הפוסט Nearly Four Years of Anarchy Outside the Knesset: The Left-Wing Camp’s Tent City הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

The wave of violence spreading across Israel’s streets continues to intensify: incidents of assault, murder, and abuse against civilians are being reported at an alarming frequency, and no clear horizon for curbing the phenomenon is yet in sight. At the same time, public sentiment is increasingly that law enforcement and the judicial system are failing to provide an adequate response. The police struggle to contain the phenomenon, while courts at times impose only lenient sentences, if any at all, for violent offenses. Regarding violence against animals, criticism is mounting over the lack of effective punitive measures, despite recognition that, in certain cases, more severe patterns of violence may develop following earlier abuse of animals.

Against this backdrop, many citizens feel that their sense of personal security has significantly eroded. Severe acts of violence may, in all likelihood, occur in everyday settings, on the streets, in entertainment venues, and even at pedestrian crossings. In light of this reality, the public increasingly perceives violence as a deeply rooted phenomenon, causing tangible harm to the fabric of civilian life in Israel.

The nun was brutally attacked and humiliated in the heart of Jerusalem solely because of her Christian identity.

Racist violence in the Old City: a 36-year-old Jewish suspect pursued a nun, slammed her onto the stones, and kicked her as she lay bleeding on the ground. As Israel appears to be drowning in unrestrained violence, the finger of blame is pointed directly at the Ministry of National Security: what can be expected when, under Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, himself a convicted offender, the police appear powerless in the face of racist assailants?

Jerusalem, 2026. The holy city is increasingly resembling a wild frontier of hatred and racism. The footage released last night (Thursday) by the police is nothing short of shocking: a nun, a student at the French Biblical School (“École Biblique”), was simply walking to meet a friend near the Dormition Church. On her way, in the area of King David’s Tomb, she encountered sheer malice. A man wearing a kippah and tzitzit, someone who purports to represent religious values, acted with a level of brutality that has no place in a civilized society.

According to suspicions, the attacker identified the woman as a Christian and began pursuing her at a run from the tunnel in her direction. He did not stop at threats; he forcefully threw her onto the stone pavement, and as seen in the disturbing footage, while she lay on the ground, he repeatedly kicked her without mercy. Only the quick intervention of a passerby, who confronted the attacker and drove him away, prevented far more severe harm.

A Police Force Without Control: The Shadow of the Ministry of National Security

This incident is not an isolated case but evidence of a breakdown in public order. Israel is being flooded with violence with no end in sight. But what can be expected when the Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, himself has prior convictions? When such a figure stands at the helm, the message conveyed to the public is one of disregard for the law and human rights.

A pressing question arises: does Judaism teach attacks against other religions? The answer is an unequivocal no. Individuals of this kind only desecrate the name of Judaism and harm Jews worldwide. Such violence is unacceptable under any circumstances, and the police’s attempts to portray a stance of “zero tolerance” appear detached from the bloody reality on the ground.

Police Investigation: Racist Motive

Superintendent Nadav Kagan, head of the investigative unit of the David District in Jerusalem, stated in an interview that the suspect was taken in for questioning on suspicion of an assault motivated by racism. "The suspect pushed her, she fell here onto the stones and sustained a head injury. After that, he continued to assault her by kicking her", Kagan said. While the police attempt to maintain calm among all religious communities, racist attackers continue to grow bolder.

The nun, who suffered a head injury and bleeding, was evacuated for medical treatment. The suspect was arrested two hours after the incident, and his detention was extended by the Magistrate’s Court. This constitutes a dark moral stain on the face of the state. As the streets burn with hatred, the public is compelled to ask: is this the legacy of Itamar Ben-Gvir? Is this the Israel we sought to see?

Religiously Motivated Assault and Its Legal Classification

In essence, a fundamental theoretical question arises: had the scenario been reversed—where an Arab Muslim man attacked a religious Jewish woman, beating her and knocking her to the ground, it is possible the incident would have received broader and more severe security-related attention. The existing documentation indicates that the fall alone could have resulted in a significant head injury and posed a real risk to the victim’s life.

In this context, the question sharpens as to whether, under certain circumstances, such an incident might also be examined under the framework of a terrorism offense, if the motive were identified as religiously driven harm.

In the present case, questions arise regarding the legal classification and handling of an incident in which a woman was attacked, apparently due to her Christian identity.

It should be emphasized that this is a purely principled and theoretical question, presented as a point for consideration, without drawing definitive conclusions.

As for whether the act constitutes "Jewish terrorism", such a determination is not based on public sentiment or the identity of the perpetrator alone, but rather on a clearly defined legal framework.

Under Israeli law, particularly the provisions of the Counter-Terrorism Law, classifying an act as terrorism requires the cumulative fulfillment of specific conditions, foremost among them the presence of an ideological, religious, or nationalist motive, alongside an intent to influence the public, instill fear, or coerce policy.

Photo: Police Spokesperson’s Unit, used in accordance with Section 27A of the Copyright Law.

הפוסט Violent Racism in Jerusalem: Nun Brutally Attacked Amid Ben-Gvir's Failure הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

Israel is preparing for a night of "Independence in the Sign of Revival". After a prolonged period of strict security restrictions imposed by the Home Front Command, Defense Minister Israel Katz and Minister of Culture and Sports Miki Zohar announced that, effective last Saturday night, the restrictions on holding mass events have been lifted. This dramatic decision, coming against the backdrop of ceasefires on the northern and eastern fronts, has spurred local authorities into an unprecedented logistical race against time to bring Independence Day 2026 to life.

While many Israelis had already resigned themselves to a sense of uncertainty, dozens of local authorities managed, in a short and challenging timeframe, to put together a complex production array featuring Israel's top artists. However, the situation across the country is complex: alongside cities that succeeded in recreating their familiar splendor, others have chosen a more moderate approach or opted to postpone their events, realizing that the quality of such productions requires more than just a few days' notice.

Empires of Stages: Where will they celebrate in style?

Jerusalem and Sderot are emerging as the focal points of this year's celebrations. In the capital, a long line of artists will take the stage, including Noa Kirel, Mosh Ben-Ari, Miri Mesika, Aviv Geffen, and Itay Levi. In Sderot, which has experienced an especially challenging year, a large-scale production is planned, featuring Noa Kirel, Osher Cohen, the "Ma Kashur" trio, and Ishay Ribo.

Tel Aviv-Yafo is not being left behind either. The city will set up numerous stages throughout the city, with Dana International, Danny Sanderson, and the band Tipex headlining at Sportek North. Other cities have also announced impressive lineups: in Givatayim, Lior Narkis and Shalom Hanoch will take the stage; in Hod HaSharon, Eden Ben Zaken, Ravid Plotnik, and the band HaYehudim will perform; and in Petah Tikva, Amir Dadon, Peer Tasi, and Avraham Tal will appear.

The Logistical Challenge: Cities that changed course

Despite the optimism, the reality on the ground has imposed clear limitations. Many authorities, including Nesher, Kiryat Ata, Kiryat Yam, Kiryat Motzkin, Kiryat Bialik, and Tirat Carmel, have announced they would not be able to produce Independence Day stages in their usual format within the remaining timeframe. In cities like Haifa, Netanya, and Rosh HaAyin, mayors and professional teams decided to focus on community, neighborhood, and smaller-scale celebrations, aiming to maintain a close and intimate social fabric.

In Ramat Gan, Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen summarized the sentiment among some of the authorities: "There is no point in going crazy at the 90th minute, rushing to set up massive stages under pressure. We will hold neighborhood and community events instead".

At the same time, other authorities have chosen to postpone their main celebrations. For instance, in Beit Shemesh, it was decided to push the events to the summer, while in Lod and Rosh HaAyin, some of the major performances will be held during upcoming Israeli holidays, such as Jerusalem Day.

הפוסט Independence Day 2026: The Map of Shows and Celebrations Across Israel הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

In a significant development reverberating across the international arena, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has signed a sweeping amendment to his country’s criminal code, establishing, for the first time, explicit criminal liability for manifestations of antisemitism. The measure, widely praised by Israeli officials, marks a turning point in Ukraine’s efforts to combat hate crimes and to entrench values of tolerance within Ukrainian society.

Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gideon Sa'ar, welcomed the move and underscored its importance: "I express my appreciation to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and to Ukraine for the amendments to the criminal code, which impose criminal liability for manifestations of antisemitism. These amendments constitute a necessary and significant step in the fight against hate crimes, particularly antisemitism, and reflect Ukraine’s commitment to safeguarding human rights and promoting the values of tolerance".

An Unprecedented Delay

Despite its public and moral significance, the path to enactment was marked by notable irregularities. The amendment to the criminal code was approved by the Ukrainian parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, on February 15, 2022, just one week prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion. However, President Zelenskyy’s signature was delayed for an extraordinary period of four years and two months. Such a duration represents an exceptional anomaly in legislative processes of this kind, with the law remaining in the presidential office without formal enactment until only recently.

The legislative process had begun earlier, in February 2021, with the introduction of two bills addressing the prevention of and response to antisemitism. While the general law on preventing and combating antisemitism was approved and signed as early as October 2021, the criminal amendment, designed to ensure enforcement, remained pending until now.

The Penalty Framework: From Fines to Imprisonment

The amendments anchor the fight against antisemitism within Article 161 of Ukraine’s criminal code, which addresses violations of equal rights on the grounds of race, religion, or nationality. The law establishes a graduated scale of penalties based on the severity of the offense:

Basic offenses: fines ranging from 3,400 to 8,500 hryvnias, or restriction of liberty for a period of three to five years.

Aggravated offenses (including violence, threats, or acts committed by public officials): increased fines of up to 17,000 hryvnias or imprisonment for two to five years, accompanied by disqualification from holding certain positions.

Offenses committed by an organized group: imprisonment for five to eight years.

Defining Hatred

The law provides a detailed definition of prohibited manifestations of antisemitism. These include:

Denial of the Jewish people’s right to self-determination.

The dissemination of false stereotypes and the imposition of collective responsibility upon the Jewish community.

Holocaust denial or justification.

Incitement to violence against Jews.

Vandalism, desecration of cemeteries, and damage to religious sites and public institutions.

The production and distribution of symbols or content that incite hatred.

A Strategic Perspective: A National Home for Every Jew

While Ukraine’s legislation is welcomed as a legal instrument within its jurisdiction, public discourse in Israel emphasizes that the future and security of the Jewish people do not rest on foreign statutes, but rather on the existence of the State of Israel itself.

As a sovereign, prosperous, and powerful nation, Israel places the protection of the Jewish people at the forefront of its national mission. A central pillar of this doctrine is the Law of Return, enacted in 1950, which grants every Jew the right to immigrate to Israel and establish residence as part of the Jewish people’s national home.

The law confers immediate eligibility for Israeli citizenship upon every Jew, as well as their children, grandchildren, and spouses. The existence of the state, together with the defensive capabilities of the Israel Defense Forces, provides a firm assurance that Jews are no longer dependent on external actors, but instead benefit from a strong protective state, one that combines a dynamic economy with substantial military power, ensuring the resilience and continuity of the Jewish people at all times.

Postscript

In a world where millions are displaced and compelled to seek refuge beyond their homelands, the State of Israel stands as a definitive historical reality, at times even a disquieting one for its detractors: there are no longer, and will not again be, Jewish refugees in the classical sense.

In many countries, including Ukraine, individuals of a given national origin born outside the state’s borders are not entitled to automatic citizenship solely on the basis of their identity. Israel, by contrast, presents a unique and exceptional model. Through its founding principles, the Law of Return enshrines a clear doctrine: a Jew is a Jew, irrespective of birthplace, circumstances, or the path that led them to the country’s gates.

The State of Israel opens its doors to every Jew and their family members in accordance with the Law of Return, granting immediate civil status alongside a comprehensive integration framework that includes financial assistance, social support, and guidance during the initial years of settlement. In addition, a limited and distinct recognition is afforded to non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during World War II, those recognized as the Righteous Among the Nations, who, in certain cases, may receive special status and pathways to regularizing their presence in Israel.

In a global reality where many refugees must navigate complex bureaucratic systems and often depend on the discretion of host states, Israel provides a clear and unequivocal address for Jews worldwide. For many, it represents not merely a political framework, but a profound anchor of identity and security.

For hostile actors, this reality likely embodies a dramatic historical shift: the Jewish people, once compelled to wander and seek refuge, have established enduring national sovereignty, a framework in which national identity is no longer a cause for persecution, but rather a foundation for security, liberty, and continuity.

Photo credit: Volodymyr Zelenskyy (AP); Gideon Sa'ar (Knesset website); Tel Aviv – "Maakav".

הפוסט Ukraine Enacts Criminal Law Against Antisemitism; Israel Welcomes the Move הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

State secrets, shadowy diplomatic ties, and a multitude of unanswered questions, this is the story of the vessel “ABINSK,” which has suddenly become a symbol of moral and political failure at the gates of the State of Israel. While the Israeli government entrenches itself behind a “right to remain silent,” the evidence uncovered here by “Maakav” paints a picture of a state that prefers to turn a blind eye to the looting of national resources, indirect support for the occupation of Crimea, and granting free rein to a country that sells weapons and missiles to Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.

Are we living in a free state that upholds the rule of law, or have we become a bureaucratic dictatorship where freedom of information is nowhere to be found?

Early Warning: The Chronicle of a Known Failure

Documents obtained by “Maakav” reveal that this scandal did not strike Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs like a bolt from the blue. Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its embassy in Israel issued official statements of unprecedented severity. According to Ukrainian authorities, the Ukrainian side had notified its Israeli counterparts in advance, as early as March 23, regarding the vessel "ABINSK" and the possible origin of its cargo from temporarily occupied territories.

Ukraine made it unequivocally clear: "Such imports must not be accepted or permitted". Despite explicit Israeli assurances of :appropriate handling", the reality on the ground amounted to a slap in the face of international diplomacy. Between April 12 and 14, the vessel was allowed to unload its cargo at the Port of Haifa without interference.

The Mechanism of Plunder: Russia’s "Shadow Fleet" at Haifa Port

What lies within the ship’s hold? According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the "ABINSK" is not merely a cargo vessel but an integral part of a "shadow fleet", a sophisticated mechanism used by the aggressor state (Russia) for the illegal extraction, transportation, and marketing of looted Ukrainian agricultural products.

This is blood money. The revenue generated from sales at the Port of Haifa, according to Ukrainian claims, is used to directly finance the war effort against Ukraine. The most disturbing connection for the Israeli public is that Russia, which profits from the same looted goods unloaded in Haifa, is also the one supplying technology and missiles that ultimately fall on us here in Israel through its proxies in Lebanon and Gaza.

Diplomatic Clash: Gideon Sa’ar vs. Andrii Sybiha

The peak came when Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, raised the issue in a direct conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar. In an official post on X (Twitter), Sybiha exposed the depth of the dispute:

"I drew attention to a Russian vessel carrying grain stolen from Ukraine, which was allowed to dock at one of Israel’s ports. I emphasized that the illegal export of stolen Ukrainian agricultural products is part of Russia’s broader war effort. Trade in stolen goods must not be allowed".

Translation:

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is closely monitoring developments related to the arrival of the vessel "ABINSK" at the Port of Haifa in Israel. The ship is carrying a cargo of wheat which, according to several sources, originates from territories of Ukraine under temporary occupation.

The Ukrainian side informed its Israeli partners in advance, already on March 23, regarding the ‘ABINSK’ and the suspicion concerning the origin of the cargo. Ukraine emphasized that import operations involving such goods are unacceptable and received assurances that an appropriate response would be provided.

In light of these communications, it raises deep concern that between April 12 and 14, the vessel was allowed to unload its cargo at the Port of Haifa.

The Ukrainian side identifies the ‘ABINSK’ as a vessel that may be part of the ‘shadow fleet’ used by Russia for the export, transportation, and illegal sale of looted Ukrainian agricultural products. These actions exploit resources from territories under temporary occupation and ultimately contribute to financing the war against Ukraine.

Following an investigation by the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, which included a Ukrainian court decision to seize the vessel and its cargo as part of criminal proceedings, the Ukrainian side immediately submitted a request for international legal assistance to the State of Israel.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine expresses hope for cooperation between the competent authorities of Ukraine and Israel. We expect a proper examination of our request and the implementation of the relevant legal mechanisms within Israeli jurisdiction.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Ukraine in Israel remain in continuous contact with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other competent authorities to ensure appropriate measures are taken.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine expects the Israeli side to reach a balanced decision in accordance with the law, including seizing the agricultural shipment in question, in order to prevent similar cases in the future.

Ukraine is committed to bringing to justice all those involved in the illegal export of its resources from temporarily occupied territories. We call on our international partners to maintain a principled position and act to prevent such practices.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine will continue to use all necessary diplomatic and legal means to protect the national interests of the state".

And what was the response of Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs? Silence and evasion. We approached Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and were referred to his spokesperson, Oren Marmorstein. The response provided to "Maakav" was a model of governmental ambiguity: "We have conveyed our responses on the matter to our Ukrainian friends through diplomatic and professional channels".

Where has transparency gone? Where is the explanation to the Israeli public regarding this cooperation?

MK Sharren Haskel: The Only Light at the End of the Tunnel

Amid this darkness, the conduct of MK Sharren Haskel, who serves as Deputy Foreign Minister, stands out positively. "Maakav" contacted Haskel, who stated that although she was not familiar with all the details of the case, she promised to examine the matter and update us. The truth is that from the moment she entered the picture, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Her willingness to investigate and respond reflects an integrity that is sorely lacking among other governmental levels, which prefer to hide behind "substantial difficulties in identifying the origin".

The Legal Crisis: Seizure Orders vs. Israeli Indifference

The Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine did not stop at words. A formal and urgent request for international legal assistance was submitted, backed by a Ukrainian court decision ordering the seizure of the vessel and its cargo. Ukraine expects Israel "to make a considered decision in accordance with the law, including ordering the seizure of the said grain cargo".

However, Israeli authorities continue on their course. The official position, claiming a lack of "documentary evidence" confirming the theft of the grain, appears to be a weak excuse. How is it possible that Ukraine provides "shadow fleet" data and court documents, while Israel claims "significant complexity in proving the circumstances"?

Who Really Controls the Port?

It should be recalled that the Port of Haifa has been privatized and is currently owned by the Adani Gadot consortium (70% owned by India’s Adani Group and 30% by Gadot Group). Does the fact that these are private entities remove the government’s moral and security responsibility? The answer is no. The government is the regulator, and it is the one that allowed the vessel to enter.

These days, "Maakav" is operating vis-à-vis the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Customs, and the Tax Authority under the Freedom of Information Law. While the authorities are dragging their feet (28 business days remain for an official response), the questions only continue to multiply:

Why is Israel effectively supporting the occupation of Crimea by legitimizing such cargo?
Why is Israel assisting Russia while it arms our most bitter enemies?
What is the government hiding from the Israeli public?

A Stain on Israel’s Reputation

Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on its international partners "to take a principled and unequivocal stance". Israel, it seems, has chosen a position of cheap political maneuvering at the expense of international justice. The lack of response from Gideon Sa’ar and his office, contrasted with the willingness of MK Sharren Haskel to examine the issue, exposes a deep fracture in the conduct of the government.

We at "Maakav" will not relent. We will continue to conduct a comprehensive investigation, await Freedom of Information documents, and present the public with the bitter truth: it is very possible that the bread we consume is mixed with the blood of a people fighting for their freedom, and with grain looted under the cover of Israeli silence.

Israel and its government, what are you hiding? This shame rests entirely upon us.

Photo credits: Vladimir Putin (AP); Gideon Sa’ar (Knesset website). Use in accordance with Section 27A of the Copyright Law.

הפוסט Grain Looting in Haifa: Is Gideon Sa’ar abandoning national morality for Putin הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

An IDF spokesperson stated that the Air Force continues sustained offensive operations against the Iranian regime’s fire systems, as part of efforts to reduce the scale of missile launches targeting civilians in the State of Israel. According to the statement, the strikes focus on operational assets used for launching missiles, with the aim of degrading Iran’s offensive capabilities.

In this context, the IDF released color footage of a precise strike targeting a truck that was used as a mobile ballistic missile launcher in the Tabriz area, in northwestern Iran. According to the report, this weapon system is designed to enable missile launches from varying locations, thereby complicating detection and interception.

The IDF spokesperson’s statement noted that the launcher was destroyed during the strike. It was further stated that this operation thwarted planned missile attacks against the State of Israel originating from western Iran.

The IDF emphasized that the Air Force continues to operate without interruption against targets associated with Iran’s missile-launching infrastructure, as part of a broader operational policy aimed at degrading offensive infrastructure and reducing the threat to Israel’s home front.

This report joins a series of recent operational actions which, according to the IDF, were intended to impair launch capabilities and prevent the execution of additional attacks against Israel.

Photo: IDF Spokesperson

הפוסט The Air Force Destroyed a Missile Launcher in Iran הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has asserted that Ukraine’s offers of assistance to countries in the Middle East are, in his view, intended solely for public relations purposes. His remarks are directed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, amid ongoing discussions regarding Kyiv’s involvement in security arenas beyond its borders.

Trump characterized the assistance provided by Ukraine to U.S. allies in the Middle East as a politically driven, image-oriented initiative rather than one of substantive operational significance. According to journalist Stephanie Ruhle, who conducted an approximately 15-minute phone interview with him, as reported by a Ukrainian news outlet, Trump was asked about Ukraine’s contribution to efforts supporting U.S. allies in the region, particularly in countering Iranian-made unmanned aerial vehicles.

According to her account, Trump responded that Ukraine "has done nothing", adding that all statements made by Zelensky on the matter are, in his view, aimed at political objectives and serve public relations purposes. In doing so, Trump sharpened the line of criticism he has recently maintained toward Ukraine’s leadership.

In his subsequent remarks, Trump reiterated personal criticism of Zelensky, stating that he is "more difficult to deal with" than Russian President Vladimir Putin. He further added that the Russian leader, according to him, "is not afraid of Europe" – a statement reflecting his perception of the current balance of power.

Additionally, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of NATO member states, asserting that they are not assisting the United States in its operations against Iran. Nevertheless, he emphasized that Washington does not, in practice, require their assistance, despite expectations of cooperation among allies.

The context of these remarks is further underscored by a prior statement made by Trump on March 13, in which he emphasized that the United States does not require Ukrainian assistance in intercepting Iranian drones in the Middle East. In response, Zelensky stated that "rhetoric is rhetoric", adding that "what matters is that we know what we are doing" – a remark suggesting a gap between public statements and actual operational activity.

Meanwhile, last week, U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll reported that American forces had deployed approximately 10,000 interception drones of the "Marops" type across the Middle East – systems that previously demonstrated operational effectiveness in the Ukrainian theater and are now integrated into broader air defense frameworks.

At the same time, a more direct and pointed formulation presented within the public discourse has intensified criticism of the Ukrainian president: Zelensky claimed that the United States and Israel had requested his military support – a claim which, as asserted, is known in both Israel and the United States, yet constitutes a blatant falsehood. Following what is described as a misleading presentation to the public, it is alleged that the Ukrainian president now seeks to secure a more serious and respectful standing on the international stage.

In this context, a broader question arises regarding Ukraine’s diplomatic conduct at present: to what extent do public statements reflect actual policy, and what are their implications for the country’s foreign relations. Against this backdrop, the war in Ukraine continues, while the international community closely monitors developments across both the political and security domains.

Zelensky and Diplomatic Falsehood: The Drone Affair

On March 20, 2026, the Maakav editorial team documented an incident it described as a serious case of misinformation, in which it was claimed that Ukraine’s ambassador conveyed information inconsistent with reality – namely, that Israel’s Prime Minister had approached, or intended to approach, Ukraine for military assistance. According to the report, this claim was defined as misleading the public.

The article further presents Israel as a state possessing advanced military capabilities, which under certain circumstances could achieve rapid military outcomes, while, in contrast, Ukraine is described as facing significant systemic shortcomings at both governmental and military levels.

In essence, the report published on the Maakav website advances claims that a Ynet article – which addressed an alleged Israeli request to Ukraine for drone-related assistance – does not reflect factual reality. According to the account, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was attributed with making such a request to President Zelensky; however, the article asserts that official sources in Israel categorically denied this claim.

The report also includes a quote attributed to a diplomatic representative at Ukraine’s embassy in Israel, stating that the drone issue “was entirely fabricated.” On this basis, the article frames the episode as a substantial media failure, emphasizing the discrepancy between the original publication and the information presented as an official denial.

In conclusion, Maakav presents the episode as part of a broader pattern of disseminating unsubstantiated information within the media sphere, emphasizing that such publications may carry significant implications for public discourse and foreign relations. It further noted that the editorial team will continue to monitor publications with the potential to influence perceptions of factual reality.

Photo: AP – used in accordance with Section 27A of the Copyright Law

הפוסט Trump: Zelensky Lies and Acts Solely for PR Purposes הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

The Bank of Israel published in March 2026 its annual report for 2025 – a comprehensive document reviewing the state of the Israeli economy in a year marked by the continuation of hostilities since October 2023 and their wide-ranging economic implications. The report portrays a complex picture of an economy operating under prolonged emergency conditions, demonstrating relative resilience while simultaneously experiencing ongoing erosion of its underlying fundamentals.

According to the data, the Israeli economy recorded growth of 2.9% in 2025, a significant improvement compared to just 1% growth in 2024. The business sector also showed recovery, expanding by 3.2%. However, the pace of growth remained below the long-term trend, with one of the key contributing factors being severe supply constraints in the labor market.

The report points to a widespread labor shortage, stemming in part from large-scale reserve mobilization and the absence of Palestinian workers. This reality created a “tight” labor market, characterized by low unemployment rates alongside substantial wage pressures, which affected business activity and the overall pace of recovery.

On the price front, moderation was observed: inflation in 2025 stood at 2.6% and returned to the target range after exceeding it during parts of the year. According to the report, this moderation resulted from a combination of restrictive monetary policy, an appreciation of the shekel, and a decline in Israel’s risk premium. At the same time, the Bank of Israel maintained a relatively high interest rate of 4.5% for most of the year, only beginning a gradual reduction toward its end – first to 4.25% and subsequently to 4% in January 2026.

Alongside macroeconomic stabilization, the report emphasizes the heavy cost of the war. The cumulative impact on GDP since its onset is estimated at approximately 8.6% of GDP, amounting to around NIS 175 billion. When viewed through the lens of citizens’ welfare, the loss reaches an average of approximately NIS 35,000 per capita over the period.

The fiscal arena also reflects complexity. The budget deficit declined to 4.7% of GDP but remains elevated compared to levels that characterized the pre-war years. Meanwhile, the debt-to-GDP ratio rose to 68.5%, reflecting a notable increase and raising concerns about the continued expansion of public debt.

The report notes that the reduction in the deficit was achieved primarily through tax increases and spending cuts, but warns that the structural deficit remains higher than the level required to stabilize the debt ratio. This implies that without additional measures, there is a risk of continued growth in the debt burden in the coming years.

At the same time, the financial system and capital markets showed relatively positive performance. Stock prices increased, credit volumes expanded, and financial risk remained relatively low. These indicators reflect a partial return of investor confidence, partly against the backdrop of a moderation in hostilities במהלך the year.

Nevertheless, the report underscores a series of long-term structural challenges. Among them are low labor productivity, the need to increase labor force participation among certain population groups, and the necessity for substantial investment in infrastructure and human capital. These issues are further intensified by technological developments, particularly artificial intelligence, which are expected to reshape the labor market and skill requirements in the future.

In addition, the report points to a shift in the migration balance. During 2024-2025, a negative trend was recorded, with an increase in the number of Israelis leaving the country. This development carries potential implications for the labor market, housing demand, and future economic growth rates.

Within this context, the housing market is indirectly reflected through macroeconomic conditions and demand dynamics. The assessment that properties including a safe room (Mamad) command higher demand is reinforced in light of the prevailing security reality, although the report does not provide a direct quantitative estimate of price gaps. Nonetheless, the very shift in demand patterns reflects households’ adaptation to ongoing security risks.

In conclusion, the Bank of Israel’s 2025 report portrays an economy that maintains relative resilience even under prolonged wartime conditions, albeit at a considerable economic and social cost. Alongside signs of recovery, the report highlights a cumulative erosion and underscores the need for comprehensive, long-term strategic measures-both in the fiscal sphere and across employment, productivity, and human capital investment-in order to mitigate emerging risks and ensure economic stability in the years ahead.

הפוסט How Much Is a Safe Room Worth (Mamad): The Price Gap in Housing הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

In the city of Rishon LeZion, a prominent and steadily expanding center in the field of martial arts and physical fitness is gaining recognition – Rothschild MMA GYM. The institute attracts trainees from across the region, setting a high professional standard while combining athletic achievement with the cultivation of a supportive and unified sporting community.

The facility is designed to accommodate a broad spectrum of age groups – from young children and teenagers to adult practitioners. Alongside those who aspire to transform sport into a way of life or even a professional career, the gym also serves individuals seeking a meaningful pastime, a supportive social environment, or a structured path toward improving physical fitness and mental resilience. The training atmosphere integrates sporting discipline with a positive and progressive environment, emphasizing the values of perseverance, mutual respect and personal development.

The distinctive character of Rothschild MMA GYM lies in the diversity of professional disciplines taught on site. Participants benefit from a comprehensive training system that includes MMA, boxing, wrestling and additional methodologies, enabling the development of advanced physical and technical capabilities. The professional framework underscores the integration of technique, strength, endurance and self-control, based on the understanding that combat sports represent not merely physical skill, but also a profound educational and psychological process.

The institute’s schedule is tailored to the needs of a diverse audience, with training groups operating in both morning and evening hours. This flexibility allows participants to integrate training into their daily routines, whether they are school pupils, university students, working professionals or competitive athletes. Accessibility is further enhanced by nearby public parking facilities, ensuring convenient and efficient arrival.

At the helm of the institute stands Dilan Rechister, a well-known and respected figure within the Israeli sporting arena. A bronze medalist at the European Judo Championships and Israeli senior champion, Rechister brings extensive professional experience and a deep understanding of the athletic journey – from foundational stages to the highest levels of competitive performance. Under his leadership, the institute strives to cultivate a new generation of athletes while upholding international standards of training and professional development.

The institute’s professional philosophy is grounded in a holistic approach that regards sport as a tool for the comprehensive development of the individual. Beyond competitive achievements, particular emphasis is placed on strengthening self-confidence, fostering self-discipline and creating a sense of belonging within a supportive sporting community. Many participants report significant transformations in their lifestyles, including improvements in physical fitness, concentration and the capacity to cope with challenges.

Sporting activity at the center is characterized by a balanced synthesis of tradition and innovation, as classical techniques are taught alongside modern methodologies aligned with the demands of contemporary competitive arenas. The coaching staff, operating under Rechister’s leadership, guide trainees through a gradual and professional developmental process, recognizing that athletic success is built over time through persistence and precise, methodical work.

With a growing community of practitioners, notable sporting achievements and an advanced professional infrastructure, Rothschild MMA GYM continues to consolidate its position as one of the leading martial arts centers in the central region. The institute offers not only training, but a comprehensive sporting pathway that combines excellence, values and an exceptional training experience.

Photo from the Instagram page rothschild.mma.gym, used in accordance with the provisions of Section 27A of the Copyright Law.

הפוסט Professional Combat Excellence Alongside the Development of a Cohesive Sporting Community הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

In recent weeks, it appeared that the already complex diplomatic relationship between Jerusalem and Kyiv had reached a new boiling point. However, an investigation by Maakav now reveals a far more troubling reality: a well-oiled mechanism of disinformation, public manipulation, and false publications disseminated through leading Israeli media outlets, foremost among them the Ynet website. The findings point to what resembles a media-diplomatic conspiracy aimed at embarrassing the Government of Israel and its leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, at the expense of factual truth.

Distortion and Denial: The False Drone Narrative

The affair began with widely circulated reports that received dramatic amplification on Ynet, claiming that Prime Minister Netanyahu had allegedly approached Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with a request for security assistance in the field of drone technology. Presented as an established fact, the information sparked a wave of hostile reactions toward Israel on Ukrainian social media, creating the misleading impression of an "Israel begging Kyiv for support".

Yet Maakav’s investigation, conducted between March 14 and March 17, 2026, revealed a completely opposite reality. Official sources in Israel, including the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, categorically and unequivocally denied both the existence of such an appeal and the content attributed to it. The stark discrepancy between Ynet’s reporting and the actual diplomatic situation raised serious questions regarding the outlet’s information sources and journalistic responsibility.

Key Testimony: Embassy Officials Retreat and Assign Blame

The most dramatic turning point came from Ukraine’s First Secretary in Israel, Zorian Kys, who exposed the depth of the media falsehood. In an unusual move, and following the publication of Maakav’s preliminary findings under the headline "The YNET–Zelensky Fake Scandal: The Ukrainian Lie at Netanyahu’s Expense Exposed", the embassy began revising its narrative.

Kys, who had initially shared Ynet’s erroneous article alongside other embassy staff, effectively acknowledged that the Israeli outlet had blatantly distorted the facts. In remarks shedding light on the manipulative practices of the media, he quoted Ambassador Yevhen Korniychuk, placing full responsibility on Ynet:

"Netanyahu’s request was not accompanied by clarification regarding the subject of the proposed conversation. The Israeli website Ynet distorted the information, and it was subsequently disseminated across the media… the issue of drones and UAVs was entirely fabricated by them. Moreover, in light of the situation created, the conversation may be cancelled altogether, as Israelis are highly sensitive to such leaks".

This admission by Ukraine’s First Secretary exposes the depth of what may be described as a ‘diplomatic fake’: while Ynet engineered a narrative portraying a desperate Israeli plea for assistance, it emerged that the story was a complete fabrication serving propaganda purposes at the expense of diplomatic truth.

Provocation in the Service of Ukrainian Information Strategy

The investigation indicates that this was not an isolated incident but part of a recurring pattern. Ukrainian media outlets were reportedly fed false information with a distinctly propagandistic character originating from sources linked to Kyiv. The objective was to generate public and diplomatic pressure on Israel while utilizing Israeli media as an “echo chamber” for disinformation.

Many in Israel concluded that falsehoods and provocations had become central operational tools for the Ukrainian Embassy. Having initially capitalized on Ynet’s inaccurate reporting, the mission was compelled to reassess its position only after Maakav presented substantive evidence demonstrating that Ukraine’s ambassador had conveyed inaccurate information and that Israeli diplomatic authorities categorically denied the publications.

Journalistic Responsibility or Security Negligence?

Ynet’s conduct in this case raises profound questions regarding its public responsibility. The publication of sensitive diplomatic and security-related information based on distortions and fabrications constitutes not merely a journalistic failure but a tangible threat to Israel’s national interests. The damage inflicted upon Israel’s foreign relations, alongside the contamination of public discourse by foreign narratives amplified within Israeli media, demands serious scrutiny.

The propaganda mechanism whereby false reports originating in Israel gain traction in Ukraine and are presented there as established facts constitutes a weapon in the battle for public perception. In this instance, Ynet appears to have served as a central actor within this disinformation framework, sacrificing factual accuracy on the altar of provocation.

Maakav’s investigation demonstrates how "fake news" can evolve into an instrument of diplomatic leverage. Between the alleged falsehoods attributed to the Ukrainian Embassy and the distortions published by Ynet, the State of Israel and its leadership emerge as targets of a coordinated campaign of defamation. The fact that a senior Ukrainian diplomatic figure was compelled to acknowledge that "the drone issue was entirely fabricated by an Israeli media outlet" should deeply concern all who value the credibility of journalism in Israel.

The Maakav editorial team will continue to monitor and expose attempts to manipulate public discourse, safeguarding the integrity of information presented to Israeli citizens.

Photograph of the Prime Minister – from the official page
Photograph of President Volodymyr Zelensky – from the 1+1 website
Ambassador of Ukraine to Israel Yevhen Korniychuk (Photo: Moti Kimhi)
Use of images in accordance with Section 27A of the Copyright Law

הפוסט The Fake Conspiracy: How Ynet Fabricated the Drone Narrative in the Service of the Ukrainian Embassy Against Netanyahu הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.