Rosh hashana

Deleted IDF video instructed haredi draft evaders how to avoid Ben-Gurion checks

It is unclear whether the IDF has a mechanism to prevent someone from reporting for the summons, avoiding a departure restriction, traveling to Uman, and then failing to complete enlistment.

In a video published in August 2026, the AI-generated figure dubbed "Dudi the Explainer" tells haredi draft dodgers that they can avoid arrest at the airport en route to Uman for Rosh Hashanah.
The market in the Arab Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City. August 24, 2026.

Jewish, Muslim, Christian Jerusalem Old City vendors say reduced tourism is harming businesses

Rabbi Efraim Dochman of Colel Chabad embraces an IDF soldier during a visit to support troops serving on the front lines.

No politics. No divisions. Just Am Yisrael Chai

New Jewish children's books released for the High Holidays in 2026 include ones about awe, tashlich and apologizing for burping.

From fake burps to reverse tashlich, new children’s books bring the High Holidays to life


Why did Israel name its operation against Iran 'Days of Repentance?' - explainer

Operation Days of Repentance: Israel’s symbolic strikes invoke themes of reflection, defense, and historical resolve.

 A general view of Tehran after several explosions were heard, in Tehran, Iran, October 26, 2024.

Looking back on the year 5784: A soundtrack of war, love, and TikTok

After the initial shock had worn off and the country began pulling together, people were looking for ways not only to express themselves but also to uplift others.

 ADI AGAI’S SONG ‘Trauma’ became an anthem for listeners.

A taste of the new year in a bottle: Macallan launches festive whisky

As winter approaches and the scent of the New Year fills the air, Macallan, in collaboration with Whisky Bar Museum, launches A Night on Earth in Scotland edition.

 Macallan's Festive Whisky

Transportation department failure: Pilgrims over reservists - opinion

Soldiers and stranded Israelis don’t have political sway. Thus, they're inconsequential to Regev.

 Men dance near the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov in Uman on the eve of Rosh Hashanah last week. The writer ponders: The country has been working around the clock to return the Uman travelers; why isn’t it also organizing transportation for soldiers?

Minneapolis police arrest man for ‘terroristic threats’ made to synagogue on Rosh Hashanah

Jaden LeBlanc’s arrest occurred a day after a member of Temple Israel’s security team reported spotting a man with a gun outside the Reform synagogue during holiday services.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, center, speaks at a press conference alongside Temple Israel senior rabbi Marcia Zimmerman, left, and Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara, right, Oct. 5, 2024.

Paratroopers eliminate 15 Hezbollah terrorists in close-range combat, destroy tunnels

Israeli paratroopers killed 15 Hezbollah terrorists, uncovered weapons, and located underground sites.

 IDF soldiers operating in a Hezbollah-controlled village in Lebanon. Uploaded on 4-Oct-2024

Israel’s 68,000 evacuees celebrate Jewish new year apart — and wonder when they will return home

Families have had to spend the Jewish holidays separated, as Hezbollah continues to fire at civilian communities.

A woman and a girl hold pet carriers and other belongings as they prepare to depart from Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel near the border with Lebanon, Oct. 19, 2023.

Year after the horror: Rekindling Jewish identity in the wake of tragedy

In the face of unspeakable violence and global hatred, the Jewish people confront their identity, mission, and resilience, guided by faith, history, and the promise of a brighter future in 5785.

 Rabbi Sholom Lipskar.

Shofar shortage? War impacts Jerusalem seller as shipping delays, costs spike

This year has been challenging for Refoua, who sells Judaica gifts and souvenirs in a shop in downtown Jerusalem. The war has decimated tourism and spiked shipping costs.

 Jan-Elazar Refoua in his shop in Jerusalem, in front of pictures of three of his sons who are serving in reserves (Marc Israel Sellem)

One chain pays more than all others during holidays

Geocartography Institute survey finds Rami Levi chain leads in offering the most affordable shopping basket during Israel's holiday rush.

 Rami Levy