News and features from Israel
Three IDF soldiers killed in roadside blast in northern Gaza Strip. IDF denies firing on Gazans in aid distribution site. Prosecution begins cross-examination in Prime Minister Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trialSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Irish low-cost airline Ryanair has extended its suspension of flight services to Tel Aviv until July 31, following the Houthi missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport at the beginning of May. More chaos is expected for Israelis over the busy summer holiday period. Mark Feldman, CEO of Ziontours, told KAN's Mark Weiss that his travel agency will now only book flights on Israeli carriers for passengers flying to and from Israel. (Photo:Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Infant Ravid Haim Gez succumbs to terror attack wounds. PM convenes meeting to discuss Gaza truce progress. Right wing reject Gaza deal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Iran issue is reportedly fueling tensions between US President Donald Trump and Israel's Prime Benjamin Netanyahu, who is said to be pressing for military action amid concerns over the diplomatic deal Washington is pursuing with Tehran. Prof. Gerald Steinberg, President of NGO Monitor and professor emeritus of politics at Bar-Ilan University spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal about regional security developments. (Photo: POOL/Associated Press)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
IAF hits Houthi-held Sanaa airport in Yemen. On day 600 of war in Gaza, families of hostages demand release now of their loved ones. IDF says mobile medical facility in Syria has so far treated 500 Druze SyriansSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Col (res.) Itamar Yaar, head of Commanders for Israel's Security and a former deputy head of the National Security Council, says military pressure alone will not achieve an agreement and lead only to more casualties on both sides. He told KAN reporter Naomi Segal that in his view the government – primarily the prime minister – is not acting in the Israeli interests, and Israel is already feeling the detrimental effects of international isolation. (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US envoys tell hostages' families there is chance for progress in coming days. Israel Air Force intercepts two missiles fired from Yemen at Israel. Opposition lawmaker Golan heckled at Beer Sheva conferenceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Source: Israel rejected latest hostage release proposal. Three Arab citizens suspected of plotting attacks against Israel. Heightened tensions ahead of Jerusalem Day marchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A delegation from South Africa's Patriotic Alliance is visiting Israel this week on a trip organized by South African Friends of Israel (SAFI). The visit comes despite the tension between the two countries and the hostile stance of Pretoria's ruling ANC towards Israel. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Bafana Modise from SAFI. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Against the backdrop of the ongoing war and its strain on the mental health of Israeli society, an Israeli startup's AI tech platform has reduced waiting time for individuals to receive mental healthcare, and also aids psychiatrists in better treatment outcomes. During the war, the company, Taliaz has worked with resilience centers in the Gaza periphery in easing access to mental health services. Dr. Dekel Taliaz, Founder and Chief Ccience Officer of Taliaz spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal. (Photo: Shay Ashkenazy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The "Jewish Music Days" festival, now in its 13th year, is taking place this week, May 26-28. The three-day event at Bar-Ilan University showcases a diverse range of Jewish music styles, from classical to contemporary, building bridges between religious and secular, East and West, old and new. This year's theme is "80 Years of Holocaust Remembrance and Resurrection: Jewish music in the shadow of war." KAN reporter Naomi Segal heard more from Dr. Avi Bar-Eitan of the music department at Bar-Ilan University. (Photo: Shay Kedem)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Houthi missile fired at Israel from Yemen intercepted. Prime minister announces choice for Shin Bet chief, defying attorney general. Israelis reports receiving spam calls over weekend with recordings of hostages and explosionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel is facing mounting pressure from European allies over its expanded military operations in Gaza and aid restrictions on the enclave. Britain this week announced it was suspending free trade negotiations, and European Union member states have pledged to review commercial ties with Israel. This as France affirmed its intent to recognize a Palestinian state, and an upcoming conference at UN headquarters in New York in June will seek to revive the pathway toward a two-state solution. Reporter Arieh O’Sullivan asked veteran retired diplomat Avi Pazner, a former ambassador to Italy and France, how serious are the current tensions between Israel and Europe. He also said the rising antisemitism is spreading to the point where it may be dangerous to be Jewish in the United States. (Photo: Associated Press)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The upcoming Shavuot holiday is traditionally a time to get out and get in touch with nature, celebrate the harvests on the agricultural communities and experience Israel’s rural districts. There is a 5-day festival called “Ba Li Galil” I feel like the Galilee running from May 29th through June 2nd which is offering an opportunity to explore wineries and crafts in Jewish towns, and also Arab villages that are opening up with home cooking, folklore, performances and much much more. Reporter Arieh O’Sullivan got a preview of the events in a visit to the Galilee. Here is his report. (photo: Erez Ben Simon)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two Israel embassy staffers murdered in shooting attack in Washington, DC. Israel's foreign minister blames shooting on anti-Semitic, anti-Israel rhetoric, including from world leaders. IDF intercepts second Houthi missile fired at Israel from Yemen, hours after downing a similar projectile. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Well for those who are lovers of folk, blues and jam sessions, there is festival taking place this weekend. It’s called Singing At Nave Shalom and will host some of the well-known Israeli singers and musicians in an atmosphere close to old Jacob’s Ladder Festival. Harold Jacobs the organizer of the music festival spoke with reporter Arieh O’Sullivan about the shows. (photo: courtesy) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Government has recently approved a comprehensive security-settlement program to bolster Israel’s frontiers. The plan calls for establishing new communities, army farming outposts and yeshivas including for ultra-Orthodox men on the borders. One of its leading proponents has been the Hashomer Hachadash. Reporter Arieh O’Sullivan spoke with Uri Sapir, Deputy Director General for Settlement Affairs for Hashomer Hachadash about the plan. (photo: hashomer hachash)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shawna Goodman, who immigrated with her family from Canada to Israel some 10 years ago, believes in the formative power of an immersive summer camp experience. To that end, she founded Summer Camp Israel, to provide such a 10-day experience to Israeli youth. With financial support from the organization, thousands of Israeli children including those evacuated from the north and children of reservists, will take part in a camp experience this coming summer. Goodman spoke to KAN reporter about the organization. (Photo: Courtesy Isracamp) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can joint Israeli-Palestinian health programs help build trust where politics have failed? According to a new paper published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the health care field can play a crucial role in building bridges between communities in conflict. Written by two Jewish Israeli and two Palestinian doctors during a period of temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the paper reviews 16 joint initiatives, highlighting in particular two programs: Road to Recovery and Physicians for Human Rights Israel. The authors also present recommendations on how cross-national health care programs can play a role in post-war peacebuilding. One of the paper's authors, Avner Halperin, a senior fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School's Middle East Initiative, spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal. (Photo: Billie Weiss)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Curtain Up, the Culture Ministry's flagship dance project now in its 35th year, is a showcase for contemporary dance in Israel, providing a springboard for independent choreographers to premiere their works in locations around the country. Twelve creators are participating in this year's program which runs through May 30th. Curtain Up co-artistic director Maya Brinner spoke with KAN reporter Naomi Segal about the creative process in complex times. (Photo: Yair Meyuhas)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
IDF soldier killed in southern Gaza. Pope calls for sufficient aid to be allowed into Gaza. Soccer players suspected of defrauding national insurance instituteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A UN humanitarian affairs spokesperson in Geneva said the organization has received approval to bring 100 aid trucks into the Gaza Strip. According to him, 'We requested approval for many more trucks. If babies in Gaza do not receive the life-saving equipment they need, they will be in mortal danger.' Reporter Mark Weiss spoke about the legal aspects of providing aid in a time of war with Dr Eran Shamir Borer, Director of the Israel Democracy Institute’s Center for Security and Democracy, and a reserve colonel and former head of the IDF’s International Law department. (Photo: Reuters)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sgt. Yosef Yehuda Chirak , killed in Gaza, is buried.PM mulls returning negotiators from Doha. Outrage over Yair Golan's remarks that " a sane country doesn't kill babies as a hobby."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Tzav 9 movement, which opposes sending aid to Gaza, responded to the decision to renew humanitarian supplies by calling on people to prevent the aid trucks from entering Gaza. “Netanyahu, this is on you. We shouldn’t provide luxuries and aid to Hamas until the last hostage returns,” the group said in a statement. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Rachel Touitou, a co-founder and spokesperson for Tsav 9. (Photo:Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Social and political activist Gershon Baskin, co-head of the Alliance for Two States, blasted the current IDF campaign against Hamas in Gaza, saying that military pressure doesn’t save hostages… it kills them. Speaking to reporter Arieh O’Sullivan, Baskin outlined possible moves that could free the hostages, end the fighting and rebuild Gaza. (photo: Ohad Zwigenberg./flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
IDF orders evacuation of civilians from Khan Yunis amid offensive, humanitarian aid starts entering Gaza Strip, laborer killed in work accident in Bnai Barak See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Amid the ongoing war, overseas students continue to flock to Israel, with the international school at Reichman University reporting a 6 percent increase in enrollment. Some 2,600 students from 90 countries are studying in the English-language programs. Of this cohort, some 350 students are lone soldiers serving in the reserves. Jonathan Davis, Vice President at Reichman University and head of the Raphael Recanati International School spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal. (Photo: Screenshot Facebook. Inset: Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Knesset, coalition fails in bid to issue emergency call-up orders to IDF reservists. Defense minister says signs indicate Hamas military leader was killed in Gaza Strip bombardments. Israel's Yuval Raphael finishes second in Eurovision song contest. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tzeela Gez from the West Bank settlement of Bruchin was buried in Jerusalem on Thursday evening. She was on her way to a hospital delivery ward on Wednesday night to give birth to her fourth child when a Palestinian terrorist opened fire. Doctors managed to save the life of her baby boy who remains in serious but stable condition but Tzeela was killed. Her husband, who was driving the car, was lightly hurt. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Yigal Dilmoni, the founder of American Friends of Judea and Samaria and the former CEO of the Yesha Council.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israeli woman en route to hospital to give birth murdered in Samaria shooting attack. Impasse in Doha talks on hostage release deal. Israel to participate Thursday in Eurovision second semi-final See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Prof. Yossi Shain, former head of department of government at Tel Aviv University and a former Knesset Member, said Israel is dragging its feet to put the conflict to an end at a time when US President Trump was closing deals all around. Speaking to reporter Arieh O’Sullivan, Shain said that Israel is currently in a trap due to indecision on the real objectives of the war He added that Israel has found itself out of the loop with not just the Iran nuclear talks, but relations with regional countries like Syria. (photo: Bandar Aljaloud/Saudi Royal Palace via AP) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel warns Yemenis of impending strike on three ports after Houthis launch multiple missiles at the Jewish state, Earthquake felt in Israel, Air Force continues bombing site where Hamas military commander Mohammed Sinwar believed to be hidingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This upcoming Shavuot holiday is presenting a wonderful opportunity to get out and visit the Galilee. It’s called “Ba li Galil,” I feel like the Galilee, and is taking place from May 29 through June 2; A five-day festival over the Shavuot holiday weekend. It encompasses the lower Galilee districts of Carmel, Misgav, Sahnin and Bikat Beit Hakeem. Great chance to explore not only some of the nature and wineries and crafts in Jewish towns etc, but also many Arab villages are opening up with home cooking, folklore shows and much more. Reporter Arieh O'Sullivan spoke with Haggit Lerer, the editor of the culinary part of the Ba Li Galil Festival. (photo: Arieh O'Sullivan) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President Trump arrived in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday at the start of a regional visit that will also take in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The visit is taking place at a very sensitive time in this region. Arab leaders are certain to press him to do more to ease the suffering in Gaza, bring the remaining hostages home, and pressure Israel to move towards a ceasefire. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke about the trip with Marc Zell, Chair of Republicans Overseas, Israel. (Photo: Reuters)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel is a land of deep and ancient history. But also modern history and heritage as well. How do you balance between preserving historic sites and building and thriving in a dynamic country? Guy Shachar, the manager of the northern western district of the Council for the Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites, spoke with reporter Arieh O’Sullivan about the challenges and about the efforts to preserve the self-proclaimed micro nation of Akhzivland. (photo: Yossi Aloni/flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hamas says it will release IDF soldier Idan Alexander, preparations made to receive him as IDF quietly lowers scope of operations in Gaza Strip. Houthi rocket fired at Israel falls in Saudi ArabiaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Israel and Germany celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations this week. President Isaac Herzog visits Germany on Monday for a one-day state visit at the invitation of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Following the conclusion of the visit , the German President will return to Israel together with President Herzog for his own state visit, which will include, among other events, a visit to Kibbutz Be’eri – the Presidents’ second joint visit to the kibbutz since the outbreak of the war. The Presidents will also visit the National Library of Israel, and President Herzog will present the German President with the “Presidential Medal of Honor” at a state ceremony to be held in his honor at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Jeremy Issacharoff, a former vice Director-General at the foreign ministry and Israel’s ambassador to Germany between 2017-22. (Photo: Reuters)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mossad and IDF retrieve body of Zvi Feldman from Syria. He fell in battle in Lebanon almost 43 years ago. Report: Abbas, Aoun and al-Shara may join Trump talks in Riyadh.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Belong initiative is a private company helping to promote aliya to Israel. It offers to support people interested in moving to Israel, help them learn Hebrew, even find a job.It is also targeting Jews with a Liberal outlook to come to Israel and participate in the vibrant democratic society here. We spoke with Jessica Scalisi, who made aliya a few years ago from North America, about their efforts and what they can do to help bring more Jews to Israel. (photo: Belong) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Families of hostages demand meeting after US president Trump says only 21 abductees still left alive, Houthis fire drone at Israel which is intercepted and vow to continue attacking Israel despite ceasefire reached with the United States See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Israeli Air Force struck multiple Houthi targets in Yemen for the second time in less than 24 hours on Tuesday, including a major airstrike that shut down Sanaa’s main airport. Just before today’s Israeli air force attacks KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Dr Nahum Shiloh , an expert on Yemen and the Gulf states from Tel Aviv university’s Moshe Dayan Center, and asked him first about the damage from Monday’s Israeli strike against the Hodeida port. (Photo: IDF)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
IAF strikes Hizbullah targets. Houthis say 4 killed in Israeli attack. Hostage families demand a meeting with Zamir. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This Thursday and Friday will be the People’s Peace Summit – two days of performances, lectures, meetings and happenings devoted to making peace and coexistence. It’s being held around Jerusalem and also at the Binyanei Hauma convention center on May 8th and 9th. The summit is an initiative of “It’s Time,” which is a coalition of some 60 Jewish and Arab organizations. Thousands are expected to attend. Maya Savir, an Israeli writer and Israel country director at Search for Common Ground, an international peace organization who is involved in the summit, spoke to reporter Arieh O’Sullivan. (photo: courtesy) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cabinet approves wide land offensive against Hamas in Gaza Strip, Government decides not to set up a commission of inquiry into the October 7th attack, Teachers and Treasury work out deal, end disruptions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark Feldman, CEO of Zion Tours, said that long-term decisions by foreign airlines on whether to cancel flying to Israel due to the Houthis missile will take time. He said that he continues to suggest people to purchase tickets on Israeli airlines. Speaking to reporter Arieh O’Sullivan, he said that Fly Dubai and Etihad and Ethiopians were still flying, but the European and American airlines were dropping flights since there are few tourists and they were relying on Israelis. (photo: Chaim Goldberg/flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Houthis missile hits near Ben Gurion Airports after air force fails to intercept it. many airlines cancel flights to Israel, two IDF servicemen killed in action in Gaza laid to rest See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Beer Sheva-based Israeli startup CaPow has developed an in-motion power delivery solution for robotic fleets. CaPow CEO and founder Prof. Mor Peretz spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal about the company, about future applications of the technology, and commitment to develop the tech sector in Israel's Negev. (Photo: Adva Barzilai)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Among the recipients of the Israel Prize this year is Prof. Yinon Ben Neriah of the Faculty of Medicine at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, who was recognized for his groundbreaking research in cancer. A distinguished physician, immunologist, and leading cancer researcher, Ben-Neriah's pioneering work has significantly advanced understanding of the biological mechanisms linking chronic inflammation and cancer. Notably, his research identified key processes by which inflammation facilitates cancer development, leading to the creation of novel therapeutic strategies. He spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal. (Photo: Bruno Charbit)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They adorn train stations and bus shelters, benches and lamp posts, walls of buildings in public spaces, and even far-off locations: personalized stickers memorializing the fallen in the October 7th attack and the ongoing war, often bearing the mottos and values each lived by. Now, an online initiative by Hilma - Tech for Impact, in cooperation with Yad LaBanim and Mako, offers the public an opportunity to view the stickers and learn each person's story, take actions that carry on their legacy, and even send a message of consolation to the bereaved family. Doron Nissimi, CTO of Hilma, spoke to KAN reporter Naomi Segal about the initiative, Drishat Shalom, Send Regards. (Screenshot)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Siren sounds as Israel remembers its fallen. Independence Day eve torch lighting ceremony cancelled amid fires, high winds in Jerusalem hills. Communities evacuated, highway closed due to firesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A rare handwritten excerpt from David Ben-Gurion’s diary, penned on May 14, 1948 – the day of Israel's declaration of independence – has been revealed to the public, offering a personal glimpse into the founding prime minister’s emotions and concerns at the birth of the state. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Shmuel Adler , the deputy director of the Ben Gurion Heritage Institute and the Ben Gurion Archives. (Photo: Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.