24 years at ICT: Security, Unity, and Hope
This year marked my 24th year serving as Master of Ceremonies at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) Conference at Reichman University. Since 2002, just one year after 9/11 shook the world, I have stood on that dais for more than 720 hours, introducing world leaders, heads of state, foreign ministers, members of parliament, professors, chiefs of police, and security services.
It has been far more than a professional duty. My background as a combat soldier in the paratroopers and veteran of Israel’s wars, and my own experience in fighting terrorism, has created bonds of comradeship with extraordinary individuals from dozens of countries. Over the years, these relationships have extended well beyond Herzliya. I keep in touch with many of these distinguished individuals and colleagues, as I strongly believe we share the same mission: defending the Jewish and democratic State of Israel and standing up to terror and antisemitism.
The fight against terrorism is not just policy or strategy — it is personal. It forges ties that transcend borders, uniting those who understand what is at stake when our values, our freedoms, and our families are threatened. For Israel, which stands on the front line of the democratic world, this bond carries special meaning.
Alongside my role at ICT, I also serve as Vice President and Head of the Raphael Recanati International School (RRIS) — the largest international school in Israel. At first glance, these two worlds may seem separate. But in truth, they are connected. Both involve the struggle for Israel’s future and the Jewish people’s place in the world. At ICT, terrorism and antisemitism are confronted head-on; at RRIS, we welcome students from around the globe to be part of Israel’s story. Many of our alumni choose to stay, build lives here, and contribute to Israeli society. Others return to their home countries and become leaders, influencers, and, in many ways, ambassadors for Israel and the Jewish people abroad.
Watching ICT grow and evolve under the visionary leadership of Professor Boaz Ganor and his dedicated team has been a privilege. Over the years, I’ve done what I can to pitch in, not only as MC but as someone committed to the mission. For me, ICT is one of Reichman University’s proudest achievements — a feather in its cap.
Standing on that stage year after year, I have found satisfaction and pride in being part of this unique platform. But beyond satisfaction, it has also given me something more profound: confidence. Confidence that, despite the immense challenges Israel faces, we have some of the sharpest minds and most dedicated professionals on our side.
As we now enter the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, I find myself reflecting not only on the hours, the speeches, and the conferences, but on the hope and reassurance I’ve drawn from these encounters. Meeting with experts — academic and military — has strengthened my faith that Israel, and the free world, are not alone in this struggle. We are part of a global community of resilience and courage.
The year ahead will no doubt bring fresh challenges. But I know that Israel stands fortified — not only by its soldiers and its people, but also by a network of allies, alumni, and friends who share our values. That knowledge gives me hope and confidence for what lies ahead.