Is What You Hear about Israel the Whole Truth?

Yair (left) and Gottfried (right) discuss Israel’s reality post-October 7th at the Israeli community of Hamra, highlighting resilience and strength amidst challenging times.

Standing before a crowd of 2,500 Israel supporters in Stuttgart, Germany, I felt the power of each voice uniting in solidarity. Organized by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ), this rally was a powerful show of support for Israel. It was Gottfried Bühler, ICEJ’s Germany director, who invited me to speak, and his personal dedication to strengthening the bond with Israel was evident not only that night but in our conversations that followed. As we discussed our shared goals, a surprising invitation came up: Gottfried wanted to visit Israel with his team. Without hesitation, I offered to host them at my base where I was serving in the IDF reserves. A promise made in his office a few thousand miles away became a reality just weeks later.

The timing of their visit could not have been more meaningful. Just days before their arrival, I was called to relocate southward unexpectedly—a reality of the Israeli army where plans can change with little warning. I worried that the meeting might not work out, but thankfully, we found a way. Hosting the ICEJ team provided a rare opportunity to go beyond headlines and share a firsthand perspective on Israel’s challenges, resilience, and the spirit of its people.

The area they visited, often referred to internationally as the West Bank, is known in Israel as Judea and Samaria. This is not just a point of geography, but a place deeply woven into Jewish identity and history. Known as the heartland of ancient Israel, this region bears the weight of thousands of years of Jewish history, including archeological sites that trace the footsteps of prophets, kings, and communities dating back to biblical times. Yet, the global perception often doesn’t align with the reality on the ground.

For many outside Israel, the mention of Judea and Samaria triggers an array of preconceived notions fueled by international media portrayals, often focusing on political tensions and conflict. However, what I was able to show Gottfried and his team was different. Despite the constant threat posed by Palestinian terrorism, Israelis in this region ultimately seek what people everywhere desire: to live their lives in peace, to raise their families, and to build strong, enduring communities. As we walked through the towns and hillsides, I watched perspectives shift. They began to see Israel not as it’s often portrayed in headlines but as it truly is—a land filled with people who, even amid daily challenges, strive for stability, resilience, and a future rooted in hope.

Our conversations covered everything from daily life in Israel post-October 7 to the resilience that carries us through turbulent times. The strength I wanted to show them is not rooted in politics; it’s the result of a collective commitment to life, community, and purpose. For many in Israel, especially those who live and serve here, the focus isn’t political—it’s personal. It’s about ensuring that our families and communities have a safe and enduring place to call home.

Their visit was a reminder of the power of firsthand experience. Judea and Samaria—and all parts of Israel—must be seen to be understood. Reading headlines or watching news segments only gives part of the picture. Visiting in person, seeing the rich history, and witnessing the people’s genuine pursuit of peace can change one’s perspective in ways that words on a page never could.

So, I urge everyone, regardless of where you stand on the issues, to look beyond the rhetoric. Come to Israel, see it with your own eyes, and discover the truth beyond the headlines. The story of Israel is far more than what the world sees, and sometimes, the only way to truly understand it is to experience it firsthand.