Aviv University were using a laser to make glass glow, but it caused the glass to fold, inventing “photonic origami”. The tiny 3D folds allows optical devices to be made 0.5 microns thick. Uses include micro-zoom lenses in smartphone cameras and superfast electronics.
https://www.optica.org/about/newsroom/news_releases/2025/researchers_use_photonic_origami_to_fold_glass_into_microscopic_3d_optical_devices/ https://english.tau.ac.il/research/fold-glass-into-optical-devices
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-866900
Innovation Park inaugurated. The Kinneret Science and Innovation Park (see here previously), inaugurated near the Sea of Galilee, spans 7,000 square meters of advanced laboratories. It is expected to generate thousands of high-quality jobs in northern Israel, connecting academia, innovation, and industry, especially in agriculture.
https://www.jns.org/science-tech-innovation-park-inaugurated-in-northern-israel/
Israeli research at US Universities. A group of Jewish faculty at MIT and other US Universities has launched Kalaniyot - to advance academic excellence by deepening ties with Israeli researchers and building a supportive campus community. Also at Harvard Medical, Penn, Dartmouth, and now Columbia.
https://kalaniyot.org/ https://kalaniyot.mit.edu/ https://kalaniyot.columbia.edu/ https://kalaniyot.dartmouth.edu/
Golem creator is 100. (TY Yanky) Shmil Rochman has just celebrated his 100th birthday. He escaped Europe in 1938 and in 1960 emigrated to Israel to oversee development of Weizmann Institute’s Golem A computer. The equivalent project cost today would be NIS 24 billion. A duplicate computer, Golem B, ran until 1983.
https://ziontimes.net/article/7vgm8fJ2tB
A rifle that can shoot down drones. (TY WIN) Israel Weapon Industry (IWI) has developed the Arbel system that upgrades standard rifles into the first computerized system. It can accurately shoot down drones by using smart stabilization, offering a simple, low-cost defense solution. https://iwi.net/arbel/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJy-w0T5t90 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WB36CpfoI0
Saving the Sea of Galilee. The level of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) has fallen to the bottom red line and may hit the black line, with ecological damage. Water from Israel’s desalination plants in Ashdod, and Hadera is to be redirected into the Kinneret. By early Nov, 1.3 million gallons per hour will replenish Israel’s natural asset.
https://www.jns.org/israel-to-pump-desalinated-mediterranean-water-into-the-sea-of-galilee/
https://forecast.israelinfo.co.il/kineret
Europe funding to make AI safe. Dr. Yisroel Mirsky of Israel’s Ben Gurion University has been awarded a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant to investigate how to safeguard future general artificial intelligence systems. https://www.bgu.ac.il/en/news-and-articles/dr-yisroel-mirsky-awarded-prestigious-erc-grant-to-safeguard-future-ai-systems/
AI for Bees. (TY UWI & I24 news) The international team from Israel’s Beewise (see here previously) uses robots, remote systems and Artificial Intelligence to manage 250,000 hives for US customers. These bees pollinate crops from almonds in California, to citrus trees in Florida.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-1ADv1S13Q
Blue tech innovators. (TY Hazel) The National Centre for the Blue Economy showcased sustainable water and marine tech at the 3rd Blue Tech Summit in Haifa. Startups included Nobify (keep birds off fish ponds); SenpAI (virtual swimming trainer); and Rewind (returning biomass back into carbon).
https://www.timesofisrael.com/startups-dive-in-to-keep-birds-off-fishponds-help-swimmers-improve-their-game/ https://www.rewind.earth/
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Teaching Hebrew to Indian workers. (TY Yanky) Dynamic Staffing Services, India’s largest international recruitment agency, supplies skilled workers for construction and industry. It has launched “Shalom Namaste” a 13-week program of live classes and videos to train foreign workers in Hebrew, before they come to Israel.
https://www.ynetnews.com/real-estate/article/byqwp11scge
Connecting global investors to Israeli tech. TechTrek (Sep 9-11) is Israel’s largest institutional investor technology conference. It provides a platform for global institutional investors, private investors, and Israel’s top VCs to engage with the Israeli tech ecosystem. One speaker was US hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-us-hedge-fund-billionaire-bill-ackman-to-visit-israel-1001520743
https://www.jefferies.com/techtrek/
Korea-Israel defense ties deepen. During MSPO 2025, Israel’s Rafael and Hyundai Rotem Company (HRC) signed a Teaming Agreement to integrate and support Rafael’s TROPHY Active Protection System (APS) on HRC’s K2 Main Battle Tank and future platforms for the Republic of (South) Korea.
https://www.rafael.co.il/news/rafael-and-hyundai-rotem-sign-teaming-agreement-on-trophy-active-protection-system-at-mspo/ https://www.targikielce.pl/en/mspo https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-865211
Half a billion to invest. Israeli venture firm Glilot Capital has raised $500 million from financial institutions across the United States, Europe, and Israel, bringing its total assets under management to more than $1 billion. Glilot’s focus is on cybersecurity and AI. https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sj500f7dsle
€2 million implant. Shanghai’s Cutia Therapeutics, has made a strategic 2 million Euro investment in the Israel’s Hairstetics (see here previously). Hairstetics has developed an award-winning, pioneering medical device for the minimally invasive implantation of synthetic hair fibers, designed to address female alopecia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPUQ3elHSKc
Your meal delivered by Uber & Israeli drone. Uber Technologies and Israeli drone company Flytrex (see here previously) has announced a strategic partnership, marking Uber's first investment in the drone delivery sector. The ride-hailing and delivery giant is estimated to be investing tens of millions of dollars in Flytrex.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/ryqv700ksxx
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 21st Sep 25. Roche is to acquire Israel’s 89Bio for at least $2.4 billion. Israel’s Check Point has acquired Zurich-based AI security company Lakera for $300 million. Israel’s D-ID has acquired German AI video pioneer simpleshow for $60 million.
Startup investment – to 21st Sep 25: Irregular raised $80 million; Remedio (formerly GYTPOL) raised $65 million; Vega raised $65 million. Terra Security raised $30 million; Fabrix security raised $8 million.
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Japan Month in Tel Aviv. (TY Yanky) Japan Month in Tel Aviv’s Dizengoff Centre, attracted over 700,000 visitors. It featured lectures, travel, Lego, crafts, photo booths, costume competition, dragon ball, karate, and more. https://www.secrettelaviv.com/tickets/japan-month-dizengoff-center
Award-winning film. The documentary “The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue” has taken home the People’s Choice Award for best documentary at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It chronicles retired Israeli General Noam Tibon’s daring rescue of his family during the Hamas invasion on 7 Oct 2023.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-trailer-award-winning-oct-7-doc-the-road-between-us/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcAf07EN-bQ
An extraordinary architect. The documentary “Ada: My Mother the Architect” premiered in the US in May. It centers on Ada Karmi-Melamede who co-designed Israel’s Supreme Court, helped shape Ben Gurion Airport, designed buildings in the US and taught at Columbia University. Famous in Israel, at 89 she is still building.
Israeli contestant for Mr. Universe. 22-year-old former paratrooper Omer Halabi will be the first Israeli contestant in the international Mr. Universe contest (Nov 15-23, Hollywood, California).
https://www.jns.org/from-israeli-paratrooper-and-bodybuilder-to-mister-universe-contestant/
Jiu-Jitsu World Games champion. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Nimrod Ryeder (see here previously) actually won two Jiu-Jitsu gold medals at the World Games in Chengdu, China. First in the Men’s under 77kg, and then the following day in the Men’s Open.
https://www.theworldgames.org/results#athlete=Nimrod%20RYEDER:13678
Another medal for Ruach. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Ruach Hashem Gordon (see here previously) won the Combat 57kg Men’s silver medal in Muaythai at the World Games in Chengdu, China.
https://www.theworldgames.org/sports/Muaythai-55
Spanish protest punctured. (TY Hazel) Readers may have read about attempts by Spanish thugs to disrupt riders from Israel Premier Tech during the recent Vuelta a España cycling tournament. Well they didn’t prevent IPT’s Matthew Riccitello from winning the White Jersey for best young rider. Matthew was also fifth overall.
https://israelpremiertech.com/matthew-riccitello-seals-fifth-place-in-the-vuelta-a-espana/
THE JEWISH STATE
Coins unearthed from 3rd Jewish revolt. A rare hoard of 22 copper coins (4th century CE) was discovered in an underground hiding complex beneath the ruins of the Lower Galilee ancient settlement of Hukok. They date from the Gallus Revolt (351-352 CE), the lesser-known and last Jewish revolt under Roman rule.
https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/israel/archeology/artc-rare-coins-from-the-last-jewish-rebellion-under-roman-rule-excavated-in-the-galilee https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/415136
Medals of Honor. The 2025 Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor was awarded to Dr. Miriam Adelson, Dr. Mathias Döpfner, Judge George Karra, Moti Malka, Prof Avi Ohry, Prof Dina Porat, Galila Ron-Feder Amit, Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif, and Dr. Yossi Vardi. Click on the links below to read about their achievements.
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/israeli-president-isaac-herzog-to-present-medal-of-honor-to-dr-miriam-adelson-8-others/ https://www.jns.org/president-herzog-to-bestow-the-nations-highest-civilian-recognition/
Jewish strangers on a train. Ruthie Blum writes about a typical train journey in Israel, from Jerusalem to Herzliya. It is a snapshot of the Israel she (and many others) loves.
https://www.jns.org/jewish-strangers-on-a-train/
Rubio, Huckabee & Netanyahu at the Kotel. During US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Israel, he joined Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ambassador Mike Huckabee to pray at the Western Wall in Jerusalem. https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-rubio-huckabee-and-netanyahu-at-western-wall/
The Pilgrimage Road is open. Thousands of years ago Jews walked up Jerusalem’s Pilgrimage Road to the Temple Mount. It has been reopened and reminds all that the Land of Israel belongs to the Jewish people. Hear the words of Prime Minister Netanyahu, US Ambassador Huckabee and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
250914
In the 14th Sep 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l An Israeli father, mother and two sons are in the same IDF unit in Gaza.
l An Israeli invention to stop bleeding wounds could save millions of lives.
l Israel honors some of its many friends in Africa and South America.
l Vegan “real” milk is being launched into Israeli supermarkets.
l Israeli companies are soaring in value.
l The US and NATO are buying more Israeli defense systems.
l More “golden” Israeli sports men and women.
l Beautiful views of the pre-New Year lunar eclipse from the Holy Land.
· Click here to see the 7th Sep newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) IsraPundit, (TY Aviva) United with Israel, 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 27,300 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
And mother makes four. (TY Yanky) Shlomit has left her job as a nurse at Meir Medical Center in order to enlist in the IDF reserves. She treats wounded soldiers in the IDF’s 401st Armored Corps deep inside Gaza where her husband (600 days reserve duty) and two sons (total of 10 months in the reserves) all serve.
https://www.ynetnews.com/magazine/article/s18v004rdlx
The barriers are coming down. With no more threats from snipers, anti-tank weapons and mortars from Gaza, the concrete barriers that concealed Kibbutz Nahal Oz from north and central Gaza are being taken down. All terrorist infrastructure has been destroyed and the IDF now control the vantage points.
https://worldisraelnews.com/kibbutz-nahal-oz-barriers-dismantled-amid-diminished-gaza-threat/
A performance of honor. Singer Idan Amedi performed at Tel Aviv’s Yarkon Park for 30,000 reservists, their families, wounded IDF soldiers, and bereaved families. The performance was dedicated entirely to honoring those who have risked their lives and made significant sacrifices for the security of the State of Israel.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414803
$1.2 million for Ashkelon schools. (TY Yanky) The UK-based Gerald and Gail Ronson Family Foundation donated $1.2 million for two Sci-Tech schools in Ashkelon, a city heavily impacted by Hamas rockets. Ronson Afridar school will receive a new state-of-the-art open-air theatre. Henry Ronson school will also be renovated.
Not only, but also. The record $180 million to Rabin (Beilinson) Medical Center (see here previously) was not the only donation from Israelis Shmuel and Anat Harlap. They also contributed tens of millions of shekels to the Weizmann Institute for restoring a building damaged in last June’s Iranian missile attack.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hkxliir5xl
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
The bleeding edge. (TY Hazel) Prof. Abd Al-Roof Higazi of Hadassah Medical Center has developed ClearPlasma, a device that removes clot-dissolving proteins from donated plasma to quickly stop bleeding, His startup Plas-Free is now marketing ClearPlasma in Israel. Blood loss is the leading cause of death in under-45s.
https://www.plas-free.com/ https://www.plas-free.com/clearplasma
A clean wound heals faster. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s MediWound (see here previously) has successfully completed a Phase III trial that shows its EscharEx topical, non-surgical treatment to wound bed preparation ensures a much quicker recovery for venous leg ulcers. Trials on diabetic foot ulcers are being planned.
https://mediwound.com/product/escharex/
Blood test identifies depression treatment. Israel’s NeuroKaire (previously Genetika+ see here) has launched BrightKaire, the world’s first blood test to personalize depression treatment. It uses AI and stem cell tech to match patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) to effective medications. Approved in US and Israel.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/byof9tp9ge
Preventing deadly weight loss in cancer patients. Scientists from Israel’s Weizmann Institute, and Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, have discovered the cause of cachexia – deadly weight loss responsible for roughly one-third of global cancer deaths. Targeted blockade of the right vagus nerve could prevent onset of cachexia.
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-866643
Millions for Hadassah hospital. Members and supporters of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, pledged $23 million for Hadassah Medical Organization, its Jerusalem medical center, as well as programs in Israel and the US. It includes $5 million for a neurorehabilitation center and $3 million for IVF.
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Awards for volunteers. (TY Sharon) The Israeli President’s Volunteer Awards were established in 1974 by President Ephraim Katzir. They include both organizations and individuals. In 2025 / 5785, some of the celebrants were not even human, and may not have volunteered, but they seemed very happy to be there!
Haredi IDF recruitment day. Dozens of young Haredim reported to the Tel Hashomer induction center, taking part in a special enlistment day designated for Haredi units in the IDF. They joined the Netzach Yehuda Battalion, Hashmonaim Brigade, Paratroopers, Givati and Border Police.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414191
70,000 march in London. In London and in dozens of of cities globally, ordinary citizens (Jews and non-Jews) have been demonstrating their opposition to hatred and violence against Jews and Israelis.
Technion UK tour of Israel. (TY Alan Aziz) A diary of the Technion UK’s Israel tour. Delegates have had media and security briefings, visits to new museums, the Technion, Rambam hospital, a Druze village, IAI, and the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation. Plus presentations from Meta Israel, Moovit, and a Nobel Laureate.
https://technionuk.org/trip-album/
Israel vs OECD in education. Israel may have the 2nd highest classroom density in the OECD, but it is 1st in expenditure on primary, secondary, and post-secondary education institutions. It is 3rd for children under two in educational institutes. And it is 1st in number of primary school days, as Israeli children learn 6 days per week.
Israel opens embassy in Zambia. Israel formally reopened its embassy in Lusaka, Zambia, after a gap of more than half a century. Zambia opened its embassy in Israel in 2015 (see here previously) after a gap of 40 years. Meanwhile, Israel’s Save A Child’s Heart and AJC donated a $200,000 heart-lung machine to Zambia.
https://www.jns.org/israel-raises-flag-in-zambia-deepens-african-partnerships/
Prize for ex-Colombian President. Former Colombian President Iván Duque Márquez Fundación received the Shalva Prize for Social Equality and Inclusion, in Jerusalem, in recognition of his steadfast leadership and commitment to social inclusion and human dignity. See all the Ambassadors who attended, and read his speech.
https://www.diplomacy.co.il/diplomatic-events/4883-shalva-prize-for-social-equality-and-inclusion-h-e-ivan-duque-marquez-fundacion-in-recognition-of-your-steadfast-leadership-and-commitment-to-social-inclusion-and-human-dignity https://www.shalva.org/
Shhh! There is no genocide. On 1 Sep, The UK Government’s David Lammy stated that Israel is not committing genocide in Gaza. Sir Michael Ellis KC, former Attorney General for England and Wales, noted that he made the admission in an "obscure letter released at midnight on a Friday during a ministerial reshuffle".
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-866809
This is my earth – update. Over the past 10 years, Israeli biodiversity NGO “This is My Earth” (see here previously) has raised $580,000 in campaigns to purchase 13 sq km of land in biodiversity hotspots under threat, protecting some 100 threatened species in six countries. The NGO has 7,000 members.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-crowdfunding-ngos-unique-model-gives-donors-a-say-in-saving-global-biodiversity/ https://this-is-my-earth.org/success-stories/
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Cow-free milk. Israeli food giant Strauss has launched CowFree, an innovative dairy alternative made from the BLG protein, which is identical in composition to one of the proteins found in cow milk, but not derived from animals and has no lactose. Kosher (parve) Yotvata CowFree milk and soft cheese will be in the shops soon.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414727 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65yEpy-koHQ
Laser defense from the sky. Israel’s Elbit is developing airborne laser pods for fighter jets, essentially lasers that operate above the clouds. https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rys3xai5gl
On track. Israel’s Defense Ministry has completed successful trials with a new rail-mounted robot designed to secure sensitive sites, including prisons, military bases, and borders. It strengthens security, creates warning capabilities and increases deterrence inside and outside of prison facilities. It can even shoot down drones.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-867096
AI system for border defense. (TY Hazel) Israel’s Elbit Systems has launched Frontier, an AI -powered surveillance platform designed to tackle the growing challenges of border defense. Frontier uses sensors and AI to autonomously detect, classify, and assess threats in real time across land, air, and sea.
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-866830
https://www.elbitsystems.com/land/land-c4isr/imaging-night-vision/frontier
Rafael shakes the Lulav. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has partnered with Haifa-based startup Lulav Space (see here previously) to reshape the future of low-altitude air defense with an advanced next-generation drone interception system that operates independently of GPS.
A soundtrack of heroism and Israeli pride. Israel Aerospace Industries has launched a campaign celebrating the company’s cutting-edge technologies and highlighting technology, pride, and national spirit. Its 15,000 employees have developed the “Arrow” missile defense system, UAVs, satellites, planes, radars and more.
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-865856
A DAZL’ing way to create an App. Israel’s DAZL aims to use AI to give app developers the ability to generate fully functioning apps. Until now, AI has been useful for creating app prototypes but has fallen short of building launch-ready products. DAZL has employed 30 ex-Wix developers with creative experience.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/r130sqh9ex https://dazl.dev/
Bringing AI to mainframes. Israel’s Geniez AI is tackling the challenge of connecting real-time and historical data locked inside mainframe systems into the era of large language models (LLMs) and AI agents. Geniez AI’s framework runs on mainframes and uses ChatGPT, Claude, or Llama to tap into those systems directly.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sy0wozd5ll https://www.geniez.ai/
AI avatar tutor improves test scores. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s eSelf (see here previously) completed a pilot in partnership with the Center for Educational Technology, Israel's largest K-12 textbook publisher. The initiative (with Harvard and MIT) helped thousands of Israeli students with their English Oral Matriculation (Bagrut).
Safer batteries. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Vocai (see here previously) has partnered with South Korea's Nanointech deliver the industry's most advanced battery intelligence and safety capabilities. Vocai's ED-10A transforms chemical data into early detection of battery degradation, thermal runaway (i.e. fire), and failure.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Israeli stock market is soaring. The Israeli stock exchange has risen 65% since 7 Oct 2023 in a sign of Israeli resilience and its improved geo-strategic situation in the region. In fact Israel was the second-fastest growing market in the world last year, after its most friendly ally – Argentina. Maybe there’s a message in that!
https://www.jns.org/israeli-stock-market-up-65-percent-since-hamas-oct-7-attack/
Investment agreement with India. (TY WIN) Israel and India deepened economic ties with the signing of a new bilateral investment agreement (BIA) in New Delhi. It is the first agreement of its kind between India and a Western-oriented member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
https://tps.co.il/articles/a-strategic-step-israel-and-india-sign-bilateral-investment-agreement/
Israelis in New York. New York is now home to about 560 privately-held startups founded by Israelis, according to a new report compiled by venture capital fund 97212 Ventures. New York is a global hub for Israeli-founded startups and businesses as they seek to grow beyond Israel’s small domestic market.
Two Israeli VC companies in TIME list. Israel’s Group 11 and NFX were selected from over 10,000 firms reviewed by TIME and Statista for 2025 ranking of 350 venture capital leaders.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-the-truth-about-huda-beauty-brands-ugly-antisemitism/
https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/bj5evzqfxx
New Tel Aviv tower fills up. The new 41-story Landmark TLV Tower A in central Tel Aviv, opened for occupancy in 2024, has reached full capacity. Meta occupies 13 floors. About 40% of the tower’s tenants are cybersecurity companies. Construction of Tower B is scheduled to finish in 2026.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/s13tfexsgg
US Army buys Israeli Spike missiles. (TY Hazel) US defense giant Lockheed Martin successfully completed a trial for the US Army of the Spike non-line of sight (NLOS) anti-tank missile from Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. 42 countries use Rafael’s Spike missiles, including 20 NATO members.
Israeli drone detection system for NATO. (TY Hazel) Israel’s ThirdEye Systems (see here previously) has secured a new $800,000 order from two NATO-affiliated customers for its cutting-edge drone detection systems. It is ThirdEye’s 2nd major NATO-related contract in 2025, after a $620,000 order earlier this year.
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-866982
A cheap room in Tel Aviv. (TY Yanky) The "Social Space" association offers IDF soldiers, reservists, lone soldiers, Zionist groups etc., rental accommodation in Tel Aviv at prices as low as $15/night. Social Space renovates abandoned buildings, and operates them for social purposes until they are turned into new purposes.
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1476817992453663282?source_impression_id=p3_1757592807_P3QA5khQrLDSDf9z https://www.socialspace.org.il/ https://si3.ujia.org/portfolio/social-space-tlv/
Sophie goes Dutch. Israel’s TechSee (see here previously) is partnering Netherlands-based next-generation contact center BrightContact, to bring TechSee's Sophie’s AI service support to BrightContact's customers. They can then deliver smarter, faster, and more scalable service with videos, Augmented Reality and more.
From “fired” to “hired”. Israel’s Tailor Brands (see here previously) has launched a $1 million "Tailor AID (Artificial Intelligence Displacement)" fund that equips Americans who lost their jobs to artificial intelligence with a complete, no-cost business-starter package. AI is eliminating roles, but it also can create independence.
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 14th Sep 25:. Edwards Lifesciences has completed the acquisition of Israeli startup Vectorious Medical Technologies for $497 million. Germany’s Nemetschek acquired Israel’s Firmus AI in deal worth tens of millions. Israel’s Minute Media has acquired India-America’s VideoVerse for $200 million. Israel’s FIMI acquired Israel’s Landa Corporation for $80 million. Boston MA based Ondas is acquiring Israeli robotics innovator Apeiro Motion. San Francisco’s Crusoe has acquired Israeli AI memory startup Atero.
Startup investment – to 14th Sep 25: proteanTecs raised $51 million; Koi Security raised $38 million; Solar Security raised $35 million; Blocks.diy raised $10 million; Dazl raised $10 million; Geniez AI raised $6 million; Lizo.ai raised $4 million.
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Petah Tikva Dessert Festival. (TY Yanky) On 28 Aug, residents of Petah Tikva, central Israel, enjoyed an evening of unique desserts. 65 sweet stalls served French crepe, pavlova, eclairs, crepe cake, cheesecake, Dubai cake, alfajores, tiramisu and more. With entertainment from Meni Mamtara, Eden Ben Zaken and Rinat Bar.
Guy conquers US Open. (TY WIN) Israel’s Guy Sasson with Dutch partner Niels Vink won the US Open wheelchair doubles title at Flushing Meadows. They beat their Chilean and Argentine opponents 6-1, 6-1.
https://jewishbreakingnews.com/idf-veteran-guy-sasson-wins-us-open-doubles-title/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytpHTXWd-kE
Gold & Silver surfers. (TY Hazel) Israel’s Anat Lelior (see here previously) won gold and Ido Hajaj silver in the women’s and men’s competitions respectively at the ABANCA Pantin Classic Galicia Pro surfing event in Spain. The Pantin Pro is a prestigious stop on the World Surfing Championship Tour.
https://www.worldsurfleague.com/posts/547465/anat-lelior-and-guilherme-ribeiro-win-abanca-pantin-classic-galicia-pro https://www.ynetnews.com/sport/article/syctn5119ll
Youth sailing gold. (TY Hazel) Omer Vered Vilenchik 18, won the ILCA World Youth (Under 19) Championships in Dublin Bay. Omer finished 10th in the U21 competition.
THE JEWISH STATE
Financial and other benefits for new Olim. Ok this is not the main reason for making Aliyah, but it’s good to get some help during and after the process. It’s not a complete list – there are many more – please consult an Aliyah advisor. https://www.jpost.com/aliyah/article-866045
A foothold in Israel. Marina Shear, wife of Newsletter subscriber Glen, can help any reader wishing to make Aliyah or purchase a property in Israel. She has assembled teams of English-speaking lawyers, mortgage brokers, builders, property managers, inspectors and designers. Read her guide and contact her for more details.
https://marinashear.com/ https://marinashear.com/2025-guide/
A total eclipse of the Moon – in Ellul. The Moon passed completely through the shadow of the Earth on Sun 7 Sep. The full “Blood Moon” was visible in Israel from 8:30pm until 9:52pm. The next time the event will occur is on 31 Dec 2028. But in the auspicious Jewish month of Ellul – who knows?
https://www.timesofisrael.com/blood-moon-to-rise-sunday-night-in-asia-including-israel-during-total-lunar-eclipse/ https://www.ynetnews.com/health_science/article/s14bvx7cgg
Connecting the Diaspora and Israel via texts. No, not SMS. Today, an unprecedented number of American Jews are seeking new ways to grapple with the complexity and nuance that is needed to understand Israel. The Jewish Education Project has the answer: return to the core texts of your people.
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/why-jewish-texts-matter-in-israel-education/ https://www.jewishedproject.org/
$1.6 million donation for Lod seminary. Ben J. and Dorit Genet have donated $1.6 million to the Ohr Torah Stone network for its modern orthodox women’s seminary in the central Israeli city of Lod. Renamed Lod Midreshet Dorit, it supports women wishing to learn Torah, work in the community and serve in the IDF.
https://ots.org.il/midreshet-dorit-in-lod/
Biblical currency. Those familiar with the Biblical book of Genesis will know that Abraham weighed out 400 shekels of silver to purchase the Cave of Machpelah where he buried his wife Sara. Now Israeli archaeologists have proved that silver was used locally for commerce and payment over the centuries when coins did not exist.
https://www.jns.org/silver-used-as-currency-in-israel-3600-years-ago/
250907
In the 7th Sep 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l So many volunteer groups are helping to rebuild after 7 Oct 2023.
l Israeli doctors removed a brain tumor via the eye socket.
l “Miracle delivery” bears fruit after 24 years.
l The first Ethiopian immigrant to attain full Israeli professorship.
l Two more Israeli “out of this world” space achievements.
l Israel continues to build for the future.
l Israel beat France and Belgium to advance to the EuroBasket final 16.
l See the wealth of ancient Jewish treasures unearthed in the Land of Israel.
· Click here to see the 31st Aug newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) 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 27,300 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
Rebuilding the Kibbutz. 50 young educators from the Hashomer HaTzair Labor Zionist youth movement have relocated to Kibbutz Nir Oz (see here previously) that was devastated by Hamas terrorists on 7 Oct 2023. Kibbutz chairman Tzvika Tesler said a prayer at a ceremony marking the start of the rebuilding process.
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/kibbutz-nir-oz-the-hardest-hit-community-in-the-10-7-attacks-welcomes-50-new-idealistic-residents-as-it-looks-to-rebuild/ https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414164
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rwqZ_uBUmI
German volunteers restore Metula guest house. A group of German volunteers, including descendants of Nazi families, went to Metula, a northern Israeli town damaged by war. Their goal: to help rebuild homes and support recovery efforts. Their message: “We came to fix, not to forget.”
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-german-volunteers-help-restore-northern-israel-community/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4KPxwGGlFo
Parents volunteer to see their lone soldier children. 77 Parents of lone soldiers from the US, Russia and Argentina arrived as an organized group on the Birthright Israel volunteer program to see their children and assist the Jewish state. They had an emotional reunion on Aug 7 at the IDF base in Glilot Junction.
https://www.jns.org/parents-of-lone-soldiers-visit-in-volunteer-cohort-via-birthright-israel/
German Christians support Israel. To show faith and solidarity, young German Christians defied fear and public opinion to come to Israel and support the Jewish state. They sang in Hebrew, prayed at the Western Wall, and witnessed both the beauty and heartbreak of a nation under fire.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-young-german-christians-visit-israel-to-show-support/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_1N1fEhQ50
More students than before the war. (TY Sam K) 23,700 students have returned to school in the Gaza envelope – an increase of approximately 2,000 since 7 Oct 2023. https://ground.news/article/back-to-school-data-in-the-envelope-number-of-students-returning-increased-by-2-000
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Brain stem tumor removed through eye socket. Surgeons at Tel Aviv Sourasky (Ichilov) Medical Center performed Israel's first-ever minimally invasive brain surgery through the eye socket. Surgeons successfully removed a rare skull base tumor without the need to open the skull.
Groundbreaking bacteria research. Hebrew University of Jerusalem scientists have developed a technique that distinguishes the precise subgroup of a bacteria strain that is causing infection. It explains why antibiotics and vaccines sometimes fail. The discovery can lead to more precise treatments.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/using-novel-method-to-compare-subgroups-israeli-researchers-unlock-bacterias-secrets/ https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(25)00915-8
No wasted medical trials. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s QuantHealth.ai (see here previously) has successfully simulated 350+ clinical trials, with 90% predictive accuracy. Its 23 therapeutic areas, include oncology, immunology, cardio-metabolic diseases, and gastroenterology. It saved one top 10 customer $31.4 million.
Combating obesity. (TY WIN) The US FDA has approved generic liraglutide injection from Israel’s Teva. It copies Novo Nordisk’s obesity drug Saxenda, which costs over $1,300 per month. Liraglutide mimics the body’s glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone, suppressing appetite and triggering insulin release for up to 24 hours.
https://jewishbreakingnews.com/teva-wins-fda-approval-for-first-generic-weight-loss-drug/
Another award for OncoHost. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s OncoHost (see here previously) has been selected as the Top Precision Oncology Solution for 2025 by Life Sciences Review. OncoHost’s PROphet® predicts how a specific immunotherapy treatment will perform on a cancer patient, from a single blood sample.
https://www.prnewswire.com/il/news-releases/oncohost-named-top-precision-oncology-solution-for-2025-302517239.html https://www.lifesciencesreview.com/oncohost
Prem baby returns to hospital. 24 years ago, Prof Simcha Yagel delivered premature baby Ruhama, weighing just 495 grams, at Jerusalem’s Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital. Ruhama has just returned to the same hospital – to give birth to her first child – a boy. And Prof Yagel was present at that delivery too.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414035
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
The first Ethiopian Israeli University Professor. (TY Yanky) Anbessa Teferra, an Ethiopian-born linguist, was the first Ethiopian immigrant to be appointed Associate Professor at any Israeli university, back in 2015 (see here). He now becomes Israel’s first Ethiopian immigrant to achieve a full professorship.
https://ethiodiasporahub.com/anbessa-teferra-first-ethiopian-immigrant-full-professor-in-israel/
Second unit for Haredi IAF technicians. (TY Yanky) The IDF has established a second Israeli Air Force technicians unit for male members of the ultra-Orthodox community (see here for first unit). They are now certified “level A” technicians for F-16 fighter jets, alongside preserving their religious lifestyle.
Israeli soccer stars honor Druze Majdal Shams children. (TY Hazel) The 12 Druze children murdered by Hezbollah in Majdal Shams (July 2024) were honored in an emotional exhibition match which brought together the families of the victims and the injured, alongside legendary players from Israel’s national team.
https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/majdal-shams-children-honoured-in-football-match-with-israeli-legends/
Official visit to Nigeria. Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel visited Nigeria for talks on strengthening bilateral relations. Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said “Nigeria and Israel share common values and challenges..” Haskel visited an Israeli innovation center in Abuja.
https://www.jns.org/israeli-deputy-fm-visits-nigeria-amid-diplomatic-push-in-africa/
Students from 24 US unis tour Israel. US students of the Hasbara Fellowships and IsraelAmbassadors.com delegation met politicians, visited the sites of the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas massacre, met a former hostage and toured Israel’s northern borders for an on-the-ground understanding. They will be effective activists for Israel.
https://www.jns.org/u-s-students-tour-israel-to-fight-disinformation/
Friendship with India still flourishes. India celebrated its Independence Day on 15 Aug. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu for congratulating the people of India on the country’s 78th Independence Day. Both Israel and India gained independence in 1948.
https://www.jns.org/may-india-israel-friendship-continue-to-flourish-pm-modi-says/
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Ofek 19 launched. Israel launched the Ofek 19 satellite by a “Shavit” launcher from an undisclosed test site. Ofek 19 is a highly advanced SAR (synthetic aperture radar) observation satellite with enhanced capabilities.
IAI SMS Group led the project, with key support from Israel’s ELTA, Tomer, and Rafael.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-866136
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414293
Advanced space camera launched. Israel’s Elbit Systems has successfully launched one of the world’s most advanced space cameras - its JUPITER space camera - aboard the National Advanced Optical System (NAOS) satellite. It supports observation and military operations, environmental monitoring, and scientific research.
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-865439
Defending against hypersonic missiles. While Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is finalizing laser-based systems to intercept rockets, mortars, and UAVs, it is also working on its “SkySonic” project, designed to intercept hypersonic missiles. https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/t4uymydsh
Drone protector is also anti-drone defender. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s ParaZero Technologies builds drone safety systems (see here previously) and also systems to combat hostile drones. Its DefendAir systems include advanced optical detection and tracking, plus interception drones and guns that shoot nets to immobilize drones.
https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/parazero-completes-field-trial-of-enhanced-drone-defense-system-93CH-4155206 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbYHq8h6YXE
The first Boeing 777 freighter conversion. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is the first company to convert a Boeing 777-300ER passenger jet into a freighter. The 777-300ERSF can carry 100 tons of cargo. Its size, efficiency, and reduced operating costs positions it as a potential game-changer in the freight market.
See it, build it. The patented technology from Israel’s LightYX analyzes building construction plans in real time, reducing errors and boosting productivity. It aims to eliminate one of the industry’s most persistent inefficiencies: human error during on-site layout work. https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hklfk2e9lx
Been scammed? Israeli startup can help. (TY Atid-EDI) Many people who fall victim to online scams are left feeling helpless. Israel’s Online Justice offers a video chat option where clients can speak directly with experienced specialists, ask questions in real time, and understand the steps involved in recovering stolen funds.
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/07/17/3117163/0/en/Online-Justice-Launches-Video-Consultancy-to-Support-Fund-Recovery-for-Scam-Victims.html https://www.onlinejustice.com/
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Doubling the size of Yokneam. Israel is investing some NIS 1.8 billion to build 6,000 new housing units and upgrade infrastructure in the Northern city of Yokneam. It will enable the population of Yokneam (home of many hi-tech companies) to double from about 25,000 to 50,000 residents.
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/real-estate/article-865462
Building for hundreds of new students. Five nine-story buildings are being built in Israel’s Kfar Saba that will provide 369 apartments for students. The NIS 730 million Joy Living dormitory complex will have a dedicated room on each floor for communal use, such as shared workspaces, a yoga room, daycare, and more.
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/real-estate/article-865130
Transforming the Arava. KKL-JNF has approved a historic plan to expand its development efforts from the Arava to the Golan Heights, with a focus on the Jordan Valley. NIS 18 million will be invested each year over the next five years for residential development, agricultural training and essential infrastructure.
https://www.jns.org/kkl-jnf-approves-five-year-plan-for-jordan-valley/
Deep into the infrared. Israel’s SCD Semiconductor (see here previously), manufacturer of infrared sensors and detectors, has signed a multi-year strategic (“Blue & White”) contract with the Israel Defense Ministry. The NIS 380 million program will enable Israel to build next-generation sensors across the full infrared spectrum.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rybq11bq9gg
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414197
Successful Olim. Some examples of thriving Jerusalem food businesses started by new Israeli immigrants include Infused JLM, Power CoffeeWorks, and Crave (Kosher gourmet street food). But you need to bring fresh ideas, culinary creativity, and cultural richness.
Support for US Army. Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks’s subsidiary Gilat DataPath has been awarded a $7 million+ contract to deliver global field and support services to the U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Command, Control and Communications Networks. The program could extend to five years and $70 million.
Going beyond. (TY OurCrowd) The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved Israel’s Flytrex (see here previously) for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations (see here previously). Flytrex can now expand drone delivery to the USA’s 37 largest metro areas, with some 100 million+ residents.
Taking vegan salmon to the Next Level. (TY OurCrowd) The new All American Vegan menu offered by Next Level’s Veggie Grill features Oshi’s Pan Seared vegetarian salmon (see here previously). It is Oshi’s first rollout at a national chain.
Another lottery millionaire. Following last week’s consecutive multi-million shekel wins by two Israeli women, a father of four from southern Israel in his fifties won the Israeli National Lottery first prize of 10 million shekels in a drawing at the end of August. He had just completed 300 days of IDF reserve duty.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414214
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 7th Sep 25: Israel’s Hold Me is to acquire New York's Synthetic Darwin, an AI research and development studio pioneering the next generation of self-evolving, autonomous AI agents – the DarwinsLab. Israeli-founded (US-based) Varonis acquired California’s SlashNext for $150 million. Israel’s Cato Networks has acquired Israel’s Aim Security for $350 million.
Startup investment – to 7th Sep 25: Seemplicity raised $50 million; Utila raised $22 million; LightYX raised $11 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
On all of these. (TY Yanky) The manuscript of the original lyrics to “Al Kol Eleh” (On All of These), one of Naomi Shemer’s most enduring songs, was gifted last week by her family to the National Library of Israel. It is often sung to emphasize that we should be strong enough to endure bad events as well as enjoy the good ones.
https://www.jpost.com/j-spot/article-864745 https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/music/musicians/naomi-shemer
Ancient Samaritan estate unearthed. (TY UWI) Archaeologists uncovered a 1,600-year-old Samaritan estate in Kafr Qasim, featuring ornate mosaics, olive presses, and a purification bath that reveal both the prosperity and resilience of the community from the Roman to Byzantine periods.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-1600-year-old-samaritan-estate-unearthed-in-central-israel/
Honey badger on display. A rare honey badger was captured on video for the first time on Mount Dov in the Hermon region, using a thermal imaging camera. It confronted and chased off another animal, probably a jackal, without fear. IDF soldiers nearby were impressed by how it stood up to its much larger enemy!
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413885
Tel Aviv White Night returns. After being canceled in 2024 due to budget constraints and postponed from its original June 2025 date because of security concerns, Tel Aviv's beloved White Night festival made its highly anticipated return on 28th Aug. It transforms Israel's cultural capital into an all-night arts playground.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-865610
Young Strong Lungs. (TY Sharon Altshul) Sara Elijah’s first full solo release, “Young Strong Lungs” is an album of emotion translated into art. Sara’s parents founded Shalva, Israel’s groundbreaking initiative for individuals with disabilities. Her transition from the Shalva Band to solo artist is well worth listening to.
https://www.jns.org/sara-elijah-samuels-breathes-new-life-into-israeli-pop/
TJ Leaf finally comes home. After years of speculation, Israeli-born NBA forward TJ Leaf has fulfilled his lifelong dream of joining Maccabi Tel Aviv. 10 years ago, Leaf led Israel’s Under-18 national team to a silver medal in the Division B European Championship, where he was also named Most Valuable Player.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-865311
EuroBasket victories. Israel beat Iceland 83-71 in Katowice, Poland, to open its 2025 EuroBasket campaign. Then, after a narrow loss to Poland, Israel beat France 82-69. Finally, they beat Belgium 92-89 to advance to the last 16 for the first time in a decade. Watch the pre-tournament concert to see what inspired them.
https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-eurobasket-2025/teams/israel
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-865683 https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/414300
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/q8njNnen3pU (must see!)
Jumping for joy. (TY Hazel) Israel’s Daniel Bluman riding Corbie V.V. won the $340,000 CSI5* Major League Show Jumping Kubota Grand Prix of Toronto. His team Maccabi United also won $50,000 and is now top of the Season 5 league. Maccabi United also won the $312,500 Cabana Coast Team event the previous day.
https://www.worldofshowjumping.com/All-other-events/Daniel-Bluman-and-Corbie-VV-unbeatable-in-CSI5-Kubota-Grand-Prix-at-MLSJ-Toronto.html https://www.worldofshowjumping.com/All-other-events/Maccabi-United-make-their-mark-on-MLSJ-Toronto.html
Israelis take revenge on Celtic. (TY Hazel) In the UEFA Champions League soccer qualifying play-off, two Israelis, Ofri Arad and Dan Glazer helped Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty beat Scotland’s Celtic FC. Glazer scored a penalty. Last year Israeli winger Liel Abada left the club after suffering prolonged abuse from Celtic fans.
https://www.skysports.com/football/kairat-almaty-vs-celtic/live/547567
THE JEWISH STATE
Freedom and unity. (TY Avi Abelow) The light of Israel is contrasted with the dark ideology of its enemies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7-SDpkzFog
Hope and Love. (TY Sharon) Israeli children in Jerusalem began their school year to the sight of a positive message at the entrance of their school buildings. We all hope that this will be “a year of hope and love”.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/08/31/how-to-mark-end-of-summer-holidays-in-jerusalem/
A 2,000-year-old receipt. In excavations carried out in the City of David, within the Jerusalem Walls National Park, a small fragment of a stone tablet has been discovered, bearing an inscription naming “Shimon” and some financial information. The fragment has been dated to between 100 BCE and 100 CE.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-israeli-archaeologists-discover-2000-year-old-hebrew-inscription-in-city-of-david/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBaFDeP1NjY
4,000-year-old Wix. (TY WIN) Sorry, wrong spelling. Israeli archaeologists in Yehud uncovered 4,000-year-old textile lamp wicks preserved inside Bronze Age oil lamps, offering new insights into burial ceremonies and early recycling practices in ancient Israel. The fossilized wicks were originally made out of recycled linen.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq20w5yP-hA
See Israel’s ancient treasures. (TY WIN & All Israel News) The Israel Antiquities Authority’s new center (see here and here previously) showcases 600,000 coins, ancient scrolls, and biblical artifacts. Evidence of millennia of historical and cultural legacy connecting the Jewish people to their homeland. Tours available.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TgfohGel3Y https://www.iaa.org.il/en/page/Beit-Harshut
https://www.iaa.org.il/en/page/news-index https://www.iaa.org.il/en/page/touriaa
250831
In the 31st Aug 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Emotional reunion of Arab boy and the Israeli medic who saved him on 7 Oct.
l Unique successful emergency valve repair for heart transplant patient.
l Building the largest cardiological and neurological center in the Middle East.
l Placing an Israeli flag on Mount Kilimanjaro raised funds for Israeli hospital.
l An Israeli partnership will keep everyone in good shape.
l Another European country will not sell arms but will buy them from Israel.
l Enjoy a French pastry in a thousand-year-old forest
l See the dam built by Jewish Kings 2,800 years ago in Jerusalem.
· Click here to see the 24th Aug newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) IsraPundit, (TY Aviva) United with Israel, 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 27,200 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
Daniella has bullet removed. (TY Yanky) Ex-hostage Daniella Gilboa has finally had a Hamas bullet removed from her ankle at Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Campus. She had put off undergoing the surgery because the bullet was a daily reminder of how grateful she is to the Almighty for protecting her.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-860704
A sanctuary for combat soldiers. (TY Yanky) NGO Nechama and Hatzala for Israel has dedicated Dekel House in Moshav Patish to the memory of brave Captain Dekel Swissa, who fell on Oct 7 2023. Dekel House gives combat soldiers from Gaza a place to relax, swim, eat, drink and wind down during short periods of leave.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bkutc0w8xl https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-864016
“Miracle” saves IDF soldiers. The recent night attack on an IDF camp by 18 Hamas terrorists near Khan Younis could have been catastrophic. But six of Hamas’ eight grenades failed to explode. They also blew up an empty building. The soldiers responded, quickly eliminating 10 terrorists and air support finished the job.
https://worldisraelnews.com/soldiers-attacked-by-hamas-last-week-call-survival-a-miracle/
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-soldiers-tefillin-remain-unscathed-after-hamas-attack/
Arab boy reunited with medic who saved him on 7 Oct. 7-year-old Atala Osma Abu Madian was shot in the stomach and his father was murdered by Hamas on 7 Oct 2023. Atala was saved by MDA paramedic Zvi. They had a very emotional reunion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpKayVLjdgg
Floyd is back. (TY Yanky & JNS) ) At the BAYZ restaurant on Tel Aviv’s Hilton Beach, World boxing champion Floyd Mayweather met soldiers who have fought in Gaza’s alleyways or battles against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The soldiers showered him with love. “Know that you are winners,” he told them.
Quietly helping since 2024. You will have read here about IsraAid and its relief work in global catastrophes. But it kept quiet about its work in Gaza since early 2024, coordinating international aid organizations with the Israeli government and military. It is now publicizing its work and directly creating a logistics hub for partners.
Famine? Where? COGAT: “1,300 aid trucks entered Gaza during past week.” Meanwhile, almost 1,900 trucks waiting inside the Strip were collected and their supplies distributed by the U.N. and other international organizations. And more than 1,000 aid packages have been airdropped into the Strip since late last month.
https://www.jns.org/cogat-1300-aid-trucks-entered-gaza-during-past-week/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVPf-6wtDyI https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413974
https://www.jns.org/huckabee-slams-cbs-for-selectively-editing-interview-on-israel/
Hope and renewal. (TY Yanky) Hadas Loewenstern is widow of Rabbi Elisha Loewenstern, who heroically fell in Gaza. Elisha told Hadas that if anything happened to him, she was to “quickly find a new partner.” Hadas is now engaged to Hod Reichert whose wife during childbirth and they will raise their 10 children together.
https://www.jfeed.com/news-israel/widow-idf-soldier-engagement
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Valve repair for heart transplant patient. Doctors at Israel’s Rabin Medical Center successfully performed an emergency mitral valve repair on a heart transplant patient. The procedure has been performed only twice in patients after heart transplantation worldwide - and never before attempted on a patient in cardiogenic shock.
Promising treatment for cancer. Israel’s Silexion reported here in April that its SIL-204 reduced pancreatic tumors. Latest studies show it also works on lung cancer. Its silencing of KRAS protein mutations achieved unprecedented inhibition rates of up to 97% in pancreatic cancer cells and nearly 90% in colorectal cancer cells.
The first fingerstick infection blood test. Israel’s MeMed (see here previously) has completed a multi-year development of MeMed BV Flex. The test enables accurate differentiation between bacterial and viral infections in just 15 minutes using only a few drops of capillary blood from a finger prick.
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.07.21.25331877v1
BGU scientists return to their work. The direct missile hit on Soroka hospital in Be’er Sheva during the war with Iran also froze groundbreaking research on curing diabetes at Ben-Gurion University. Now, after two months, the scientists have returned to alternate laboratories to continue their work on life-saving medications.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFsZencAT5E
US FDA helps clear the airways. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s Synchrony Medical (see here previously) has received FDA clearance for its LibAirty™ Airway Clearance System for At-Home Respiratory Relief. It can now bring relief to millions of patients in the USA, living with chronic lung diseases.
https://sheba-global.com/synchrony-medicals-libairtytm-cleared-by-fda/
1,600+ more Ethiopians can now see. Dr Morris Hartstein (see here previously) led an annual delegation from Israel's Shamir Medical Center under the auspices of his Operation Ethiopia, where they treated 1,653 patients suffering from cataracts, infections, and preventable diseases. They also distributed 440+ pairs of eyeglasses.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413822
Massive donation for “Hope Tower”. Israelis Shmuel and Anat Harlap have donated $180 million to Israel’s Rabin Medical Center for the construction of the largest cardiological and neurological center in the Middle East. It is the largest-ever single gift to an Israeli hospital and the new center is to be named “Hope Tower”.
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Caring for lone soldiers. The Lone Soldier Center had a busy first six months of 2025. It onboarded 449 new Lone Soldiers; handled a 60% increase in mental health needs; provided food vouchers; reunited soldiers with family; awarded 118 scholarships and provided 80 laptops to soldiers leaving for civilian life or university.
https://lonesoldiercenter.com/half12025_e.pdf
Voice of the people. President Herzog’s inaugural Voice of the People summit. in Haifa, brought together 50 people from Israel, 50 from North America, and 50 from other regions to address rising antisemitism, strengthen Israel-Diaspora ties and promote internal diversity
Scholarship for 40 Druze. The World Zionist Organization, the Zionist Council in Israel and the Menomadin Fund are financing a scholarship for 40 Druze students who have served in the reserves a scholarship to help them ease back into their studies. This is the third year that these scholarships are available.
https://menomadinfoundation.com/druze-leadership-program-aalam-to-welcome-fourth-cohort/
Climbing Kilimanjaro for Israel. 18 young Jewish professionals from North West London successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in a landmark charity expedition. They carried an Israeli flag to the summit and raised more than £90,000 to help fund a new medical center in Tzfat through a partnership with UJIA.
Panama’s Ambassador speaks out. Ezra Cohen, Panama’s envoy to Israel, has a candid conversation about diplomacy, crisis management and the untold story of Israel’s global image. He also explains why Latin American leaders are aligning more with Israel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMzZqYhHJQM
https://www.jns.org/from-nasdaq-to-the-western-wall-panamas-ambassador-speaks-out/
Serbia-Israel friendship conference. (TY Yanky) The Congress of Serbian-American Friendship hosted a conference in Belgrade: “Belgrade Strategic Dialogue: Serbia–US–Israel Partnership.” Serbian foreign minister Marko Djuric said that there was strong political will in Serbia to develop good relations with Israel and the US.
Only Israel can save the world. Terrific video features Melanie Phillips speaking at the Argaman Institute for Advanced Studies in Jerusalem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M39HvcgvHts
How an antisemite changed. What changed Nikos Sotirakopoulos from an antisemite to an admirer of Israel was seeing positive messages. Please pass on this newsletter to those who fail to see Israel in a positive light.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RN8Jd6VCIl4&t=2246s
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
A global AI-giga computer. A technological breakthrough by Nvidia’s Israeli R&D center will allow data centers in geographically distant locations to operate as if they were in one place. It effectively creates “AI factories” on a massive scale and significantly increases the maximum available computing power.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/6b219rhac
National space lab. Israel is to establish a national R&D lab to back startups developing space technologies and propel them into orbit. The lab is expected to reduce market launch costs by 35% for eligible companies. The lab operator will be awarded up to NIS 40 million in grants, for 55% to 66% of total project costs.
Prestigious grants to Israeli scientists. Bar-Ilan University Prof. Amos Danielli (see here previously) won grants from the U.S.–Israel Binational Science Foundation and the European Union’s Horizon Innovative Health Initiative. Six other Bar-Ilan scientists were awarded grants from the Israel Science Foundation.
https://engineering.biu.ac.il/en/node/14273
Innovation Resilience & Hope. On 17 Sep, Ben Gurion University of the Negev invites the global community to a special virtual event celebrating the extraordinary spirit of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. They will share groundbreaking scientific achievements, from students who serve in the IDF and other accomplishments.
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yqtWmpJVRWm8ERZuGXU-_w#/registration
New windows on trains. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Transportation and Communications ministries are to spend NIS 68 million to improve cellular reception for passengers traveling on Israel Railways. It includes laser-etching train windows to reduce signal obstruction, Wi-Fi boosters and more cellular antennae along the tracks.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-860540
From Promise to Progress: Rebuilding the Negev. This video from Ben Gurion University features Prof. Miki Malul, Special Advisor on rebuilding the Negev after Oct 7 and the Iranian missile attacks. He shares the University’s efforts in Sderot, Dimona, and the Bedouin communities, along with his vision for the future.
https://americansforbgu.org/video/rebuilding-the-negev/
Hospital goes greener. (TY Yanky) Sourasky (Ichilov) Hospital is the only hospital in Israel so far to have established a trigeneration station. It combines electricity production with the use of thermal energy from the production process for cooling and heating processes.
https://israel.com/breaking-only/major-tel-aviv-hospital-goes-green/
Israeli hi-tech partnership for better health. Israel’s VR/AR immersive therapeutic care platform XRHealth (see here previously) has partnered with Israel’s AI-driven virtual physiotherapist Kemtai (see here previously) to to create a fully interactive, clinically validated digital therapy experience..
You can have Sophie Now. Well actually you’ll have to wait until Sophie AI (from Israel’s TechSee – see here previously) has been integrated into the “Now” platform from US-giant ServiceNow. Then service teams will get real-time visual diagnostics, guided automation, and AI-powered visual assistance.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
A bigger BIRD. (TY Yanky) A new bipartisan US House bill seeks to expand joint US-Israeli R&D (BIRD) programs in the medical field by establishing a $10 million annual funding stream and joint management structure between the US Department of Health and Human Services and the Israeli Ministry of Health.
https://jewishinsider.com/2025/07/bird-health-act-bipartisan-bill-u-s-israel-collaboration/
https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4473/text/ih?overview=closed&format=xml
Biblical site for new airport? (TY Atid-EDI) Initial planning for an international airport at Ziklag in the Negev should be ready within three months. A decision will then be made in comparison with the alternate site at Ramat David in the Jezreel Valley. By 2040 Ben Gurion Airport will reach its 40 million maximum capacity.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-netanyahu-orders-planning-for-new-airport-at-ziklag-1001515114
More El Al flights to the UK. Israel’s El Al is to operate 20 weekly flights to Britain next winter to meet heightened demand - its most ever on the route. The airline will offer 15 flights a week to London’s Heathrow Airport - Europe’s busiest airport - as well as five weekly flights to Luton Airport, starting in late October.
https://www.jns.org/el-al-to-offer-a-record-20-weekly-flights-to-the-uk-this-winter/
Building Israeli drones in Florida. (TY Atid-EDI) Israel’s XTEND Reality officially debuted its new U.S. headquarters and production facility in Tampa, Florida. The new facility strengthens America's domestic drone production capacity while bringing high-tech jobs and investment to Florida.
Israel’s Rafael to upgrade German Eurofighters. Germany may not be selling Israel weapons to fight terrorists but it sure is buying them from Israel. It has just approved a Euro 358 million purchase of 90 Litening 5 targeting pods for enhancing its Eurofighter Typhoon fleet from Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413899 https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/h1ysgnofxe
Top 10 AI fintech. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s ThetaRay (see here previously) has been selected by FinTech Magazine as one of the Top 10 FinTechs Leveraging AI. ThetaRay also launched its Self-Service Rule Builder and Simulator, two powerful tools enhancing its transaction monitoring solution.
https://fintechmagazine.com/news/top-10-fintechs-leveraging-ai
Starlink launches Israel Internet services. Elon Musk's low orbit satellite company Starlink has launched services in Israel to the general public directly from its Internet site. The SpaceX division will offer Israelis fast Internet at download speeds between 40 and 200 Mbps and upload speeds between 8 and 25 Mbps.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-elon-musks-starlink-launches-israel-internet-services-1001518509
Financial help for Israeli research – from…. Poland! The 2025 Polish government Grants Program is open for companies all around the world. But it is specifically keen on bringing in Israeli R&D and is offering grants up to Euro 20 million, covering up to 80% of R&D costs.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rkd4kuntxx
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 31st Aug 25: Cybersecurity giant Okta has acquired Israel’s Axiom Security for an estimated $100 million; Global cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has acquired Israel’s Capitalise.ai. Thoma Bravo is acquiring Israeli-founded Verint for $2 billion.
Startup investment – to 31st Aug 25: Ampa Real Estate raised NIS 600 million (TASE IPO); Restore Medical raised $23 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Sataf Forest visitor center. The Sataf Forest in the Jerusalem Hills dates back thousands of years, with two natural springs and some one million visitors a year. It has just opened a $4.5 million environmentally friendly visitor center, with a French patisserie, thanks to Jewish and non-Jewish Swiss Friends of KKL-JNF.
https://www.jns.org/visitor-center-with-french-patisserie-opens-in-sataf-forest/
Last days of the school holidays. (TY Sharon) In Jerusalem there were many opportunities for entertaining the children before they started their new school year. Fountains, water slide, International Puppet Festival, train theatre’s X-Mix, Circus in the Forest at the Botanical Gardens, Capital of Youth at Cinema City and more.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/08/24/in-jerusalem-how-to-keep-children-busy-and-safe/
Israelis overcome hurdles. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Adva Cohen won the Women's 3000 Meters Steeplechase race at the Balkan Championships in Greece. Israel’s Roan Halabi-Kablan won the bronze. Omri Shiff won silver in the Men’s 400 meters hurdles. https://worldathletics.org/competition/calendar-results/results/7221422
Gold for acrobatic gymnastics. Congratulations to Israel’s men for winning the Acrobatic Gymnastics gold medal at the World Games in Chengdu. https://www.instagram.com/israelincanada/p/DNV2OLdNO3x/
THE JEWISH STATE
Billionaire moves to Israel. Brandon Korff, a Jewish-American billionaire renowned for orchestrating one of the media industry's landmark deals, the $35 billion sale of Paramount, is in the process of securing Israeli residency. Korff framed his decision as a gesture of solidarity in the face of global boycotts and rising hostility.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-864800
1st Temple dam unearthed in Jerusalem. A massive dam uncovered in Jerusalem’s City of David has been dated to the reign of the Jewish Kings Joash or Amaziah, showing how Judah’s rulers responded to climate challenges 2,800 years ago. It is the largest dam ever found in Israel, 12m high, 8m wide and over 21m long.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413854
King David’s Israelites were bronze-age pioneers. University of Haifa archaeologists have uncovered evidence of bronze production dating back about 3,000 years, in the Biblical kingdom of David and Solomon. The ability to produce bronze reflects far greater technological sophistication than previously believed.
250824
In the 24th Aug 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Heartwarming Israeli recovery stories from the war in Gaza.
l Israeli breakthrough in spinal cord surgery.
l Israelis are restoring vines and olive trees at a monastery
l Israeli startup speeds up production of eco-friendly aviation fuel.
l Two Israeli women win the lottery on consecutive days.
l Israeli comedy about kidnapping is a (surprise?) hit with Israeli audiences.
l Israelis were dancing for joy (and medals) in Vietnam.
l More ancient Jewish history unearthed in Israel.
· Click here to see the 17th Aug newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) 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 27,100 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
Avi and Eden are married. IDF Commander Avi, shot in the head on Oct 7 2023, was rehabilitated at Raanana’s Lowenstein center where he met and got engaged to his nurse Eden (see here previously). They were recently married. See links here. And here. And note the multicultural Jewish wedding in Israel.
Idan Amedi’s reunion with medic who saved his life. Actor and singer Idan Amedi reunited with the doctor who saved his life after he was severely injured in Gaza. At his Jerusalem concert for thousands of fans, Amedi paused his performance, hugged Dr Tuvia Book, saying “I love you, “I will never be able to thank you enough.”
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413376 https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413495
Hearts go out to female soldiers. (TY Yanky) Lev LeChayalot (Heart for Female Soldiers) was started as a grassroots initiative to raise the spirits of thousands of courageous female IDF soldiers defending the country, providing them with the vital care they need to help them better able to serve their country.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-835281 https://chayalot.com/who-we-are/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/defense-news/article-864530
Attack on Iran stopped its cyber-attacks against the UK. (TY OurCrowd) In May, Israel’s Cyabra (see here previously) uncovered an Iranian bot network attack intending to manipulate UK political sentiment and deepen domestic divisions. But for 16 days in June, after Israel began attacking Iran, the bots went silent.
Oct 8. Jewish-American filmmaker and author Wendy Sachs showed her documentary “October 8”, which tries to reclaim control of the narrative, at the Jerusalem Film Festival. According to her, the film seeks to explain “how we got to where we got,” and it’s intended for an international and not necessarily Jewish audience.
https://www.jns.org/hollywood-has-no-spine-jewish-director-fights-antisemitism/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
The first human spinal cord implant. Tel Aviv University and Israel’s Matricelf (see here previously) are to perform the world’s first surgery, where a personalized engineered human spinal cord will be implanted in a paralyzed patient. The procedure aims to enable the patient to rise from a wheelchair and walk again.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-864808 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/UYHX2NNLRUg
Eliminating EoE. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a food allergy (milk, eggs, wheat, nuts, fish etc.,) disease that affects 1 in 2,500 people. Now a team of researchers from Tel Aviv University have found that blocking the protein TSLP might stop the disease from developing. It may also help understand other allergic disorders.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-food-allergy-disease-eoe-rises-israeli-team-says-blocking-a-protein-can-shut-it-down/ https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.02.25.640192v1
4th FDA clearance for AI blood analysis. Israel’s Scopio Labs (see here previously) has now received the fourth FDA clearance for its groundbreaking, full-field digital hematology imaging platform. The new Decision Support System significantly helps labs analyze blood smears for anomalies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9HqaBCg4Ac
Good Medicine. (TY Sharon) The Good Medicine experience at Jerusalem’s Friends of Zion, featured Chief Joseph and Dr. Laralyn RiverWind, founders of FireKeepers International, a Native American Zionist charity. They gave messages of support and the gift of healing, from one indigenous people to another.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/08/17/jerusalem-protests-beating-drums-but-more/
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/r9bg_iR3Pk0 https://www.firekeepersinternational.org/
https://www.firekeepersinternational.org/copy-of-projects
Therapeutic playroom in memory of Bibas family. Schneider Children’s Medical Center has inaugurated its first therapeutic playroom, dedicated to the memory of murdered hostages Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas. It offers hospitalized children a space for play, healing, and hope. It was created thanks to non-profit "Toys for Simcha."
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413450 https://israelactive.com/?s=%22Toys+for+Simcha%22
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
A model for Haredi integration. The Israel Sci-Tech School Network (ISTS – see here previously) is implementing a model of respecting tradition while preparing for the future. Some 1,000 Haredi students are enrolled in ISTS colleges. In cities like Tsfat, 65% of the students at one ISTS college are Haredi.
Streamlined visa application process for evangelical Christians. (TY Yanky) US Ambassador and Christian Zionist Mike Huckabee has successfully unblocked the bureaucratic delays that evangelical Christians recently experienced when applying for entry visas to Israel. A new streamlined and efficient process now operates.
https://il.usembassy.gov/statement-from-us-ambassador-to-israel/
Israelis help replant vines at monastery. (TY Yanky) The agricultural lands of the Trappist monks at the Latrun Monastery were badly burned in the recent wildfires (many caused by Arab arsonists). Now 80 Israeli volunteers (secular and religious Jews) are helping the monastery recover by planting new vines and olive trees.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/after-catholic-monks-vineyard-was-burned-in-wildfires-israelis-dig-in-to-help-replant/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebtdJF2q0OA
Saving endangered plant species. One of Israel’s rarest plants - the spear-leaved dogbane - is currently blooming in the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens after its extinction from the Negev Desert. Until it is returned to the Negev, visitors can admire the plant’s beauty at the “refuge” pond at the Botanical Gardens’ northern edge.
https://www.jns.org/breakthrough-in-israels-plant-conservation-efforts/
Searching for flood victims. Following the devastating floods that swept through Texas Hill Country in early July, the Israeli-based ZAKA volunteer emergency-response and disaster-victim recovery organization has deployed a specialized team to the state after a call for support from Texas authorities.
A side of Israel that rarely makes the news. Innovation Africa’s latest newsletter highlights a major area where Israelis benefits humanity.
https://us5.campaign-archive.com/?u=3f627acf2a45b98171765e2e2&id=9a9b213224
IDF saves lives across the world. (TY WIN) From earthquakes in Greece to tsunamis in Japan and terror attacks in Kenya, the IDF has carried out 37 humanitarian missions across 29 countries, proving that its mission extends far beyond defending Israel - it’s about saving lives worldwide.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7Df2hw0dkQ
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Joint US-Israel Quantum AI tech hub. Israel and the US are to create a joint science center for artificial intelligence and quantum innovation at an investment of $200 million. The center will serve as a hub to promote technology-driven cooperation and diplomacy with Gulf countries in AI and quantum science.
Open-access AI supercomputer. Israel’s largest server farm operator, SDS (Schonfeld Data Services) has completed the construction of a new NIS 1 billion supercomputer. SDS-AI will be the first supercomputer to be available to local AI startups and Israeli academic researchers.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hk3ibhgylx
Grain analysis in seconds. Israel’s SCIO (see here previously) has launched the Mini 2 - the 2nd generation of the world’s first pocket spectrometer. It analyses the content of corn (ear, shelled or sweet corn). It is vital for US agriculture ,to aid harvest, storage, and field management decisions. It also scans cheese.
https://www.scionir.com/sensors-network/scio-mini/
A better way to produce fuel. Israel’s NGV (see here previously) has developed an efficient method for producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) without vast quantities of hydrogen gas. NAV uses a novel iron catalyst system (Fe-spinel) to produce higher volumes of suitable liquid hydrocarbons at a much lower cost.
https://www.safinvestor.com/opinion/147972/ngv/
Cooling AI data centers. Israel’s ZutaCore (see here previously) has partnered with global AI-as-a-Service platform, Iozera, to make data centers more sustainable for AI operations. ZutaCore's HyperCool® technology uses a direct-to-chip pool boiling system to efficiently remove heat from processors and away from servers.
Green buildings. Israel embraces sustainable construction with innovative materials, energy-efficient design and long-term savings - positioning green building as a key pillar of environmental responsibility and modern real estate strategy. Israel has adopted Standard 5281, which defines clear criteria for sustainable buildings.
https://www.ynetnews.com/real-estate/article/bkw5mdlygx
Taking X-ray security scanning to the next level. Israel’s SeeTrue (see here previously) is rolling out SeeTrue X-ray – the next generation of its real-time detection of prohibited items. It features real-time, high-accuracy detection; low false positives for faster passenger flow; and connectivity with all common scanners.
https://www.ourcrowd.com/startup-news/seetrue-rolls-out-next-generation-ai-x-ray-screening-platform-advancing-security-screening-to-the-next-level https://seetrue.ai/xray/
An all-seeing eye. Israeli startup Scanary unveiled a groundbreaking technology for mass security screening, capable of processing up to 25,000 people per hour without physical contact or bottlenecks. The system detects hidden objects on individuals in motion across 200 square meters, identifying threats in under two seconds.
https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/r1ddukcilx https://scanary.ai/
Partnering for natural preservatives. Israel’s Novella Innovative Technology (see here previously) has partnered with Australia’s Metaphor Foods, to use Novella’s botanic AuraCell™ plant cell natural antioxidant and anti-microbial compounds for natural preservation in food applications.
Israel in space. Excellent history of Israeli achievements in the field of space and satellite technology.
https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/israeli-space-research-and-development
The star that came back for more. Tel Aviv University researchers and an international team of scientists have documented the first known instance of a star surviving a destructive encounter with a supermassive black hole - not once but twice. https://www.timesofisrael.com/in-world-breakthrough-scientists-see-star-survive-encounter-with-a-black-hole/ https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ade155
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5-mqY0Y4oo
Combining security and aesthetics. Israel’s Zarta Studio is fielding requests from prospective clients across the country - that demand the firm’s specialty: building fortresses that look anything but. Its projects include designs in places hit hard by Oct 7 2023, including Sderot, Nahal Oz, Ein Hashlosha, and Yad Mordechai.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Fly direct to Vietnam. Israeli airline Arkia plans to launch direct flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to Vietnam’s capital Hanoi early next year. It marks the first direct flight service between Tel Aviv and Hanoi.
The regional economic superpower. (TY Yanky) You may be able to read this article by Ruchir Sharma in the UK Financial Times in which says “The markets are signaling a clear winner in the Middle East. Israel’s stunning stock rally suggests the country is cementing its status as the regional economic superpower.”
Airlines return to Israel. Scandinavian airline SAS has announced that it will resume flights to Israel, nearly a decade after suspending operations in the country. Beginning in late October, the airline will operate three weekly flights between Copenhagen and Tel Aviv. Air Europa has resumed with six weekly flights to Madrid.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413670
Better than China and Turkey. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Elbit beat Turkey’s Roketsan and China's Norinco in a tender from Peru’s military for Elbit's PULS artillery system, in an initial contract worth about $60 million. Elbit is working with Peruvian company FA ME in final negotiations with Peru's Ministry of Defense.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-elbit-wins-peruvian-puls-artillery-system-tender-1001516935
Two new millionaires. It was a week of extraordinary luck for Mifal HaPais, Israel’s state-run lottery, as two women in their 50s walked away with massive wins in consecutive draws - one taking home NIS 8 million, and the other scoring NIS 6 million the very next day. https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413636
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 24th Aug 25: Trivago acquired Israel’s Holisto for $40 million.
Startup investment – to 24th Aug 25: IVIX raised $60 million; Vendict raised $10 million; HyperAd raised $1 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Israeli movie sells a million Israeli tickets. (TY Yanky) Saving Shuli-San, the new Israeli comedy released in theaters on July 17, sold its one millionth ticket on Aug 11. One character, Batsheva, is played by Emma Medding, international model, daughter of a Japanese mother and an Australian father, who grew up in Israel.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-864258
Film Award winners. (TY Yanky) The 42nd Jerusalem Film Festival awarded Gal Gadot and US producer Lawrence Bender special awards of recognition. Gadot said, “I love my country, and I’m proud to be a part of it and to raise our voice for it.” Bender said, “Israel is where my soul is. each of us has to do our part.”
Silver medals. Israel’s Tamar Steinberg won the silver medal at the World Sailing Championship in Aarhus, Denmark. Israelis Daniela Peleg finished in fifth place and Sharon Kantor in sixth place. Israel’s Nadav Levi won the BC2 silver at the 2025 World Boccia European Championships in Zagreb for people with disabilities.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/ttwaprn7q
https://www.sail-world.com/news/287971/iQFOiL-Worlds-in-Aarhus-overall
https://bocciamedals.com/events/event-268-zagreb-2025-world-boccia-european-championships/
https://worldboccia.io/event/268/category/3519
The jellyfish have gone. (TY Yanky) It is incredible, but after the end of the 3 weeks, terminating with the Fast of Av, nearly all the jellyfish (meduzot) vanish from Israel’s beaches. So come here to enjoy safe, refreshing bathing in the warm Mediterranean. https://www.meduzot.co.il/overview-map/
Rafi beats antisemite. (TY Yanky) Israeli MMA fighter Rafi Aronov - who bravely fought against Hamas terrorists on 7 Oct - secured a major victory in London against Brad Wheeler, a known antisemite and vocal hater of Israel. Rafi walked into the arena proudly carrying the Israeli flag and walked out with his head high.
https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/174309-rafi-aronov
Ofri knows where she is going. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Ofri Yaakobi won the U18 Orienteering Sprint race at the European Youth Championship in the Czech Republic in the relatively new sport of Sports Navigation.
https://oresults.eu/events/2209?class=Women+18
Israeli amputees don’t give up. Since the Israel Amputee Football team began operating in 2020, over 70 different players have participated in its activities. Currently, the national team roster includes over 20 active players who train and compete regularly. https://israelamputeefootball.com/en/about-us/
https://amputeefootball.eu/projects/nations-league-2/ https://israelamputeefootball.com/en/home/
Israelis are dancing again. (TY Yanky) Israelis Liana Odikadze and Alexei Korovchenko won the World Open (new series) Latin Adult section of the World Dance Championship in Vietnam. Yaniel Grinevich and Eden Gurfinkel won silver in the Open Youth standard and also bronze in the Open Latin Rising Stars category.
THE JEWISH STATE
2,200 year-old gold coin for Egyptian Queen unearthed. A gold coin minted for Queen Berenice II dating back about 2,200 years has been uncovered just outside the Old City of Jerusalem. The discovery sheds new light on the status of Jerusalem after the destruction of the first Jewish Temple by the Babylonians in 586 BCE.
https://www.jns.org/rare-gold-coin-minted-for-egyptian-queen-unearthed-in-jerusalem/
Coin from Herod era unearthed. Lior Zavrag, a reservist officer in the Samaria Regional Brigade, discovered an ancient coin from the time of King Herod and more than 2,000 years old, in the Sebastia archaeological site. Field officials said, “through this very gate passed Omri, Herod and, of course, (prophets) Elijah and Elisha.”
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413621
Rebuild, volunteer, and tour Israel. A reminder that Jewish National Fund-USA is currently organizing much-needed volunteer missions in Israel for variety of ages and groups, from teens to adults. JNF-USA Volunteer in Israel Missions are your opportunity to build Israel now and make a difference for the future.
Great-great-great-grandfather’s tefillin. At the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu of Safed conducted a tefillin-laying ceremony for his grandson, who is celebrating his bar mitzvah. The tefillin worn by the boy were preserved from the Holocaust, having originally belonged to Rabbi Eliyahu’s great-grandfather
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413461
225 new Olim. (TY WIN) On 20 Aug, Nefesh B'Nefesh's Aliyah flight landed at Ben Gurion Airport, bringing 225 new Olim from North America. There were 125 children, singles, families, and medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, and therapists. 1,000 Olim in August - the largest month of Aliyah in two decades.
https://www.jns.org/good-news-doctors-professionals-youth-land-in-israel-on-nefesh-flight/ https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/israel/society/artc-nefesh-b-nefesh-s-65th-charter-aliyah-flight-arrives-during-record-month-of-aliyah-in-two-decades https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413556
250817
In the 17th Aug 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Israeli hostage survivors stand with their daughter under her wedding canopy.
l Israeli researchers are training cells to destroy cancer-causing proteins.
l Religious sons of Israeli leaders join IDF combat units.
l Israeli scientists discover that plants talk and insects listen.
l See if your aircraft is being pulled by an Israeli tow-truck.
l More Israeli international sporting successes.
l Israeli missing for 27 years is reunited with his family.
· Click here to see the 10th Aug newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) IsraPundit, (TY Aviva) United with Israel, 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 27,100 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
It must have been witchcraft! On social media. Abdollah Ganji, former editor of Iran’s state-controlled newspaper Javan, accused Israel of utilizing “Jewish witchcraft” and demonic forces during the recent war between the Jewish state and the Islamic Republic of Iran. How else can anyone explain the Israeli victory?
https://worldisraelnews.com/israel-used-jewish-witchcraft-during-war-iranian-journalist/
Technion graduates celebrate. Among the 1,904 graduates who just received Technion diplomas, was Adi whose brother, Shlomi was in the audience, having survived kidnapping by Hamas. Also twin brothers Ofek and Shachaf (electrical and computer engineering graduates) who completed 500 days of reserve duty together.
Ex-hostages celebrate daughter’s wedding. Shir Siegel waited nearly 2 years for her wedding as Hamas held her parents hostage in Gaza. Mother Aviva was released after 51 days and Father Keith after 484 days. Fellow ex-hostages Emily Damari, Liri Albag, Agam Berger, and Amit Soussana joined them under the chuppah.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-keith-and-aviva-siegel-walk-daughter-down-aisle-as-six-freed-hostages-recite-heartfelt-shehecheyanu-prayer/ https://israfan.com/p/freed-hostages-join-siegel-wedding
Building Weizmann back better. A month after Iranian missiles struck the Weizmann Institute, demolishing cancer, heart research and environmental labs, repair work is fast underway. And a “miracle” prevented the mass of flammable materials on site from igniting.
https://www.jns.org/israels-symbol-of-science-will-build-back-better-after-iranian-attack/
Agricultural school near Lebanese border. Kibbutz Yiron – an Israeli farming community in the Upper Galilee adjacent to the border with Lebanon – is opening a new Israeli agricultural boarding school this fall. It merges education with agriculture, breathing new life into the region following the war with Hezbollah.
https://www.jns.org/new-israeli-agricultural-high-school-to-open-near-the-border-with-lebanon/
85,000+ foreign workers. More than 85,000 foreign workers have entered Israel since Oct 7 2023. In addition, 11,000 agricultural laborers who had fled the war have returned to Israel.
https://www.jns.org/more-than-85000-foreign-workers-have-arrived-in-israel-since-start-of-war/
“You are my friend”. This video shows an IDF soldier giving a Gazan child puddings to share with his brother, who later thanked the soldier by calling him a friend with a good heart.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-heartwarming-moment-as-idf-soldier-shares-food-with-gazan-child/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Groundbreaking cancer research. One of European Research Council’s latest grants awarded to Israelis is for Bar-Ilan’s project targeting Protein Degradation, aiming to revolutionize how cancer and other diseases are treated at the molecular level. It specifically involves instructing cells to destroy harmful proteins.
https://www.biu.ac.il/en/article/583680
Swallowing your tongue? No need to worry. (TY Hazel) A new study led by a Tel Aviv Ichilov (Sourasky) Medical Center cardiologist reveals that it is wrong (and dangerous) to check if heart attack victims risk swallowing their tongue before commencing CPR. Delays can cause death or severe anoxic brain damage
https://www.ynetnews.com/health_science/article/hjblh11avxg
https://onlinecjc.ca/article/S0828-282X(25)00384-8/fulltext
Cross-border operations. Two critically ill Israelis were saved thanks to the heart and lungs donated by a newly deceased patient in Cyprus. Despite a car breakdown, the organs was transported to Israel within 4 hours. In addition, in cross-donations from living donors, five Israelis and three Cypriots received a new kidney.
https://worldisraelnews.com/israeli-doctors-transplant-cypriot-heart-and-lungs-in-race-against-time/
How to spot those at risk of genetic diseases. Researchers at Rambam Medical Center in Haifa have rewritten the book on prenatal testing for genetic diseases. The “old” method checks for identical segments (ROH) in the DNA inherited from mother and father. The new algorithm recognizes that ethnic minorities have more ROH.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/israels-rabin-medical-center-reports-genetic-disease-breakthrough/
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Yeshiva boys enlist in combat units. Hundreds of young men from hesder yeshivas across the country have reported for duty, to begin their service in the IDF as part of the hesder combat track. They included the sons of two government ministers, and the son of the head of the hesder yeshiva in Holon.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412884 https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413025
Help for distressed young people. ELEM/Youth in Distress in Israel is Israel’s leading non-profit serving at-risk youth, handling some 13,000 young people across the country’s vast demographic spectrum. With 380 employees and more than 1,200 volunteers, it has established new programs in the aftermath of Oct 7 2023.
Israel saved us. Speaking on the Israeli Arabic-language radio program Voice of the Druze, a Syrian Druze woman, identifying herself as Rama Rida, said her people would have been “completely destroyed” without the intervention of the IDF.
https://worldisraelnews.com/israel-military-action-saved-us-says-druze-massacre-survivor/
Jewish mothers unite in Israel. Almost 280 women from 15 countries gathered in Israel for an 8-day journey focused on Jewish identity and connection to Israel. The Momentum Journey of Growth project included participants from India, Venezuela, France, Canada, the United States, and Spain.
The Isaac Accords. Argentine President Javier Milei used his $1 million Genesis Prize to launch the American Friends of the Isaac Accords (AFOIA), aimed at deepening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Israel and Latin American countries. Milei’s effort is modeled after the Abraham Accords.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Technion graduate sparks AI research center. Technion graduate Dr Dean Leitersdorf is CEO of Israeli startup Decart (see here previously). He is now helping advance AI in Israel by funding millions of shekels for a joint Technion–Decart Excellence Program. They will also establish a joint AI research center.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sjca2dfrll
Moths listen to plants. Israeli scientists previously proved that plants emit sounds and listen to bees (see here). Further studies show that female moths decide whether to lay their eggs on specific plants depending on the sounds that they emit. https://english.tau.ac.il/research/moths-plants
https://www.timesofisrael.com/groundbreaking-israeli-study-first-ever-to-show-insects-listening-in-on-plants-talking/ https://elifesciences.org/reviewed-preprints/104700/figures#tab-content
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrL87LcZ9-4
Millionaire inventor. Tel Aviv University Professor Michael Belkin, at 83, received the "Visionary Award" from the American Glaucoma Research Foundation and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the MIXiii conference. He invented the Belkin Eagle (glaucoma treatment) and sold Belkin Vision for $330 million.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/gj5wj9i8g https://israelactive.com/?s=Alcon+Belkin+vision
Jewish women innovate. The 8th annual Hack.Her.It competition, organized by the Schreiber LevTech Entrepreneurship Center at JCT, brought together 136 Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox Jewish women to create Tech solutions to challenges. https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-863956
Israeli preschoolers outperform their peers. (TY David F) Israeli preschoolers who start early outperform peers, especially in religious schools. The researchers suggest that these differences might stem from Israel’s larger socio-economic and cultural-linguistic gaps compared to the leading nations.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-863926
Need more protein, eat Israeli fries. (TY UWI & I24 News) Israel’s PoLoPo (see here previously) has tripled the protein content of potatoes. But the taste is just as good – as this video test shows.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kxu8e2GCCGc
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Egypt needs Israeli gas. In the largest export deal in Israel’s history, NewMed Energy and its Leviathan gas partners have signed a $35 billion agreement to supply some 130 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Egypt by 2040. NewMed, described the deal as “the most significant move since the discovery of gas reserves in Israel.”
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-egypts-el-sisi-needs-israeli-gas-to-survive-1001518389
https://worldisraelnews.com/israel-signs-record-35b-gas-export-deal-with-egypt/
The $250 million ARR club. Calling an Israeli startup a Unicorn (with a billion-dollar value) is not the best indicator of its success. But if it achieves an Annual Revenue Rate (ARR) of $250 million, then it on the right track. Most Israeli ARR club members were founded around 2015 and have survived a decade of volatility.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rk00dqrmdee
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sytgjsbwxx
Financial support to small businesses. Since 2024, the Koret Israel Economic Development Fund (see here previously) has been providing emergency low-interest loans to war-ravaged Israeli small businesses.
Defense companies aim to go public. Both Israel Aerospace Industries and Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems are currently owned by the State, but are looking to make public offerings. IAI hopes to float a minority stake for $30 billion. No sensitive data will be made public, and the State will net the proceeds.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hkmgb0r00lg
Jerusalem reaches new heights. Jerusalem unveiled its first-ever skyscraper, marking a bold shift toward modern urban development while preserving its historic identity.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-jerusalem-reaches-new-heights-with-construction-of-skyscraper/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvyvAcoMfCU
Greener airports. The TaxiBot, (see here previously) a hybrid-electric tug designed to move aircraft without firing up their engines, is now undergoing expanded trials across major international hubs, including Amsterdam Schiphol, New York JFK, Paris Charles de Gaulle, and New Delhi.
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 17th Aug 25: US Advent International is to acquire Israel’s Sapiens for $2.5 billion. Israel’s NICE Systems acquired German AI company Cognity for $955 million. US Diginex acquired Israeli cyber firm Findings (IDRRA) for $305 million. Global giant KPMG is acquiring the operations of Israel’s Q.V.Technologies.
Startup investment – to 17th Aug 25: Appcharge raised $58 million; ACT-Security raised $20 million; NeoLogic raised $10 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Knesset museum opens. For the first time, the public can step inside Israel’s original Knesset building in the heart of Jerusalem — now transformed into a museum. Visitors can take a selfie with David Ben-Gurion, browse declassified protocols and walk through the halls where Israel’s early leaders shaped the nation.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-historic-knesset-museum-showcases-israels-founding-era/
Flamingos fail to migrate. Flocks of pink flamingos have chosen to remain at Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund’s Hula Lake, They abandoned their preference for salty water sources. See great photos.
https://www.jns.org/breaking-migration-mold-flamingos-spend-first-ever-summer-at-hula-lake/
The Jewish music event of the year. Israel’s Ishay Ribo took the stage at Woodstock, New York, with more than 14,000 people from near and far. It was the largest Jewish music event of the year and the first of its kind at this iconic venue. https://www.israelnationalnews.com/flashes/664299
European junior downhill cycling champion. (TY Hazel) Israel’s Omri Danon won the men’s junior gold medal at the 2025 UEC Mountain Bike Downhill European Championships in La Molina, Spain. The Israeli national anthem in Spain! https://www.uec.ch/resources/2025%20Events/downhill/liste/res.pdf
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dov-lipman_israeli-national-anthem-blasts-in-spain-congratulations-activity-7358820755813416961-fONw/ https://x.com/marilynnefriedm/status/1953095204904345741
Consecutive World jiu-jitsu gold. Israel’s Nimrod Ryeder defeated UAE rival to retain his under-77kg jiu-jitsu title at the 12th World Games in Chengdu, China. The World Games features 34 sports. Israel’s delegation has already earned seven medals at this year’s event: two golds, two silvers, and three bronzes.
https://israfan.com/p/nimrod-ryeder-jiu-jitsu-gold-world-games
https://israfan.com/p/israel-gold-bronze-world-games-2025
World Para table tennis champion. (TY Hazel) Israel’s Caroline Tabib won the US Open para table tennis title. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dov-lipman_israel-wins-again-congratulations-to-israeli-activity-7360287078946922496-Oz0z/ https://www.facebook.com/FollowTeamIsrael/posts/congrats-to-table-tennis-player-caroline-tabib-on-winning-the-us-open-so-proud-o/1287831539597608/
THE JEWISH STATE
The roads to Jerusalem. Israel is to invest $138m to improve road safety in Judea, Samaria and the Jordan Valley. https://www.jns.org/israel-to-invest-138m-in-judea-and-samaria-roads/
The largest cities in Judea & Samaria. I failed the question on “what is the largest Jewish city in Judea & Sameria?” I thought it was Ariel. Apparently it’s Modi’in Illit. Second is Beitar Illit with 70,000, which is soon set to double in size. In total, some 530,000 Jews live in J&S and are projected to total 1 million by 2050.
https://www.jns.org/judeas-largest-city-set-to-double-in-size/
Partners in Torah. The Partners in Torah initiative pairs individuals for one-on-one Jewish learning via phone, internet video calls or in person in Israel and globally. Founded in 1993, it has facilitated over 110,000 learning partnerships worldwide and revolutionized Jewish learning through its pioneering one-on-one learning model.
https://www.jns.org/wire/across-generations-and-continents-an-unlikely-torah-partnership-flourishes/
Rabbi locates Israeli missing for 27 years. In 1996, Slava left Israel for Samara, Russia, to care for his sick father. His wife and daughters never heard from him again, despite police searches and media appeals. Then a social media post about a homeless man, prompted a local Rabbi to find him and reunite him with his family.
https://collive.com/after-27-years-missing-rabbi-finds-missing-israeli-man/
Talmudic Rabbis in the Land of Israel’s wine business. A new study from the University of Haifa reveals Jewish religious scholars in Late Antiquity were not only spiritual leaders, but also active participants in the booming Mediterranean wine industry of the Roman and Byzantine eras.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412843
250810
In the 10th Aug 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Israeli researchers have discovered how to turbo-charge the immune system.
l Israeli scientists have grown a kidney in the lab to 34-week maturity.
l Israel won an overall top 10 result at both math & chemistry student Olympiads.
l Israelis have harvested grapes from 1,500-year old seeds found in the desert.
l The products and services of three Israeli startups have just gone global.
l The world’s earliest burial site has been discovered in Israel.
l Jewish Sabbath laws have been changed to approve use of bionic limbs.
· Click here to see the 4th Aug newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) 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 27,000 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
Gearing up for Iron Beam. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is preparing to launch Israel’s Iron Beam laser missile defense system, It has established a new administration to manage high-power laser systems projects, led by a woman, known only as Dr Y. – a graduate of Israel’s Technion Institute.
https://en.globes.co.il/en/article-rafael-gears-up-for-iron-beam-launch-1001510874
IDF overhauls Arabic and Islamic training. It looks like some of the lessons of Oct 7 have been learned.
https://www.jns.org/idf-overhauls-arabic-islamic-training-after-oct-7-failures/
Bomb shelter culture. Well worth reading this article which highlights some of the positive aspects of sheltering together with neighbors during an Iranian missile alert. It may have been something similar for UK citizens during the bombing of Britain in the WW2 blitz of 1940.
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-860107
Kerem House. (TY WIN) In the heart of Tel Aviv’s residential areas devastated by Iranian missiles, volunteers from Kerem House bring shattered homes and broken hearts back to life - one act of kindness at a time. Kerem House organizes everything from holiday meals, clean-ups to emergency war support and home restorations.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEqcClJ83bg https://www.keremhouse.org/
Empowering bereaved women. (TY Sharon) 500+ Israeli women, all bereaved by acts of terrorism and war, gathered in Jerusalem for the annual Women’s Empowerment Symposium organized by OneFamily. The women shared their personal stories of loss, finding strength in community and learning to navigate their pain.
https://www.israpundit.org/israels-good-news-newsletter-to-3rd-aug-25/
Haredi brigade receives berets at Western Wall. The first regular company of the IDF’s Hasmonean Brigade completed seven months of combat training, culminating in a “Beret March” to the Western Wall. The 50 ultra-Orthodox troops entered the Kotel Plaza blowing shofars and singing songs about the Jewish Temple.
https://www.jns.org/hasmonean-brigades-first-company-completes-basic-training-at-western-wall/
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412832
Bakery rehabilitated. Israel’s Tosha Bakery on the Lebanese border was rebuilding when last featured in this newsletter (see here previously). It is hard to believe the transformation now. The serene pastoral atmosphere, trays of home-made croissants and jugs of sugar-sweet freshly squeezed juice from Golan Heights oranges.
Improving media coverage. Six-time Emmy-nominated multimedia journalist Jacki Karsh and her husband Jeff in partnership with Jewish Federation Los Angeles, have launched the Karsh Journalism Fellowship - a first-of-its-kind program focused solely on improving media coverage of antisemitism, Jewish life and Israel.
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/shocked-by-poor-gaza-war-reporting-l-a-couple-launches-fellowship-to-improve-coverage-on-israel-jewish-life/ https://karshfellowship.org/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
More power to the immune system. A research team led by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have boosted the immune system’s cancer-fighting ability by reprogramming. They disabled the mitochondrial protein Ant2 in T cells, forcing them to produce more energy and become stronger and better at homing in on cancer cells.
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-862606
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-59310-3
A missing gene and the Goldilocks principle. Researchers at Israel’s Weimann Institute have diagnosed a rare genetic disease that delays child development. Sufferers are missing the gene Chaserr which controls CHD2 protein production. Too much CHD2 causes the disease; too little CHD2 is linked to autism and epilepsy.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412247
Safer medical devices. Israel’s C2A Security (see here previously) has partnered with US-based Medcrypt to integrate their security protection facilities. It ensures that every software component and artifact in a medical device is traceable, authenticated, and tamper-proof, from development through post-market updates.
Agetech startups showcase in LA. (TY SCICC) Meet 8 Israeli AgeTech medical startups at UCLA. Lunchtime on Aug 12. Buzzy, Effectivate, Eyeclick, Kemtai, Opmed.ai, Physiclean, Quai.MD & ROBE-Health. RSVP Brett.Super@israeltrade.gov.il asap, if you wish to attend. Dietary laws observed.
https://www.buzzyplatform.com/ https://effectivate.com/ https://physiclean.com/ https://robe-health.com/
Reviving research terminated by the Nazis. An Israeli-led team has been awarded a $1.2 million grant by the prestigious Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP). It will study epigenetic inheritance –traits acquired from the environment can be passed to descendants. This research begun by Jewish scientists came to halt in WW2.
Kidney grown in the lab. Scientists from Sheba Medical Center and Tel Aviv University have taken human kidney tissue stem cells and grown a 3D organ culture (organoids) to 34 weeks maturity – the longest-lasting and purest ever developed. It will advance research into kidney disease, regenerative medicine and transplants.
Can you fight bacteria in space? Researchers at Sheba Medical Center have sent a groundbreaking scientific experiment to the International Space Station (ISS). It will study how space conditions - especially microgravity - influence bacterial virulence and resistance to antibiotics.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-experiment-on-bacteria-heads-to-international-space-station/
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
At the top of her profession. Dr. Shimrit Maman (see here previously) has been appointed as the first female head of the Israel Space Agency. Her role includes advising Israel’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology on national space development and funding policy. It’s the highest position anyone can go!
https://www.ynetnews.com/health_science/article/bknnnfhvex
100 million meals delivered. The U.S.-backed, Israeli facilitated Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has reached a milestone of delivering 100 million total meals to Gazans since beginning operations roughly two months ago. It called for other humanitarian groups, including the U.N., to step up and collaborate with them.
https://www.jns.org/ghf-reaches-milestone-of-100-million-meals-delivered/
Reduced sugar juice goes viral. (TY OurCrowd) Israeli Arab vlogger Nuseir Yassin, better known as NAS Daily, has made a sensational video to promote Israel’s BlueTree Technologies and its groundbreaking process for making reduced sugar orange juice. It may lead to a major future reduction in global obesity and diabetes.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/C_y1VqfyosA
Panama loves Israel. Ezra Cohen, the Panamanian ambassador to Israel (see here previously), talks about the potential that exists between Panama and Israel.
https://pulseofisrael.com/2025/07/27/panama-loves-israel/
Arkansas trade mission to Israel. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, daughter of US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, leads a trade mission to Israel and the UAE. Sanders said that “Israel .. as my dad likes to say, is the one place in the world you visit for the first time, and it feels like coming home.”
https://www.jns.org/huckabee-sanders-to-travel-to-israel-uae-in-august-for-trade-mission/
More humanitarian aid to southern Syria Druze. Israel has delivered another large shipment of aid (food and medical supplies) to the embattled Druze population of Sweida in southern Syria. It follows an initial delivery of aid in March. https://www.jns.org/israel-delivers-humanitarian-aid-to-southern-syria-druze/
$100 million for Israel. Over the past decade, the registered 501(c)3 Ne’eman Foundation has facilitated the transfer of more than $100 million in charitable donations from North American donors to Israeli good causes. Donations to some 1,400 organizations (e.g. United for Israel) via Ne’eman, are tax deductible for US citizens.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Olympiad successes. Thanks to the Maimonides Fund’s Future Scientists Center and its partnership with Israel’s Education Ministry, Israeli students soared into the world top ten of the Olympiads in 2025 for Math and Chemistry. Israel came 6th in Math (4 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze) and 10th in Chemistry (2 gold, 2 silver).
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/maimonides-fund-investment-bears-fruit-as-israeli-olympiad-teams-crack-top-10-in-math-chemistry/ https://www.imo-official.org/year_country_r.aspx?year=2025
http://www.icho-official.org/results/country_info.php?country=Israel
Protecting against AI weaknesses. Israel’s Noma Security (see here previously) safeguards companies from potential vulnerabilities in their AI systems and AI agents (e.g. chatbots). It continually checks for problems, prioritizes risks, simulates attacks and more. Over 50% of companies plan to implement AI agents by end 2026.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/s19xaaudxl
Debunking calls for boycott. (TY OurCrowd) Nearly a third of the recent posts on social media to boycott Amazon and McDonald’s were generated by AI bots. Israel’s Cyabra found fake users coordinated a digital attack of negative posts across X, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Technion launches two tech centers. Israel’s Technion Institute has just launched the Carasso FoodTech Innovation Center (see here) and the Esther and Herbert Hecht Sustainable Protein Research Center (see here). They will both promote education, research, and innovation in the food sector.
Enhanced protection against scams. Israel’s BioCatch (see here previously) has just launched Scams360™. For the first time ever, financial institutions can stop their customers from deception by social engineering scammers using techniques such as romance, investment advice, email-compromise, and impersonation.
https://www.ourcrowd.com/startup-news/biocatch-delivers-scams360-to-help-banks-advance-detection-of-emerging-scam-types https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/biocatch-delivers-scams360-to-help-banks-advance-detection-of-emerging-scam-types-302507035.html
Historic harvest. Israeli researchers have harvested 20kg of Byzantine-era grape varieties, two years after ancient 1,500-year-old grape seeds were planted at a restored vineyard at Avdat National Park in the Negev Desert. They aim to recreate an renowned ancient wine that was once massively exported throughout Europe.
https://www.jns.org/israel-harvests-1500-year-old-byzantine-grape-seeds-in-negev-desert/
Enabling AI agents to navigate the web. Israel’s Tavily has developed a search layer for AI agents to navigate live web data through a single search layer. It says it has achieved a million monthly downloads and is already serving leading Fortune 500 companies and fast-growing tech firms, like Cohere and Groq.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/bj9q00tgdee https://www.tavily.com/
Incubating new tech startups. Israel Innovation Authority is to select up to three new technological incubators for startups developing semiconductors, advanced robotics, and bio-convergence. Incubators will receive up to NIS 40 million over five years. Startups may receive up to NIS 21 million to progress from initial research.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/r150un9iex
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Upgrading the South. Israel has approved an additional NIS 3.2 billion to rebuild communities devastated by Hamas on 7 Oct 2023. It includes NIS 1.4 billion for Ashkelon and NIS 1.8 billion for six regional councils. It will boost education, infrastructure, resilience, culture, sports, economy, security, agritech, energy, and more.
https://www.jns.org/israel-oks-940-m-plan-to-develop-oct-7-hit-south/
Upgrading Ben Gurion. (TY JNS) A recent $14 million upgrade to Ben Gurion International airport includes advanced security screening, baggage processing and check-in facilities within Terminal 3. Some 1.9 million passengers are anticipated during August. Meanwhile, Terminal 1 re-opens for International destinations.
https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/07/13/ben-gurion-airports-14m-makeover/
Startup investment up 28% in July. Over $900 million was raised by Israeli startups in July, marking a 28% increase compared to last year. The surge in funding is especially notable as only two of the 28 deals exceeded $100 million, showing strong support for investment at all levels.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/i2u7ztznt
Handling emergency in seven countries. Israel’s Carbyne (see here previously) has deployed its incident management technology in nearly 300 emergency centers worldwide, including in 23 U.S. states and six additional countries. More than 7,000 dispatchers globally are using Carbyne’s platform.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/skhy4rdvgg
Retinal screening tech across the US. US giant Ford Medical is to distribute the FDA-cleared AI screening technology for eye exams from Israel’s AEYE Health (see here previously), enabling US pharmacies and non-acute centers to offer an in-house, non-invasive instant diagnostic exam, without the need for a specialist.
Vegan salmon goes nationwide in US. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s Oshi (See here previously) has secured US national distribution through Sysco, a major distributor in the US foodservice market. The partnership brings Oshi’s whole-cut, plant-based salmon to restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, and institutional kitchens across the US.
Building businesses in an AI world. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s Tailor Brands (see here previously) has created a new operating system for building businesses in an AI-transformed world. Its new Guidance Engine is a structured, step-by-step approach that helps form a company, stay compliant, design a brand, or grow online.
https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/tailor-brands-builds-operating-system-to-power-small-business-gr-1047992 https://www.tailorbrands.com/about
Wix now worth $7 billion. Shares in Israeli website developer Wix climbed after Q2 profit beat expectations by a wide margin. Wix reported an adjusted profit of $136.2 million, or $2.44 per share, far surpassing analysts' expectations of $1.76 per share. The company’s market capitalization now stands at over $7 billion.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/65gff4ws9
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 10th Aug 25: Israeli giant SentinelOne has bought Israeli GenAI cyber startup Prompt Security for $250 million. US risk intelligence company Sayari is acquiring Israel’s Mirato for “tens of millions of dollars”. NASDAQ-listed Global-e has acquired Israel’s ReturnGO. Israel’s EverC is to merge with US G2 Risk Solutions.
Startup investment – to 10th Aug 25: Decart raised $100 million (value $3.1 billion) Noma Security raised $100 million; Capitolis raised $56 million (SAFE); QuamCore raised $26 million; Tavily raised $25 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
100,000-year-old burial site. Archaeologists believe they have found one of the oldest burial sites in the world at Tinshemet Cave in central Israel. Well-preserved remains date back some 100,000 years were carefully arranged in pits. Objects near the remains may reveal early human ideas about spirituality and the afterlife.
Book review – Living dangerously. My friend Atara Beck has written an interesting review of the book “Living Dangerously: My Struggle to Get Rich Without Losing My Soul” by Irwin Gabriel Katsof. Rabbi Katsof became obsessed with money until he turned his life around. Now President of www.Trademissions.org.
https://www.jns.org/living-dangerously-and-the-path-to-salvation/
Using AI to transform artwork. Israeli artist Roy Adin is harnessing the untapped power of artificial intelligence to craft stunning illustrations - fusing cutting-edge technology with ancient knowledge in ways never seen before. https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-israeli-artist-uses-ai-to-create-transformative-works/
Summer is sizzling at the Galilee Culinary Institute. Renovations on JNF’s Galilee Culinary Institute main campus building (restaurant and training kitchens) are nearly complete. Join the JNF’s Coming Home mission (Sep 4 – 11) and attend the official opening (plus a great deal more).
https://www.galileeculinaryinstitute.com/campus-updates
https://www.jnf.org/travel/tour/index/coming-home-mission-to-israel
En garde! A renaissance in Israeli fencing. At the recent World Championships, Israel finished 11th out of 46 in the men’s team épée, which is a remarkable achievement. Although the team did not win a medal at the recent Fencing World Championships, it is building up to something special.
https://www.jns.org/en-garde-a-renaissance-in-israeli-fencing/
THE JEWISH STATE
Rare Jewish seal impression found in Jerusalem. A rare First Temple-era seal impression (bulla) bearing a Hebrew inscription was unearthed three weeks ago by the Temple Mount Sifting Project. It reads, “Yed[a‛]yah (son of) Asayahu.” Asayahu was a servant of King Josiah of Judah who found a Torah scroll 2,647 years ago.
https://www.jns.org/rare-first-temple-era-seal-impression-found-in-jerusalem/
Bionic limbs approved for Shabbat use. The latest Tehumin journal from the Zomet Institute of Halacha and Technology includes rulings that prosthetics (even controlled by electronic sensors) are a basic part of the body. Therefore all use (including reassembling & rebooting after sleeping) may be performed on the Sabbath.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412789
How startup philanthropy started. Israeli-American venture capitalist and social entrepreneur Yadin Kaufmann founded Tmura (see here previously) in 2002. Here he explains how he started the non-profit that startups donate some of their shares to. Tmura later sells these - the proceeds benefiting many charities.
It must be something else. (TY Jacob) I’ve seen this before, but it’s certainly worth sharing. “There's something about Israel that makes people uncomfortable”. https://jr.co.il/articles/something-about-israel.htm
Matchmaking week. Tu B’Av, the 15th of Av, is the Jewish Day of Love (this year Aug 8/9). The Jewish Matchmaking Movement has been hosting an online global Matchmaking Week from Aug 4 to Aug 10. Many Israeli “Oct 8 Jews” are “re-connecting to their Judaism and trying to find a partner”.
https://www.jns.org/how-matchmaking-helped-couples-find-love-during-wartime/
https://jewishmatchmaking.com/
UK newspaper “discovers” the Ark of the Covenant. The UK Daily Mail featured Israel’s archaeological discoveries at Shiloh – the site of the Biblical Tabernacle for hundreds of years after the Children of Israel first entered the Land of Israel. (You may need to temporarily disable your ad-blocker to read it.)
What Bibi gave Donald. Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu presented President Donald Trump with two deeply symbolic gifts. The first was a mezuzah shaped like a B-2 stealth bomber, crafted from shrapnel from an Iranian missile. The second was a dollar bill, given to Rabbi Chaim Greenberg by the Lubavitcher Rebbe.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/trumps-gifts-from-netanyahu-were-deeply-spiritual/
250803
In the 3rd Aug 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Filipino ex-hostage named his new daughter “Israela”.
l After a temporary womb transplant, an Israeli gave birth to a healthy baby.
l Israeli firefighters helped extinguish wildfires in Cyprus.
l Father of diabetic daughter launched low-carbs Israeli startup.
l Israeli cybersecurity company sold for $23 billion.
l Israel are the 2025 European champions for men’s lacrosse.
l Diaspora Jews rush to buy homes in Israel.
· Click here to see the 27th July newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) 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 27,000 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
Supporting those who lost homes. (TY UWI) Israeli charity Pitchon Lev (see here previously) provided life-saving assistance to more than 11,400 people during the 12-day war with Iran. Its 15,000+ volunteers delivered food parcels, baby food, diapers, clothing, etc. to many Israelis made homeless by Iranian missile attacks.
Honoring the heroes of Operation Rising Lion. At the graduation of 37 new IAF pilots and navigators, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir praised all those involved in the 12-day war against Iran. From pilots and drone operators to intelligence analysts and technical crews. Ex-hostage Agam Berger played at the ceremony.
https://www.jns.org/zamir-iaf-chief-laud-iran-strikes-salute-new-aircrew-in-joint-ceremony/
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-860939
Israel’s largest supply operation. Since the beginning of hostilities, Israel’s Defense Ministry said that it has coordinated the transport of more than 100,000 tons of military equipment. It included 870 flights and 144 sea shipments, making it the largest air and sea supply operation in the nation’s history.
https://www.jns.org/us-d9-bulldozers-arrive-in-haifa-port-to-boost-israeli-forces/
Ex-hostage finishes the Tour de France. Former hostage Ofer Calderon rode in the Tour de France with the Israel Premier Tech cycling team and team owner Sylvan Adams on the final leg to the Paris Arc de Triomphe.
https://worldisraelnews.com/watch-former-hostage-ofer-calderon-rides-in-the-tour-de-france/
Filipino ex-hostage names baby “Israela”. Released Filipino hostage, Gelienor “Jimmy” Leano Pacheco, has welcomed a new daughter – and named her Israela, as a tribute to the people and the State of Israel. Pacheco was abducted by Hamas from Kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct 7 2023 and released after 49 days in captivity.
$1 million for Soroka. The US-based Merage Foundation (see here previously) has committed $1 million to support Beersheva’s Soroka Medical Center, less than a month after an Iranian missile slammed into the southern Israeli hospital. The article also mentions other vital activities in Israel that the Foundation supports.
From trauma to triumph. Israeli charity Belev Echad (see here previously) takes wounded IDF soldiers on a trip to Manhattan as part of their recovery program. Co-founder, Shevy Vigler says, “In Israel, they fight to stand again. In New York, they remember how to live again. That’s the moment the healing truly begins.”
https://www.jns.org/wire/idf-recovering-soldiers-go-from-trauma-to-triumph/
Our home is gone, but at least we’re alive. Valery, 32, from Tel Aviv, who survived the impact from an Iranian missile strike, 20 meters from his building, said, “In the end, we will come out of this stronger,” A harrowing story, but one that highlights Israeli resilience.
https://www.jns.org/the-tribulations-of-surviving-an-iranian-missile-strike/
US college students support Israel. Dozens of American college students traveled to Israel with Jewish National Fund-USA on its alternative week-long summer-break program. In Kiryat Shmona, Akko and Ofakim they packed supplies, painted homes and playgrounds, planted trees and cooked meals for soldiers in the IDF.
https://www.jns.org/wire/united-for-israel-american-college-students-serve-and-support/
Young community hubs. As part of the post Swords of Iron War recovery, KKL-JNF is launching community hubs for young Mechina (IDF prep school) graduates in Israel’s northern and southern periphery. In the pilot, subsidized housing will be developed in Yeruham, Dimona, Arad, Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi, Acre and Nahariya.
https://www.jns.org/wire/kkl-jnf-to-launch-young-community-hubs-in-israels-periphery/
Parents of fallen soldier make Aliyah. After their son Ben was killed while saving lives at the Nova Festival, his Canadian-Israeli parents made Aliyah to walk the path he chose, turning tragedy into a living tribute.
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Healthy baby after rare uterine surgery. The first-ever Israeli baby (and the 6th in the world) was born to a woman who had undergone uterine transposition surgery at Rabin Medical Center’s Beilinson Hospital in Petach Tikvah. The mother’s womb had been removed before cancer treatment and re-implanted afterwards.
Never too old. 51-year-old Luci Bahat, decided to study medicine at Ben Gurion University, despite her age. The mother of four, holds a master’s degree and works as a nurse at Kaplan medical center. She will now study with 32 other students. Her daughter, Neta, 25, is studying for a bachelor’s degree in social work, also at BGU.
https://www.ynetnews.com/health_science/article/sjlvoneqle
Dealing with jellyfish. This article gives advice on how to avoid the poisonous stings from jellyfish (Hebrew – Meduzot) during the summer season on Israeli beaches. It is vital to visit the website, www.meduzot.co.il for the latest information of location of the swarms. Over 5,000 volunteers report location, numbers and species.
https://www.jns.org/beware-of-meduzot-how-israel-deals-with-jellyfish/
https://www.gov.il/en/pages/jellyfish-sting-care
Sleep device for trauma survivors. IDF veteran Ben Fuxbruner has developed Kimba to help trauma survivors reclaim restful sleep. Named after Ben’s K9 military dog who died in Gaza in 2014, Kimba combines wearable sensors and scent-diffusion technology to improve sleep quality.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/ptsd-treatment-for-better-sleep-invented-by-injured-idf-soldier-in-memory-of-k9-companion/ https://www.kimba.ai/
ZAKA trains 100 US sheriffs. More than 100 sheriffs from 30 states received training in Florida from Israeli volunteer emergency response and disaster victim recovery organization, ZAKA (see here previously). The aim was to help law-enforcement agencies understand the religious requirements of victims of violence.
https://www.jns.org/100-sheriffs-from-30-states-attend-zaka-training-in-florida/
Israeli Druze doctor makes discovery. At Rambam Hospital this week an Israeli Druze doctor discovered that several wounded Syrians admitted for treatment were, in fact, his own relatives, family members he had never met. After receiving initial treatment in Syria, they were transferred to Israel for advanced medical care.
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Center for shared society. Boston-based Frieze Family Foundation has committed $5 million to the University of Haifa to establish a “Center for Shared Society” - a space at the university dedicated to strengthening bonds between Jewish and Arab Israelis. It will focus on learning, research and advocacy.
Where do Israeli Arabs prefer to live? Arabs in Israel speak freely about their feelings about living in Israel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_16zEPBtRo
Israeli Druze donate blood for Syrian Druze. Magen David Adom began a blood drive on Sunday in the Druze-majority village of Isfiya to support wounded Druze in Syria. Dozens of people lined up to donate their blood as soon as the donation center opened, and 40 samples were collected in just two hours.
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-861851
Lion cub rescued from PA village. The Israel Nature and Parks Authority rescued a lion cub that was tied to a tree in the yard of a home in the Palestinian Arab village of Abu Dis east of Jerusalem. It was unhurt, but very thin. It was the sixth lion cub, plus 10 monkeys and 36 parrots, found in captivity by Israeli authorities this year.
https://www.jns.org/lion-cub-rescued-from-palestinian-village-near-jerusalem/
22 countries attend educational conference. (TY Sharon) 180 educators from 22 countries arrived in Israel for an annual 7-day education seminar sponsored by KKL-JNF. They visited sites of ecological, historical and national significance and met with IDF reps, educators, kibbutzniks, and local leaders.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/07/27/whos-here-in-july-on-the-hot-jerusalem-streets/
Firefighting support for Cyprus. (TY UWI) Two Israeli C-130 aircraft dropped 34 tons of fire retardant, significantly suppressing the recent Cyprus wildfires. Meanwhile, aid from the EU didn’t arrive in time.
https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/cyprus-wildfires-the-frustration-of-delayed-aid-and-the-eu-mechanism-under-scrutiny/ https://www.jns.org/israeli-air-force-helps-cyprus-battle-raging-wildfires/
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Early warning of failure. Researchers at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University have revealed that tiny changes precede the tipping point that triggers the collapse of vulnerable complex systems. This discovery could provide a potential early warning signal and prevent a critical system from breaking down.
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1089719 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-61127-z
NIS 44 million for AI data stores. (TY UWI) Israel is granting NIS 44 million for the set-up of information databases that will support Israeli development of AI systems. They include medical, manufacturing, desertech, climate & cleantech, agritech, food, defense/security, and hi-tech. Proposals should be submitted by 3rd Sep.
https://innovationisrael.org.il/en/press_release/data-for-ai/
https://innovationisrael.org.il/en/calls_for_proposal/data-for-ai/
Mapping Israeli AI companies. Israel has 342 startup working the GenAI space according to the New Remagine Ventures report. “Israeli GenAI Landscape 4.0”, maps the rapid and impressive development of Israel's generative artificial intelligence industry in 2025. 198 companies have been added since 2024.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/s1yl6mlulx
https://www.remagineventures.com/generative-ai-landscape/
Hybrid drones for Europe. (TY Yanky) Israel’s Robotican (see here previously) has delivered dozens of its ROOSTER hybrid drone systems to European special operations forces, intervention units, and infantry teams. ROOSTER rolls like a robot and flies like a drone. It recently secured official NATO registration.
https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/65633 https://robotican.net/rooster/
Diabetic daughter inspires low-carb food startup. After Ran’s daughter was diagnosed with diabetes, he partnered with her endocrinologist to create Eatsane (see here previously). Its low-carb buns are now available at Israel’s BBB burger restaurants and its pizza crusts are an option at Israeli Papa John’s.
A green alternative to cement. An update on the Technnion’s CyanoGems project (see here previously) that uses cyanobacteria to produce calcium carbonate for building materials. In the process photosynthesis absorbs atmospheric carbon dioxide to reduce global greenhouse gases.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Exports reach $150 billion. (TY Hazel) Israel’s exporters shipped almost $150 billion worth of goods and services in 2024 – a dip of only 1% on the previous year despite falling rockets and reservists called up. Technology services, rose 3% last year and another 10% in the first quarter of 2025,
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-862037 https://export.gov.il/en/
Tech pact with India. Israel and India have signed a landmark Investment Protection Agreement (IPA) aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and promoting long-term cooperation across key sectors. The IPA includes legal protections for investors e.g. in the $10 billion Adani–Tower Semiconductor plant being built in Maharashtra.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/india-and-israel-invest-in-a-new-era-with-groundbreaking-trade-deal/
$120 million for post-war startups. Israeli venture capital fund New Era Capital (see here previously) has completed a $120 million fundraise. This is the firm’s third fund, following its $140 million fund raised in 2020, which is now nearly fully invested.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rysthdalxe
A fund for startup employees. Israeli venture capital firm Cyberstarts (see here previously) has created a $300 million fund to help startups retain top talent. It allows startup employees to sell some of their shares, so they can cash in on initial high valuations while staying focused on working to generate even greater future profits.
The second largest exit in Israeli history. US-based Palo Alto Networks is to acquire Israeli cybersecurity CyberArk Software in a deal valued at around $25 billion – the highest in Israeli history apart from Google’s $32 billion purchase of Israel’s Wiz. Palo Alto was founded by Israel’s Nir Zuk and is its largest ever deal.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412491
Airbus modifies planes for Taxibot. (TY Yanky) Airbus has received approval for cockpit modifications on the A320 family of aircraft to enable the use of Israel’s pilot-controlled hybrid-electric TaxiBot (see here previously). Taxibot pulls planes between the terminal and take-off area, saving vast amounts of aviation fuel.
https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/stories/2025-07-taxibots-spool-up-as-project-heron-winds-down
Big deal with Germany. Israel’s Elbit Systems has received a $260 million, six-year contract from the German government to install Directional Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM) self-protection systems on Germany’s Airbus A400M aircraft fleet. The systems automatically counter mobile anti-aircraft weapons.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/israeli-defense-firm-lands-huge-deal-with-germany/
Floyd Mayweather opens Tel Aviv stock exchange. Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather opened trading at the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) on Monday morning, joining IDF soldiers and Israeli leaders in a ceremony that highlighted international solidarity with the Jewish State.
https://israfan.com/p/floyd-mayweather-opens-tel-aviv-stock-exchange
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 3rd Aug 25: Israel’s Nice Systems has acquired Germany’s Cognigy for $955 million; Israel’s Axonius is acquiring Israel’s Cynerio for a minimum of $180 million. India’s Amber Group has acquired a $47 million stake in Israel’s Unitronics.
Startup investment – to 3rd Aug 25: BlinkOps raised $50 million; Teramount raised $50 million; Lumana raised $40 million; Legion Security raised $30 million; Scopio Labs raised another $10 million; Tonic Security raised $7 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
Archeologist wins Dan David prize. Nine international historians, archeologists, and filmmakers each won the 2025 Dan David prize along with $300,000. The one Israeli winner, Bar Kribus from Tel Aviv University, is an archaeologist specializing in Ethiopian archaeology and the history and culture of the Ethiopian Jews.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/dan-david-prize-goes-to-9-historians-archaeologists-and-filmmakers/
https://liberal-arts.tau.ac.il/diaspora/en_Dr_Bar_Kribus
2000-year-old jewelry unearthed. (TY TPS) A volunteer, working with the excavation team in Susita (aka Hippos) discovered a gold ring and a pair of earrings, dating back nearly two millennia. The team also uncovered many fragments of intricate stucco work from a Roman-Byzantine residential neighborhood.
https://worldisraelnews.com/i-saw-a-yellow-color-volunteer-uncovers-2000-year-old-galilee-treasure/
Rare hybrid stork visits Israel. For the first time in Israel, a mocha-colored hybrid stork (a cross between a black and white stork) was recorded by birdwatchers in the Hulda reservoir in the Shephelah. A similar hybrid had been spotted previously in southern Germany, but that was a different bird.
Throwing heavy metal at the enemy. David Draiman is the pro-Israel frontman for heavy metal rock group “Disturbed” and performed at Black Sabbath's farewell event. Despite some boos, he said, “I came to honor my idols, Black Sabbath, and I won't let some Jewish haters change that." Then in Israel he met Yarden Bibas.
https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/07/08/metal-band-booed-for-supporting-israel/
Bronze medal at European 49ers. (TY Nevet) Israeli sailors Tal Sde and Maor Abu won the bronze medal at the European 49er Championship in Thessaloniki, Greece.
https://49er.org/the-race-to-gold-fleet-was-a-slow-burn/
Israel wins 2025 European Men’s Lacrosse Championship. Israel outdueled Italy, 9-8, in a blockbuster final to win the 2025 European Men’s Lacrosse Championship in Wroclaw, Poland. Israel was undefeated in all seven games and qualified for the 2027 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship in Japan.
THE JEWISH STATE
Rare “redemption of Zion” coin unearthed. A bronze coin minted by Jews in Jerusalem during final year before 2nd Temple's destruction in 70 CE has been discovered during excavations in Jerusalem. It is inscribed, “For the Redemption of Zion”. Tisha b’Av on 3rd Aug commemorated the destruction of both Jewish Temples.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412539
Drone fixes eruv before Shabbat. High Tech Halacha: During a routine Friday inspection, a council worker in the Israeli city of Ofakim noticed damage to the city’s eruv (the wire boundary that permits religious Jews to carry on Shabbat). Consulting the local Rabbi, a drone was sent to re-stretch the wires, repairing the eruv.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/411453
Where the Canaanites made their knives. (TY TPS) A groundbreaking archaeological discovery in Kiryat Gat has revealed a 5,500-year-old flint blade manufacturing workshop - the first of its kind found in southern Israel. The excavation uncovered long, finely-crafted blades and their source from large flint cores.
High demand for Israeli homes from Diaspora Jews. It’s not surprising that the recent huge increase in global antisemitism has prompted large numbers of diaspora Jews to invest in Israeli property.
https://video.i24news.tv/en/9e44d596-82e6-4c4c-8a1c-96f84ae49bd5/content/6376336926112
$5 million for new Zionist village. Massachusetts philanthropist and author of Finding Happiness, Todd Patkin, is to invest $5 million in JNF’s $350 million World Zionist Village in Be’er Sheva (see here previously), the first global hub for Zionism. https://www.jnf.org/jnf-blog/post/blog/todd-patkin-author-of-finding-happiness-invests-5-million-in-world-zionist-village
Masa doesn’t pause - it adapts, supports, and grows. (TY eJP) Whether in wartime, pandemic or peace — Masa’s programs empower Jewish young adults from 60-plus countries to live like locals in Israel and shape a shared future. https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-861324
250727
In the 27th July 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Israel protects the Syrian Druze from genocide.
l Read the truth about Israeli humanitarian aid.
l New Israeli vaccine is even more effective against deadly bacteria.
l Israelis are combating drought in Ukraine and Uganda.
l Israel’s most advanced communications satellite has been launched.
l Huge investment in Israeli startups.
l There’s no stopping Israel’s national airline.
l Israelis win wheelchair tennis at Wimbledon and world poker tournament.
l Russian Jewish convert enlists in IDF unit for the ultra-orthodox.
· Click here to see the 13th July newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) IsraPundit, (TY Aviva) United with Israel, 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 26,900 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
Israel shields Syrian Druze. (TY Honest Reporting) The IDF has been busy protecting Druze families in Syria from genocidal attacks by Syrian militia. The Israeli Air Force destroyed weapons on route to be deployed against the Druze. It also warned the Syrian Government by attacking the regime’s military HQ in Damascus.
https://www.jns.org/after-damascus-strikes-idf-chief-vows-to-shield-syrian-druze/
https://www.jns.org/herzog-meets-druze-leader-after-massacre-in-syrias-sweida-region/
Arrow 3 – the star of the Iran war. (TY WIN & allIsraelnews) As Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles toward Israel, the operators of the Arrow missile defense system stood as the last line of defense. Each night, under immense pressure, they intercepted deadly threats aimed at civilian areas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwuJzkNpuI8
Operation Rising Lion - Moments of Heroism from the Field. One personal story of heroism by a United Hatzalah EMT, during the Am Kalavi 12-day war with Iran. And another video showing many other examples.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q1BRM1cd8I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nz4smzN3iLg
To Life. 20 months after his grandfather was murdered by Hamas on Oct 7 2023, Gal Pauker is expanding his grandfather’s work, transforming Pauker Winery into a commercial venture. He is helped by other Israeli boutique winemakers, and some 1,000 bottles of wine stored in the kibbutz’s underground bomb shelter.
$1 million to Bat Yam residents. US charity La’Aretz Foundation has donated $2,500 directly to each of the 500 families impacted in the Bat Yam missile attack by Iran. Some 2,000 people have moved into hotels, temporary apartments, or with family, while their homes are repaired.
Gal Gadot meets female ex-hostages. Israeli superstar actress Gal Gadot met Doron Steinbrecher, Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Moran Stella Yanai and Ilana Gritzewsky - five survivors of Hamas captivity in Gaza. Gadot told them, “You’re going on with your lives and fighting for others. You are strength. You are inspiration.”
https://www.jns.org/gal-gadot-meets-hostage-survivors-you-are-strength-and-inspiration/
Mother of murdered hostage enlists in the IDF. Einav Danino, whose son Ori was murdered in captivity by Hamas, has enlisted in the IDF, completed basic training and joined a special unit for Orthodox Jewish women. So has Michal Berkovich, widow of Eyal who fell in combat in Gaza.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/ultra-orthodox-mother-of-murdered-hostage-enlists-in-idf/
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/410965
Mayor of Nice replaces flag with hostage photos. (TY Yanky) Mayor Christian Estrosi of Nice displayed Israeli flags on the Town Hall to support Israel but was told by an administrative court that he could only display French flags. So he replaced the Israeli flags with images of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
Campaign to support ex-hostage raises NIS 3 million. A crowdfunding campaign for former hostage Ofer Calderon raised over NIS 3 million in just one day. He has been left without a home or any means of earning a living due to psychological trauma and because his carpentry shop, built with his own hands, was destroyed.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/friends-of-abandoned-ex-hostage-ofer-calderon-raise-nis-3-million-in-a-day-to-help-him-rebuild-life/ https://yad.reachhands.com/oferpf
87 million meals distributed. The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) delivered some 1.5 million meals on July 8, making a total of 66 million meals distributed. By July 22 it was 87 million meals in total (2 million a day). See GHF website below for true details and ignore false UN & biased media reports.
https://www.jns.org/ghf-updates-total-distributed-meals-to-66m-decries-false-media-reports/
https://worldisraelnews.com/idf-no-famine-in-gaza-as-950-un-aid-trucks-sit-idle-due-to-bureaucracy-not-israeli-policy/ https://ghf.org/ghf-operational-update-tuesday-july-8-2025/
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
ZAKA to open resilience centers. Israeli NGO ZAKA, plans to open resilience centers around Israel. They will provide healing therapies to first responders as well as cater to Israelis who are struggling with mental health. ZAKA’s 3,000 volunteers provide the most holy of services - recovering bodies at scenes of tragedies.
https://www.jns.org/zaka-set-to-open-resilience-centers-in-israel/
Born from grief, built for life. After his brother was murdered by Hamas on Oct 7, Omri Stav, CEO of Israel’s Era, is transforming fertility care. Era provides clarity, guidance, and support for the 1in 6 people struggling with fertility. Era is developing an AI-driven system to optimize time to pregnancy for parents and clinics.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/bjd6arllgx https://eraborn.co/
Home ultrasound for fetal monitoring. Israel’s IMMA Health has developed a patient-operated robotic ultrasound device, It pushes fertility care into the digital era by making IVF smarter, more scalable, and more humane. It should give women more control over their care and help fertility centers operate more efficiently.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/s1fm1ooixg https://www.imma.health/
mRNA vaccine upgraded. Tel Aviv University and Israel Institute for Biological Research scientists have enhanced their 2023 creation (see here) of the world’s first mRNA-based vaccine against bubonic plague which is spread through the skin (flea bites). The new vaccine protects against pneumonic plague (spread via the air).
https://english.tau.ac.il/research/mrna-vaccine-stops-deadly-plague
https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202501286
Boosting the metabolism. More information about the GlP-1 Edge treatment from Israel’s Lembas (see here previously). https://unitedwithisrael.org/israeli-startup-develops-a-pill-to-boost-the-metabolism/
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Druze and Jews together in good times and bad. (TY Sharon) Sharon reminds us of previous joint events with Israeli Druze. And recently, Milhem Asaad was awarded the “Presidential Medal for Civil Valor” having saved Maccabi Tel Aviv fans in Amsterdam. See also photos of Independence Day and Jerusalem Marathon.
https://rjstreets.com/2025/07/20/israelis-and-druze-coming-together-in-good-times-and-bad/
Israelis replant Catholic vineyard. The monks at the French abbey in Israel’s Judean Foothills, lost their vineyards and olive trees in the Spring wildfires, started by Arab arson. Israeli volunteers have begun replanting vines and revitalizing the olive trees. https://www.timesofisrael.com/after-catholic-monks-vineyard-was-burned-in-wildfires-israelis-dig-in-to-help-replant/
Christians unite for Israel. Christians United for Israel, with over 10 million members, held its annual conference in Washington. Speakers told the audience that we’re living in a time of revealed miracles. Who could have predicted Israel would neutralize Hamas, incapacitate Hezbollah and broke the yoke of Iran.
Clean water for Ukraine. Israel has approved a new humanitarian aid package for Ukraine. It includes water systems, each with the capacity to provide clean drinking water to tens of thousands of people. Eastern Ukraine no longer has functioning water infrastructure, as a result of more than three years of Russian bombardment.
Dancing for change (and clean water). This isn’t just a dance. It’s a celebration of survival. In partnership with the world-famous Ghetto Kids, Israel’s Innovation Africa shares the transformation of Karamoja - a village in Uganda - that has clean water for the first time. No more long walks. No more sickness from dirty water.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OKT3zSv78A
Taiwan donates to new medical center. Taiwan’s representative in Israel, Abby Ya-Ping Lee, has presented a significant financial donation to the Nanasi Medical Center, currently under construction in Sha’ar Binyamin. It is the first time a foreign country has donated to the development of Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/411231
https://www.jns.org/taiwan-donates-to-new-medical-center-in-samarias-binyamin/
“Brazil-Israel Friendship Day”. Brazil’s Federal Senate has passed a law establishing on Apr 12 as “Brazil–Israel Friendship Day”. It signals growing pushback against President Lula da Silva’s increasingly hostile stance toward Jerusalem. Apr 12 is the anniversary of Brazil’s opening of its embassy in Israel in 1951.
Israel climbs up the passport rankings. The Israeli passport has risen one place to 18th in the latest Henley & Partners Global passport index based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Israelis can now travel visa-free, or obtain visa-on-arrival access, to 168 destinations. (See here previously)
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412064
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
“Gateway to the Future”. Baltimore’s Haron Dahan Foundation has donated $20 million to Israel’s Bar-Ilan University. It will expand the Dahan Youth Program, which currently provides or improves STEM education for 8,000+ children across Israel. Its two tracks support both under-resourced schools and also gifted students.
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/haron-dahan-foundation-donates-20-million-to-bar-ilan-university-to-boost-stem-for-israeli-teens/ https://www.jewishtimes.com/baltimore-based-haron-dahan-foundation-donates-20-million-to-bar-ilan-university/
AI tools for schools. Israel has launched a NIS 10 million first-of-its-kind project to allow tech companies to develop, test and deploy personalized AI-powered learning tools directly in Israeli schools. Part of Israel’s National Artificial Intelligence Program, it seeks to promote student-centered tech in overcrowded classrooms.
https://www.jns.org/israel-launches-first-of-its-kind-ai-sandbox-for-public-education/
AI goes underground. (TY Hazel) The AI-powered underground intelligence platform from Israel’s Exodigo (see here previously) is becoming a potential game-changer for defense technology. Its multi-sensing technology with cloud-based AI, produces high-fidelity 3D underground maps without physical intrusion.
https://www.jpost.com/business-and-innovation/article-861333
Israeli world record cow. (TY Hazel) “Kharta”, a cow from Kibbutz Sa’ad in Southern Israel produced 18,208 liters of milk in a year and holds the world record for milk production. Israeli cows (see here previously) average nearly 14,000 liters of milk a year, far ahead of Denmark and Estonia.
https://www.jpost.com/environment-and-climate-change/article-860783
Israel’s most advanced satellite. (TY Hazel) Israel’s most advanced communications satellite, Dror-1 made by Israel Aerospace Industries, was successfully launched into space from Cape Canaveral, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. It is set to serve Israel’s communication needs for the next 15 years. Plus detailed articles about it.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israels-most-advanced-communications-satellite-successfully-launched-by-spacex/ https://www.jns.org/dror-1-satellite-signals-shift-toward-home-cooking-in-israels-space-strategy/
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/ad0ms8vww
Decades of technology tested. From drones to missile defense, Israel’s multi-domain military capabilities reshaped the battlefield against growing threats from the Islamic Republic of Iran.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israels-12-day-war-with-iran-was-a-test-of-technological-dominance/
https://ats.org/our-impact/the-breakthrough-technology-that-blocked-irans-assault-on-israel/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=556UbLBjbPw
Farming sushi-quality fish without the sea. (TY I24 News) Israeli startup Pure Blue Fish in Binyamina (see here previously) uses cutting-edge technology to provide clean, yellowtail and red rum fish direct to sushi bars. It uses tap water plus a unique continuous pump system, recycling and cleaning the water of impurities.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/watch-israeli-startup-grows-ocean-quality-fish-without-the-ocean/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDizQZ4gkAs
Combating harmful algal blooms globally. Israel’s BlueGreen Water Technologies has partnered with Winrock International to combat harmful algal blooms (HABs) across the globe. It combines advanced technology, comprehensive stakeholder engagement, and long-term sustainable water management strategies.
An app to blast out pro-Israel content. The mobile app Emissary, and its AI tool AskEmissary have been designed to give a voice to Israel supporters who wish to spread the truth about Israel and Judaism on social media. https://www.jns.org/app-aims-to-be-one-stop-shop-for-curating-blasting-out-pro-israel-jewish-content-online/ https://www.emissary4all.org/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQm1aPDDteM
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
$9.3 billion raised. Despite the ongoing war, investments in Israeli startups has hit three-year high - $9.3 billion for the first half of 2025. There were 365 funding rounds in the first six months of the year, up 54 percent from the $6 billion secured during the second half of 2024.
Spain relies on Israeli tech. Despite Madrid's public commitment to halt military technology purchases from Israel, the Spanish government authorizes the acquisition of 11,000 tactical radio communication systems from Israel’s Elbit Systems, with an initial funding of 350 million euros. 1,500 units have already been delivered.
https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/07/08/despite-boycott-threats-spain-buys-israeli-tech/
Drone delivery in North Texas. (TY OurCrowd) US DoorDash and Israel’s Flytrex (see here previously) have launched their drone delivery service in Dallas-Fort Worth. Meanwhile, customers in North Texas can download the Flytrex app and order from some three dozen restaurants.
https://www.dallasobserver.com/restaurants/north-texas-could-see-widespread-drone-food-delivery-by-end-of-2024-20211064 https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-flytrex-launch-drone-delivery
New Israeli factory to produce eVTOLs. Israel’s Air EV (see here previously) has unveiled its new 32,000 sq ft production facility to accelerate eVTOL deliveries. The new 32,000 sq. ft. site can manufacture up to six electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) simultaneously.
El Al to increase US routes. El Al has announced it will be enhancing and adding new routes to the USA this winter. There will be 27 weekly flights to and from New York, six weekly flights to and from Florida, six weekly flights to and from Los Angeles and three flights per week to and from Boston.
https://www.jns.org/el-al-announces-expanded-flights-into-four-american-markets/
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 27th July 25: AT&T bought a $650 million stake in Israel’s DriveNets. Israel’s Top Systems acquired Israel’s Nipendo for $2 million in Feb 2024. US WeSure is merging with Israel’s Hourly.io.
Startup investment – to 27th July 25: Island.io raised $250 million (value $4.8 billion); Aidoc raised $150 million; Xtend raised $100 million; Exodigo raised $96 million; April raised $38 million; Heka raised $14 million; Octup raised $12 million; Daylight Security raised $7 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
First female concertmaster for IPO. The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO) has appointed the Jerusalem-born violinist Nitzan Bartana as its incoming and first female concertmaster. Currently second concertmaster with the Sinfonieorchester Basel, Bartana has also played with the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra since 2008.
https://theviolinchannel.com/israel-philharmonic-orchestra-hires-new-concertmaster/
Ozzy’s love for Judaism & Israel. Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osborne, who recently passed away at the age of 76, played two packed-out concerts in Israel, in 2010 and 2018. He, and his Jewish wife Sharon, visited key religious and historical sites including Yad Vashem. He recently condemned the BBC’s anti-Israel bias.
Flamingos vacation in Israel. This summer in the Upper Galilee brought an unexpected surprise: flocks of pink flamingos have arrived from Iran and Turkey and chosen to remain at KKL-JNF’s Hula Lake, even during the hottest days of summer. For the first time, the flamingos have skipped their usual migration north.
https://www.kkl-jnf.org/about-kkl-jnf/green-israel-news/green-israel-news-2025/July15_item1.aspx
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=911bshoon6w
Keep cool in Jerusalem. (TY Yanky) The City of Jerusalem’s ice-skating rink is back at The First Station. You can now bring all the family to cool off from the blazing summer sun. It’s one of the most advanced ice skating facilities in Israel, using real ice, with an area of about 1000 sq meters. Open (not Shabbat) until Oct 22, 2025.
https://www.funinjerusalem.com/events/ice-skating/
Israeli wins Wimbledon. (TY Hazel) For the first time, Israel’s Guy Sasson with Netherland’s Niels Vink won the Wimbledon quad (wheelchair) doubles tournament, adding to their success at the French Open in June. Sasson said “As the lion roars and as the young lion rises. The people of Israel live.” (Num 23 v24 Am Kalavi)
Israeli American wins world poker championship. History was made at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), as Israeli-American Michael Mizrachi clinched the world championship title and walked away with a staggering $10 million prize. The son of an Israeli father, Mizrachi proudly displayed a tattoo of the Israeli flag on his arm.
https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/07/17/israeli-american-wins-world-poker-championship/
Norway plays Israel’s National Anthem. Israel’s Blessing Akwasi Afrifah won the 200-meters gold at the 2025 U-23 European Athletics Championships in Bergen, Norway. He was defending the title he won in 2024.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/411968
THE JEWISH STATE
Evangelical Christians sponsor French Aliyah flight. A group of 60 French Jewish immigrants arrived in Israel on a flight sponsored by a Jerusalem-based evangelical Christian organization. Peter Fast, International CEO of Bridges for Peace, said, “This is more than just a flight, it’s prophecy in motion.”
https://www.jns.org/christian-group-sponsors-french-aliyah-flight/
UJIA: Israel tours WILL go ahead. The UK’s largest Israel charity, UJIA, has announced that 800 teenagers can now look forward to their summer educational trip to Israel. The youth movements include BBYO, Bnei Akiva, Ezra, FZY, Habonim Dror, JLGB, LJY-Netzer, Noam, RSY-Netzer, Sinai Youth and Tribe.
https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/ujia-israel-tours-will-go-ahead/?utm_source=cio
UK Sephardi chief to make Aliyah. Rabbi Joseph Dweck is Senior Rabbi of the Spanish and Portuguese Jewish community – the oldest Jewish community in the UK. After 12 years, he is moving to Jerusalem.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFPwOkhcxPk
Russian convert joins Haredi combat unit. Joseph, a Russian-born convert, father, and new immigrant, has enlisted in the IDF’s Hashmonaim Brigade for Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox men wishing to serve while upholding their religious observance. Joseph reveals what it's like to defend Israel as a religious soldier.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L31B9UyI4SY
250713
In the 13th July 25 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:
l Astounding resilience of released hostages.
l Despite missile damage, Weizmann scientists publish vital research study.
l Peace-loving Muslim leaders make solidarity trip to Israel.
l Israeli startup developed a drone detection system on the battlefield.
l More Israeli military defense for Europe.
l The Jewish State knows when (and to whom) to give gratitude.
· Click here to see the 29th Jun newsletter on (TY Steve) IsraelSeen, (TY Ruth) Ruthfully Yours, (TY Peloni) 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 26,800 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
100 babies born at missile-damaged Soroka. (TY I24 News) Beer Sheba's Soroka hospital opened up maternity wards in bomb shelters to deal with the threat of rockets. Despite suffering an Iranian missile hit, Israeli women gave birth to 100 babies in the hospital during the 12 days of Operation Rising Lion.
Aid for Iranian missile victims. (TY eJP) Israeli non-profit Ogen (see here previously) has launched a NIS 30 million emergency aid program “Israel’s Financial First Responders,” to support small businesses and families impacted by Iran’s missile attacks on Israel during “Operation Rising Lion.” JNF-USA has also rallied to help.
https://www.jns.org/wire/ogen-launches-30m-relief-fund-for-families-businesses-hit-by-iran-missiles/
More support here. Colel Chabad, with the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) and the Hatzinor Fund, are giving debit cards worth 3,000 shekels to Israeli families left homeless after missile attacks. The JDC (Joint) have also been deploying emergency aid and services to support vulnerable populations.
https://www.jns.org/wire/with-homes-destroyed-in-iran-attack-thousands-of-israeli-families-get-immediate-support/ https://www.jns.org/wire/in-wake-of-iran-attacks-jdc-assists-vulnerable-populations-and-devastated-communities/
International support. Foreign aid for Israeli victims has come from Taiwan, which donated $160,000 to the ZAKA emergency response organization. Meanwhile, the Jewish community of Foshan China is donating building materials. Their city is one of the largest suppliers of construction services in the world.
$30 million for Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The U.S. State Department will provide $30 million to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The GHF has replaced the United Nations in delivering humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians and avoiding Hamas looters. GHF has delivered many millions of meals since its launch.
https://www.jns.org/state-dept-announces-30m-in-funding-for-gaza-humanitarian-foundation/
Ex-hostage completes IDF service. Karina Ariev, held by Hamas for over a year, has officially completed her service in Israel’s Defense Forces. All of Israel has recognized her courage for both the bravery she displayed during her captivity, and for her decision to return and honor her fallen comrades by completing her duty.
https://israfan.com/p/karina-ariev-idf-service-after-captivity
Ex-hostage gives support to missile victims. Former hostage Yelena Troufanov, spends her days gathering clothing and other supplies for those who have been injured or lost their homes and possessions during Iran’s missile attacks. So many items were donated from Israelis, which “reflects the spirit of our people,” she said.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/released-hostage-helps-victims-of-irans-missile-attacks/
Bar-Ilan graduation ceremony in Gaza. Ohad couldn’t attend his medical graduation ceremony at Bar-Ilan University as he was in the IDF serving in Gaza. So the university brought the graduation ceremony to him. He put a hat and gown over his IDF uniform and recited the doctor's oath (Hippocratic Oath) to his fellow soldiers.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xTmRQezOlJw
Unsung heroes. Israeli reservists comprised the bulk of the troops largely responsible for Israel’s successes during the long multi-front war. They are all IDF veterans who completed their full service and then entered civilian life as students, members of the work force, spouses, and parents. Now they are on the front line.
Married couple flew sorties against Iran. (TY Yanky) Combat navigators, identified only as “Yud” and “Bet” both attacked Iran during the 12-day war. “Yud” is the first female deputy commander of a fighter squadron. Husband “Bet,” commands an air squadron and will soon command a fighter squadron. They have 2 children.
ISRAEL’S MEDICAL ACHIEVEMENTS
ChatGPT saves Israeli teen. (TY UWI) A 16-year-old girl from northern Israel turned to ChatGPT for advice upon discovering a mysterious lump in her abdomen. After a series of follow-up questions, the AI chatbot recommended blood tests and an ultrasound. Subsequent surgery removed a large mass from her pancreas.
https://www.jfeed.com/news-israel/israeli-teen-chatgpt-saves-life
Weizmann test for blood cancer. Days after their labs were devastated by an Iranian missile, researchers at Weizmann Institute published findings that could lead to a blood test for detecting a person’s risk of developing leukemia. The test might also replace the invasive diagnostic procedure of bone marrow sampling.
https://wis-wander.weizmann.ac.il/life-sciences/new-blood-test-may-detect-leukemia-risk-and-replace-bone-marrow-sampling https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03716-5
Metal-free implants. Israel’s OSSIO recently expanded its best-in-class soft-tissue fixation portfolio with the launch of OSSIOfiber® 2.5mm Suture Anchors, which promise to improve several surgical procedures, including Brostrom repair for lateral ankle instability.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EENti_UKas
Researching treatment for a very rare condition. A rare mutation in the GRIN2D gene causes seizures in only 40 people worldwide. Yet Tel Aviv University researchers have developed a mouse model to replicate the condition, allowing scientists to work towards pharmacological and gene-based therapeutic strategies.
https://en-med.tau.ac.il/GRIN2D-news
Partnering to cure cancer. Georgetown University in the US is home to the federally-designated Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. Its joint initiative with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is expected to accelerate progress toward more effective cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
US Ambassador donates blood. United States Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee and his wife, Janet, donated blood following a visit to Magen David Adom’s (MDA) National Headquarters in Ramla. On his tour he saw MDA’s advanced in-house-developed technologies and met with emergency teams.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/ambassador-huckabee-donates-blood-to-lifesaving-israeli-blood-bank/
ISRAEL IS INCLUSIVE AND GLOBAL
Bikers ride for Israel. The Rolling Thunder of South Florida motorcycle riders' club organized a ride by some 250 motorcycle enthusiasts in support of Israel, the IDF and Northern Israel communities. They rode 250 miles, from Tel Aviv to the Lebanese border and back. It was their seventh solidarity ride.
https://www.jns.org/250-motorcyclists-ride-250-miles-to-show-support-for-israel/
£1 million for youth village. Israeli NGO Migdal Ohr (see here previously) has raised over £1 million to build emergency dormitories and bomb shelters for at-risk boys at Zoharim Youth Village in central Israel.
https://migdalohr.org.uk/migdal-ohrs-global-36-campaign-raises-over-1-million/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjIwamklAww https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3gArGNcaps&t=41s
Combating hatred on campus. (TY Myer) Israel is privileged to have young people like Rachel Ruben standing up against anti-Israel bullies at US universities.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQdE_MFVeUw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwAsuovdfag
Muslim leaders who support peace. A group of brave Islamic religious leaders from France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Italy and Britain visited Israel on a trip organized by the European Leadership Network (ELNET – see here previously). They met President Herzog, visited Yad Vashem and even sang Israel’s National Anthem.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/group-of-europe-based-imams-visits-israel-bearing-message-of-peace/
6 countries join Israel Allies Foundation. The Israel Allies Foundation (IAF) has expanded its international network by launching six new pro-Israel parliamentary caucuses across Africa. The new groups were established on July 7 in Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Lesotho, Seychelles, Gabon, and Guinea-Conakry.
https://israfan.com/p/israel-allies-foundation-africa-caucuses
Israeli rescued in the Himalayas. After disappearing for nine days seemingly without a trace, American-Israeli hiker Samuel was rescued by the inhabitants of a remote village. He got lost and fell off the edge of Mount Triund, sustaining multiple fractures, and was forced to live on insects, berries, and grass.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/american-israeli-stranded-on-the-himalayas-rescued-by-villagers/
Israel to open embassy in Estonia. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has just completed a three-day tour of the Baltic states. It culminated with his announcing that Jerusalem plans to open its first embassy in Estonia’s capital, Tallinn. https://www.jns.org/israel-to-open-embassy-in-estonia/
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Energy & AI agreement with USA. The USA and Israel signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), formalizing a powerful new alliance in the fields of artificial intelligence and energy infrastructure. It aims to fortify national energy grids and drive energy innovation across both countries.
https://israfan.com/p/israel-us-energy-ai-agreement-2025
Israel’s Energy Tech map. Startup Nation Central has released a map showing 165 of the 350+ Israeli startups addressing some of the world’s most significant energy challenges. These include reducing carbon emissions, storing clean energy, and enhancing electricity efficiency. The 165 startups raised over $400 million in 2024.
https://unitedwithisrael.org/israel-unveils-2025-energy-tech-map-featuring-startups-tackling-climate-and-power-challenges/ https://startupnationcentral.org/hub/blog/energy-tech/
A map of Israeli quantum computing. Earth & Beyond Ventures, with Deloitte Catalyst, have identified nine main Israeli quantum computing startups that have collectively raised about $650 million to date, including $300+ million in 2025 alone. With 15 more Israeli quantum startups, Israel punches above its quantum weight.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hyqbeowsge
UAV detection system built on the frontline. Israel’s SkyHoop was created on the battlefield by 36-year-old IDF reservist Zach Bergerson, to alerts troops to incoming aerial threats using mobile phone technology. It has already begun pilot programs in Ukraine and is in talks for a trial with the U.S. Defense Department.
https://israfan.com/p/israeli-defense-tech-growth-2025
https://finder.startupnationcentral.org/company_page/skyhoop
Multilingual AI is Wonderful. Israeli startup Wonderful has developed a system of AI agents that manage voice, chat, and email interactions for call centers in non-English-speaking countries. Already in use at Israeli organizations Bezeq and Maccabi Health Services, it autonomously handles many customer-response tasks.
https://www.wonderful.ai/ https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/skluyjmblg
Pre-biotics from carobs. Israel’s CarobWay (see here previously) is launching its carob-derived prebiotic fiber, CarobBiome™. It aims to meet the needs of consumers seeking effective gut and metabolic health benefits. It contains naturally occurring polyphenols, to nourish the gut microbiota, with less bloating.
https://www.foodbev.com/news/carobway-unveils-innovative-carob-derived-prebiotic-fibre
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Romania buys Israeli defense systems. The Romanian Ministry of Defense has selected Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems as the winner of the 1.9 billion EUR tender for its short range air defense systems.
https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/06/30/romania-picks-israeli-rafael-for-air-defense-deal/
Foreign airlines return to Israel. Emirati carrier Flydubai, resumed flying to Israel one day after the ceasefire with Iran began. Israeli-owned TUS Airways, the Greek airline Blue Bird Airways and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad began flights one day later, with China’s Hainan close behind. United, Wizz and Lufthansa restart soon.
https://www.jns.org/foreign-carriers-led-by-flydubai-start-returning-to-israel/
https://worldisraelnews.com/united-airlines-returns-to-israel-ahead-of-schedule/
https://worldisraelnews.com/european-aviation-authority-lifts-all-flight-restrictions-on-israel/
Amazon returns to Israel. Online retail giant Amazon.com has fully resumed operations in Israel, lifting a suspension on shipments to addresses in the Jewish state imposed during the 12-day war between Iran and Israel. It has also resumed its free shipping deal for orders totaling over $49 with qualifying items.
https://worldisraelnews.com/amazon-lifts-restrictions-on-shipments-to-israel/
Israel’s cybersecurity ecosystem. Startup Nation Central reports that the 500+ Israeli cybersecurity startups last year raised $3.8 billion - double the funding raised in the sector in 2023. It amounts to 40% of the funds raised by US cybersecurity companies – very commendable.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/rjupzmarel
https://finder.startupnationcentral.org/reports/cyber-spotlight-2025?group=comms
The benefits of international industrial cooperation. (TY Peloni) A report by the Industrial Cooperation Authority (ICA) shows Israel's economy generates $6 billion annually in actual procurement from its expanding network of industrial cooperation agreements with global partners and supports 1,100+ local businesses.
https://israfan.com/p/israel-industrial-cooperation-boost-2025
More money to invest in Israel. Venture capital fund Red Dot Capital Partners (see here previously) has extended its third flagship fund, securing total commitments of $320 million for investing in early-stage Israeli startups. Investors include from countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel.
https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/hyji2gyblg
EU approves Israeli low-sugar juice. (TY OurCrowd) Israel’s BlueTree Technologies received regulatory clearance to market its sugar-reduction system for fruit juices across the EU without prior approval. The filtration-based technology does not fall under the EU’s “novel food” classification.
https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2025/06/23/sugar-reduction-by-bluetree-comes-to-europe/
Exits, takeovers, and mergers to 13th July 25: Israel’s Cyera has acquired Israel’s Otterize for tens of millions of dollars. Apple has acquired Israel’s TrueMeeting (previously named CommonGround AI).
Startup investment – to 13th July 25: Cato Networks raised $359 million; Wonderful AI raised $34 million; Qedma raised $26 million; aiOla raised $25 million; Imagene AI raised $23 million; Restore Medical raised $23 million; Nominal.so has raised $20 million; Ryft raised $8 million;
CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT
1,600-year-old Byzantine mosaic unveiled. (TY Yanky) Originally discovered in 1990 near Kibbutz Urim, close to the Gaza Strip, the Be’er Shema (Birsama) mosaic is now permanently displayed at the Merhavim Regional Council HQ in the Negev. It contains 55 detailed medallions of mythological subjects.
https://archaeologymag.com/2025/05/1600-year-old-byzantine-mosaic-unveiled-in-negev/
1900-year-old lion heads. (TY TPS) A set of rare and intricately designed bronze discs shaped like lion heads has been uncovered in central Israel. The 1,900-year-old artifacts are believed to have once adorned the carrying handles of a wooden coffin that has not survived. Lions symbolize strength, protection, and nobility.
THE JEWISH STATE
He couldn’t save the patient but he helped the mourners. United Hatzalah EMS Elhanan performed CPR in the intense heat of a Beit Shemesh house. Although the patient passed away, Elhanan returned to the shiva house the next day and installed two air-conditioners, free of charge. At least the mourners could breathe.
https://www.shemesh.co.il/en/highlights/pure-kindness-from-a-united-hatzalah-volunteer
Hat’s off to Rabbi Herzog. Winner’s of Jerusalem is auctioning the iconic top hat worn by Rabbi Yitzhak Isaac HaLevi Herzog, the first Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of the State of Israel. Bids are expected to start at $800. Rabbi Herzog was Chief Rabbi until 1959 and recovered Jewish children hidden by Christians from the Nazis.
Rare Ethiopian biblical manuscripts uncovered. (TY TPS) Researchers in Israel have uncovered two handwritten biblical manuscripts from the 15th century that belonged to Israel’s Ethiopian Jewish community - the oldest known sacred texts of their kind. They comprise the Five Books of Moses, Joshua, Judges, and Ruth.
Birthright Israel returns. Birthright Israel plans to resume summer programs just two weeks after Birthright evacuated some 2,800 participants from Israel during the war with Iran. “… now we’re opening the gates to Israel once again,” stated Gidi Mark, CEO of the group, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
https://www.jns.org/birthright-israel-to-resume-trips-after-evacuating-participants-during-war/
Saying thanks. Following the US attack on Iran’s nuclear sites, some senior Israeli Rabbis instructed their communities to replace the daily Tachanun prayer with Mizmor Letodah - the prayer for thanks. On Rosh Chodesh Tammuz many Israeli communities recited full Hallel rather than the usual half Hallel.
https://www.jpost.com/judaism/article-858539
