Category: News Letter

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 05 October 2025

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 – 29 September – 01 October 2025
(Click on the blue title)



HONORING SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF OCTOBER 7, 2023

Marking this Tuesday, the 7th October, 2025, two years since the October 7 massacre of 2023, when Hamas launched a massacre in southern Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 – mostly civilians – murdered, 250 taken hostage and others injured, traumatized, sexually assaulted and displaced, Lay of the Land remembers and honors the victims and heroes and the many across the nation who were called up or volunteered to defend their families, friends, neighbors, and the country. We remember, we grieve, we mourn and we advocate for the return of the hostages.

Lay of the Land’s Photo-Pick of the week

DECISIVE DAYS

Approaching the 2nd anniversary of the Oct. 7, 2023 massacre, mass public display of support in Israel for President Trump’s end-of-war plan and to bring “Our Hostages Home – NOW”

Rapturous Response. Israelis respond rapturously to Donald Trump’s plan presented on September 29th to end the war in Gaza. In a first opinion poll, 72% said they supported it, only 8% opposed with 20% undecided. The deal was also greeted
by rises in the Tel Aviv stock exchange and the shekel. (Photo: 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)

THE GENOCIDE HOAX

A football match exposes the Gazan charade of false accusations against Israel.
By David E. Kaplan

Switching Channels. It was an Egyptian soccer match that more interested Gazans than
following on TV the major White House peace plan announcement that would impact
their future and stop the alleged “genocide”.

THE GENOCIDE HOAX
(Click on the blue title)




(2)

‘LITTLE’ RED RIDING HOOD AND THE WEST’S ‘BIG’ BETRAYAL

Ignoring the message of the famed fable, the West welcomes the predator that will satiate its appetite on the unsuspecting gullible.
By Grant Gochin

Divine Destinations. Supplanting the approaching red bus as emblematic of London,
this bus stop reflects the city’s cultural metamorphosis and the direction
the UK is moving in.

‘LITTLE’ RED RIDING HOOD AND THE WEST’S ‘BIG’ BETRAYAL
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

PILAY REPORT ON GAZA – GOLDSTONE REDUX

We’ve seen it all before!
By Lawrence Nowosenetz

From Goldstone to Pillay. SA judge, Richard Goldstone (l) seen here with Nivi Pillay retracted
significant allegations in the 2009 UN Goldstone Report that he headed and that had
accused Israel of crimes against humanity. Will the same befall the Pillay report?

PILAY REPORT ON GAZA – GOLDSTONE REDUX
(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- 28 September 2025

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- 22-25 September 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo-Pick of the week

NEW YEAR MESSAGE FROM HAMAS  

A HAUNTING LOOK TO INFLICT UNBEARABLE PAIN ON A FAMILY AND A NATION

Image of hostage Alon Ohel as seen in a Hamas video released on Rosh Hashanah (New Year)

Speaking before upcoming Yom Kippur where a person seeks forgiveness for any injury caused before God can provide atonement, Ohel, the brother of Hamas-held hostage Alon, said: “I ask forgiveness from Alon – that you are not home yet, that maybe I haven’t done enough. But I want forgiveness only when you’re back with us. Because the truth is, every moment you’re there and we’re here, I can’t breathe.” The people of Israel need ALL the hostages to return home before they can collectively “breathe” again.
Lay of the Land wishes our Jewish readers G’mar chatimah tovah.  




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 “TWO-STATE” SOLUTION – THAT WAS ONCE IN EUROPE!

As countries  trip over each other to recognise a Palestinian state, do they care they are midwifing a giant military base to perpetuate endless jihadi war?
By Dr. Gad Amar

Ponder this Poll. While countries rush to recognise a Palestinian ‘state’, a 2024 respected Ramallah-based Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research poll reveals that 65% of Palestinians oppose a two-state solution with 63% expressing support for “a return to confrontations and armed intifada.”

THE “TWO-STATE” SOLUTION – THAT WAS ONCE IN EUROPE!
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

THE DIFFERENT STRATEGIES OF Al-QAEDA AND QATAR TO SUBJUGATE THE WEST

How naivety has led to chaos and the breakdown of western civilization
By Neville Berman

‘Building’ Influence. London’s Canary Wharf is central to Qatar’s UK property empire. Instead of blowing up buildings
in the West, Qatar is buying up buildings and whatever else it needs to buy in order to gain influence in the West.
What are the consequences?

THE DIFFERENT STRATEGIES OF Al-QAEDA AND QATAR TO SUBJUGATE THE WEST
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

‘BEHIND’ CANADA, AUSTRALIA AND UK’S SYNCHRONISED RECOGNITION OF PALESTINE

Insights on the machinations of mounting a diplomatic coup against Israel.
By Andrew Fox

Prime Ministers to Prime Manipulators. In a coordinated strategy, British PM Keir Starmer, Canadian PM Mark Carney
and Australian PM Anthony Albanese, recognize a Palestinian state on the same day – 21 September, 2025.
How was this achieved and who was really behind it?

‘BEHIND’ CANADA, AUSTRALIA AND UK’S SYNCHRONISED RECOGNITION OF PALESTINE
(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- 21 September 2025

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- 15-17 September 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s wishes its Jewish readers a Shana Tova – may we all be inscribed for a better year.

A NEW YEAR WHILE AT WAR

THIS YEAR’S SHOFAR – A WAKEUP CALL

With Israel and the Jewish people nearing two years at war – with live and deceased hostages held in Gaza –
it is time to not only to traditionally rejoice but to essentially pause and reflect, and seek
renewed purpose to overcome these challenging times.




Articles

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

(1)

GAZA  IS ‘LIBERATING’!

Gaza  has liberated people across the world to openly express their hate for Jews.
By David E. Kaplan

Fueling the Frenzy. With the mass hysteria against Jews persisting unabated, the writer
questions whether the visuals on Gaza are a sick welcome relief for people around the
world to resume their default position of: “Hey, we’re now free to hate Jews in public.”

GAZA  IS ‘LIBERATING’!
(Click on the blue title)




(2)

PLAYING LIE DETECTOR IS A FULL-TIME JOB

Venomous verbiage and outright lies are today’s easiest access weapons of choice targeting the Jewish state.
By Grant Gochin

Media Manipulations. Imitating the Madona and a starving baby Jesus, this fake narrative of a Gazan
mother and child in The New York Times was a contrived appeal to Western Christendom. Not
starving, “Mary’s” 18-month-old son Mohammed – not Jesus – has Cystic Fibrosis.

PLAYING LIE DETECTOR IS A FULL-TIME JOB
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

WHEN THE GUARDIAN OF THE FUTURE ABROGATES ITS RESPONSIBILITIES

Israel’s extreme-right leadership is failing not only this generation but future generations.
By Peter Bailey

Groping in the Dark.  Alienating his country and causing divisions within, what is Benjamin
Netanyahu really after? The writer asserts the PM is endangering the lives of the
hostages being himself a ‘hostage’ –  to the extreme rightwing in his party.

WHEN THE GUARDIAN OF THE FUTURE ABROGATES ITS RESPONSIBILITIES
(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- 14 September 2025

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- 08-11 September 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

JERUSALEM AT A KNIFE’S EDGE – LITERALLY!

A week that began with a shooting and ended with a knifing

Jitters in Jerusalem. A Palestinian terrorist opened fire at a crowded bus stop in Jerusalem, killing 6 and injuring 26.

Towards the end of the week, two sustained injuries in a terror stabbing attack in a dining hall of a hotel in the Jerusalem Hills.  A nervous city wonders, “What’s next?”.



Articles

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

(1)

RESOLVING RESOLUTION 181 – A NEW LOOK AT THE UN’S PARTITION PLAN of 1947

Misguided Western concepts for the Middle East and hope for Gaza
By Neville Berman

Partition and Peace. With a high probability of huge deposits of gas off its coast, “Gaza, can actually
become a success story,” contends the writer.  Looking back over history of what went wrong,
to get things right for both Palestinians and Israelis, removing Hamas is an essential start.

RESOLVING RESOLUTION 181 – A NEW LOOK AT THE UN’S PARTITION PLAN of 1947
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

A MEMBER’S RESPONSE TO HIS CONNIVING COLLEAGUES

Conniving Colleagues. As a member of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, the writer condemns his colleague’s collusion to besmirch Israel in a resolution he characterizes as “…academic fraud” and a “deliberate salvo in the information war against Israel.”

A MEMBER’S RESPONSE TO HIS CONIVING COLLEAGUES
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

FROM PłOńSK TO A NATION

Tracing Ben Gurion’s roots from small town in central Poland to forging a nation.
By Motti Verses

Home to Home. Having frequently visited the last home of Israel’s first PM, David Ben Gurion on kibbutz
Sde Boker in the Negev, the writer, an Israeli, visits in Poland his first home where the nation’s
“Founding Father” was born and raised. What insights could he learn?  
 

FROM PłOńSK TO A NATION
(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 September 2025

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- 01-04 September 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Photo Pick of the Week

PEDDLING PREJUDICE

Competing in Spain, Israel cycling team removes ‘Israel’ from its jersey – “for security’ reasons”!

‘Israel’ is now a swear word at a top world sporting event with Israel-Premier Tech removing the name ‘Israel’ from the
riders’ jerseys for the remainder of the prestigious Vuelta a España after protesters disrupted the finish on stage 11
in Bilbao which ended without a winner. “Stage 11” reflects the stage Jews finds themselves in globally.




Articles

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

(1)

SEE NO EVIL, BROADCAST NO EVIL
When the media turn into stenographers for Hamas rather than trusted sources for information.
By Rolene Marks

Pots, Pans and Propaganda.  “Take 4” and the stage is set for another propaganda Israel-bashing
session with pots and pans – literally! On site in Gaza to personally witness, the writer exposes
two incidents demonstrating the alarming trend in ‘agenda-based’ reporting.

SEE NO EVIL, BROADCAST NO EVIL
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

A FEMINIST BETRAYAL

Women’s groups champion the rights of all victims of gender-based violence…. unless they are Jews!
By Grant Gochin

Bloody Shame. “Imagine calling your rapist a ‘freedom fighter’? reads this ‘bloody hands’ placard,
exposing the racism and betrayal of the MeToo and fellow feminist movements.  If you’re
sexually assaulted, but are Jewish, it is then – perfectly acceptable!

A FEMINIST BETRAYAL
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

HOLOCAUST DISTORTION AND PRESERVING NARRATIVE IN EASTERN EUROPE

Many countries refuse to acknowledge the major role their citizens played in the mass murder of their Jewish inhabitants during the Holocaust.
By Dr. Efraim Zuroff

Troubling Trends. Newly elected president of Romania, Nicusor Dan challenges a recently passed
parliamentary law designed to combat antisemitism, arguing that the law “infringes on freedom
of expression” – a common justification of antisemites and Holocaust deniers.

HOLOCAUST DISTORTION AND PRESERVING NARRATIVE IN EASTERN EUROPE
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

WHEN ‘WORD GAMES’ ARE ‘WAR GAMES’

Danger Alert – words once said can be forgiven but never forgotten.
By Marika Sboros

Rewarding Rape. This sickening “Rape is Resistance” poster displayed and circulated in Toronto prior to
October 7, 2023, justifies sexual violence and contributed to the horrifying ideologies that were
the driving force behind the October 7th attacks and now permeating Western societies.

WHEN ‘WORD GAMES’ ARE ‘WAR GAMES’
(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- 31 August 2025

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 August 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Pick of the Week is another chapter in Israeli Medical Miracles.

SPINE-TINGLING REVELATION

Paralyzed people may soon walk again, thanks to Israeli science.

Tel Aviv University announces that Israel is preparing within the next few months to perform world’s first-ever human   spinal cord implant using a patient’s own cells, that could allow paralyzed patients to stand and walk again.  This news sends message of hope to the over 15 million people worldwide living with spinal cord injuries.



Articles

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

(1)

WHEN IS A JOURNALIST A MILITARY TARGET?

When media outlet Al-Jazeera operates as an asset of a belligerent party it steps onto the battlefield to fight not to report.
By Andrew Fox

Poison Pen. Intelligence and documents revealed that eliminated Al Jazeera journalist Anas Al-Sharif,
headed a Hamas terror cell, orchestrated rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF troops,
and was on official Hamas payrolls. ‘Camouflaged’ as a journalist, Anas died a paid killer!

WHEN IS A JOURNALIST A MILITARY TARGET?
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

THE HOSTAGE DILEMMA – QATAR HAS THE KEY

A way forward to releasing hostages and bringing peace to Gaza
By Peter Bailey

Close Encounters. Close to President Trump, the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad al Thani is close
to the leadership of Hamas, and thus “key to end the Gaza war” believes the writer.
Could the smiling Emir be the key to bring smiles to Israelis and Gazans?

THE HOSTAGE DILEMMA – QATAR HAS THE KEY
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

EVEN OUR SUPPORTERS ARE FRUSTRATED

Whatsup in Gaza? Check out this illuminating WhatsApp exchange below.
By Mark Reichenberg

Missiles to Missives. With the way the news on Gaza is reported abroad, it is little wonder that Israelis
seasoned at dodging missiles, can’t dodge the increasing criticism and questions from abroad.
An actual exchange that might be a microcosm encapsulating a familiar experience.

EVEN OUR SUPPORTERS ARE FRUSTRATED
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

POETS’ CORNER

Navigating fear and uncertainty through poetry

Poetry under Pressure. What began as a war on Israel on October 7, 2023 has spread to a war on Jews everywhere. War-wearied, two poets far afield from South Africa and Israel release their feelings, fears, joys and hopes.

POETS’ 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).

Lay of the Land Weekly Newsletter- 24 August 2025

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 August 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Pick of the Week

HER LIFE ON THE LINE FOR THE LIVES OF OTHERS

Medical kit and firearm, a women doctor serving in the ‘Front Line’

A Women of Valour. A week before October 7, Maj. Dr. R. began her post as the chief medical officer of the IDF Commando Brigade. Since then, she has served on every front of the war saving soldiers under heavy fire. In an interview with Ynet, Dr. R reveals her anguish witnessing her commander succumbing to his wounds on the way to her, and the moment a drone exploded where she had just been standing moments earlier.
She says: “We know how to care for everyone else. Caring for ourselves is the hardest.”




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 PROPAGANDA SEDUCTION

The world has swallowed Hamas’s expertly crafted propaganda.
By Rolene Marks

Exposing Falsehoods. Standing at the aid collection depot in Gaza for the UN and aid agencies, Lay of the Land cofounder and correspondent observes and documents the uncollected boxes of aid clearly marked – UNICEF and World Food Programme (WFP). Her mission: Time to also “deliver” the truth!

THE PROPAGANDA SEDUCTION
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

THE WAR ON TRUTH

Lithuania’s Blood-Drenched Lies, Russia’s Vile Slander, and Hamas’s Murderous Deceit.
By Grant Gochin

Playbook of Evil. From the Nazi and Lithuanian playbook, Hamas did not spare mothers and kids as evidenced
here of a destroyed home on kibbutz Be’eri on October 7, 2023. Nor is the “truth” spared
as Jews are always blamed for what befalls them.

THE WAR ON TRUTH
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

LETTER TO ‘LAY OF THE LAND’ READERS

By Derek Arnolds

In his last week’s article in Lay of the Land ‘Insights from the Inside’, recently retired senior intelligence
analyst in the South African Secret Service, Derek Arnolds, posited that:
 “Hamas’s propaganda war has fundamentally shaped South Africa’s policy vis-à-vis Israel.”
The article solicited plenty feedback, both praise and criticism, so much so that
Arnolds felt a response was important, which appears hereunder.

LETTER TO ‘LAY OF THE LAND’ READERS
(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 August 2025

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 August 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Pick of the Week is an image of ambiguity

THE PHOTO THAT SHOWED LITTLE AND REVEALED MUCH

Anxiety in Alaska. Trump calling Putin meeting “productive” solicited the comment on CNN:
“How to spin a hamburger that it appears as fillet mignon.” Israelis know the ‘deal’
from so many letdowns as their hostages languish in Gaza tunnels!




Articles

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

(1)

INSIGHTS FROM THE INSIDE

Succumbing to Hamas propaganda, South Africa’s government is part of an immoral minority on the wrong side of history
By Derek Arnolds

(recently retired senior intelligence analyst in South Africa’s Secret Service)

Israel at ‘Knife’s’ Edge. Addressing a rally in Hamas’ honor in Cape Town, South Africa in 2015, Hamas political
leader Khaled Mashaal, bellowed to the crowd of supporters waving Hamas’ green and white flags
that the wave of knife attacks against Israelis would continue until “…the land is for Palestine.”
Should we be surprised today?

INSIGHTS FROM THE INSIDE
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

ROARING AGAINST BETRAYAL

Cozying up to antisemites to feel “safe” is not assimilation it’s surrender – “It’s letting the world’s hatred rewrite your soul”
By Grant Gochin

With Gay Abandon. In 2025, The “gay spaces,” the writer helped build have since October 7, 2023, “betrayed me.”
While homophobiahas faded, antisemitism is “de rigueur.”  To be gay today “you must denounce Israel,
vilify Zionists, spit on your Jewishness …and nod along as the world justifies our slaughter.”
NOT ME – roars this writer in proud defiance!

ROARING AGAINST BETRAYAL
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

THE ARAB VOICE – AUGUST 2025

Perspectives and insights from writers in the Arab media

Tapping into Turbulence. With Israel locked into an unending war that its government is either unwilling or
incapable of extricating itself from, Lay of the Land this week taps into the Arab perspective of
what is evolving and the ramifications for Palestinians and the region.

THE ARAB VOICE – AUGUST 2025
(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- 10 August 2025

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 August 2025
(Click on the blue title)




Lay of the Land’s Pick of the Week has Israelis wondering Quo Vadis!

MASK OR MESS

Is the proposed takeover of all Gaza a strategic ploy to pressure for a hostage deal
or Israel’s ‘Vietnam moment’ and perpetual war?

Questioning a Quagmire. Who is leading Israel and in what direction as an anguish and war-weary people ask: “Expanding military operations in Gaza, but at what cost?”




Articles

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

(1)

CAFES, CONCERTS AND CAMPSITES – “JUDEN VERBOTEN”

In Europe being Jewish in public is unacceptable – again!
By David E. Kaplan

1930s Revisited. While the Nazis in Europe are no more; their ideology has resurfaced and resurged as Jews across Europe fear for their lives and future. ‘Public Presence’ is now a ‘crime’ warranting abuse and ridicule.

CAFES, CONCERTS AND CAMPSITES – “JUDEN VERBOTEN”
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

EUROPE AND THE PALESTINIAN LITMUS TEST

Why are Palestinians being reoffered what they have time and again rejected?
By Peter Bailey

Talk to the Trees. Several times, from 1936 to the 21st century, Arab and Palestinian leaders were offered a state
of their own in which to live side-by-side with their Jewish neighbors but repeatedly declined.  Reading their lips,
they will settle for nothing less than the “From the river to the sea.”

EUROPE AND THE PALESTINIAN LITMUS TEST
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

FALSE NEWS,DOUBLE STANDARDS AND APPEASEMENT

The new world order that threatens Western culture and civilization.
By Neville Berman

Beneath the Surface. To the accusation that has found global traction that Israel has imposed a “blockade” on Gaza, how did Hamas import the material to build hundreds of kilometers of underground terror tunnels?  “Must have been the worst blockade in human history!” asserts the writer.

FALSE NEWS,DOUBLE STANDARDS AND APPEASEMENT
(Click on the blue title)



(4)

WHEN STATEHOOD  = A STATE FOR HOODS

Why reward a terrorist leadership holding Israeli hostages  rotting on the verge of death?
By Jonathan Feldstein

Surreal Surrender. For the writer, the Macron, Starmer and Carney recognition of a Palestinian state while Israel’s hostages are rotting away near death, “is akin to recognizing Nazi controlled Vichy France. Mon Dieu!”  The writer argues that instead of bringing peace closer, it “hardens”, “emboldens” and “rewards aggression”.

WHEN STATEHOOD  = A STATE FOR HOODS
(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 August 2025

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- 28-31 July 2025
(Click on the blue title)



Lay of the Land’s Pick of the Week are courtesy of Hamas

SHADES OF THE SHOAH

Shocking ‘skin and bones’ footage of Evyatar David and Rom Braslavski reminiscent of the Holocaust, horrifies Israelis but receives minimal attention from major international global outlets, many of which continue to focus on Palestinian suffering and allegations against Israel.

Footage released over the weekend, shows 24-year-old Evyatar David, held in captivity for 666 days,
in a tunnel holding a shovel and digging what he says is his “own grave”. In a separate video,
Rom Braslavski appears gaunt and weak, speaking to the camera in dimly lit surroundings.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3m9CSjJ3ow




Articles

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

(1)

THIS IMAGE WENT VIRAL; THE TRUTH DID NOT.

The Truth Behind the Viral Gazan Famine Photo
By David Collier

The Image that Lied. The face not of “famine” but of Muhammad – a child born with serious genetic disorders
requiring specialist medical treatments since birth who was hijacked and weaponised
– first by Hamas, then by the international media.

THIS IMAGE WENT VIRAL; THE TRUTH DID NOT.
(Click on the blue title)



(2)

WHEN DOES LACK OF FOOD MORPH INTO LACK OF TRUTH

Hellbent on shaming Israel in the midst of an existential war, the media ignores the mega-million starving across the world.
By Allan Wolman

No Interest if Not Gaza. While Yemen constantly fires ballistic missile at Israel, the world ignores that child
malnutrition in Yemen is one of the highest in the world with 75% of children suffering acute malnutrition
like 4-year-old Abdo (above) before passing away. Too few know, even less care!

WHEN DOES LACK OF FOOD MORPH INTO LACK OF TRUTH
(Click on the blue title)



(3)

FALSE FIXATION

South Africa’s hateful obsession against Israel, reflects its failure to address monumental problems at home.
By Kenneth Moeng Mokgatlhe

Home Truths. South Africa’s leaders prefer to have photos on their TV screens of hungry children in Gaza in the midst of a war Gaza started with Israel then the visuals of children starving to death nearer to home!

FALSE FIXATION
(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).