The toppling of Bashar al-Assad's government has opened a new chapter in Syria's history, but the future of the country remains uncertain. The new caretaker government must tackle significant challenges to establish stability and prevent a return to civil war. Foreign involvement from multiple governments with opposing interests further complicates efforts to unify the war-torn country. Resolving domestic tensions, addressing concerns of minority groups, and adopting a federal secular model in a new constitution are crucial steps towards a stable and inclusive Syria.

The large relocation of Israelis presents a challenge for the Jewish world in maintaining a strong Jewish identity for those who move abroad. The education of the children of these relocated families is a pressing concern, as it shapes their understanding of their Jewish heritage and connection to Israel. Jewish communities must create supportive frameworks, including schools, educational programs, and cultural initiatives, to ensure that the Jewish identity of these families remains intact. By investing in their Jewish education and identity, we are ensuring the future leadership of the Jewish community.

Jewish silence in the face of hate is no longer an option: Bravery is essential.

The Red Cross is causing delays in the transfer of Palestinian prisoners, according to an Israeli official.

Scientists have discovered a new giant horned dinosaur from Egypt named Tameryraptor markgrafi after finding lost photographs of the fossils that were destroyed during World War II.

Eitan Gonen, father of Romi Gonen, expresses overwhelming gratitude and relief as news breaks of his daughter's imminent return from captivity in Gaza. Romi, 24, was abducted by Hamas during the devastating October 7, 2023, attack on the Nova Music Festival and has been held for over 14 months.

Otzma Yehudit's departure from the government and coalition will lead to a reshuffling in the government and Knesset. The national security ministry and Negev and Galilee ministry will likely be given to existing ministers from the Likud.

Ollantaytambo, a historic town in Peru's Sacred Valley of the Incas, has been listed as one of the 52 Places to Go in 2025 by The New York Times. Known as the Living Inca City, Ollantaytambo captivates travelers with its archaeological sites and well-preserved water channels.

Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi and 32 others are set to be released in the first phase of a ceasefire deal. The daughter of another hostage speaks out, calling for her father's return. Hostage families are urging the Prime Minister to begin negotiations for the next stages.

Archaeologists have uncovered the largest private bath complex ever found at Pompeii, providing new insights into life in the ancient Roman city.

Ben-Gvir and Otzma Yehudit MKs resign from government after approval of deal with Hamas.

Armonim is a meat chef restaurant in Sde Yoav that offers an array of Israeli dishes and entertainment every night. The restaurant is part of the Dream Island Spa and Health Resort, which also includes a boutique hotel and indoor and outdoor pools. The restaurant has a large and beautifully designed space with white trees and ceiling lights. It offers a limited menu with starters and main courses, including vegan options. The writer enjoyed a vodka-based cocktail and the aged entrecôte, while their companion had the salmon filet Niçoise. Overall, they had an excellent meal and left satisfied.

Find the best hair masks in Israel for 2025 based on application, shine, and hydration. From impactful to lightweight options, discover the perfect mask for your hair needs.

IDF strikes Hamas targets in Gaza after ceasefire delay.

Gazans are defying the ceasefire delay and IDF restrictions by returning to northern parts of the Gaza Strip, according to reports.

Netanyahu instructs IDF not to start ceasefire until Hamas gives hostage list.

Israel is preparing to rehabilitate returning hostages from Hamas captivity, providing extensive psychological care and personalized treatment plans. The process will focus on creating a safe environment, restoring control, and addressing cognitive and emotional challenges. Families will receive psychological support and guidance, and society will be educated to facilitate reintegration. The goal is to help the hostages rebuild their lives, find meaning in the future, and reaffirm their humanity.

The first phase of the hostage deal with Hamas is set to be implemented, with 33 hostages to be released over 42 days. The hostages have endured severe physical and psychological harm during their captivity, including malnutrition, poor sanitary conditions, and long-term disabilities.

The ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas is expected to come into effect on Sunday at 8:30 a.m., with the first Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners to be released under the agreement at around 4 p.m.

Meta's decision to replace fact-checking with a community notes system on its platforms raises concerns about potential bias against Israel and the Jewish people.

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have found that stroke patients have difficulty following instructions, which is related to impairments in prepotent inhibition and processing speed.

Cyprus's Secret Forest is a unique wellness resort nestled in the mountains, offering an all-inclusive experience focused on renewal and transformation.

Tourism in northern Israel has suffered a significant decline over the past 15 months, with international visitor numbers down almost 70%. However, there are signs of hope as resilient individuals in the region remain optimistic about the future.

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed plant-based steaks, chops, and T-bones using unique metamaterials, offering a scalable and cost-effective production method for sustainable meat alternatives.

German-Jewish violinist Liv Migdal releases double CD featuring compositions by Paul Ben-Haim, offering listeners a rare opportunity to acquaint themselves with Israeli art music.

Israel prepares for elections, conference on IDF-civil society relations, expert calls for justice for victims of sexual violence by Hamas, conference on mental health, and concerns about hostility towards Jews in the publishing world.

President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk are making headlines and igniting controversies internationally as they seek to expand their influence beyond American borders and propagate right-wing ideologies across the West.

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Rep. Elise Stefanik as US ambassador to the United Nations, signaling a commitment to stand by Israel and combat antisemitism.

The Israeli government's legal representation rejects a petition opposing the implementation of a hostage deal.

Trump's return to the White House will bring about significant changes in Middle East politics, with a focus on exerting force and economic measures to curb Iran. However, this approach may encounter resistance from European nations favoring diplomatic solutions. Trump's policy may also include more direct action against Iran's regional proxies and support for Israel and the Gulf States.

Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar supports Israel's decision to proceed with the deal to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages, despite the difficulties involved. The release of terrorists is expected to increase the motivation for attacks in the West Bank. Otzma Yehudit criticizes the deal and resigns from the government.

The IDF announces its preparedness for the ceasefire and delays school start time for security reasons.

Netanyahu's strategy of framing recent developments as a temporary ceasefire and strategic pause faces skepticism from his political base and coalition.

Diplomacy with Iran risks emboldening its regime and prolonging Middle East instability. The focus should shift to supporting the Iranian people's quest for freedom and regime change.

Eliya Cohen, who was shot and abducted by Hamas terrorists over a year ago, is expected to be released in the first phase of a ceasefire deal.

Beloved Israeli actor, Ze'ev Revach, known for his roles in the seretei bourekas genre, passed away at the age of 84. He had an extensive career in theater and television and was associated with the Likud Party.

German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehoud is expected to be released in a hostage-ceasefire deal. Her family fears she is being sexually abused and tortured by her captors.

The phrase 'Derech eretz kadmah l'Torah' emphasizes that developmentally, the ways of the land must come first before excelling in Torah study and deepening commitment to religion. It refers to the codes of conduct and politeness that every society establishes to ensure more polite and civilized interactions.

Personal notices will be delivered to families of terror attack victims, informing them of the release of the perpetrators as part of a hostage deal.

Anti-Israel protest in London defies police, leads to multiple arrests.

The IDF is ready to receive the returning hostages from the Gaza Strip. Initial reception points and hospital reunions have been prepared for their arrival.

Consuming processed red meat daily increases the risk of dementia, while replacing it with fish cuts the risk by 28%, according to a study published in Neurology. The research, conducted over a span of up to 43 years, found that each additional daily serving of processed red meat was linked to accelerated brain aging and decline in overall brain function. Substituting processed red meat with fish was associated with a 28% lower risk of dementia, while plant-based protein sources like nuts, legumes, or fish could lead to a 20% lower risk.

Drinking three or more cups of green tea per day may help protect the brain from cognitive decline and dementia, according to a recent study from Japan. The study found an association between greater green tea consumption and smaller volumes of white matter lesions in the brain, which are associated with cognitive decline and dementia. The reduction of white matter lesions could be explained by the effect of green tea on blood pressure and blood circulation.

US pledges $117 million in support for Lebanese Armed Forces to counter Hezbollah and assert Lebanese sovereignty.

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launched two private moon landers, marking a growing private interest in lunar exploration. The missions aim to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon and reduce mission costs. NASA's Artemis program plans a lunar landing in 2027.

The families of the hostages are calling on the Israeli government to do what it takes to bring them home as their lives come closer to termination each passing day.

Hamas is expected to release Russian-Israeli hostage Alexandre Troufanov in an upcoming deal. Troufanov's father was murdered in captivity, and Troufanov is still unaware of his death. Troufanov's family has secured him Russian citizenship, gaining the support of Russia.

Sirens sounded in Eilat and surrounding areas after a Houthi missile was fired from Yemen, but the missile was intercepted by the Israeli air force.

Female prison guards at Gilboa prison demand the deportation of terrorist Mahmoud Atallah, who sexually assaulted them while imprisoned.

A new study predicts that the number of annual new dementia diagnoses in the US will double by 2060, rising from approximately 514,000 in 2020 to about one million.

The writer criticizes the Israeli government for not prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens and highlights specific examples of its failures.

Lebanon's president and the UN call for Israel to leave south Lebanon as per the ceasefire deal.

The ancient Maya city of Ichkabal in Quintana Roo, Mexico, has opened to the public, becoming the 194th pre-Columbian archaeological site open to visitors in the country.

The WHO has reported a suspected outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease in Tanzania, with eight deaths out of nine reported cases. The virus is highly contagious and often transmitted by fruit bats. Health authorities are taking measures to contain the outbreak.

British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari is set to be freed after over a year in Hamas captivity as part of a hostage-ceasefire deal. Damari was shot and injured during her abduction. Fans of rival soccer clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal united in a demonstration to honor her.

Archaeologists in East England discovered a 1,500-year-old Roman stone coffin in a rare burial site during highway upgrades. The coffin, ornately carved and featuring a gypsum burial, provides insight into Roman customs and the life of a high-status individual.

The ceasefire will start on Sunday morning, and residents are advised to exercise caution and wait for official directions.

Chayal's Angels provides holistic treatment to IDF soldiers who have experienced trauma, offering physiotherapy, massage, acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, and sound healing. The organization has provided over 9,000 treatments to soldiers at more than 130 bases throughout Israel.

A Hamas official claims that the Gaza ceasefire includes a war clause to appease the Netanyahu government and pacify hardliners within his government who are opposed to a deal that does not allow Israel to continue fighting after the implementation of a deal.

Three people were killed in a Russian attack in Kyiv, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The Palestinian Authority signs truce with the Jenin Battalions after a month of fighting in Jenin.

Sotheby's is auctioning a $500K+ Jewish baseball card collection, featuring over 500 cards representing 191 Jewish players, including Hall of Famers Sandy Koufax and Hank Greenberg.

Jewish coaches dominate the NCAA rankings this season, with three of the top five men's teams and one of the top five women's teams being coached by Jews. Sotheby's is auctioning a collection of over 500 baseball cards featuring every Jewish baseball player. Jewish athletes are also competing in various sports events this weekend.

Noa Argamani speaks of her time in Hamas captivity at Nova exhibit

Deborah Dwork's book 'Saints and Liars' explores the heroic efforts of US-based agencies during World War II to provide relief, rescue, and refugee aid to anti-fascists, Jews, and other targeted groups. The book recounts micro-histories of their activities in various cities and emphasizes the impact of chance, timing, and human sympathies. The work of these organizations saved countless lives and proved transformative for both the individuals they helped and for democracy.

Erez Tadmor's 'Soda' is a tragic romance that explores the lasting impact of Holocaust trauma on survivors and their families.

The impending release of hostages in Israel brings mixed emotions as the nation prepares for heartbreak. After 14 months of war, the release of hostages is met with apprehension and concern for their condition.

Pence, who ran against Trump in the 2020 election, will be present at the inauguration.

Zakaria Zubeidi, former commander of Fatah's Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades in Jenin, is among the 735 terrorists to be released in a hostage deal after the government's approval.

Trump announced that the inauguration will be moved indoors to protect attendees from an arctic blast on January 20.

US CENTCOM Commander meets SDF Commander-in-Chief in northern Syria to discuss ISIS situation and detainment of ISIS members.

The PA and Jenin Battalions have signed a truce after a month of clashes that resulted in the deaths of 15 Palestinians.

Qatari Prime Minister praises Trump and Middle East envoy for achieving the recently approved deal, stating that it followed the same framework as the one agreed upon in December 2023.

Trump's second term is both a challenge and an opportunity for Israeli-American relations. Israel must carefully calibrate its relationship with the new-old president and his team, evaluating what expectations and demands of Trump are realistic and what price Israel will likely have to pay to meet his priorities.

'It doesn't get more American than this,' said Marc Zell, chairman of Republicans Overseas Israel (ROI) as he offered a le'chaim to a crowd of relieved volunteers.

Hamas official says the agreement wouldn't have happened without Trump's pressure on Netanyahu.

Donald Trump's cabinet and inner circle will consist of both staunch isolationists and stalwart war hawks, leading to uncertainty over how his appointees will influence long-term Middle East agenda items.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has announced that the government will reach its borrowing limit on Tuesday and will take steps to prevent default.

American-Israeli hostages Keith Siegel and Sagui Dekel-Chen will be released by Hamas in a ceasefire-hostage deal.

Hamas is set to release Hisham al-Sayed, a Bedouin-Israeli hostage who was abducted in 2015. The release is part of a hostage-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.

Egypt will establish a task force in Cairo to monitor the implementation of the ceasefire and hostage release deal, with representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the US, Israel, and the PA.

The OECD has reported on how countries are tackling the environmental crisis. Energy taxes account for only about 3.2% of fiscal revenues. The EU's ETS has helped bring down emissions by about 47% since 2005. Israel is not on track to reach its climate targets.

Learn how to teach teenagers responsible money habits, including saving and budgeting skills, to set them up for a secure financial future.

Explore art and the senses at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Avraham Eilat's exhibition opens tomorrow. Infected Mushroom returns to Israel. Tel Aviv Soloists Ensemble hosts pianist Yeol-Eum Son. Beer Sheva Sinfonietta presents a family concert. Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra showcases rising stars. Remangar Flamenco Company performs with El Carpeta. Ehud Banai performs soulful music. BE.MC Live celebrates Black culture in Israel. Aki-No Japanese Film Festival returns with its ninth edition.

Shin Bet head Ronen Bar reveals that 82% of those released in the Gilad Shalit deal in 2011 returned to terrorism, with 15% of them carrying out attacks.

Nine activists from Palestine Action deny charges of burglary, criminal damage, violent disorder, and hitting a police officer with a sledgehammer in relation to an incident at an Elbit UK warehouse.

Sigrid Kaag, former Dutch Foreign Minister, has been named the new UN Middle East envoy by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Check out these events happening in Jerusalem from January 17-23, including film screenings, performances, art exhibitions, and more.

New details on the regeneration of First Station area and its public transportation in south Jerusalem reveal an ambitious project that promises to reshape the city's infrastructure, mobility, and livability. By 2032, the area is set to have transformed into a bustling hub of residential, commercial, and cultural activity, all integrated with an expansive public transportation network.

The oldest human fossils in Japan, previously thought to be the Ushikawa Man, have been identified as ancient bear bones. The true oldest human fossils on the Japanese mainland have been found in a limestone quarry near Hamakita.

The G7 accused Russian state media outlet RT and the Social Design Agency of employing deceitful tactics to polarize societies and advance the Kremlin's interests.

The Bibas family, who were abducted by Hamas, are set to be released from captivity as part of a Gaza ceasefire-hostage deal. The family, including two young sons, has been held hostage for over a year.

Camp Kimama-Halfmoon is an international summer camp that fosters personal growth, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging for children and teens. The camp combines Israeli and Jewish traditions with a diverse blend of cultures, languages, and perspectives. Campers are encouraged to embrace their authentic selves and explore their interests without judgment. The camp's programs focus on personal growth, leadership development, and teamwork through activities such as ropes courses and overnight camping trips. Camp Kimama-Halfmoon provides a sanctuary where children can connect with others, rediscover themselves, and feel accepted.

The IDF has approved the resumption of the Ashkelon-Sderot railway line, which will begin operating in February.

Pakistan Airlines is under scrutiny for an ad resembling 9/11 imagery promoting flights to Paris.

The World Health Organization is optimistic about increasing aid imports into Gaza and plans to bring in prefabricated hospitals to support the health sector.