From Prime Minister Netanyahu’s bold $5 million offer to secure the release of hostages to the U.S. veto of a controversial U.N. resolution, this edition unpacks the issues shaping Israel’s future. Plus, learn about how a quiet college town ignited outrage with a divisive display and why Modern-Day Esthers are taking action to stand against hate.

Discover What’s Really Happening in Gaza and Beyond... 

Join us in blessing Israel on Giving Tuesday!

This Giving Tuesday on December 3 is not just any day. It aligns with Genesis 12:3, which declares: “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” This verse calls us to take part in God’s ongoing promise to bless those who bless Israel.  Join us in blessing Israel, supporting God’s people, and allowing His blessings to flow through our acts of love.

Make Your Giving Tuesday Gift to Bless Israel...

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took a bold stand during his recent visit to Gaza, issuing an ultimatum to Hamas and an unexpected offer to those willing to help free the hostages still held in captivity. Standing along the Mediterranean shore in the war-torn Netzarim Corridor, Netanyahu declared:

"Anyone who dares to harm our hostages will have blood on their head. We will hunt you down and get you."

However, the Israeli leader also extended an olive branch of sorts to those holding captives:

"Whoever brings us a hostage will be given a safe way, for him and his family, to leave. We will also give a reward of $5 million for each kidnapped person. You choose — the choice is yours — but the result will be the same. We’ll get them all back."

This unprecedented offer underscores the urgency of Israel’s mission to bring home the 101 remaining hostages, a campaign Defense Minister Israel Katz described as Israel’s “most important...

The U.S. Stands Firm at the U.N.

On Wednesday, U.S. Ambassador Robert Wood vetoed a resolution backed by Algeria and others that called for an "immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza. The draft failed to mention Hamas, the terrorist group responsible for the massacre of 1,200 Israelis on October 7, 2023, nor did it demand the release of over 100 hostages—including seven Americans—still held captive.

“The United States will never accept Hamas retaining power in Gaza,” Wood declared. He denounced the resolution as "cynical" and a dangerous precedent that would embolden terrorists. “This resolution would have sent a message to Hamas that their strategy of using human shields and targeting civilians works,” he added.

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon criticized the resolution further, warning that it prioritizes Hamas’ agenda over justice for the hostages. “We will not stop fighting until we bring all the kidnapped men and...

From uncovering troubling displays of antisemitism in unexpected places to exploring bold political moves that could redefine Israel’s future, this edition dives into the stories shaping history. You’ll also discover ways to bless Israel this Giving Tuesday and celebrate the season with handcrafted gifts from the Holy Land. Modern-Day Esthers, your prayers and actions continue to make an eternal impact.

“Good Trouble” or Dangerous Hate?

In a quiet southern college town, a government-sanctioned banner celebrating “Good Trouble” is sparking outrage and heartbreak in the Jewish community. Is glorifying symbols tied to violence and division truly justice? Discover how this display is impacting local families, including those of hostages, and why residents are demanding accountability.

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“Kiss the Flag, Nazi”

Antisemitism has no place in any setting—workplaces, schools, or communities. Together, we must...

In the heart of downtown Chapel Hill, North Carolina, just steps from the University of North Carolina campus, a banner displayed by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture has ignited a storm of controversy. Prominently featuring a protester wearing a keffiyeh and the hashtag “#GOODTROUBLE,” the banner has left many in the Jewish community feeling unsafe, disregarded, and deeply hurt.

The keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern scarf, has long been a symbol of Palestinian nationalism. For many Jews, however, it has become a painful reminder of incitement and violence—particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that brutally claimed the lives of over 1,200 Israelis, including 46 Americans. As one Chapel Hill resident pointed out, the banner seems to glorify not justice, but intimidation.

“It is appalling to think that anyone would consider ‘good trouble’ as celebrating the murder, rape, and kidnapping of thousands of innocent...

As the U.N. Security Council prepared to vote on a draft resolution introduced by Algeria, tensions rose not only in Israel but also in Washington, D.C. The resolution, aimed at forcing a ceasefire in Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas, has drawn fire for its lack of clear condemnation of Hamas and for what critics call its abandonment of the 101 hostages still in captivity.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz didn’t mince words, declaring the resolution an effort to “permanently undermine the incoming Trump administration and Republican Congress.” He promised to collaborate with fellow lawmakers and the incoming administration to counter such measures, even suggesting reevaluating the U.S.’s relationship with the U.N.

Israel’s Ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, also voiced his outrage, stating:
“Any resolution that does not condition the ceasefire on the release of the hostages means abandoning the 101 hostages to the hell of the terrorist...

Israel stands at a critical crossroads, one that could redefine its character, soul, and future as a Jewish democratic state. The prospect of annexing parts of the West Bank, championed by some political leaders, carries profound implications for Israel’s identity, economy, and security. This conversation is vital for Modern-Day Esthers who stand with Israel, as we explore what comes next for the Jewish state and the role we can play in its future.

Shaul Arieli, an Israel Policy Forum policy advisor and a leading expert on the Israeli-Palestinian political process, presents a sobering analysis in his recent article, The Unbearable Price Israel Would Pay for Annexation. Arieli warns that annexation is not just about territorial expansion—it’s about the very essence of what Israel represents. He writes, “This isn’t merely about territory; it’s about Israel’s soul and future. The dream of a democratic Jewish state, as envisioned by its...

In a deeply troubling firsthand account, Elinor Krits, a software engineer at Microsoft, shares her harrowing experience of antisemitism during a so-called “No Azure for Apartheid” event at Microsoft’s Redmond campus. Her story highlights the urgent need for companies, organizations, and individuals to confront and address the growing wave of anti-Israel and antisemitic sentiment.

Elinor’s testimony, published in The Times of Israel Blogs, paints a disturbing picture of an event that was ostensibly a “vigil” but quickly devolved into harassment and hate speech. She describes being targeted and called slurs like “Nazi” while being taunted with Palestinian and Lebanese flags. Despite notifying Microsoft’s HR and security departments ahead of time about the planned event, little was done to prevent the harm or ensure the safety of Jewish employees.

“As disheartening as the No Azure for Apartheid event and the media coverage...

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to step back into the Oval Office, his administration’s first orders of business include a decisive shift in Middle East policy. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Israel, is leading the charge with a clear mission: to end the financial flow fueling Iran’s support for terrorism.

“The fact remains that the real problem here is not Hamas, Hezbollah, or the Houthis. It’s Iran,” Huckabee stated in a recent Fox Business interview with Maria Bartiromo. For decades, Iran’s “money tree” has been the lifeline for these terrorist organizations. Now, Huckabee insists, that tree is about to be chopped down.

Show Me the Money… or should we say Shut Down the Money Tree!

Huckabee’s bold plan centers on reinstating Trump’s “maximum pressure campaign” on Iran. This strategy, first implemented during Trump’s initial term,...

In this edition, we draw inspiration from the past and look to the future. From the enduring lessons of Fiddler on the Roof, showcasing the resilience and faith of the Jewish people, to today’s heart-wrenching stories of Israel’s fallen heroes and the opportunities to invest in Israel’s resilient economy and groundbreaking technology. You’ll also discover ways to spread shalom and bless Israel during this season of miracles.
 

Heartbreaking Courage: Stories of Israel’s Fallen Heroes

The ultimate sacrifices are made by Israel’s defenders, including Lt. Ivri Dickstein, whose final words to his wife inspire us to stand firm in faith and action. Learn how you can honor their legacy, pray for grieving families, and advocate for the safe return of hostages still held in Gaza.

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Investing in Israel: A Testament of Faith and Resilience

Israel’s economy has shown extraordinary resilience, even amid conflict. Venture investments...