I Love Israel. But I Wish It Would Listen More.

I love Israel. That has never been a secret. I have spent years defending the country, explaining its complexity to people who only see headlines, and challenging misinformation wherever I find it. My admiration is genuine and deep. That is exactly why I also believe I have earned the right to criticize it when I think it falls short.

Perhaps my expectations of people are simply too high. Maybe I still believe that professionalism should include humility, that intelligence should come with curiosity, and that even the most capable institutions can benefit from listening. If that makes me naïve, then so be it.

There are countless reasons why I admire Israel. It is one of the most innovative countries in the world. Its scientists, doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs constantly push the boundaries of what is possible. Its security services are among the best anywhere. Its military has repeatedly demonstrated remarkable professionalism under impossible circumstances. Israeli humanitarian teams are often among the very first to arrive after natural disasters across the globe, saving lives regardless of nationality, religion, or politics.

Daily life also reflects those high standards. You can drink water straight from the tap without giving it a second thought. The quality of food is exceptional. The agriculture is extraordinary. The medical care is world class. The country has achieved accomplishments that many nations several times its size can only dream of.

When my husband and I lived in Israel, we........

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