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
