A remarkable archaeological discovery near Beit Shemesh has unveiled a 5,000-year-old settlement that provides unprecedented insights into ancient Israel's first steps toward urbanization. The site features one of the earliest known temples in the Judean Lowlands, containing dozens of pristine ritual vessels and among the region's earliest known pottery kilns.

Archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority have uncovered a 5,000-year-old settlement that offers rare evidence of early urbanization in ancient Israel. The discovery, made at the Horvat Hushim site during preparations for expanding the western "Brosh" industrial zone near Beit Shemesh, centers around an extraordinary public building believed to have served ceremonial purposes.

Inside the structure, researchers found a chamber containing about 40 perfectly preserved vessels, including numerous miniature ceremonial items. "It is interesting that these many pots and juglets were placed here just shortly before the entire site was abandoned forever," said excavation directors Ariel Shatil, Maayan Hemed, and Danny Ben-Ayon of the Israel Antiquities Authority. "You can literally imagine the people who put down this ware and left it all here. It is not known what happened in this room later, but there are signs of burning, and vessels that fell on top of each other. Laboratory examination of their former contents of the vessels using different scientific methods will shed additional light on the site: We will be able to tell if they contained oil, water, wheat – or perhaps they were specifically for exotic oils or other substances."

"The size of this structure, its broad walls, the benches inside it and other variables indicate that it is an important and exceptional structure with a public function – perhaps a temple," the excavation directors explained. "We know almost no public buildings in Israel from this ancient period and earlier. This is probably one of the earliest temples ever discovered in the Judean Lowlands."

Near the main structure, archaeologists discovered an enclosed area featuring large standing stones arranged in rows. "The standing stones were erected even before this enclosed public building was erected," said Dr. Yitzhak Paz, an Early Bronze Age specialist at the Israel Antiquities Authority. "Their presence promises to be instructive of the socio-political process involved in the founding of the cultic service in Hurvat Husham – it seems that originally there was an open cultic activity area for the general public which then transformed into ritual activity in an enclosed compound with more controlled access. This development process on the site, along with other processes, attests to an increase in social complexity."

The site, first discovered in 2021 during excavations led by Marion Zindel and Natan Ben-Ari, has been under extensive investigation for the past three and a half years. The excavation also revealed two pottery kilns for vessel production, ranking among the earliest ever found in Israel. "The site uncovered in Hurvat Husham is exceptional not only because of its size, but because it reveals to us some of the first characteristics of the transition from village life to urban life," the excavation directors explained. "The site teaches us that about 5,000 years ago, the first steps were already taken towards the development of an urban society in the Judean Lowlands. A few generations later, we already see large cities in the area, surrounded by a wall, with palaces and other buildings – such as at the site of Tel Yarmouth, which is in this site's range of vision."

The Early Bronze Age, roughly 5,000 years ago, represented a pivotal moment in ancient Israel's history. This era witnessed significant population growth and the emergence of the first hierarchical complex society. These changes manifested in ambitious public construction projects, including defensive walls, fortifications, and religious and administrative buildings. The period also saw the development of specialized crafts and extensive trade networks reaching Egypt, Syria, Anatolia, and Mesopotamia.

According to Israel Antiquities Authority Director Eli Escusido, "The Land of Israel, due to its nature and its geographical location, was a fertile ground for the development of ancient civilizations. The Hurvat Husham site uncovered by the researchers of the Israel Antiquities Authority, reveals another important piece in the puzzle of urban development in our region."

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Top Israeli officials and bereaved families convened Sunday at Mount Herzl's Great Leaders Plaza for the national memorial ceremony commemorating the fallen soldiers of the Iron Swords War. The ceremony drew President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, Acting Supreme Court President Justice Yitzhak Amit, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, IDF Chief of Staff Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, cabinet ministers, and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion.

In his address, Netanyahu emphasized Israel's unwavering commitment to its war objectives. "We find ourselves amid a prolonged, challenging existential war that demands painful sacrifices. Our pursuit of those responsible and their commanders will continue without respite. Through the valor of our exceptional fighters, we stand united against those who seek our destruction. Last Simchat Torah, we experienced an atrocity of biblical magnitude. No words can capture the depth of the horror, the unconscionable brutality, the abduction of civilians from their homes. Our response has been decisive, and we continue to respond with determination."

Breaking his silence on recent military operations, Netanyahu addressed the strike on Iran: "When faced with a war of annihilation, we responded with a war of resurgence across seven fronts against the axis of evil. Our Air Force conducted operations throughout Iran, significantly degrading their defense capabilities and missile production facilities. To Iran's citizens: Our conflict is not with you but with the oppressive regime controlling your country. The operation in Iran was executed with precision and methodology, achieving every intended objective. Significant challenges remain ahead. Today, we remember our hostages and our commitment to securing their return remains absolute."

"A resolute new generation has emerged from Israel's soil, carrying the banner 'Now it's our turn.' Future generations will study this era and draw strength from our resilience. On this hallowed day, we extend our embrace to the families of the fallen. Just as we prevailed in our War of Independence, with divine providence, we shall triumph in this war of renewal," Netanyahu concluded.

President Herzog delivered his remarks against the backdrop of recent events in Gelilot. "For an entire year now, our lives have been enveloped in profound and continuous mourning for our sons and daughters lost in battle," he said. Herzog shared a personal account of bidding farewell to Captain Roi Nahari, a 23-year-old paratrooper who fell defending Kfar Aza. "Throughout this past year, we have met thousands of bereaved families, both civilian and military. Each encounter revealed stories of valor and sacrifice – embodying the finest qualities of Israeli society," Herzog reflected.

"Standing before you as President of Israel, I acknowledge that no words can mend a world torn asunder," Herzog told the bereaved families, underscoring the nation's unity in grief. "We witness an extraordinary generation, one that fulfills the ancient prophecy of rising 'like a lion.' These are individuals who abandoned everything – absolutely everything – to defend our collective home," he added.

Herzog emphasized the imperative of returning the hostages, suggesting that the elimination of Yahya Sinwar and other senior commanders has created "a strategic opportunity that we must seize." "The cry of our captive brothers resonates deeply. Their rescue represents our highest moral obligation, without which our nation and state remain incomplete," the president declared. He concluded by calling for strengthened national unity, highlighting the importance of supporting displaced communities and providing comprehensive care for the wounded and bereaved families.

The ceremony marks an official national day of mourning commemorating the Simchat Torah attack and the subsequent outbreak of the Iron Swords War. The decision to establish this additional memorial day, separate from the October 7 observance, sparked considerable public debate. While many bereaved families questioned the necessity of a second memorial day, Transportation Minister Miri Regev, responsible for state ceremonies, maintained its importance.

Earlier in the day, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi reflected on the significance of the commemoration: "A nation's quest for freedom in its homeland carries a heavy toll. The heroism of our fallen and wounded, both in body and spirit, has secured our continued existence."

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A 50-year-old Jerusalem resident was apprehended on Saturday following an alleged attempt to stab worshippers at a synagogue in the ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of Mea Shearim. The incident, which took place during morning prayers, left one person with a minor finger cut that did not require medical treatment.

Several congregants managed to disarm the woman, wresting the sharp weapon from her grasp before she fled the scene.

Police quickly launched a search operation and located the suspect, who had bloodstains on her clothing. The woman, identified as a resident of the neighborhood, was arrested and taken to the police station for questioning.

She is scheduled to appear before the court this morning for a detention hearing as the police investigation continues.

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The streets of Jerusalem were lined with thousands of mourners Mondy as they paid their final respects to Hersh Goldberg-Polin, the American-Israeli who had been kidnapped from the Nova music festival and tragically lost his life while held captive by Hamas.

Video: Jon Goldberg-Polin speaks at the funeral / Photo: Yoni Rykner

His body was recovered from Gaza alongside five other hostages who were executed by Hamas terrorists just before Israeli forces reached them: Eden Yerushalmi, Alex Lobanov, Ori Danino, Almog Sarusi, and Carmel Gat. At the time of his abduction, Goldberg-Polin was 23 years old. He had attended the Nova festival with his close friend Aner Shapira, who did not survive the attack and saved many by repelling grenades hurled at them. The two sought refuge in a fortified structure that later became grimly known as the "death shelter." It was from this location that Goldberg-Polin was taken, having suffered the loss of a hand during the violent assault on their hideout.

President Isaac Herzog eulogized him in the speech, addressing the family, he said Israel failed in its task of rescuing him along with the other five soldiers. "Most of us have never met you; but you are so much present in our lives; We ask for forgiveness that we failed to return you home safely. Forgiveness that the country that you immigrated to at 7 years old, draped in an Israeli flag, did not succeed in protecting you...Rachel, Jon, Libi, and Orli, I ask for your forgiveness. Forgiveness that we didn't succeed in returning your Hersh home alive. Now we have an urgent and immediate task. The decision-makers must do everything possible, with determination and courage: to save those who can still be saved, and to return all our sons and daughters, our brother and sisters," he said.

"There is no door in the world that your beloved family has not opened to save you. There is no stone that they have not turned, there is no prayer that they have not cried out," he added.

Video: Rachel Goldberg-Polin speaking at the funeral / Credit: Yoni Rykner

"Please do what you can to have you shine light down on us, help us to rise again," Rachel Goldberg-Polin said in her eulogy of her son. "You will become our superpower," she continued, saying "you are finally free, I will miss you for every single day for the rest of my life, I know you are right here." Turning to the crowds, "Plesae help us in this new sickening chapter."

Video: Thousands bid farewell / Yori Yalon

"Now I no longer have to worry about you, you are no longer in danger. You are with beautiful Aner. I hope he will show you around," she said. "I pray that your death will be a turning point in this horrible situation we are in," she said, taking comfort in knowing that other hostages were near him during his last moments. "Okay, sweet boy, go now on your journey. I hope it's as good as the trips you dreamed about... Because finally, my sweet boy, finally, finally, finally, finally you're free. I will love you and I will miss you every single day."

Goldberg-Polin's story became emblematic of the October 7 attack, with his parents recently delivering a poignant address to the Democratic National Convention that resonated globally. On April 2, 2024, Hamas released footage of Goldberg-Polin in captivity, providing his family with their first confirmation that he was alive. Approximately two months prior, his family had consented to the release of video showing his abduction, along with fellow hostages Or Levy and Eliya Cohen.

Video: Thousands bid farewell / Yoni Rykner

As noted earlier, Hamas shared the first proof of life video after 201 days of captivity. The minutes-long recording showed Goldberg-Polin speaking to his family, revealing his injury and missing hand. In response to the video, his father, Jon, remarked, "Seeing and hearing him strengthened our hope, but we have reasons to be concerned about his health."

Throughout their son's captivity, Goldberg-Polin's parents spearheaded an international advocacy campaign. Their efforts included a meeting with US President Joe Biden during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the United States. During this encounter, they emphasized, "Any side that thinks they will gain politically by delaying the deal is mistaken."

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed skepticism about a potential agreement with Hamas, emphasizing Israel's commitment to maintaining key strategic positions. Meanwhile, bereaved families voiced concerns about a possible prisoner exchange, drawing parallels to the controversial Gilad Schalit deal of 2011.

"I'm not certain there will be a deal, but if one materializes, it will safeguard Israel's strategic interests and assets," Netanyahu stated on Tuesday during a meeting with the Heroism Forum – bereaved families who lost soldiers in the ongoing Swords of Iron campaign – and the Hope Forum – families of October 7 hostages.

Netanyahu also informed the families: "Last night's operation to recover the hostages' bodies is just one of many we are conducting. I can't disclose everything. We are constantly working on these and additional operations."

The prime minister firmly declared that Israel would not, under any circumstances, relinquish control of the Philadelphi Corridor and Netzarim Corridor, referring to the Gaza-Egypt border and a key east-west corridor in the Gaza Strip. "Perhaps I managed to convince Blinken? I made it clear to him: Under no circumstances will Israel withdraw from the strategic positions it has secured during this conflict."

See it for yourself.

US @SecBlinken clarifies that Israel has accepted the bridging proposal for a hostage deal and a ceasefire.

"It is now incumbent on Hamas to do the same," he added. pic.twitter.com/Pl0ImW9VTL

— Oren Marmorstein (@OrenMarmorstein) August 19, 2024

"These are pivotal hours for the Israeli people," said Yehoshua Shani, father of Captain Uri Shani, who fell in Kisufim, at the outset of the meeting. "We're deeply concerned about a potential deal that could compromise Israel's security," he continued. "I want to show a photograph taken the year Gilad Shalit was released, depicting 10-year-old children, my son, and Eitan Mor, who is currently held captive in Gaza. While you were pushing for the Shalit deal, the seeds of the October 7 disaster were sown. We urge the Prime Minister not to repeat the mistakes of the Shalit deal that set us back. We're open to an agreement, but not one that jeopardizes our national security."

Itzik Buntzel, father of Amit Buntzel, who fell in the Gaza Strip, stated: "We're here this morning for a 'Heroism Forum' meeting with the prime minister, given the conflicting information circulating in the public sphere and media. We intend to look the prime minister in the eye and ask for clarity on what's truly happening and what terms are being discussed."

He added: "Alarmingly, we learned this morning that the state lacks a comprehensive list of hostages and casualties. Entering negotiations without knowing who among the hostages is alive is deeply troubling. How can we engage in talks when such crucial information is missing?"

"It's unthinkable that we'd enter into a deal with far-reaching implications for Israel's security without full transparency. We demand answers from the prime minister. We're not merely another star on the American flag but a sovereign nation. There's no scenario where Israel capitulates, and Hamas resumes control of Gaza as if nothing happened."

Itzik Fitusi, who lost his son Yishai, a Golani fighter who fell on October 7, said: "I'm here to ensure the Prime Minister remains resolute in safeguarding Israel's security, with the welfare of all citizens in mind. Today marks 19 years since our eviction from our homes, and we've witnessed the consequences of the disengagement. I intend to remind him of all that has transpired since."

Danny Steinberg, the father of Nahal Brigade Commander Colonel Yonatan Aharon Steinberg, added: "My stance reflects previous meetings with the prime minister, where he was unwavering in his commitment to the government's decisions to dismantle Hamas and secure the return of all hostages. The Heroism Forum supports a deal, but one that includes all hostages, including those who have been killed. We'll back an agreement that doesn't compromise strategic assets or abandon the South and the state. We envision a comprehensive deal that ensures the return of all hostages and brings security to both the South and, if possible, the North. That's our vision for the agreement. We're here to hear firsthand what's truly unfolding."

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A zookeeper was moderately injured Sunday while tending to a crocodile at the Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem. The event unfolded during what should have been a routine animal care procedure at the renowned facility.

Emergency responders promptly treated the injured worker, a man in his forties, on-site before transporting him to the Hadassah Medical Center. Upon arrival at the hospital, he bore visible bite marks on his body but was fully conscious.

While this recent incident highlights the inherent risks of animal care, the Biblical Zoo has long played a vital role in both public education and global conservation efforts. Last year, the zoo celebrated a joyous occasion with the birth of a baby South African giraffe named Eli, marking a significant addition to its diverse animal family.

In 2022, the zoo partnered with the Athens Zoo to bring a two-year-old Sumatran tigress from Jakarta to Jerusalem. The initiative aimed to bolster conservation efforts for the endangered Sumatran tiger species, with plans to introduce a male tiger for breeding purposes.

Also in 2022, visitors to the Biblical Zoo were charmed by an endearing sight after a rare Jerusalem winter storm. The zoo's red pandas, Yin and Yang, delighted onlookers as they frolicked in the snow, showcasing the adaptability of the zoo's diverse inhabitants to unusual weather conditions.

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In a delicate balance of religious devotion and political sensitivity, Jewish pilgrims are increasingly frequenting the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City. Despite longstanding restrictions and tensions surrounding the site, sacred to both Jews and Muslims, visitors report a notable uptick in Jewish presence, with daily prayer groups and study sessions occurring under close police supervision.

It had been quite some time since I last set foot on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City, the capital of Israel. The prospect of visiting this holy site was both welcome and valuable, primarily to gauge the current atmosphere, but equally important – to quietly recite the "Shema Yisrael" prayer in this sacred space.

As I approached the entrance to the Mount, I encountered a group of South Korean tourists. One of them greeted me in surprisingly fluent Hebrew, inquired about my family roots, and even briefly conversed with me in German after I mentioned my grandfather Ernst's immigration to Israel from Germany. A friendly police officer approached, asking where I had come from. When I inquired about the situation on the Temple Mount, he smiled and replied, "It's like Switzerland here."

Tourists streamed past me en route to the Temple Mount, while the group of religious Jews I had joined waited respectfully for Rabbi Elisha Wolfson, head of the Drishat Zion Kollel. The young men, some barefoot, exchanged experiences about preferred ritual immersion sites, sitting alongside a small group of women, receiving an in-depth explanation about the place from one of their own.

The entrance for Temple Mount visitors is named "Hallel's Gate," memorializing Hallel Yaffa Ariel, who was tragically killed in 2016 by an attacker in her bed at home in Kiryat Arba at just 13 and a half years old. Jewish visitors and tourists are greeted by an impressive model of the Temple, bearing the biblical verse: "And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them." Nearby stands a large, informative sign detailing the visible remnants of the Temple on the Mount today, alongside a refreshment station offering hot and cold drinks.

Elkana, Rabbi Wolfson's son, an energetic young man with long, light-colored peyot, sports a shirt boldly proclaiming: "Temple Mount Yeshiva." He enthusiastically shares, "The yeshiva comes every day. It's a great miracle. We pray and study on the Temple Mount."

One of the young men awaiting the rabbi described to me the significant recent increase in Jewish visitors to the Temple Mount. Shortly after, Rabbi Wolfson arrived, his face adorned with a broad smile. Following a briefing from one of the officers about on-site regulations, the jubilant group set out towards the Mount, their voices raised in song.

The anticipation of ascending via the wooden bridge to the Mughrabi Gate, the sole entry point to the Temple Mount for non-Muslims, stirred excitement among the visitors, myself included. While Muslims can access the Mount throughout most of the day, entry for Jews and tourists is restricted to a few hours and permitted only through this specific route.

Just before entering the Temple Mount compound, some Jews hastily prostrated themselves on the ground. One visitor, wearing a shirt identifying him as an "ascension guide" from the organization Beyadenu – Returning to the Temple Mount, began a detailed explanation. "We are privileged to enter the heart of the world, the Temple Mount," he declared before launching into captivating descriptions of the site.

The magnificent Dome of the Rock came into view as we walked. Occasionally, Muslim visitors passed by, casting curious glances at our Jewish group. The atmosphere remained calm under the watchful eye of our police escort.

Rabbi Wolfson and his followers positioned themselves in a quiet area of the Temple Mount, devoid of other visitors, and began to pray. Some worshippers circumvented the ban on prayer books by using their smartphones as improvised siddurim. Following the prayer, Rabbi Wolfson conducted an on-site lesson, opening with a blessing for the young people from the planned settlement of "Elei Azza," who are working towards Jewish resettlement in the Gaza region.

"The Holy One, Blessed be He – we are worthy of redemption. This is what must be emphasized," Rabbi Wolfson stressed to his students. "The notion that the time hasn't come and we're unworthy – that's utterly false, a grave error. The people of Israel are indeed worthy of redemption."

After the lesson, the excited young people embarked on a photo tour around the Mount, with the golden Dome of the Rock as their backdrop. The rabbi paused occasionally to explain various points of interest to his students. Following about an hour of prayer, lesson, and guided tour under police protection, the group exited the Temple Mount through the Chain Gate. Immediately upon leaving, they burst into a spirited song: "Am Yisrael Chai."

Israel Police noted that "there is no change in the existing protocol on the Temple Mount. The police work to secure and facilitate visits by tourists and Israelis daily during designated visiting hours and days. Any deviations from visiting rules or attempts to disturb public order at the site are addressed accordingly."

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In a heartwarming display of Zionism and love for Israel, a surprise family reunion unfolded last week at a military ceremony marking the completion of the Israeli Paratroopers Brigade's arduous training. The event, held at the historic Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem, took an unexpected turn for one soldier when his family traveled halfway across the world to celebrate his achievement.

Jonathan (JJ) James, a lone soldier serving in the Paratroopers Brigade, made Aliyah from the US without his family through the "Tzofim Garin Tzabar" program. To mark this important milestone, Jonathan's parents, Sharon and Daniel, along with his siblings, made the journey from Colorado to Israel– keeping their visit a secret from him after a year apart.

The excitement reached its peak as the family, armed with a large congratulatory sign featuring the Colorado state flag, warmly embraced a stunned Jonathan.

Born in Israel, Jonathan moved to the US with his family when he was just a year old. His decision to return and enlist in the Paratroopers Brigade was a dream come true. Throughout the ceremony, Jonathan's supportive family – parents and siblings Amit, Ben, Roni, and Lia – watched him with pride. As the event concluded, young Lia approached her big brother, looking up at him adoringly, and said "I love you."

After receiving his red beret, symbolizing his acceptance into the elite Paratroopers Brigade, Jonathan's mother Sharon embraced him wholeheartedly. "It's emotional to see him with a paratrooper's beret," she said. "We just want him to come home safely. That's the most important thing. We've waited for this moment for a long time. We hadn't seen him for a year. Today was a big surprise. The NCO of service conditions helped us arrange this, and we're deeply grateful. As a mother, I can't help but worry.  It's not an easy time to have a son enlist. Jonathan's older sister enlisted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but this is different."

"I'm satisfied with my decision"

 "I knew my father was in the country, but then my whole family surprised me. It was very moving," Jonathan told Israel Hayom.

Jonathan explained that his dream was to join the IDF and wear the red beret of the Paratroopers. "This is what I wanted to do from a very young age. I was born here in Israel, and we moved when I was a year old. I'm satisfied with my decision. Being a lone soldier is hard, but in the end, it's worth it – protecting my country, knowing I'm doing something important and not just sitting in some class."

The highly motivated Jonathan plans to soon undergo sniper training before joining combat operations. "I'm very excited. I received my red beret. It will take some time before I fight, but I will as soon as possible," he explained.

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The Yad Vashem Holocaust museum is set to showcase a collection of Disney-inspired artworks created by Holocaust survivors and victims. These rare pieces, including a Pinocchio-adorned jar buried to escape Nazi persecution and a Mickey Mouse birthday card preserved for over seven decades, offer a unique window into how Jews, especially children, found solace and expression through familiar cartoon characters during one of history's darkest periods.

For 80 years, these artworks remained hidden, some wrapped, damaged, or concealed, yet they managed to survive the journey from concentration camps and ghettos. Often the sole possessions of Holocaust survivors, they have now found their way into Yad Vashem's collections.

As part of the "relocation" to the new Shaffer collections center, which houses millions of historical artifacts – objects, documents, artworks, and photographs from countless sources – artistic treasures created by Jews during the Holocaust have been uncovered. Most of these were made by children and teenagers who expressed their emotions through works featuring characters familiar to almost everyone – Walt Disney films.

"One of the most touching Disney drawings was created in March 1941, at the height of the war, inspired by the film 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,'" curator Eliad Moreh-Rosenberg, director of Yad Vashem's Art Collection, says. "Henri Kichka, father of Michel Kichka, was then a 15-year-old boy who had lost his family in the gas chambers and found refuge in the magical world of fairy tales. After the war, he returned to Brussels and collected items from the family apartment, including this drawing which he gave to his daughter Hanna, who immigrated to Israel in 1970. Hanna passed the drawing to her son Yaron, who received a dedication from his grandfather – 'To Yaron, from his grandpa.'"

Drawing to survive

Kichka was not the only one who found comfort in Disney films. Suzanne Schick was 14 when she fled Austria at the outbreak of World War II and hid in Yugoslavia with about 1,200 Jews awaiting immigration permits to Israel. On her 15th birthday, her friends prepared a gift – a box with a drawing of a ship and a Mickey Mouse greeting, which she kept close to her heart for 72 years as the last memory of her childhood, until she entrusted it to Yad Vashem for future generations.

Another item, one of the most prominent artworks created during the Holocaust using cartoon characters, is a colorful jar featuring Pinocchio. The jar was created before the war by artist Lilly Kasticher from Yugoslavia. "When the war broke out and she was deported with her family to Auschwitz, Lilly buried the jar in the ground along with documents and photographs as a hope to preserve a last memory," explains curator Michael Tal, manager of Yad Vashem's Artifacts Collection. "Lilly encouraged her fellow prisoners to write poems and draw in order to survive, and after the war, she even brought the creations to Israel inside the jar she had buried in the ground."

The collections center, spanning 63,300 square feet, includes four underground floors and an additional floor housing five of the world's most advanced laboratories for preserving paper, photographs, artifacts, textiles, and art. The center will preserve about 227 million pages of documentation, tens of thousands of artifacts and artworks, and hundreds of thousands of photographs and testimonies from Holocaust survivors.

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Israeli archaeologists have announced a groundbreaking discovery – the remains of what is believed to be the oldest shipwreck found in deep waters. Hundreds of intact amphorae, ancient storage jars dating back approximately 3,300 years, were discovered 90 kilometers (56 miles) off the northern coast of Israel, resting at a depth of 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) on the seabed.

"This is both the first and the oldest ship found in the Eastern Mediterranean deep sea, ninety kilometers from the nearest shore. This is a world-class history-changing discovery: This find reveals to us as never before the ancient mariners' navigational skills," said Jacob Sharvit, head of the Israel Antiquities Authority's (IAA) marine unit, noting that it challenges previous academic assumptions that trade during the late Bronze Age was conducted by hugging coastlines within sight of land. "From this geographical point, only the horizon is visible all around. To navigate they probably used the celestial bodies, by taking sightings and angles of the sun and star positions." The IAA believes the ship likely sank due to a storm or pirate attack.

The wreck was initially spotted by submersible robots belonging to the oil and gas company Energean, during a routine survey for potential new energy sources off the Israeli coast. Dr. Karnit Bahartan Head of the Environmental Staff at Energean stated, "Cameras picked up what seemed to be a large pile of jugs heaped on the seafloor."

Due to the immense significance of this discovery, Energean assembled a team that collaborated closely with experts from the Israel Antiquities Authority to meticulously examine the shipwreck. They utilized their "Energean Star" vessel, equipped for deep-sea operations. The company's technicians devised a unique and intricate plan, even constructing a specialized tool to extract artifacts while minimizing the risk of damage to the entire assemblage. Over the course of two days at sea, the Energean team retrieved two vessels, each from opposite ends of the ship, to minimize disturbances to the intact assemblage of the boat and its cargo.

The two amphorae are believed to have been used by the Canaanite people who inhabited an area stretching from modern-day Turkey to Egypt. "The vessel type identified in the cargo was designed as the most efficient means of transporting relatively cheap and mass-produced products such as oil, wine, and other agricultural products such as fruit. Finding such a great quantity of amphorae on board one single ship is testimony to significant commercial ties between their country of origin and the ancient Near Eastern lands on the Mediterranean coast," says Sharvit.

The discovered jars are expected to be displayed at the National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem this summer.

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