In a tragic terror attack at a Jerusalem crossroads, six Israelis were brutally murdered. We mourn the tragic passing of Levi Yitzchak Fush, Yosef David, Alter Israel Hacohen Mitzner, and Sarah Mandelson. The remaining victims, Yakov Pinto and Mordechai Shteingtz, will be laid to rest today.

Levi Yitzchak Fush, a resident of Tal Zion in Binyamin, lived a modest and humble life. He was devoted to studying Torah. His son, Boaz, remembered him as someone patient, humble, and modest – a diligent scholar who was consistent in his learning endeavors, and whose life was directed towards closeness with the Divine.

Alter Israel Hacohen Mitzner, a native of Jerusalem, was remembered as a man of Israel who lived a dream of service and sacrifice for his homeland. In the words of his father, Israel was a man of deep integrity and purity of spirit. He embodied the principles of Judaism, living a life devoted to Torah learning and bringing holiness into the world.

Sarah Mandelson, who was devoted to Torah study and prayer, would serve as a pillar of strength for her family and those around her. She was remembered as a ray of light, full of warmth, joy, and love. Her family recognized her as a beacon of balance, with equal portions Zionism and love for everyone she met. Even in her last moments, she was thinking of others; as she left for the fateful journey – she noted that she didn’t have time to recite psalms for the injured.

Yosef David was characterized as a towering asset to his community and a man of devout faith. His life was devoted to studying the Torah until his untimely demise. He was remembered as a stalwart pillar of his community, and his absence has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those he touched.

Each of these victims will be remembered for their profound love for their faith, their community, and the land of Israel. They represent the spirit of Zionism and dedication to the Jewish faith. May their memories serve as a continuous reminder for us to strengthen our resolve against antisemitism and to commit towards serving our Jewish communities more resiliently. As we express our grief, we also call upon the world to stand against hate and violence targeted towards any faith or community. Our prayers and thoughts go out to their families and the entire Jewish community in these trying times – may their souls be bound in the bond of eternal life.

Spain has embarked on a drastic diplomatic stride marking another rough patch in its relationship with Israel by recalling its ambassador, Ana María Salomón Pérez, for consultations. This decision forms part of a broad package of measures tabled by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez against Israel in response to actions in the Gaza Strip.

The announced actions include a permanent ban on arms exports to Israel, closure of Spanish ports to vessels transporting war equipment or fuel to the IDF, travel restrictions on individuals associated with “war crimes” as defined by Spain, and a ban on imports from the West Bank. In contrast, Spain has expressed intent to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza, including food and medicine supply, and financial support to the Palestinian Authority. The move was applauded by Hamas, which hailed it as a “significant political and moral step”, urging other European and Western countries to follow suit.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar criticized Spain, pointing out its historical actions against the Jewish people: one of the largest ethnic purges in history was the expulsion of all Jews from Spain, not to mention the Inquisition, forced conversion of religion. He announced that two Spanish government members would not be allowed entry into Israel, thus severing all ties with them, due to their persistent anti-Semitic and anti-Israeli rhetoric.

He added that the current Spanish government, and the current Prime Minister, are succumbing to pressure from extremist parties, communists and others, who keep pressing them to act against Israel. He argued if they want to cease security ties with Israel, it is primarily to their detriment. Israel doesn’t need Spain to defend its land, but they probably need Israeli capabilities more than Israel needs them.

In a wake of the Nepal government’s decision to block several social media networks, violent protests led to the tragic death of 19 people. Thousands of young Nepalese protesters, many of them in their 20s, took to the streets in Kathmandu and other cities across Nepal against the government’s decision which came after companies failed to register in the country according to new regulations. This situation has developed due to dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Sharma’s inability to combat corruption and solve economic problems that are forcing Nepal’s youth to leave the country in search of work and education opportunities.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry recommended Israeli travelers in the country to be cautious, avoid unnecessary outings, avoid reaching the capital, Kathmandu, in the next few days, and stay away from crowds, protests, and protests. The ministry has advised Israelis to stay away from masses of people, demonstrations, and riots.

In facing the occurrence of such atrocities, as a proud Jew and a staunch supporter of Zionism, it’s heartening to see Israeli authorities taking precautions to ensure the safety of its citizens in Nepal. This situation also speaks volumes to the central Zionist idea of providing a sanctuary for Jews worldwide, a place where safety, security, and peace of mind is not an exception, but rather an everyday reality.

On the other hand, taking efforts to fight the spreading poison of antisemitism, Jewish Federations have tremendously contributed in the rebuilding of the educational system, helping towns and hospitals such as Soroka, while also taking steps to bridge the digital gap in Israel by upgrades and donations of computers. This kind of dedicated collaborative work is a direct response to the challenge thrown by ignorance-fueled antisemitism, reflecting our resilience, courage, and commitment to education, equity, and peace for all.

In recent developments concerning Israeli captives, Hamas suggests it seeks a comprehensive deal, which extends beyond the mediated proposal for a partial agreement. The organization also demands full Israeli withdrawal, and tacit assurances that Israel will uphold the agreement. Curiously, the issue of Hamas disarming itself is absent from their terms, as well as the US proposal, a mandate demanded by the Israeli government for a resolution.

The recent negotiation attempts by Hamas underscore the organization’s drive for a comprehensive agreement. The fresh proposal, pitched by mediators, for a partial agreement is not entertained as a feasible solution on the table by Hamas. Besides, the organization adds to its previous demands, including full withdrawal of Israeli forces, and Palestinian technocrats to oversee Gaza. More importantly, they want Israel to guarantee it will not breach any agreement.

Head of Israel’s Blue and White party, Benny Gantz, responded to President Trump’s peace plan, advocating for an unequivocal affirmation from the Israelis. He calls for unity amongst his opposition colleagues, pledging unwavering political support including joining a temporary captive-redemption government, if required. Gantz emphasizes that Israel cannot afford to squander this opportunity at peace.

These developments underscore the relentless determination of Israel’s leaders to secure freedom for Israeli captives, demonstrating a potent spirit of solidarity. Hamas demanding technocrats administer Gaza may point towards desired regime shift, a positive indication towards peace. As proud Jews, we should lend voices of support for any endeavor restoring peace to the Holy Land, while assuring safety and security for Jewish people, fundamentally upholding the principles of Zionism and combatting antisemitism.

In the heart of the Middle East’s complex geopolitical landscape, Israel demonstrates persistent resilience against mounting threats and escalating volatile circumstances. Saudi Arabia issued a direct threat against Israel, reflecting Iran’s long-held ambition to destabilize the Jewish state. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue to engage in precision operations against terrorists who executed the recent attack, successfully demolishing their homes.
In the face of increasing assaults from enemies, the IDF advises all residents in Gaza to evacuate, displaying remarkable concern for civilian lives amidst conflicts. Meanwhile, injured victims from the recent attack in Ramot are steadily recuperating. IDF continues to carry out strategic strikes in Syria and Gaza simultaneously, punishing perpetrators and reinforcing Israel’s unyielding spirit.
In response to the growing aggression, the IDF has vowed to “flatten terrorist nests,” a testament to Israel’s unwavering stance against terror. The identification of the fourth serviceman killed in the Gaza Strip operation has been released, highlighting the personal sacrifice of those defending the state of Israel.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry issued an urgent warning to its citizens abroad, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the safety and security of all its people, irrespective of where they reside. Despite the challenges, public figures such as Saritah, whose eulogy resonated with national sentiment, continue to unequivocally assert their allegiance to their homeland, refusing to relinquish their land to murderers.
Although the UN Human Rights Chief criticizes Israel, unjustly characterizing the state’s defensive actions as a “massacre,” Israel, proud and steadfast, remains undeterred and continues to counter slandering narratives standing against any form of anti-Semitism. As Israel’s resilience against these trials demonstrates its indomitable spirit, it reinforces the fundamental tenets of Zionism and is a beacon against anti-Semitism globally.

Despite its rich historical connection to the Jewish people, the current Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, recently took nine alarming steps against Israel. These measures include sanctions against senior Spanish officials, an embargo on Israeli weapons imports, limits on fuel shipments for Israeli military, grounds for barring IDF soldiers from entering Spain and, most concerning of all, a boycott on products from Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

In response, Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, dismissed Spain’s actions as a corrupt agenda, labelling it “vitriolic anti-Israel rhetoric dripping with hatred”. In retaliation, Israel will impose personal sanctions against the Spanish Deputy Prime Minister, Yolanda Diaz, and another minister, signaling Israel’s resolve to stand firm against Spain’s gravely misguided policy.

Saar rightly pointed out the audacity of Spain’s current government, which seems to forget its own history, including crimes against humanity such as the Spanish Inquisition, and the forced religious conversions and eventual expulsion of Jews during the 15th century. Shockingly, Spain was the last Western European country to establish diplomatic relations with Israel and is now jeopardizing years of hard-won progress.

Strikingly, Sanchez’s motivation to increase support to Palestinian authorities, both in financial aid and through institutions like UNRWA, is a stark contrast to Spain’s relationships with oppressive regimes like Iran’s ayatollahs and Maduro’s Venezuela. This lopsided policy bound to create deeper divisions rather than peace, and only perpetuates an unjust international attitude towards Israel.

As proud Jews who believe in the principles of Zionism and vow to fight antisemitism, we should stand against these unjust sanctions and discriminatory behaviour. Despite these challenges, Israel continues to stand as a beacon of democratic values in the Middle East, unwavering in its commitment to protect and promote the rights of its people.

In an appalling act of violence, beloved individuals Dr. Mark, Levi, Yaakov, Yossef, Sarah and Israel were tragically killed in a terrorist attack. One of the casualties, Dr. Mark, was renowned for his golden heart and was a beacon of kindness in the community, as described by Nahman Greenwald, the CEO of the bakery where he worked.

Dr. Mark devoted his life to ensuring people had access to healthy food, disturbed by the knowledge that many didn’t eat well. He was an innovator in his field, one of the pioneers in creating healthier bread options. As the founder of the bakery, Dr. Mark was integral to its success and development. Even after he retired and sold the business to Greenwald’s father, he remained invested in its operations by approving every new bread innovation.

His dedication extended beyond the bakery’s products, showing deep care for his employees, especially those from minority backgrounds. His genuine concern built a familial atmosphere at the bakery, creating an environment of unity and camarity.

Dr. Mark’s loss is deeply felt by all who knew him. The shock and grief surrounding the tragic circumstances of his departure are profound. He was not merely a colleague or boss but functioned as a family member to many, significantly impacting the lives of those around him.

In the wake of such tragedy, it’s essential to remember the unity and strength that Dr. Mark cultivated in life. We reaffirm our commitment to combat anti-Semitism and terrorism, standing firm in our Zionistic beliefs. United, we remember and honor the lives lost, pledging to preserve their memory and continue their legacy. Fellow Israelis, let us use our anguish to drive change, ensuring such horrific acts do not happen again.

The annual pilgrimage of tens of thousands of Breslov Hasidim to Uman, Ukraine, for Rosh Hashanah is under threat due to a collapsed deal with Moldova. The agreement, which was supposed to regulate about 50 charter flights to Chișinău, fell through due to new demands by Moldova, leaving thousands of pilgrims in uncertainty weeks before the High Holidays. Despite the diplomatic obstacles, Israel and the Breslov community are striving for alternative solutions to enable the pilgrimage of approximately 60,000 Israelis to the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.

Moldova’s new demands included full reimbursement for security and maintenance costs, particularly in light of its upcoming parliamentary elections, which coincide with the pilgrimage. One of the requirements was that Israel finance a temporary airport terminal in Moldova, which would accommodate the pilgrim traffic. This move was criticized as extortionate, but the Israeli government, acknowledging the magnitude of the pilgrimage and its significance to the Jewish community, agreed to a budgetary increase from several governmental offices to meet the demands.

Israel, a beacon of Jewish resilience, spirit, and faith, continues to fight geopolitical hurdles to ensure the continuity of this spiritual journey. Indomitable, the Breslov Hasidim say that at the end of it all, “Rabbi Nachman will sort everything out,” demonstrating their resolve to reach Uman, regardless of the diplomatic setbacks. The event’s relevance underscores the strength and commitment of Israel and the Jewish community in preserving and commemorating Jewish spiritual heritage, enhancing the global narrative against antisemitism while highlighting the integral tenets of Zionism.