In the heart of downtown Chapel Hill, North Carolina, just steps from the University of North Carolina campus, a banner displayed by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture has ignited a storm of controversy. Prominently featuring a protester wearing a keffiyeh and the hashtag “#GOODTROUBLE,” the banner has left many in the Jewish community feeling unsafe, disregarded, and deeply hurt.

The keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern scarf, has long been a symbol of Palestinian nationalism. For many Jews, however, it has become a painful reminder of incitement and violence—particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that brutally claimed the lives of over 1,200 Israelis, including 46 Americans. As one Chapel Hill resident pointed out, the banner seems to glorify not justice, but intimidation.

“It is appalling to think that anyone would consider ‘good trouble’ as celebrating the murder, rape, and kidnapping of thousands of innocent...

As the U.N. Security Council prepared to vote on a draft resolution introduced by Algeria, tensions rose not only in Israel but also in Washington, D.C. The resolution, aimed at forcing a ceasefire in Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas, has drawn fire for its lack of clear condemnation of Hamas and for what critics call its abandonment of the 101 hostages still in captivity.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz didn’t mince words, declaring the resolution an effort to “permanently undermine the incoming Trump administration and Republican Congress.” He promised to collaborate with fellow lawmakers and the incoming administration to counter such measures, even suggesting reevaluating the U.S.’s relationship with the U.N.

Israel’s Ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, also voiced his outrage, stating:
“Any resolution that does not condition the ceasefire on the release of the hostages means abandoning the 101 hostages to the hell of the terrorist...

From President-elect Trump’s decisive plan to cut off the financial lifeline of terrorism, to an honest exploration of what annexation could mean for Israel’s future, these stories are shaping history. You’ll also read a deeply personal account of antisemitism in the workplace and discover how Giving Tuesday offers us a sacred opportunity to bless Israel.

Plus, don’t miss out on the exclusive Artza Christmas Box, the chance to wear your faith with the “Shalom” T-shirt, and uplifting news that underscores the resilience and courage of Israel’s people.

“Show Me the Money!”: Cutting Off the Cash That Fuels Terrorism

To borrow from the famous line in Jerry Maguire: “Show me the money!” Except this time, it’s about showing the world that the financial lifeline for terror is no more. And for that, we say, praise God. As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to step back into the Oval Office, his...

Israel stands at a critical crossroads, one that could redefine its character, soul, and future as a Jewish democratic state. The prospect of annexing parts of the West Bank, championed by some political leaders, carries profound implications for Israel’s identity, economy, and security. This conversation is vital for Modern-Day Esthers who stand with Israel, as we explore what comes next for the Jewish state and the role we can play in its future.

Shaul Arieli, an Israel Policy Forum policy advisor and a leading expert on the Israeli-Palestinian political process, presents a sobering analysis in his recent article, The Unbearable Price Israel Would Pay for Annexation. Arieli warns that annexation is not just about territorial expansion—it’s about the very essence of what Israel represents. He writes, “This isn’t merely about territory; it’s about Israel’s soul and future. The dream of a democratic Jewish state, as envisioned by its...

In a deeply troubling firsthand account, Elinor Krits, a software engineer at Microsoft, shares her harrowing experience of antisemitism during a so-called “No Azure for Apartheid” event at Microsoft’s Redmond campus. Her story highlights the urgent need for companies, organizations, and individuals to confront and address the growing wave of anti-Israel and antisemitic sentiment.

Elinor’s testimony, published in The Times of Israel Blogs, paints a disturbing picture of an event that was ostensibly a “vigil” but quickly devolved into harassment and hate speech. She describes being targeted and called slurs like “Nazi” while being taunted with Palestinian and Lebanese flags. Despite notifying Microsoft’s HR and security departments ahead of time about the planned event, little was done to prevent the harm or ensure the safety of Jewish employees.

“As disheartening as the No Azure for Apartheid event and the media coverage...

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to step back into the Oval Office, his administration’s first orders of business include a decisive shift in Middle East policy. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Israel, is leading the charge with a clear mission: to end the financial flow fueling Iran’s support for terrorism.

“The fact remains that the real problem here is not Hamas, Hezbollah, or the Houthis. It’s Iran,” Huckabee stated in a recent Fox Business interview with Maria Bartiromo. For decades, Iran’s “money tree” has been the lifeline for these terrorist organizations. Now, Huckabee insists, that tree is about to be chopped down.

Show Me the Money… or should we say Shut Down the Money Tree!

Huckabee’s bold plan centers on reinstating Trump’s “maximum pressure campaign” on Iran. This strategy, first implemented during Trump’s initial term,...

In this edition, we draw inspiration from the past and look to the future. From the enduring lessons of Fiddler on the Roof, showcasing the resilience and faith of the Jewish people, to today’s heart-wrenching stories of Israel’s fallen heroes and the opportunities to invest in Israel’s resilient economy and groundbreaking technology. You’ll also discover ways to spread shalom and bless Israel during this season of miracles.
 

Heartbreaking Courage: Stories of Israel’s Fallen Heroes

The ultimate sacrifices are made by Israel’s defenders, including Lt. Ivri Dickstein, whose final words to his wife inspire us to stand firm in faith and action. Learn how you can honor their legacy, pray for grieving families, and advocate for the safe return of hostages still held in Gaza.

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Investing in Israel: A Testament of Faith and Resilience

Israel’s economy has shown extraordinary resilience, even amid conflict. Venture investments...

As Christian Women for Israel, we are constantly searching for ways to stand with Israel—not just in prayer, but through practical acts of support. Investing in Israel is one such way to show solidarity with its people, strengthening an economy that continues to thrive against all odds. Jonathan Medved, founder and CEO of OurCrowd, recently shared insightful perspectives on the unique opportunities emerging for investors in Israel during this pivotal time.

Medved highlights how Israel’s resilience, even amid conflict, is nothing short of miraculous. “Despite the war, venture investment in Israel has increased 32 percent year on year—a growth rate that leads the world,” he notes. This statistic is remarkable considering the toll of over a year of war, constant rocket barrages, and other challenges that would have crippled most economies.

The promise of Israel’s economic resurgence is tied not only to its world-class tech sector but also to its...

“To my dear wife, I am writing to you again from the far north. I hope it’s the last time. I am here, happy and proud to do something important for our nation. I ask you to continue to smile and keep your head up. I love you very much.”
– Lt. Ivri Dickstein, in his final note before making the ultimate sacrifice.

In the ongoing war to defend Israel’s sovereignty, the cost of freedom weighs heavily on the shoulders of families, soldiers, and civilians alike. Each life lost is a story of courage, dedication, and immeasurable sacrifice. Among the fallen is Lt. Ivri Dickstein, who was killed in Lebanon while defending Israel. In his final act of love, he ordered flowers for his wife before his last mission—a powerful reminder of the humanity and love woven into even the darkest times. His words, filled with hope and pride, are a testament to the deep resolve of Israel’s defenders.

On Israel’s northern front, three more young lives were...

"Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

As Modern-Day Esthers, we live in a world that is undeniably broken—politically, emotionally, and spiritually. Yet, even in this wreckage, God calls us to cultivate a life of gratitude and to make choices that honor Him. Gratitude and godly choices are not mere feelings or fleeting decisions; they are disciplines that reflect the depth of our character, the breadth of our influence, and the strength of our commitment to Christ.

1. Gratitude Shapes Our Vision of God

Gratitude begins when we see that God is good. In Psalm 34:8, we are called to, "Taste and see that the Lord is good." When we focus on God’s faithfulness, even amidst life’s messes, our hearts naturally overflow with thankfulness.

Yet, the enemy seeks to distort this truth. As Romans 1:21 warns, "Although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him." Ungratefulness...