If 2024 had an overture, it played out on Oct. 7, 2023 – a day that would reshape Israel's national consciousness and set the stage for one of the most consequential years in the country's history. The echoes of that dark day defined every aspect of Israeli life, from the southern border to the northern front. The human cost has been staggering. Our soldiers, many barely out of high school, have paid the ultimate price in the dense urban warfare of Gaza and along the Lebanese border. Yet through this crucible of conflict and loss, Israel has demonstrated an unwavering resilience. From the strategic precision of military operations to the tireless efforts to bring our hostages home, 2024 has been a testament to our nation's strength in the face of unprecedented challenges. This is the story of a year that tested our resolve, challenged our unity, and ultimately showcased the indomitable spirit of the Israeli people.
January
The year started out strong as senior Hamas terrorist Salih al-Arouri met his demise in a drone strike in Beirut – an incident Israel, in classic fashion, declined to comment on but which certainly added an air of "who's next?" to regional tensions.
On the home front, the Supreme Court tossed out Netanyahu's judicial reform bill, igniting debates as fiery as a Tel Aviv summer. Was it a heroic defense of democracy or an overreach by the judiciary? Depends on whom you ask, but either way, this legal drama will be in reruns for a while. Speaking of courts, Israel also found itself fending off accusations at The Hague, rejecting genocide claims with a firm "not guilty" plea to the international jury.
The scars of Oct. 7 were ever-present. Families of hostages camped outside the Prime Minister's Residence, turning grief into activism with a desperation that refused to be ignored. Heartstrings were tugged as nine-year-old Emily Hand was seen wiping her father's tears as he found out one of the Hamas hostages who was held captive alongside her had been killed – a moment as bittersweet as it was gut-wrenching. Adding to the collective heartbreak, Kibbutz Be'eri confirmed the deaths of two hostages, and the IDF uncovered haunting relics of captivity – children's drawings left behind in a Hamas dungeon, a tragic reminder of innocence lost.
On the battlefield, the IDF showed it's no stranger to multitasking. From dismantling a terror tunnel beneath a Khan Younis cemetery (talk about disturbing the peace) to taking down terrorists hiding in a hospital, the military's operations were as complex as they were critical. Meanwhile, President Isaac Herzog took diplomacy to Davos, displaying a photo of baby Kfir Bibas, still in Hamas captivity, during his World Economic Forum address – a poignant plea for solidarity that resonated far and wide.
Video: The raid in the Jenin hospital/Credit: Usage under Article 27a of the Israeli intellectual property law
But January wasn't all doom and gloom. In an unexpected twist, a "We Stand with Israel" banner appeared in Iran, a plot twist no one saw coming. Former Miss World Linor Abargil called out women's groups for their silence on Hamas' atrocities, proving beauty queens can pack a punch. And aliyah numbers surged as Jews worldwide rediscovered their connection to Israel, turning tragedy into a bridge home.
As the month closed, Israel pressed on, determined as ever. Hostage families kept the spotlight on their loved ones, the IDF stayed relentless, and the nation, battered but unbowed, clung to its defining trait: hope. After all, if there's one thing Israel knows how to do, it's finding the light, no matter how dark the path.
February
In February, headlines flowed faster than coffee in a newsroom. Early in the month, the United States delivered a forceful message by striking militias in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for a fatal drone attack. While the White House also found itself swatting away rumors about President Joe Biden's alleged comments on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a quieter but significant development unfolded in Israel: the IDF launched its first-ever fast-track combat training program for Haredi recruits, a move that could reshape military dynamics.
Argentinian President Javier Milei's visit to Israel stirred headlines as he pledged to move his country's embassy to Jerusalem. Just two days after he prayed at the Western Wall for the hostages' safe return, the IDF pulled off a daring rescue, saving two Israeli-Argentinian hostages. Make of that what you will. The operation, a masterclass in precision led by special forces and the Shin Bet security agency, awed global leaders and reminded the world that miracles sometimes arrive on the heels of meticulous planning.
Hamas continued to dominate the narrative. The IDF revealed footage of a massive tunnel beneath UNRWA headquarters, further exposing the terror group's cynical use of civilian infrastructure. Meanwhile, Yahya Sinwar, Hamas' elusive leader, was spotted skulking through tunnels with his family. Little did he know his subterranean escapades would soon end rather unceremoniously – but let's not jump the gun just yet.
In a poignant tribute, Shani Louk's legacy shone brightly as her drawings were turned into an art exhibition, giving the world a reason to pause and appreciate creativity amid tragedy. But the month wasn't without heartbreak: over in Russia, imprisoned Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny's death cast a shadow far beyond his homeland.
The world of sports offered a momentary reprieve, with an Israeli swimmer winning silver at the Doha World Championships. Standing tall against a hostile crowd, Anastasia Gorbenko showed that victory isn't just about medals but about grace under pressure.
As February drew to a close, the hostages' families organized a four-day march to keep the spotlight on their loved ones' plight, and terror attacks near Jerusalem and in the West Bank served as grim reminders of the ongoing war.
March
March proved to be another whirlwind month for Israel. The Eurovision drama unfolded with almost as much suspense as an IDF operation. Initially, Israel's participation hung in the balance, with revisions to its song required to steer clear of perceived political pitfalls. Eden Golan, Israel's representative, assured the nation that the final entry would represent the country with pride – and it did, once the dust (and lyrics) settled.
In a lighter culinary moment, two Israeli pizzerias earned spots on the prestigious "50 Top Pizza" list. Fresca from Kibbutz Afikim and the Jerusalem-based La Piedra proved that even amidst turmoil, Israelis never compromise on quality – especially when it comes to pizza.
But March wasn't just about Eurovision and pizza. The Jewish Agency hosted its largest gathering of global Jewish leaders since Oct. 7, a poignant reminder of the community's resilience and unity in the face of shared tragedy. Meanwhile, the IDF revealed damning evidence tying 450 UNRWA workers to Hamas, including audio recordings that left little room for doubt about the depth of the infiltration.
The military front intensified with operations in Khan Younis leading to the elimination of over 100 terrorists. Among the key moments was the elimination of Marwan Issa, deputy head of Hamas' military wing, a move seen as the beginning of a major wave of targeted strikes. Concurrently, a chilling report exposed how Hamas compromised security cameras in the lead-up to Oct. 7, revealing the scale of their premeditated actions.
Amid these developments, Donald Trump made headlines with an exclusive interview with Israel Hayom, declaring himself "the best US president in the history of Israel." The interview reverberated globally, sparking debates and proving that Trump's flair for making news hasn't diminished one bit. On a more somber note, testimony from Amit Soussana detailed the harrowing abuse she endured during her captivity by Hamas, a chilling reminder of the human cost of the ongoing war.
Rocket attacks in northern Israel claimed the life of a factory worker, underscoring the continued vulnerability of civilians. In another suspected Israeli strike, the Iranian Embassy in Damascus sustained damage, keeping regional tensions simmering. On a quieter note, Netanyahu underwent successful hernia surgery.
March closed with Israel moving forward, ever resilient, juggling Eurovision entries, military operations, and global headlines – because, for better or worse, the show must goes on.
April
Early in the month, Tel Aviv experienced GPS disruptions, a subtle but ominous prelude to Iran's growing aggressions. The IDF halted leave for all combat units, signaling that preparations were well underway for a confrontation that seemed increasingly inevitable. Netanyahu's public acknowledgment that Israel was preparing for scenarios beyond Gaza hinted at the storm to come.
By mid-April, that storm broke. Iran launched a coordinated drone attack on Israel, firing over 300 projectiles. The IDF's air defense systems intercepted 99% of them, but explosions echoed across the country as citizens braced for what many described as a historic showdown. Global media fixated on the drama, and the United States and Britain swiftly imposed new sanctions on Iran.
Amid the chaos, Hamas aired propaganda footage of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a hostage whose fate would remain uncertain for months, leaving the nation gripped with concern until the devastating revelation later in the summer. Tens of thousands gathered at the Western Wall for the Passover Priestly Blessing, their prayers heavy with pleas for the hostages' safe return. This somber unity was juxtaposed against the IDF's decisive action – Israel reportedly struck Iran with missiles, with dramatic footage showing jets piercing the night sky.
April wasn't only about military conflict. On US university campuses, tensions mirrored the battlefield. Columbia University became a flashpoint as anti-Israel demonstrations spiraled into aggression, with Jewish students demanding action. A Jewish professor was barred from campus, while alarming testimony likened the atmosphere to pre-Holocaust Germany. Biden condemned the surge of antisemitism, calling it a stain on academic institutions and society at large.
In a rare moment of cultural solace, the Nova Festival exhibit debuted in New York, offering a poignant tribute to the victims of Oct. 7.
The month closed with an uncertain calm. IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari assured Israel Hayom that the nation would respond "properly" to any further aggression by Iran, while world powers pressured Hamas to release hostages, hinting at the possibility of a deal. Yet, as April gave way to May, the sense lingered that the worst was far from over.
May
American campuses continued to serve as battlegrounds, with Columbia University clearing anti-Israel protesters from Hamilton Hall and UCLA witnessing violent clashes between supporters of Israel and pro-Palestinian activists. Exclusive accounts from Israeli students at Columbia and Yale painted a bleak picture of the Jewish experience in 2024.
There were moments of poetic justice, too. A fraternity brother who defended the American flag during an anti-Israel mob raised over $320,000 in donations, while online health company Hims & Hers Inc. saw its stock drop 8% after its CEO attempted to hire Columbia protesters. On the international stage, Turkey bid goodbye to trade with Israel, severing ties amid escalating regional tensions.
In Israel, Yom Hazikaron brought a rare moment of unity as leaders called for disputes to be left outside cemeteries, a poignant precursor to Independence Day celebrations that highlighted the heroism of ordinary citizens in the wake of Oct. 7. Yet, the global clash of narratives continued, with Nakba commemorations clashing with Independence Day events worldwide.
Meanwhile, the IDF's military operations in Gaza continued to dominate headlines. A daring raid recovered the bodies of three captives, though separate Hamas propaganda videos of hostages Nadav Popplewell and Noa Argamani reminded the nation of the cruel realities of war. Argamani's haunting audio was a chilling moment in a month filled with sorrow. While Argamani would later be rescued, Popplewell's fate – murdered in captivity by Hamas – cast a long shadow over the nation's conscience, a stark reminder of the inhumanity faced by those still held hostage.
Iran's controversial president Ibrahim Raisi met an untimely end in a helicopter crash, prompting global speculation of Israeli involvement. But officials declared, "It wasn't us," leaving some to wonder if divine intervention had stepped in. On a different front, Nvidia's stellar Q1 earnings provided a brief distraction, underscoring the tech giant's significance even in turbulent times.
As May drew to a close, rocket sirens pierced Tel Aviv's night sky. Yet, amidst the chaos, Eden Golan's performance of the original "October Rain" at the Hostage Square and Netanyahu being recorded as he wrapped tefillin offered glimmers of humanity and resilience.
June
June 2024 was a month of triumphs, tragedies, and resilience as Israel continued to navigate a turbulent year. One of the most heroic moments came with the dramatic rescue of four Israeli hostages – Noa Argamani, Shlomi Ziv, Almog Meir Jan, and Andrey Kozlov – from Gaza in a daring IDF operation. The mission captivated the world and underscored Israel's relentless commitment to bringing its people home.
Victims of the Oct. 7 attacks filed a bombshell lawsuit against UNRWA, accusing the agency of orchestrating a billion-dollar terrorist scheme. The legal battle promises to expose the murky connections between aid organizations and Hamas.
Tensions escalated in the north, with rocket sirens sounding in Haifa as clashes with Hezbollah intensified. Meanwhile, in Gaza, the remains of a heroic kibbutz medic missing since Oct. 7 were tragically identified.
On the international stage, Mexico's Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the country's first Jewish and female presidential candidate, while Trump joined TikTok to court younger voters. In a daring strike, Israel reportedly eliminated an Iranian general in Syria, underscoring its reach and determination. Yet, somber news came as the IDF confirmed four hostages were murdered in Gaza.
Cultural highlights provided a momentary escape. The hit HBO series "House of the Dragon" returned for a second season, leaving fans enthralled and delivering a chokehold-worthy drama that kept audiences glued to their screens. Meanwhile, fans of "Bridgerton" lamented the splitting of the third season in half, unsure if it was worth the wait. Montana Tucker led a dance tribute with Nova massacre survivors, and Israelis celebrated Jerusalem Day with unwavering spirit despite attempts to disrupt the events.
At Columbia University, a report revealed shocking antisemitic rhetoric from faculty, including claims that "mainstream media is owned by Jews." Meanwhile, at MIT, Jewish student Talia Khan described the growing fear among Jewish students on campus. Her words struck a chord as the campus grappled with antisemitic vandalism that laid bare the pervasive hatred.
Back in Israel, the IDF thwarted a Gaza infiltration, eliminating three terrorists, while Benny Gantz dramatically ended his partnership with Netanyahu over Gaza policy. In US politics, Biden ruled out pardoning his son if convicted – a statement that aged like milk, given subsequent developments.
Meanwhile, voters reacted to a heated US presidential debate between Biden and Trump, with CNN polls declaring the latter the clear victor. Speculation over Biden's future intensified as his family reportedly urged him to continue despite a lackluster performance.
June closed with a powerful moment as Argamani gave her first public address, moving the nation to tears. Hostage families blocked highways in protest of stalled negotiations, a poignant reminder that for many, the fight is far from over.
July
One of the most poignant headlines came early in the month: Liora Argamani, mother of Noa Argamani, succumbed to brain cancer. Thankfully, Noa, rescued after 246 days in Hamas captivity, was able to reunite with her mother before her passing, offering a bittersweet closure to their ordeal.
Globally, outrage flared after Roger Waters denied Hamas rapes in an explosive interview. Meanwhile, antisemitism reared its head yet again when Candace Owens dismissed Nazi experiments as "bizarre propaganda." This comment foreshadowed her eventual title of "Antisemite of the Year." Britain marked an end of an era as Keir Starmer, buoyed by Labour's landslide victory, was appointed prime minister by King Charles III. Across the Atlantic, things turned grim in Chicago, with over 100 people shot over the extended July 4 weekend.
In Israel, tragedy struck the northern region when a football field was directly hit by Hezbollah rockets, killing 12 children and teenagers. Hezbollah's attacks escalated, with one salvo causing fires and injuries, but the IDF responded decisively, targeting senior Hezbollah figures. By month's end, Israel's campaign against its enemies reached Tehran itself, with the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in a daring strike confirmed by the IRGC – a monumental blow to Hamas' leadership.
On the home front, the IDF uncovered Hamas' triple-decker tunnel system equipped with oxygen pipelines, a stark reminder of the scale of their operations. Meanwhile, images of female hostages from the early days of captivity were released, bringing new heartbreak. Also in July, the parents of hostage Omer Neutra spoke at the RNC. Tragically, a few months later, Neutra would be revealed to have been killed on Oct. 7.
On the international stage, US politics dominated headlines as an assassination attempt on Trump at a campaign rally left him bleeding but defiant. "I will never surrender," he declared, solidifying his status as a polarizing yet resilient figure. Later, Trump unveiled his running mate, Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, as the Republican VP candidate, while Biden's endorsement of Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee followed his decision to drop out of the race, citing health concerns.
Adidas dropped Bella Hadid from its Munich Olympics sneaker campaign after accusations deemed it tone-deaf to feature a staunch Palestinian supporter in a campaign tied to the 1972 massacre of Israeli athletes. Meanwhile, a Tel Aviv drone attack, described by a former Houthi official as a "grave error," drew attention to the ongoing regional tensions.
Cultural moments also dotted the month. Marvel introduced a new Jewish superhero, Sabra, sparking controversy about her representation. Michael Rapaport announced his stand-up debut in Israel, promising laughter amidst the turmoil. And in a peculiar attempt to prove Paris' readiness for the Olympics, a French minister plunged into the notoriously polluted Seine River, drawing both applause and skepticism.
The month closed with more grim news as the IDF recovered the bodies of five hostages from Gaza. Meanwhile, Hezbollah ramped up preparations for an all-out war, a harrowing prospect for the months ahead.
August
The Paris Olympics brought glory to Israel as judo star Inbal Lanir secured a silver medal, while the nation's first gold medal in the games elevated the country's pride. Israeli athletes made history, their victories providing much-needed relief from the turmoil at home. However, the games weren't without their peculiarities. The Seine River's pollution canceled marathon swim sessions, while reports of athletes sleeping in parks amid Olympic Village complaints and the infamous "Last Supper" mockery left Paris grappling with its own embarrassments. Tom Cruise stole the show at the closing ceremony, although it was Australian Rachel Gunn's controversial breakdancing performance that had people talking for months – for better or worse.
Back in Israel, conflict remained ever-present. The IDF confirmed the elimination of the mastermind behind the Oct. 7 attacks, Mohammed Deif, marking a significant milestone in the war. Hezbollah's security breaches were exposed, culminating in the elimination of its "ghost commander" Fuad Shukr, while an IDF operation recovered the bodies of six hostages from Gaza tunnels – Haim Peri, Yagev Buchshtab, Avraham Munder, Yoram Metzger, Nadav Popplewell, and Alexander Dancyg, who were murdered in captivity.
June also brought moments of introspection. The haunting story of Ariel Bibas, the second-youngest hostage, turning five in captivity served as a heartbreaking reminder of the innocent lives caught in this conflict. In stark contrast, the successful rescue of Qaid Farhan Alkadi, who endured nine months of captivity, brought a moment of relief and hope amidst the ongoing struggle.
Globally, tensions with Iran simmered. Tehran threatened that "Israel will pay at the appropriate time and place," while pro-Iranian media continued to delay promised actions against Israel, leading Israeli humorists to joke, "Attack us already – the waiting is too stressful." Meanwhile, the US deployed F-22 stealth fighters to the region and greenlit billions in weapons spending for Israel, signaling unwavering support amid escalating threats.
Political drama unfolded in the US as Harris officially became the Democratic nominee, selecting Tim Walz as her running mate. Trump agreed to debate Harris in September, setting the stage for a heated campaign season. Though betting markets briefly favored Harris, we know now how that turned out.
On the cultural front, Eden Golan transitioned from Eurovision fame to IDF boot camp, proving that the stage and the battlefield aren't as far apart as they seem. Meanwhile, Shaquille O'Neal's heartfelt message to Oct. 7 victims brought a rare moment of warmth during an otherwise grim month. The funeral of a lone soldier, attended by thousands, showcased the beauty of Israeli solidarity and the collective heartache of a nation.
Amid these events, antisemitism reared its head yet again. Rashida Tlaib shared a fake poll about Israelis, a move that echoed her title as "Antisemite of the Year" in 2023. In Canada, over 100 Jewish organizations faced bomb threats, underscoring the pervasive nature of hate. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, the IDF's preemptive strike on Hezbollah's rockets aimed at Tel Aviv captured world media attention, demonstrating Israel's resolve.
September
The nation began the month in mourning as the bodies of six hostages – Ori Danino, Carmel Gat, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Eden Yerushalmi – were returned from Gaza following a military operation. Heartbreaking details revealed that they had been brutally murdered in captivity, their final moments marked by unimaginable cruelty. Videos released by Hamas revealed the depths of their cruelty, while reports of Yerushalmi being starved to just 79 pounds left a nation grappling with anguish. In a rare development, the United States announced plans to charge Hamas leaders with the murder of American citizens on Oct. 7, signaling a significant shift in international accountability.
Conflict with Hezbollah escalated dramatically. A wave of explosions in Beirut targeted Hezbollah strongholds, but what captivated the world was Israel's ingenious use of explosives hidden in pagers and communication devices. The blasts also wounded an Iranian envoy to Lebanon and caused chaos, prompting Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was – according to a subsequent 60 Minutes expose – reportedly forced to witness the deaths of his own security detail inside his bunker as their compromised communication devices detonated – to declare the attack "crossed all lines." The IDF followed with precision strikes, including a surgical attack on Hezbollah headquarters in Beirut. By the month's end, the elimination of Nasrallah himself marked a significant turning point, with details of the operation – kept secret even from the pilots – cementing it as one of Israel's most iconic military achievements.
On the Gaza front, history was made as the IDF deployed female tank operators to the border, demonstrating a new era of inclusivity in Israel's defense forces. Meanwhile, the northern conflict intensified, with rocket barrages targeting Israeli towns and the IDF responding with strikes on over 1,600 Hezbollah targets. A massive air campaign involving 150 aircraft aimed to dismantle the Radwan Command, a key Hezbollah operational unit, in what was described as one of the largest strikes in recent years.
Globally, tech news made waves as Apple unveiled the iPhone 16, while Nvidia's CEO faced a staggering $10 billion loss amid an antitrust probe. On the cultural front, the Nova Festival exhibition arrived in California, providing a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the resilience of the survivors. Meanwhile, a casting call for the upcoming "Harry Potter" TV series emphasized diversity, sparking renewed excitement among fans.
In US politics, the Harris vs. Trump debate attracted millions, though Trump later declined a second debate. A shooting outside his golf club, which targeted the former president, underscored the heightened tensions surrounding the 2024 election. Trump's defiance, coupled with new revelations from the documentary "The Bibi Files," which would later make the Oscar shortlist, ensured that the global political arena remained as volatile as ever.
As the month drew to a close, Israel endured another tragedy with a terror attack in Jaffa that left eight dead and many injured.
October
The month began with a significant escalation as Iran launched an attack on Israel on Oct. 1, firing 180 missiles. Simultaneously, Israel reportedly launched ground operations in Lebanon as tensions with Hezbollah reached a fever pitch. Despite the ongoing war, a report revealed that 87% of Gaza border residents had returned home, a testament to the resilience of Israel's citizens. On Oct. 2, Jews worldwide celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a moment of reflection and renewal amidst the chaos.
Oct. 7 marked the one-year anniversary of the tragic attacks that changed the nation forever. Memorials and ceremonies across Israel honored the victims, while the declaration of hostage Idan Shtivi's death underscored the continuing heartbreak. Trump visited the Rebbe's Ohel, offering prayers on this somber day, while an American filmmaker released a documentary preserving the truth of that fateful day.
In a major breakthrough, the IDF rescued a Yazidi woman kidnapped by ISIS in Iraq, demonstrating Israel's commitment to combating global terror. On the northern front, tensions with Hezbollah escalated as the IDF conducted targeted ground raids in south Lebanon.
Video: Footage from an IDF drone showing Yahya Sinwar moments before his elimination
One of the most striking developments of the month was the elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza. The IDF released dramatic footage of the operation, marking the culmination of years of intelligence and precision strikes. Meanwhile, Mossad's chief traveled to Qatar to renew hostage negotiation talks.
Israel's air campaign extended beyond its borders as successful airstrikes on Iran targeted key facilities, with female navigators making history by participating in the first strike on Iranian soil. Satellite images revealed extensive damage to an infamous Iranian testing facility, showcasing the operation's success.
Domestically, Israel faced fiscal challenges as war costs and delayed aid forced the government to revise its budget for the third time in 2024. The UNRWA headquarters in Jerusalem was seized, further highlighting the complex interplay of politics and security. In international politics, Biden and Netanyahu broke months of silence with a crucial phone call, while the US confirmed the deployment of the THAAD air defense system ahead of potential Israeli strikes on Iran.
In the US, Trump made headlines when he served fries at McDonald's during a campaign stop – an image that went viral and added another iconic moment to his unconventional campaign. Meanwhile, the ICC's chief prosecutor faced sexual misconduct allegations, throwing the international legal body into turmoil.
As the month drew to a close, tens of thousands gathered at the Western Wall for the Sukkot Priestly Blessing, their prayers carrying the hopes of a nation under siege.
November
Israel officially severed its 57-year partnership with UNRWA in November amid revelations of its complicity in the Oct. 7 attacks. The Knesset passed landmark bills to solidify this decision, and the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem announced its closure by month's end.
Meanwhile, Iran continued to provoke outrage, reportedly executing a Jew in a highly controversial case, further exacerbating tensions. On a different front, an Iranian woman's defiant protest – stripping in public – garnered global attention, highlighting the bravery of those opposing the regime's oppression.
Domestically, the IDF launched its first ultra-Orthodox combat brigade and considered forming anti-tank units using captured Hezbollah weapons. In a stunning undercover operation, IDF soldiers disguised as Lebanese security forces captured high-value Hezbollah operatives, showcasing Israel's military ingenuity. However, internal political turmoil loomed as Netanyahu dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, signaling discord at the highest levels of leadership.
Across the Atlantic, the United States saw a seismic shift in politics. Republicans secured a Senate majority and Trump's historic comeback in the presidential election marked one of the most significant political victories in modern US history.
November wasn't without its darker moments. The Amsterdam pogrom shocked the world as security agencies clashed over their failure to prevent the violent attack, which left the Jewish community reeling. In Montreal, violent anti-Israel demonstrations led to arrests, emphasizing the global rise in antisemitism.
Cultural highlights provided some respite. Sia dedicated a song to Nova Festival survivors, while Eden Golan's stirring performance of "October Rain" moved audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, Israel's fifth-place ranking on the World Happiness Report baffled some, given the nation's ongoing challenges, yet it underscored the resilience and spirit of its people.
Video: Compilation of footage of the Amsterdam attack
The cinematic world welcomed the highly anticipated "Wicked" musical adaptation, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. The film, celebrated for its stunning performances and enchanting visuals, captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. It generated buzz that would lead to multiple Oscar nominations, solidifying its place as a cinematic highlight of the year.
On the diplomatic front, a Lebanon ceasefire took effect, albeit with concerns about Hezbollah's continued presence near the border. The full agreement, revealed later in the month, reflected the complexities of achieving lasting peace. Meanwhile, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant, adding another layer of tension to Israel's international standing.
November closed with a tragedy. The body of a missing Chabad rabbi was found in the United Arab Emirates, bringing heart-breaking closure to a search.
December
The restored Notre Dame Cathedral opened its doors in December, offering a glimmer of beauty amidst a world in chaos.
In the Middle East, covert hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas gained momentum, with hopes for a deal by Hanukkah. However, the recovery of hostage Itay Shvirsky's body and the revelation that six hostages returned in August were executed by their captors to prevent a rescue as IDF forces unknowingly approached cast a somber shadow over the month. Hamas continued its cruel propaganda efforts with a video featuring hostage Matan Zangauker, underscoring the terror group's inhumanity.
In a stunning turn in Syria, the Assad regime fell, with Mohammed al-Julani emerging as Syria's de facto ruler, signaling a seismic shift in the region. Israel's military responded decisively, launching strikes across Syria, crippling the Syrian Army's assets.
The Vatican stirred controversy with its nativity scene featuring Jesus in a kaffiyeh, a move widely criticized for its historical revisionism. In the cultural sphere, Trump was named Time's 2024 Person of the Year, and Israel advocate Erin Molan made headlines with her post-Sky News declaration, "I'm just getting started."
Israel's domestic politics saw Netanyahu take the stand in his landmark corruption trial, where he shared a dramatic account of his interactions with Barack Obama over Iran.
International intrigue intensified with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan. The case took a dramatic turn when Ivy League graduate Luigi Mangione was charged in connection with the crime, fueling speculation about corporate and personal vendettas.
As the month progressed, the promise of a hostage deal brought cautious optimism. Reports suggested a deal was near, with Hamas agreeing to terms for the first phase of a release. Netanyahu's reported presence in Cairo hinted at behind-the-scenes diplomacy.
In a bold response to a Houthi missile targeting central Israel, the IDF executed a two-wave airstrike involving 14 jets, targeting Houthi assets in Yemen. The extensive operation not only neutralized immediate threats but also sent a clear message about Israel's capability and readiness to respond to regional provocations.
Video: The IAF strike on Houthi targets
The end of December was marked by profound personal and national moments. Released hostage Hanna Katzir passed away at 77, her death a poignant reminder of the emotional toll borne by freed captives and their families. As Hanukkah began, Israel lit the first candle, celebrating the Festival of Lights and drawing strength from its symbolic resilience amid ongoing challenges. Meanwhile, an IDF strike on Sanaa Airport during a press conference by Houthi leaders further demonstrated Israel's strategic precision on the global stage.
On the international front, the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter at 99 closed a chapter on a significant era in American history. Domestically, record-breaking rainfall paralyzed Israel's coastal region, ending the year with a stark reminder of nature's power.
As 2024 draws to a close, Israel stands transformed yet unbroken. The year that began in the shadow of Oct. 7 has been marked by moments of profound grief and extraordinary resilience. We've mourned our fallen soldiers, celebrated the rescue of hostages, and faced threats from multiple fronts with unwavering determination. From the tunnels of Gaza to the skies over Tehran, from the halls of The Hague to the streets of our cities, Israel has demonstrated time and again that its spirit cannot be diminished.
The elimination of key Hamas leaders, the strategic victories against Hezbollah, and the precision strikes deep within enemy territory have shown our adversaries the full measure of Israel's capabilities. Yet amidst the military achievements, the pain of loss remains – in the faces of bereaved families, in the empty chairs at dinner tables, and in the continued captivity of those still held by Hamas.
As we look toward 2025, our deepest mission remains unfinished – bringing home every hostage still held in Gaza's darkness. Behind each name, each photograph lies a life interrupted on Oct. 7, waiting to be restored. True victory will only come when they all return home.
