In-depth
Karl Vick of TIME explores the growing number of ultra-Orthodox in Jerusalem, and what it means for the city – and for Israel.
[S]eculars … for decades have been fleeing the city in droves. Some 20,000 have left in the past seven years alone, reducing the share of the population who wear their faith lightly from a 37% plurality to a 31% minority, the same percentage as the ultra-Orthodox, but the number of ultra-Orthodox is rising.
4 Reasons Why Israel’s Economy Is So Strong
Jordan Weissman of the Atlantic explores the secrets of Israel’s economic success, at a time when other nations are struggling to balance the books.
It may now be known as the Silicon Valley of the Middle East, but back in 1984, Israel’s story had much more in common with modern-day Zimbabwe. That year, the inflation rate averaged 450 percent, and for a few months reached vertigo-inducing highs of around 950 percent. The economy, in short, was eating itself alive. But the crisis had an upside, in that it sparked reforms that would lay the groundwork for Israel’s present-day prosperity.
Daily Digest
Times of Israel: Damascus: Mortars kill 20 Palestinians in refugee camp
Haaretz: As Netanyahu pushes Israel closer to war with Iran, Israelis cannot keep silent
Jerusalem Post: Don’t attack Iran now, warns ex-IDF intel chief
Ynet: Report: Syria moves anti-aircraft missiles to Lebanese border
New York Times: Syrian Leader’s Arms Under Strain as Conflict Continues
Washington Post: Romney’s excellent trip
Wall Street Journal: Diplomacy Hits Dead End in Syria
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