The Berlin Film Festival is embracing change under new leadership, seeking to balance its political legacy with broader appeal. Critics and filmmakers note renewed excitement as the event aims to reclaim its place among the world's top film festivals.

A Hanukkah candle was lit in a Siberian ice menorah despite severe cold and logistical challenges. The event highlighted the resilience and spirit of the holiday.

Major stocks fell on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, led by Delek and NewMed Energy. Next Vision rose despite the market trend. The shekel weakened against the dollar and euro.

A Palestinian teenager was reportedly shot dead by Israeli forces during clashes in Teqoa, southern West Bank. Local officials identified the victim as 17-year-old Ammar Yasser Sabah. The Israeli military has not commented on the incident.

Afghanistan's neighbors and Russia met in Iran to discuss regional challenges, but Afghanistan did not attend. The group called for lifting sanctions and supporting Afghan refugees, while urging greater cooperation on security and economic issues. Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan and the Taliban's absence were key points of concern.

International Criminal Court judges have rejected Israel's bid to stop the investigation into its conduct in the Gaza war. The probe and arrest warrants for Israeli officials remain in place. Other legal challenges from Israel are still pending.

A deadly attack on a Jewish celebration at Bondi Beach has led to global condemnation and heightened security concerns. Scottish leaders and police are working to ensure the safety of Jewish communities. The tragedy has intensified calls for solidarity and action against antisemitism.

Adeena Sussman talks about blending her American Jewish and Israeli culinary influences, sharing easy recipes and Hanukkah cooking tips. She explains how cooking helped her cope during difficult periods.

A roundup of recent apartment sales across Israel highlights varying prices in cities such as Tel Aviv, Bat Yam, Or Yehuda, Shlomi, and Ashkelon. The deals reflect a dynamic property market with significant regional differences.

Bashar Assad is reportedly studying Russian and ophthalmology in exile, aiming to revive his medical career. He and his family are living quietly in Moscow and sometimes in the United Arab Emirates.

Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who recently hosted a memorial for Mumbai attack victims, was killed in the Sydney terror attack. He is survived by his wife and five children. Authorities are investigating the suspects, reportedly a father-son duo.

Rabbi Yosef Eichenblatt shared his daughter's account of surviving the Bondi Beach attack and criticized the police response. He also voiced concern over government inaction on antisemitism, while highlighting the community's resilience.