Yehuda Yaakov, at The Blogs

May 17, 2026, 5:18 PM

Understandably, Israel has let key issues, including the climate crisis, renewable energy, cleantech, and more, drop off the public radar. But there's no easy fix

Apr 19, 2026, 4:37 PM

It Depends on Us: Realizing Declaration of Independence Promises

Many Israelis note Independence Day with activities that start with bereavement and culminate in a barbeque; that’s only natural in our reality. For me, the day is also an opportunity to consider whether the rights guaranteed by our Declaration...

Mar 15, 2026, 4:32 PM

Guns in Iran vs Butter in Israel

09/10/2015 - Medford/Somerville, Mass. - Jacob Amidror, former National Security Advisor to to the Prime Minister of Israel and Head of the National Security Council, center, with Nicholas Burns, Professor of the Practice of Diplomacy and International Relations at Harvard Kennedy School of Government, left, and Yehuda Yaakov, Consul General of Israel for New England, speaks out against the recent Iran nuclear deal at a discussion titled, "Inside the Iran Nuclear Deal," on Sept. 10, 2015. (Kelvin Ma/Tufts University)

As missiles fly all over the Middle East, we Israelis should be asking ourselves: are we prepared to risk our fighters, economy and children’s future to help free Iran’s citizens from tyranny once that country's military targets are deemed...

Feb 19, 2026, 2:01 PM

Israel’s Press Freedom in the Balance

With uncertainty surrounding another Iran war and the future of Gaza, it’s not surprising that one of the most significant crises in Israel’s history – the future of freedom of the press – is falling between the cracks among...

Jan 21, 2026, 8:05 PM

Solidarity with Israel’s Film Industry

While you enjoyed your favorite movies during the holiday season (and perhaps also nervously awaited a renewed war with Iran), Israel's own film industry has been in a tailspin. The noise locally, in Hebrew, is deafening; outside the country,...

Dec 11, 2025, 11:12 AM

Punishing Israel’s Arabs – and Good Governance

I’m still recuperating, a week after encountering the Times of Israel headline: “Social Equality minister roundly panned for plan to divert Arab economic development funds.” Shocked, of course, by the minister’s intention – but also encouraged by the criticism...

Oct 30, 2025, 9:53 AM

The Public Servant Allegiance Dilemma

Many government employees are familiar with that dreaded moment when their personal beliefs are compromised by policy directives imposed by their superiors. What should they do when their red lines are violated? All too often the challenged employee will subjugate...

Sep 1, 2025, 1:27 PM

Featured Post

Every day is Labor Day in Israel

Growing employment of women boosts the Israeli job market, but equality in the workforce - and in society - is still far off

Jul 1, 2025, 5:13 PM

Home Front Partnership Trounces Iran

Iran didn’t stand a chance against Israel’s exemplary military effort combined with the resilience of our people. The strength demonstrated by the country’s citizenry can be traced in no small measure to the public-private partnership that supports them. While this...

May 27, 2025, 1:43 PM

Climate Change at My Doorstep

I don't need data to remind me of the climate change threat. That task was handled quite well by the April 30 blaze near my home in the Judean Hills region. For the first time in our lives, my...

About Me

Yehuda Yaakov is a retired Israeli civil servant (1986-2025), Ambassador, creator of three units in the Foreign Ministry - one driving social impact policy - and recipient of its excellence award for involvement in efforts against Iran's nuclear program. Now focused on guaranteeing the principles of our Declaration of Independence, particularly freedom of conscience. Past board member of two Israeli NGOs promoting social equality. Started professional life as journalist covering social justice issues; grew up in a NYC housing project and attended public school.