SBS Hebrew

(English Interview) An Israeli counterstrike in Iran was unavoidable. Despite significant diplomatic pressures from the US and the EU, Israel retaliated on the morning of 19 April. The response was relatively limited – a few quadcopter drones targeted the Shekari military base at Isfahan, and a small number of advanced radar-evading missiles were launched by Israeli jet fighters from Syria, striking the radar of the Russian-made S-300 air defence battery at that base.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton addressed a packed St Kilda Shule in Melbourne on Friday, telling the audience that the magnitude and the intensity of antisemitism which has emerged in Australia recently is shocking. Shane Desiatnik from the Australian Jewish News, reporting to SBS Hebrew Shalom Australia.

Leaders from Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities in Sydney have jointly condemned the violence and divisive rhetoric that's emerged following two separate stabbing attacks in Sydney. The leaders are adding their voices to the Prime Minister's in calling for community harmony and fostering of inclusivity.

Dr. Ran Porat is an university lecturer and analyst on Israel and Middle Eastern Affairs, an expert on extremism in the Australian Arab/Muslim Community and on the Israeli Diaspora in Australia

An English interview with Ralph Lewinsohn. Ralph was born in Namibia to parents who’d fled Nazi Germany just before WW2. Later on he lived in Australia and in Germany, but many years ago he made Aliya and for many years lived in Kfar Aza, opposite the Gaza Strip. Ralph’s family survived by a miracle on the 7th of October, but dozens of Kibbutz members did not.

The United States is reportedly considering its first sanctions against an Israeli Defence Forces unit over allegations of rights abuses in the West Bank. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he will fight any such measures, using his Passover address to pledge to secure the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza.

Ayala’s latest book was inspired by the diaries of Hayuta Bussel, who was a pioneer in the Land of Israel around the turn of the 20th century. The tragedies, difficulties and challenges that Yayuta met back then correspond and strengthen the challenges faced by Ya'ara, the contemporary protagonist in the book.

Prof. Rafi Mann reports to SBS Hebrew on the latest news and current affairs from Israel.

In this bulletin, A candlelit vigil to honour Bondi Westfield victims to be held today. Iran accuses Israel of launching airstrike on Friday. Thousands of Israelis protest against government of Benjamin Netanyahu.

Iran's foreign minister has sought to play down a suspected Israeli attack on Iran, following reports of explosions near the city of Isfahan. World leaders are meanwhile calling for restraint.