Israeli society

Editor's Notes: What kind of Jewish state are we becoming? Reflecting on Independence Day - comment

As Israel celebrates 78 years, the question remains: What kind of Jewish state are we becoming? A reflection on Zionism, identity, and unity on this Independence Day.

A woman holds an Israeli flag on a balcony near the scene where a missile fired from Iran struck a building in Haifa, northern Israel, as Israeli rescue forces recover bodies from the site, causing extensive damage, April 6, 2026.
People take cover in a bomb shelter from incoming missiles fired from Iran in Tel Aviv, March 16, 2026.

Only 30% of young people in Israel optimistic about future, Aluma survey reveals

A man draped in a US flag holds stacked Israeli and Royal Iranian flags during a demonstration in solidarity with the Iranian protest movement outside the US Embassy branch office in Tel Aviv on February 14, 2026.

Strength and strain: Israel’s defense and societal resilience in the long war with Iran - editorial

Ori Ansbacher

Ori Ansbacher was brutally murdered 7 years ago – and faded from public memory - opinion


Socioeconomic intervention needed to save haredi periphery towns - opinion

Haredi women in the periphery are more educated, with increased matriculation certificates or academic degrees: 41% vs 34% in the center. Geography itself has a tangible effect on haredi lifestyles.

 Rain in Bnei Brak

‘Unacceptable situation': Herzog calls on leaders to tackle record high Arab-sector murder toll

Following a deadly year for Arab society, President Herzog visits Sakhnin, calling for unity, determination, and decisive action to fight crime and ensure a safe future for all.

President Isaac Herzog visited the town of Sakhnin on Thursday, where he met with leaders from the Arab community in response to the recent rise in violence within Arab society in Israel.

In the age of AI warfare, Israel’s strongest defense is its people - opinion

In an age of AI warfare and online manipulation, Israel’s next line of defense is a cyber-literate public.

 Israeli cyber security; illustration.

Israel faces tough choices over haredi draft exemptions, legal expert warns - interview

Legal expert Shlomit Ravitsky Tur-Paz warns that Israel’s draft bill for the Haredi community may entrench societal divisions and worsen long-term challenges for the economy and military.

Protests against haredi draft in Jerusalem, October 30, 2025.

Human Rights Day: How ancient Jewish values meet modern universal duties - opinion

If each of us commits to our duties, we can build a society grounded in mutual respect, responsibility, and peace.

Israeli flag and rainbow flag being waved at Tel Aviv Pride Parade, June 25 2021

Israeli bluntness masks a rich moral code that Western politeness lacks - opinion

Israel’s rough social style reveals a lived morality and authenticity that is often absent in Western politeness.

Outside a restaurant in Jerusalem, last month: There is a simplicity to life here, and a form of humility, says the writer.

A symptom of adult failure: Why 40% of Israeli teens exhibit violent, aggressive behavior - opinion

Teen violence is a wake-up call. It invites us to rebuild the social fabric that has unraveled. The choice of what the coming years will look like for this generation rests in our hands.

An illustrative image of a teenager with the word "HATE" written on their hand.

Grapevine November 23, 2025: Safety in numbers?

Movers and shakers in Israeli society.

ISRAFOOD HUSTLE and bustle.

Under Your Wings: A gathering to celebrate, support Israel's converts to Judaism

The evening offered a rare chance for converts to come together, share their stories, and celebrate the blessings of their journeys.

Converts share their stories in a discussion circle at the Under Your Wings event.

Israel won’t be saved from the haredim. It will be saved with them - opinion

The real challenge is not the existence of such a community but the erosion of trust and communication between sectors.

THE STREETS of Bnei Brak: The haredim are not a burden on Israel’s back; they are woven into its social DNA, the writer maintains.