Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 02 August 2026

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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 – 27 – 30 July 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Image ‘Pick of the Week‘

Under fire, a rare stand-up in the entertainment industry for Israel

Refused to be Silenced. British musician and songwriter Boy George faced backlash after releasing a reggae-style song called, “We Will Dance Again” (a reference to the slogan of October 7 Nova Music Festival), that opens with the lyrics:
“You say genocide / I say war / When you’re attacked / That’s what the army’s for /
Did it get ugly? You bet it does / When I know you want to kill every last one of us.”

He continues:
“You never mention October 7 / Young girls raped against trees /
Murdered brutally / For the crime of dancing
When asked earlier this year, whether he would turn his back on his Jewish friends, Boy George replied:
“ That is not going to happen – it will never happen.”




ARTICLES

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

(1)

EXPLOSIVE EXPOSÉ

What is the connection between the bombing of the King David Hotel 80 years ago and Moshav Gan Ner in Northern Israel?
By David E. Kaplan

Painful Past. Marking 80 years since the bombing of Jerusalem’s iconic King David Hotel, brought back memories for the writer of an old interview with a British lord, illuminating how out of destruction, emerged construction.

EXPLOSIVE EXPOSÉ
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

COLLAPSE OF THE BLOOD LIBELS

Every pillar of the genocide accusation against Israel has crumbled. The institutions that built it have suddenly lost their voices.
By Andrew Fox

Same Old, Same New. One by one, the multitude of menacing voices accusing Israel of “genocide” and other alleged crimes have been discredited as false or fabricated revealing bias, antisemitism or both.

COLLAPSE OF THE BLOOD LIBELS
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

ISRAEL MUST CHOOSE THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

The coming elections offer Israelis an opportunity not merely to choose another government but to reaffirm the national commitment to the values on which the state was founded.
By Prof. Uriel Reichman

Founding Values. As Israelis prepare to go to the polls in October, the writer cautions that “the question before them is about far more than who will form the next government.” It is about the kind of Jewish state Israel intends to be!

ISRAEL MUST CHOOSE THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
(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 – 22 July 2026

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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 – 13 – 16 July 2026
(Click on the blue title)

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




Lay of the Land’s Image ‘Pick of the Week‘

More than shaking hands, it could be a real shake-up towards peace between Israel and Lebanon.

Marking the first visit by a Lebanese president to the White House in more than 17 years, will Joseph Aoun’s upbeat
meeting with a jubilant Donald Trump on July 21, 2026, herald a genuine path to peace
between Israel and Lebanon?  (Photo: Saul Loeb/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)

HERZLIYA CONFERENCE MESSAGE – TIME TO TRANSITION

Failures leading to October 7 followed by poor policies since, necessitate a switch in direction and a ditch of leadership.
By David E. Kaplan

Saving the State. Maj. Gen. (Res.) Prof. Amos Gilead (r) interviews retired Supreme Court President Aharon Barak at the 2026 Herzliya Conference, who delivers a stark warning about the state and fate of Israeli democracy, relying now on the public – come elections – to salvage the situation.

HERZLIYA CONFERENCE MESSAGE – TIME TO TRANSITION
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

THE ANTISEMITIC GOSPEL ACCORDING TO REDI TLHABI

Relocated to the US, a popular South African journalist switches media platform to further outreach her antisemitism.
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

‘UPFRONT’ in her Prejudice. Working for her new boss Al Jazeera in the USA, SA journalist Redi Tlhabi is more than happy to propagate an antisemitic narrative evidenced by her postings like “…the Israeli lobby uses money and power to control the US and its lawmakers.”

THE ANTISEMITIC GOSPEL ACCORDING TO REDI TLHABI
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

OBSTRUCTION AND OBFUSCATION

Where is the global outrage at new UN finding of Hamas’ obstruction of humanitarian aid?
By Kenneth Moeng Kgwadi

Daylight Robbery. Late to the game, the UN finally admits in a statement that international aid trucks are being hijacked and vital provisions stolen by “armed personnel affiliated with Gaza’s de facto authorities”   – code for Hamas – and are also assaulting aid workers.

OBSTRUCTION AND OBFUSCATION
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO LORDS

An Israeli visiting London while war rages in the Middle East.
By Sidney Victor Kaplan

Having a Field Day. From a cricket test at Lords to a Bach concert at the Wigmore Hall, the writer discovers while visiting London that you can leave Israel but Israel never leaves you.

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO LORDS
(Click on the blue title)



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

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com









Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 12 July 2026

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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 – 06 – 09 July 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Image ‘Pick of the Week‘

US vs Iran – Round 3 at the heavyweight bout in the Gulf

Wheelers and Dealers. “I don’t want to deal with them anymore. They’re scum,” a bruised Trump told reporters earlier
this week – until the next round!  Meanwhile Israelis are waiting for the siren and the mad dash for shelter.
(Photo: AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, REUTERS/Stringer)




ARTICLES

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

(1)

50 YEARS SINCE ENTEBBE AND THE SOUTH AFRICAN CONNECTION

Recalling the Entebbe rescue brought back memories of the heroism of two South Africans in Israel’s ‘The Great Escape’.
By David E. Kaplan

Out of the Blue. From personal interviews with South African participants, the writer weaves an insider’s take of the monumental events of a daring 1976 rescue mission that mesmerized the world and defined the Jewish nation.

50 YEARS SINCE ENTEBBE AND THE SOUTH AFRICAN CONNECTION
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

CALL THE MIDWIFE

When they are needed the most, Israeli nurses and midwives are always by your side, providing innovative solutions.
By Rolene Marks

‘Labor’ of Love. Imagine the mixed emotions of bringing a child into the world having lost your husband in war. Enter Lilly and Meirav and the Israeli Midwives Organization providing special support for IDF widows and women suffering stress throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

CALL THE MIDWIFE
(Click on the blue title)




(3)

A PESSIMISTIC PRESCIENCE

Willing to take, but not to give – have the ultra-Orthodox in a post October 7 world overplayed their hand?
By Stephen Schulman

A Bridge too Far. Storming the Chords Bridge in the entrance to Jerusalem, ultra-orthodox men have drawn
battle lines that are dividing the nation. “Learned in the ways of the Torah and Talmud but blind to the
realities of living in a hostile Middle East” have the ultra-orthodox rabbis gone too far?

A PESSIMISTIC PRESCIENCE
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

THE MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD, MILITANT ISLAM AND QATAR

The power of money to influence, corrupt and ultimately erode the liberal western way of life.
By Neville Berman

Nefarious Network. A disturbing inside look, inter alia, at Qatar’s “holy” world and its “‘All in the
Family” syndicate waging global Jihad and state-sponsored terrorism upon a vulnerable
and gullible world dependent on oil and gas.

THE MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD, MILITANT ISLAM AND QATAR
(Click on the blue title)



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

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com








Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 05 July 2026

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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 – 29 June – 02 July 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Image Pick of the Week

Carrying the weight of 7 October and war, a smaller, scarred Maccabiah Games opened in Israel sending a message of Jewish solidarity and resilience.

For over a year, the catchphrase , “Let the games begin”  seemed to remain simply idiomatic, unfulfilled, as the quadrennial “Jewish Olympics” was plagued by war and uncertainty. Finally, on July 1, 2026,  in a spectacular opening ceremony in Jerusalem, it did “begin” featuring the traditional parade of thousands of Jewish athletes from across the globe. It was a visual reminder of the “Centrality of Israel” in the Jewish world.




ARTICLES

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

(1)

MOVING ON

Tribute to  Israeli mobility artist Yaacov Agam globally celebrated as the father of the Kinetic Art movement.
By David E. Kaplan

Portrait of an Artist. “I met all the great artists at the time – Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso and Jean Arp – but they were all stuck in the past. I prefer to be in the state of becoming, like the true meaning of Shabbat – resting to prepare
for the coming week.” Insights on one of Israel’s most inspirational artists who passed away at 98.

MOVING ON
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

THE ODYSSEY OF THE OCHBERG ORPHANS

How one South African businessman in 1921 set out by himself, risking life and limb to save Jewish orphans in worn-torn Eastern Europe.
By Michel Levine

Ochberg’s Odyssey. Today, across the world, there is an ever-growing community of descendants of the Jewish orphans
Isaac Ochberg rescued from war-ravaged Eastern Europe. Spared from death through war, pogroms, famine or disease,
what inspired their savior and what legacy does “Daddy Ochberg” leave for future generations?

THE ODYSSEY OF THE OCHBERG ORPHANS
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

CAN LEBANON FINALLY ESCAPE HEZBOLLAH?

Rubio has delivered a diplomatic breakthrough. Now comes the difficult task of turning a framework into lasting security.
By  Andrew Fox

‘Sign’ of the Times. Can you imagine catching a train from Jerusalem to Beirut for a Lebanese shawarma! Could this historic
signing of the Israel-Lebanon-U.S. “Trilateral Framework Agreement” intended to totally disarm Hezbollah
eventually lead to the eventual normalization of relations between the Israel and Lebanon?

CAN LEBANON FINALLY ESCAPE HEZBOLLAH?

(Click on the blue title)



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

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com






Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 28 June 2026

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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 –22-25 June 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Image Pick of the Week

The shores on either side appear closer to each other than the two negotiating parties

“Paid to pause”, “bidding time”, the MoU is being described as a ‘Memorandum of Misunderstanding’ or as we in Lay of the Land see it:  a ‘Memorandum of Manipulations’




ARTICLES

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

(1)

TRUMP, NETANYAHU, IRAN AND THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE

Giving in to Iranian demands rather than achieve peace in the Middle East will instead facilitate perpetual war.
By Neville Berman

‘Face’ the Facts. The world is cheering. Gas prices are down, and Iran has promised not to build or buy atomic weapons. “Hallelujah”, at long last, peace in the Middle East seems to be possible. What can go wrong? Predictably, just about everything warns the writer!

TRUMP, NETANYAHU, IRAN AND THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

LEGAL ACTION AGAINST ‘PALESTINE ACTION’

UK Court of Appeals confirms Palestine Action proscription decision
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

British Barbarians. Elbit’s £35-million R &D hub that was violently attacked by the proscribed terrorist group ‘Palestine Action’ employs 680 people, working on multiple programs for the UK military. During the raid, a ‘Palestine Action’ activist fractured a police sergeant’s spine with a sledgehammer.

LEGAL ACTION AGAINST ‘PALESTINE ACTION’
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

HAIR-RAISING SITUATION

Surprise discovery of Iranian women’s hair raises serious concerns but reminds – you can imprison a person but not an idea.
By Marziyeh Amirizadeh

Makes your Hair stand on End. The question of how and why Iranian women’s hair came to the attention of Armenian customs officials has now attracted global attention with speculation spotlighting the evil nature of the Islamic regime of Iran, particularly its barbaric treatment of women.

HAIR-RAISING SITUATION
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

SOUTH AFRICA CLAIMS ISRAEL IS BEHIND ITS ‘AFROPHOBIA’ VIOLENCE

Beset by internal social strife, South Africa indulges in cheap scapegoating blaming Israel  – Is anyone surprised?
By Marika Sboros

Singing for Salvation. While an anxious man plays his guitar as thousands of terrified Malawians take refuge on June 20, 2026 in Sherwood Park outside Durban, some in South Africa’s leadership strum a different tune, pointing a finger at Israel. Who, and why is this sadly unsurprising?

SOUTH AFRICA CLAIMS ISRAEL IS BEHIND ITS ‘AFROPHOBIA’ VIOLENCE
(Click on the blue title)



(5)

PAINFUL PARADOXES

Perhaps one of the emotional challenges of Jewish life in difficult times is not only learning how to survive what is happening around us but learning how to live with what we cannot control within it.
By Bev Moss-Reilly

Under Control. Living with war, antisemitism, instability, and communal insecurity, the Jewish world feels fragile. So are the small human components making up that world such as spouses, parents, teachers and community leaders seeking the strength to hold it altogether.

PAINFUL PARADOXES
(Click on the blue title)



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

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com







Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 21 June 2026

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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 –15-18 June 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

Blocking more than roads, ultra-Orthodox (Hareidi) block way forward to societal cohesion

Police intervene as ultra-Orthodox Jews block roads in Jerusalem on June 10, 2026, where crowds gathered to protest against compulsory military service. This photo captures pictorially the HEATED debate over the question: “What constitutes a Jewish state”?
(Photo: Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu 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)

FROM AN AILING KING SAUL TO A FAILING “KING BIBI” – TIME FOR CHANGE

Promises, platitudes and politics is all that is left on offer from Israel’s prime minister.
By David E. Kaplan

Beyond the Bluster. In a De Gaulle mode of Je suis la France (“I am France”), Bibi believes he is indispensable to Israel – that he embodies the Jewish State. He doesn’t; the people do. His greatest act now will be to make way for new generational leadership.

FROM AN AILING KING SAUL TO A FAILING “KING BIBI” – TIME FOR CHANGE
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

‘ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE’

A South African take on “As You Like It” is playing at the International Court of Justice at The Hague.
By Craig Snoyman

South Africa Upstaged. Truth and fantasy flitted like prancing players in a mythical forest, with South Africa the ‘Court’ jester at the International Court of Justice. It now stands exposed as the real clown!

‘ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE’
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

FROM URGENCY TO DELAY: WHAT HAPPENED TO SOUTH AFRICA’S ICJ CASE?

South Africa exposes through ineptitude its true motivations behind its fabricated case against Israel.
By Kenneth Moeng Kgwadi

What a Drag! The image of empty seats at the ICJ stands as a metaphor of South Africa’s empty “genocide” case against Israel which is set to drag on for years due South Africa’s request for time to find the evidence!

FROM URGENCY TO DELAY: WHAT HAPPENED TO SOUTH AFRICA’S ICJ CASE?
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

THE DEADLY FLAWS OF THE DEAL

When it comes to self-preservation, they will lie at every turn and manipulate even the Dealmaker-in-Chief.
By Marziyeh Amirizadeh

‘Strait’ Talking’. Now that Americans can again cheaply fill up their cars this summer, Israelis will have to spend much more investing in its future defense. Such are the war-fought results of the ‘Opening of the Strait’ deal.

THE DEADLY FLAWS OF THE DEAL
(Click on the blue title)




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

To unsubscribe, please reply to layotland@gmail.com











Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter – 14 June 2026

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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 –08-11 June 2026
(Click on the blue title)



A ‘view’ and a ‘perspective’ from a passing saddle in Islamabad, Pakistan

Telling Talks. Take note that while there are iconic images depicting USA, Iran, Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Pakistan, and others, nothing of Israel that is as much involved and most affected – existentially – by the talk’s outcome. It is not a case of treating Israel as if it does not exist but a wish that Israel would not exist!
(Photo: Waseem Khan/ Reuters)




ARTICLES

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

(1)

KICKING THE GENOCIDE CAN FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD

The ICJ saga of SA vs Israel – an update.
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

Theatre of the Absurd. Failing to get its legal act together beyond making an initial hyped-up hurried charge of “Genocide”, South Africa’s panic request for an “extension” to provide “evidence”, will leave Israel until November 2029 to respond. This case is less about true justice and more about political theatre!  

KICKING THE GENOCIDE CAN FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

A 20-YEAR RHODES SCHOLAR TYPE PLAN: HELPING SECURE THE FUTURE OF ISRAEL AND THE JEWS

The cumulative effect of the global strategy of destroying Israel has placed us in a precarious situation, with few friends around the world.
By Solly Kaplinski

Leadership Circle. Rhodes Scholars – impatient the way things are and having the courage to act – have changed the world for the better for over 120 years. It is time, asserts the writer, a renowned educator, for this model to be replicated within a vulnerable Jewish world to contribute to its survival against global hostile forces.

A 20-YEAR RHODES SCHOLAR TYPE PLAN: HELPING SECURE THE FUTURE OF ISRAEL AND THE JEWS
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

FROM DEMOCRACY TO AUTHORITARIANISM

How democratically elected leaders are systematically undermining democracy.
By Neville Berman

Coalition of Convenience. In order to entrench power, Israel’s PM Netanyahu has no qualms going to bed with the very people who are dividing and undermining the country under the false guise of “Torah”. A Sham and a Shame – it will be left to the voters to resolve.

FROM DEMOCRACY TO AUTHORITARIANISM
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

TIME TO SHOOT, NOT TALK

Things I know and don’t know about a deal with the Islamic Republic.
By Jonathan Feldstein

A Gulf Apart. The most iconic ‘fake scene’ in movies is sadly playing out live in geo-politics across the Gulf with Trump’s elusive peace “deal” exposing the disconnect between the US president’s grand announcements and the reality on the ground.

TIME TO SHOOT, NOT TALK
(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 – 07 June 2026

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:

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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 –01-04 June 2026
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

Beaufort Castle became the symbol of the final weary chapter of Israel’s long stay in Lebanon in the First Lebanon War.
Now, 26 years after Israel withdrew from the Crusader fortress – it regrettably returns.

While the castle was named bel fort or beau fort – old French for “beautiful fortress” – by the Crusaders, it is not similarly viewed by the Israeli soldiers who would prefer not be (seen here) patrolling its ridge. (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)

WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?

Any deal that leaves Iran’s Islamic Republic regime intact leaves the threat intact.
By Marziyeh Amirizadeh

‘Dealing’ with Iran.  With the US showing it wants the deal more than the Iranians, the writer says this emboldens a regime, smelling weakness. A former political prisoner that faced execution in Teheran’s notorious prison, the writer understands firsthand who the US is dealing with and warns – “ACT don’t DEAL”.

WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

A FAILURE OF FOCUS

The ‘Palestine-Israel question’ has overshadowed the atrocities taking place across Africa.
By Kenneth Kgwadi

Death on its Doorstep. Why do atrocities in Africa involving millions of victims across multiple concurrent conflicts – characterized by mass killings, ethnic cleansing, sexual violence, and state-sponsored repression – not receive the same level of global attention afforded to the Palestinian cause?

A FAILURE OF FOCUS
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

PETRA: A WORLD WONDER IN INTENSIVE CARE

When international visitors disappear, nearly every segment of the local economy suffers.
By Motti Verses

Petra under Pressure. Behind the postcard-perfect image of one of the world’s most celebrated heritage attractions lies one of the Middle East’s most dramatic tourism crises. With the war with Iran, the writer reveals how since his last visit to the ancient city carved into rock (above), the conversation has shifted from expansion to survival.

PETRA: A WORLD WONDER IN INTENSIVE CARE
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

ONE OF THE SMALLEST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD, ISRAEL CONSUMES THE BIGGEST CHUNK OF ARAB DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

Media Watch:  Arab world is watching Israel like never before says Arab journalist.
Introduced by David E. Kaplan

Israel Intrigues. Israeli correspondents and spokespeople are common sights today of Arab TV news networks. From what possibly began as “know your enemy”,  Israel – “The Good, The Bad and the Ugly” – is today paraded and debated. An Arab journalist explains with warnings for Israel to head.

ONE OF THE SMALLEST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD, ISRAEL CONSUMES THE BIGGEST CHUNK OF ARAB DAILY NEWS COVERAGE
(Click on the blue title)



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

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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.

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



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

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








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.

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



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

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