Middle East Affairs News

Tel Aviv University News

TAU publishes fifth annual “For a Righteous Cause” report

On International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27, 2026, the Center for the Study of Contemporary European Jewry at Tel Aviv University (TAU) published, for the fifth year, the “For a Righteous Cause” Report, which examines initiatives and activities around the world to preserve Jewish heritage, commemorate the memory of the Holocaust, and combat racism… Read More

TAU launches International MA degree in Jewish Studies

Tel Aviv University (TAU) has announced a new International MA degree in Jewish Studies, a dynamic program in English offering an in-depth exploration of Jewish civilization from antiquity to the present. Hosted within the framework of TAU’s Lester and Sally Entin Faculty of Humanities and in collaboration with TAU’s Lowy International School and the Koret… Read More

AFTAU names Dima Shimelfarb Vice President of Development, Eastern Region

Reposted from the Jewish News Service (JNS) American Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) has appointed Dima Shimelfarb as Vice President of Development for the Eastern Region, a newly-created role designed to strengthen the organization’s national fundraising presence. The announcement was made by Ben Pery, CEO of AFTAU, who noted that the appointment is part… Read More

Neuroscientist/actress Mayim Bialik to receive TAU Honorary Doctorate

Tel Aviv University (TAU) will bestow an Honorary Doctorate on neuroscientist, actress and advocate Dr. Mayim Bialik at a ceremony during the annual TAU Board of Governors gathering this coming May, 2026. “What truly inspires us is her courage and clarity,” the University said when announcing its selection. “Mayim speaks up for Israel and the… Read More

American Friends of Tel Aviv University names Ben Pery as Chief Executive Officer

American Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) today announced the appointment of Ben Pery as Chief Executive Officer, effective November 3, 2025. A proud Tel Aviv University (TAU) alumnus and seasoned nonprofit executive, Pery brings a deeply personal connection to TAU and a bold plan to expand AFTAU’s reach, deepen donor engagement, and strengthen the… Read More

TAU to award prestigious George S. Wise Medal to diplomat Steve Witkoff

Tel Aviv University (TAU) is proud to announce that it is awarding Steve Witkoff the George S. Wise Medal, one of the University’s highest honors. This accolade recognizes his pivotal contributions to the return of the hostages to Israel, efforts to end the war, and role in initiating early steps toward regional peace. The award… Read More

Tel Aviv University Announces Historic $125 Million Gift from Mindy and Jon Gray to Transform Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences

Tel Aviv University (TAU) today announced a historic $125 million gift from the Gray Foundation to transform its Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. The gift – the largest ever to TAU – will significantly expand capacity at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, improve access for students and elevate the quality of education,… Read More

TAU to award Honorary Doctorate to a champion of the hostages’ return

Tel Aviv University (TAU) has announced that in 2026 the University will award an Honorary Doctorate to Einav Zangauker in recognition of her uncompromising, courageous, and inspiring struggle over nearly two years, together with the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum and the broader public, for the return to Israel of all hostages. On October… Read More