Simchat Torah in Hostages Square lays bare divide over just how much to celebrate yet
by Deborah Danan (JTA) — Rabba Anat Sharbat, the unofficial “rabbi of Hostages Square,” wept as she recited the Shehechiyanu blessing after lighting the candles…
October 2025
All 20 living hostages back in Israel, 2 years after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack
by Philissa Cramer (JTA) — All 20 of the Israeli hostages still alive two years after being taken hostage by Hamas have returned to Israel,…
Trump plans Israel trip as IDF withdrawal in Gaza triggers 72-hour clock for hostage release
by Phyllis Cramer (JTA) — President Donald Trump says he is planning to head to Israel to mark the ceasefire deal he brokered in the…
CIJA event: At this Critical Moment, Gather with Community – Oct. 12
by Noah Shack (CIJA) – The Israeli cabinet just approved the first phase of the U.S.-led peace initiative — paving the way for the release…
Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square is transformed by cautious optimism — and gratitude for Trump
by Deborah Danan (JTA) — TEL AVIV — The mood at Tel Aviv’s upscale Gindi Fashion Mall was divided between anticipation and disbelief on Thursday…