Category: News Letter

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 31 May 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

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What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –25-28 May 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

SLEEPLESS IN KIRYAT SHMONA

A young woman’s reaction following a missile strike in Kiryat Shmona captures daily life for Israel’s northern communities

Following a bombardment of 15 rockets fired at northern Israel on 30 May, one local resident expressed “We have reached a choking point; this situation can’t go on. It was a hard night, very hard….” (Ayal Margolin/Flash90)




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

THE SILENCE THAT CONDEMNS US ALL

People would far rather believe that pigs can fly and Israel trains dogs to rape Palestinian prisoners than that Hamas-led terrorists randomly mass raped and slaughtered women, children and some men on October 7. Here’s why:
By Marika Sboros

‘The Day the Music Died’. When the sounds stopped, the slaughter began. Why is it that when it comes to Jewish
suffering – even women and children – the world responds with disbelief or denial? Will a new independent,
comprehensively documented report break the global silence? This investigative journalist doubts so!   

THE SILENCE THAT CONDEMNS US ALL
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

BIG MOVE IN SMALL TOWN – RECOGNITION, RECONCILIATION AND RESTITUTION

Jewish family supports historic move for Cape Town to rename Strand town square honouring family founder to recognition of local Muslim community.
By Ben Friedman

Taking a Stand in the Strand. In a historic interfaith gesture in the small coastal town of the Strand in South Africa, the writer’s family has approved the renaming of Ben Friedman Plain honouring the family founder to Strand Muslim Square. The unfolding and enriching drama has not escaped controversy.

BIG MOVE IN SMALL TOWN – RECOGNITION, RECONCILIATION AND RESTITUTION
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE WANDERING JEWS – EXPLORING THE WORLD THROUGH A JEWISH LENS

What stays with our family most vividly over decades of travel is not famous landmarks – but Friday night tables in unfamiliar cities.
By Karen Kallmann

Jews on the Move. What began as exploring the world as two young backpackers, this South African couple never   stopped, “even as one child followed another.” From Africa to Iraq and Iran (above) they exposed themselves over the decades – despite the dangers –  to foreign cultures and experiences.

THE WANDERING JEWS – EXPLORING THE WORLD THROUGH A JEWSH LENS
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com





While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).




Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 24 May 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

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X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –18-21 May 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

SPAIN’S DOUBLE STANDARDS

Spanish leaders praised the activists’ commitment until they returned to Spain where they were beaten by police officers.

Hideous Hypocrisy. While quick to criticize Israel’s ‘reception’ of the Gaza-bound flotilla activists, note Spanish police at Bilbao Airport, welcoming the return of these same activists by brutally dragging them across the terminal floor and striking them with batons.
https://x.com/IsraelMFA/status/2058209600940212412




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

THEY ARE SILENCED NO MORE

There are words here that will direct you to look away – DON’T! You need to read, process and bear witness.
By Rolene Marks

Sexual Terror Unveiled. “Women were stripped, bound, stabbed, shot and burned. Heads were decapitated and pelvic bones shattered .Even after death, sexual assault continued.” The Civil Commission’s Report
on Oct 7th Sexual Violence is out – how can one remain silent?

THEY ARE SILENCED NO MORE
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

APPRECIATING ARTISTRY – THE DILEMMA

Can one separate the art from the artist when troubling actions conflict with your values?
By Motti Verses

Conduct Unbecoming. From a world class musician to a mega-star footballer, the writer explores how one
should respond when one’s idols disappoint by conduct at variance with one’s values.

APPRECIATING ARTISTRY – THE DILEMMA
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

WHY AMERICANS MUST PROTEST THE IRANIAN SOCCER TEAM’S INCLUSION IN THE WORLD CUP

Beware of what’s under the soccer jerseys the Islamic Republic regime wants to normalize on American soil
By Marziyeh Amirizadeh

Playing Games. A survivor of Iranian state torture for her Christian beliefs, the writer today from the USA,
argues that sport platforms like the World Cup, should “unite humanity” and not be abused
“…to whitewash systematic evil.”

WHY AMERICANS MUST PROTEST THE IRANIAN SOCCER TEAM’S INCLUSION IN THE WORLD CUP
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com







While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).


Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 17 May 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –11-14 May 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

BEYOND BOOS AND BOYCOTTS

As much as they try pull Israel down, it Rises, Survives and Thrives – 2nd place at 2026 Eurovision in Vienna

It was a triumphant finish at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Viena for Israel in a year filled with many European governments, broadcasters, and artists all conspiring to prevent Israel from competing. They failed – and this is the second year running that Israel has finished in second place. Watch here: https://youtu.be/E2aL4xRzNXI (photo: Georg Hochmuth / APA / AFP via Getty Images)



ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

JEWS IN EVERDAY LIFE – WHEN VISIBILITY IS A RISK

How do you raise a child to feel proud, rooted, and secure in their Jewish identity while knowing that visibility can sometimes bring risk – an empathetic look at today’s mental health toll caused by antisemitism.
By Bev Moss-Reilly

Constantly on Alert. Caution entering a synagogue, unease sending a child to school, weary over displaying a Magen David openly, these are routine anxieties of being a Jew today in the Diaspora. While Israeli Jews run to bomb shelters,  their brethren abroad are no less in need of  ‘shelter’.

JEWS IN EVERDAY LIFE – WHEN VISIBILITY IS A RISK
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

MIDTERM ELECTIONS IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Historically the midterm elections result in a loss of seats by the ruling party in the House of Representatives and a small change in the makeup of the Senate.
By Neville Berman

Mindful of the Midterm. The coming midterm elections “will provide the first clue as to what can be expected after Trump leaves office.” Apart from domestic politics, the writer is concerned how it will impact the world and particularly an increasingly targeted Israel.

MIDTERM ELECTIONS IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

DOWNTURN IN DUBAI

As regional tensions escalated into direct confrontation with Iran, the impact on Dubai’s tourism sector, so beloved by Israeli travelers, was almost immediate.
By Motti Verses

Calm before the Storm. It is mid-day and before the war, “Pool Ambassador”  Alex from Ghana, dressed in a smoking jacket and top hat, serves juices at the Ritz Carlton in Dubai. Today there are few tourists to serve. An industry as shaky as a tray in one hand over water!

DOWNTURN IN DUBAI
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com







While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 11 May 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –04-07 May 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

HARDLY  ‘STRAIT’FORWARD

Photo captures the complex standoff between Iran and the US at the Strait of Hormuz

Not Going Anywhere! Vessels anchored in the Strait of Hormuz on May 4, 2026 off Bandar Abbas in southern Iran.  (Photo: Amirhossein Khorgooei/ISNA / AFP)




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

STAGGERING STATS

How do young Brits who display poor understanding of their own history, emerge so ‘knowledgeable’ about Jews – enough to hate them?
By David E. Kaplan

Up the ‘Poll’. “Red Poppy Day,” responded a Gen Z in a national poll asking “What VE Day represents?”
While a UK poll show too few young adult Brits are familiar with their own history, other polls
reveal the toxic character of British society today in their attitudes to Jews!

STAGGERING STATS
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

SACRED GROUND, SACRED SAFETY – HOLY SEPHULCHRE NEEDS A SHELTER NOW

The Church should be a protected sanctuary rather than a site for political standoffs- sanctity of life over frictions of the past.
By David Nekrutman and Jonathan Feldstein

Resurrection to Rectification.  While Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre may be the holiest site
in all Christendom, it is not immune from Iranian ballistic missiles. It is also not immune from internal
interfaith bureaucracy that has failed to provide a necessary bomb shelter.

SACRED GROUND, SACRED SAFETY – HOLY SEPHULCHRE NEEDS A SHELTER NOW
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE OLDEST HATRED IS BACK, AND I AM ABSOLUTELY DONE WITH THIS SHIT, GET ANGRY AND THEN GET ANGRIER

If the West cannot stand with its Jews when they are threatened, blamed and smeared with recycled blood libels, then we are dead as societies.
By Andrew Fox

How the West was Lost. A visibly identifiable Jew walking down any street in the UK today is a target for
attack. It is no safer in Europe or the Americas. What does this say about Western society today
and what needs to be done?

THE OLDEST HATRED IS BACK, AND I AM ABSOLUTELY DONE WITH THIS SHIT, GET ANGRY AND THEN GET ANGRIER
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com






While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 03 May 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –27-30 April 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

THE CONDOM CRUISE

Is this the vital “humanitarian Aid” the people of Gaza were waiting for – Condoms and Cocaine!
This taken ‘on board’ photo reveals the true nature of the “Condom Flotilla” as a PR stunt.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry released a video that showed condoms and small bags containing drugs found
aboard the vessels bound for Gaza. (Photo: Israel MFA)




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

SOUTH AFRICA’S ESTEEMED ONLINE ‘DAILY FRIEND’ IS NO FRIEND WHEN IT COMES TO DEFENDING DEMOCRACY

A discourse with the editor reveals failures and fears to take on Islamic fundamentalism.
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

Staggering Silence. A disturbing statement by a prominent Muslim leader in South Africa goes
unchallenged by esteemed publication the ‘Daily Friend’. While itself troubling, no less
disquieting is the editor’s ‘explanations’ to the writer as to why the SILENCE!

SOUTH AFRICA’S ESTEEMED ONLINE ‘DAILY FRIEND’ IS NO FRIEND WHEN IT COMES TO DEFENDING DEMOCRACY
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

KNOW YOUR FRIENDS – AND YOUR ENEMIES

How oil money has corrupted the world
By Neville Berman

Petroleum Politics. The question the writer address is: “What are the incredibly wealthy oil exporting countries in
the Middle East doing with their wealth?” Some are playing a “double game” of pretending to be friends of the
West,while creating chaos and causing destruction in an increasingly volatile global landscape.

KNOW YOUR FRIENDS – AND YOUR ENEMIES
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE ARAB VOICE  APRIL 2026

Perspectives and insights from writers in the Arab media

Seismic Shifts. Illuminating fresh perspectives – divergent from Western media – are evident in
the writings of Arab journalists recognizing new realities – some beneficial –  
as a consequence of the wars in the Middle East.

THE ARAB VOICE  APRIL 2026
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com






While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 26 April 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –20-23 April 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

CEASE FIRE is now a ‘SEAS’ FIRE

Targeting Tankers. Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, cutting off a vital waterway that normally carries about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. At least 22 civilian ships – tankers, container ships and  other bulk carriers – have been attacked. (Reuters/Royal Thai Navy, Media Office of Iraqi Ports, Mohammed Aty)




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

THE HOUSE THAT ZIONISM BUILT

The Nation that roars like lions is powered by Zionism
By Rolene Marks

Grit and Guts. Brutally attacked, mauled and maimed, Israelis recover, rise and roar. The writer reflects on Israel’s history as one of resilience and restoration as it survives and thrives.

THE HOUSE THAT ZIONISM BUILT
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

WHAT HAPPENED TO IMRAN KHAN?

Khan’s detention has coincided with broader crackdowns on his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
By Michael Jankelowitz 

‘King’ Khan. Imran Khan hoisted by his team-mates after winning the World Cup in 1992, went on to become PM before ending up in prison. “Why,” asks the writer of President Trump whorepeatedly calls on Israel’s President Herzog to pardon PM Netanyahu,  is he “silent on the fate of this now imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan?”

WHAT HAPPENED TO IMRAN KHAN?
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

CANCELLED CULTURE AT 90

Israel cultural icon Zubin Mehta, who turns 90 this week cancels all his 2026 performances in Israel over politics. Should the hotel that embraced him for decades memorialize his legacy? A personal view.
By Motti Verses

Maestro’s Misguided Message. Zubin Mehta’s enriching connection to Israel extended beyond the concert hall. For decades, that ‘connection’ was also embedded in his ‘home away from home’ in Israel, the Hilton Tel Aviv, where even a suite was once named in his honor.

CANCELLED CULTURE AT 90
(Click on the blue title)


(4)

BATTLE FOR THE LEGACY AND SOUL OF FAMED SOUTH AFRICAN JEWISH FAMILY FUND

Concerned directors, who are family members, have  taken three fellow directors of the Mauerberger Foundation Fund (MFF) to court for alleged serious breach of fiduciary duty, deliberate deception and mismanagement.

By Marika Sboros

Grandfather’s Glare. With Morris Mauerberger’s bust looking on, granddaughter Dianna Yach presents a million-rand donation from the family’s foundation to Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, who aligns with extremist Islamist jihadist forces that seek Israel’s destruction. Her unhappy family are going to court!

BATTLE FOR THE LEGACY AND SOUL OF FAMED SOUTH AFRICAN JEWISH FAMILY FUND
(Click on the blue title)




LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com





While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 19 April 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –13-16 April 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

‘SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL’

…or it should be but the international media avoids such coverage – IDF uncovers Hezbollah arsenal stashed inside southern Lebanon school.

As in Gaza which the international media resisted exposing, so to in Lebanon where the IDF last week uncovered a
massive stockpile of weapons hidden within a local school in Bint Jbeil. A search of the educational facility, revealed
Kalashnikov rifles, handguns, and various other tactical weapons. (Photo: IDF)




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

WHY TUCKER CARLSON DENIES THE HOLOCAUST

If possible, Tucker would happily platform Hitler on his podcast.
By Jonathan Feldstein

Farcical Fare. “Mr. Hitler, many people despise your views but Americans want to know the truth about how you’re really
not antisemitic, because the Jews – whatever that means – that you allegedly killed were not really Jews.
Isn’t that right?” This is the kind of media fare to expect from Tucker Carlson!

WHY TUCKER CARLSON DENIES THE HOLOCAUST?
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

SEEKING SAFETY WHEN THE SIREN SOUNDS

Daily life in Israel when missiles are striking across Israel.
By Peter Bailey

Seeking Shelter. What is life like in Israel when the alert sounds warning of incoming missiles, followed by a siren and then
the mad dash to seek a ‘bomb shelter (as above). For the writer who delivers by truck food parcels to seniors in
their homes, he frequently finds himself in different bomb shelters. This is his story!

SEEKING SAFETY WHEN THE SIREN SOUNDS
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

STAYING ON THE ‘STRAIT’ AND NARROW

Best hotels along the Strait of Hormuz – In this part of the world, anonymity itself becomes a form of luxury.
By Motti Verses

STAYING ON THE ‘STRAIT’ AND NARROW
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

UCT’S GAZA FALLOUT: DONOR EXODUS, LEGAL FIRESTORM AND A COUNCIL UNDER SIEGE

UCT’s Gaza resolutions have sparked a court battle, donor exodus and fresh scrutiny of council governance, funding losses and reputational damage.
By Marika Sboros

It’s an ill Wind that Blows. The “South Easter”, that strong, dry wind that blows across Cape Town clearing air pollution is known as the “Cape Doctor”. Not so remedial the recent ‘winds of change’ that sweep today across UCT. It’s a ‘wind’ blowing away Jewish students and long-standing donors.  

UCT’S GAZA FALLOUT: DONOR EXODUS, LEGAL FIRESTORM AND A COUNCIL UNDER SIEGE
(Click on the blue title)




LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com





While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).



Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 12 April 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –06-09 April 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

MISLEADING MESSAGE

PEACE TALKS IN ISLAMABAD PREDICTABLY COLLAPSE
A smile and a thumbs-up concealing disappointment, unease and uncertainty

US VP JD Vance gives a thumbs up sign as he boards Air Force Two after attending talks on Iran
in Islamabad, Pakistan, Sunday, April 12, 2026. (Photo: Jacquelyn Martin/AP)




ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

RED ALERT: ANTISEMITIC IMAGE POSTED BY IRANIAN EMBASSY IN SOUTH AFRICA

SA government acts decisively against US and Israeli diplomats – but greenlights despicable Iranian embassy transgressions of SA law
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

Rodent Revulsion. An Iranian embassy clearly feels “‘at home” in South Africa being publicly antisemitic with its posting of a rat wearing a kippah, ridding a bald-headed eagle. Its message is clear – Jews covertly control and direct American foreign policy.

RED ALERT: ANTISEMITIC IMAGE POSTED BY IRANIAN EMBASSY IN SOUTH AFRICA
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

THE TALMUD OF THE SURVIVORS

“Where was God during the Shoah ?’’ asked soul-searching survivors in DP camps. Three rabbis came together to provide some answers.
By Michel Levine

Survival to Revival. The Survivors’ Talmud published in Germany by Holocaust survivors in Displaced
Persons (DP) camps, symbolized the revival of Jewish life, printed on the same soil
where the Nazis sought to destroy Jewish scholarship.

THE TALMUD OF THE SURVIVORS
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE ARAB VOICE – APRIL 2026

Perspectives and insights from writers in the Arab media.

While Arab media shifts focus away from Gaza to the wars in Iran and Lebanon, the
common denominator remains – ‘Israel’.

THE ARAB VOICE – APRIL 2026
(Click on the blue title)




LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com






While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 05 April 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

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Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –30 March – 01 April 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

FATHER AND SON

At the side of a road during a siren warning of an income missile, an Israeli father is captured on camera shielding his baby son with his own body.

Routine on the Road. Daily, with nowhere near to find immediate safety following
a siren, Israelis lie on the ground to protect themselves and their loved ones.



ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

PERCEPTION AND REALITY – WHAT COMES TO MIND IN AUSTRALIA WHEN WE HEAR: “THE MIDDLE EAST”

Reflections and ruminations based on a small survey I conducted last week in Sydney’s CBD.
By Michael Fish

Media Menace. “How much of what we believe about a place is shaped by factual knowledge, and how much is shaped by what
we are repeatedly shown?” This is the question that fascinated the writer as he set about asking working folk in
downtown Sydney: “What is the first word that comes to mind when you hear ‘the Middle East’?”

PERCEPTION AND REALITY – WHAT COMES TO MIND IN AUSTRALIA WHEN WE HEAR: “THE MIDDLE EAST”
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN’S ULTIMATE DEGRADATION – HONOURING DR SOOLIMAN

Does South Africa’s premier university share today the same values as a supporter of terrorism against Jews?
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

Campus Concern. Standing on the slopes of a mountain, South Africa’s oldest university also stands exposed as promoting the
world’s oldest hatred. Is it any wonder Jews are weary. UCT’s latest move to confer an honorary doctorate on Dr. Sooliman
who says “I’m 5000% antisemitic,” affirms the writer’s lament of “ultimate degradation.” 

UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN’S ULTIMATE DEGRADATION – HONOURING DR SOOLIMAN
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE HIDDEN MENTAL HEALTH TOLL OF ANTISEMETISM

How Antisemitism Impacts Mental Health Around the World.
By Bev Moss-Reilly

‘The Dark Age’ Today! At a time when anti-Jewish incidents soar across countries and continents, many Jewish families
“…are carrying a level of fear that is hard to describe to those who have never had their identity turned into a target.”
The impact of antisemitism on mental health can be profound.

THE HIDDEN MENTAL HEALTH TOLL OF ANTISEMETISM
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

THE CONTEXT BEHIND THE CARDINAL DENIED ENTRY TO JERUSALEM’S HOLY SEPULCHRE

Sometimes missile attacks from Iran can not only shatter buildings and lives, but even a status quo.
By Jonathan Feldstein

Cardinal Error. Seemingly dismissive of the security situation even when Iranian missile fragments were found lying at
the doorstep on the Holy Sepulcher, cardinal Pizzaballa’s publicized response to restricted access as
“unreasonable” was less about praying to God and more about playing to the media.

THE CONTEXT BEHIND THE CARDINAL DENIED ENTRY TO JERUSALEM’S HOLY SEPULCHRE
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com






While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 29 March 2026

Unveiling the contours and contrasts of an ever-changing Middle East landscape Reliable reportage and insightful commentary on the Middle East by seasoned journalists from the region and beyond.

Home

Like this content? Please share and tweet it to your friends and followers.

To subscribe via email please send a mail noting your request to: layotland@gmail.com 
Please visit/ join/follow our social media platforms:

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LotLSite/

X (Twitter): Lay Of The Land – @layoftheland5

Also available on YouTube @The Israel Brief  – Simply click on the red subscribe button to receive alerts when a new report is posted.



What’s happening in Israel today? See from every Monday – Thursday LOTL’s The Israel Brief broadcasts and on our Facebook page and YouTube by seasoned TV & radio broadcaster, Rolene Marks familiar to Chai FM listeners in South Africa and millions of American listeners to the News/Talk/Sports radio station WINA, broadcasting out of Virginia, USA.

THE ISRAEL BRIEF –23–26 March 2026
(Click on the blue title)



++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

STOP PRESS

Steven Gruzd (z’l)

Over the weekend we heard the sad news that Steven Gruzd, a contributing writer from South Africa to our media platform was murdered in Johannesburg following a kidnapping.
Head of the African Governance and Diplomacy Programme at the South African Institute of International Affairs, his articles have appeared in Lay of the Land, his most recent  COULD WE GO FROM GAZA’S LAST HOSTAGE TO COEXISTENCE? where he typically – academically and intellectually – sought out routes for reconciliation.
That was his nature and leaves a void in the areas he addressed with idealism and passion.
A respected and loved member of South Africa’s Jewish community, Steven will be sorely missed.
Lay of the Land extends condolences to his wife Mandy, his two daughters and extended family.

Baruch dayan ha-emet

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




PASSOVER 2026 – THE FESTIVAL OF FREEDOM IN WARTIME
Chag Pesach Sameach

If one year ago, we prayed for freedom of our hostages in Gaza, this week, Lay of the Land, in wishing its readers a Happy Passover, prays for the freedom for Jews to live in peace in Israel and throughout the world plagued today by rampant and violent antisemitism.



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

SLEEPLESS IN ISRAEL

Day and night, missiles rain down on Israel’s civilian population

‘City Lights’. Firefighters try to extinguish flames in a residential building in central Tel Aviv following a direct
hit by an Iranian missile strike. (Photo: AP)



ARTICLES

Please note there is a facility to comment beneath each article should you wish to express an opinion on the subject addressed.

(1)

NBA LEGENDS SLAMDUNK HATRED

Project Max and Legends of Basketball Announce Strategic Partnership to Combat Hate Through the Power of Sports.
By Rolene Marks

More than a Game. Boys and girls from different ethnic and religious backgrounds participating at a  Project Max basketball clinic. Confronting racism, antisemitism and intolerance, a project that engages sport as a powerful vehicle for positive social change.

NBA LEGENDS SLAMDUNK HATRED
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

SOUTH AFRICA’S ‘SOUNDS OF SILENCE’

While quick to accuse Israel, South Africa’s is silent when close associate, Iran, commits ‘Crimes Against Humanity’.
By Peter Bailey

Birds of a Feather. Despite Iran making threats of annihilation against Israel and the U.S. for 47
years of its existence and pursuing nuclear means to achieve this purpose, South Africa
is silent but loud in its support for the malevolent Islamic state.

SOUTH AFRICA’S ‘SOUNDS OF SILENCE’
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE 17,000 DAY WAR

Iran’s war with the US and Israel started not in 2026 but in 1979 – and has never stopped.
By Jonathan Feldstein

Walk on the Wild Side. Despite missiles from Iran and Lebanon raining down on civilians, Israelis
remain feisty and philosophical with the Jewish state ranking 8th in the 2025/2036 global
happiness survey. Amidst war, a local photographer captures daily life in Tel Aviv.

THE 17,000 DAY WAR
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

POET’S CORNER

THE WINDOW + A NATION OF HOPE

Two poems by a former South African and recent oleh
 Zev Raphael Landau

What began as a war on the Jewish state on October 7, 2023 has spread to a war on Jews everywhere. With those choosing to express their thoughts in poetry rather than prose, Lay of the Land is providing here the space for such expression.

POET’S CORNER
(Click on the blue title)



LOTL Cofounders David E. Kaplan (Editor), Rolene Marks and Yair Chelouche

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com






While the mission of Lay of the Land (LotL) is to provide a wide and diverse perspective of affairs in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by its various writers are not necessarily ones of the owners and management of LOTL but of the writers themselves.  LotL endeavours to the best of its ability to credit the use of all known photographs to the photographer and/or owner of such photographs (0&EO).