Unpacking Israeli History Why Does Israel Rush into Disaster Zones? IsraAid and Soft Diplomacy (Part 1)
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Jan 20, 2026 In this engaging discussion, Yotam Pulitzer, CEO of IsraAid and humanitarian leader, dives deep into the intricacies of Israeli disaster response. He unpacks why Israel consistently sends aid to crisis zones, often against strategic interests. Yotam shares vivid tales from his missions in Japan, Afghanistan, and Kenya, highlighting IsraAid's pivotal role as a flexible NGO. He also addresses the nuanced challenges of operating in politically sensitive areas, including the ethical tensions of aid in Gaza. A must-listen for anyone interested in humanitarianism!
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Soft Diplomacy Built On Shared Expertise
- Early Israeli soft diplomacy combined technical expertise with a moral mission to win friends in newly independent countries.
- Ben-Gurion and Golda Meir prioritized sending agronomists, doctors, and engineers to Africa as both assistance and relationship-building.
Humanitarianism As National Identity
- IsraAID's humanitarian impulse blends pragmatic diplomacy with sincere cultural and historical motives.
- Golda Meir framed relations with Africa as central to Israel's identity, not merely policy.
From Orientation To Three Years In Japan
- Yotam Pulitzer joined IsraAID as employee number two and flew to Japan four days after orientation to help tsunami survivors.
- He led search-and-rescue, medical teams, and stayed working in Japan for three years to support recovery.
