From Shechem to Sydney: Joseph’s Tomb Tensions, Haredi Street Power—and a Bondi Beach Conversation

In this hybrid episode of Tel Aviv Diary, Marc Schulman opens with a fast-moving roundup from overnight: the fallout from a Breslov Hasidim trip toward Joseph’s Tomb in Shechem/Nablus that ended in a hit-and-run of a Palestinian civilian, renewed friction around one of the West Bank’s most persistent flashpoints, and reflections—personal and political—on widening ultra-Orthodox riots in Jerusalem and Ashkelon as the conscription fight escalates.From there, Marc turns to the broader strategic picture: another alleged Iranian espionage arrest, anxieties about what a future “round two” with Iran could look like, and cautious skepticism about claims that another Lebanon war is inevitable. He also breaks down fresh polling signals—tightening numbers, shifting blocs, and what they may (or may not) mean as Israel heads toward an election deadline.The heart of the episode is an interview with Jack Lowenstein, a longtime Tel Aviv Diary subscriber living roughly 500 meters from Bondi Beach. Jack describes Australia’s Jewish community in a week of fear and solidarity—vigils, public Hanukkah lighting, the debate over “being seen” versus keeping a low profile, and sharp criticism of government and security failures. Their conversation widens into diaspora dilemmas: Aliyah as an “insurance policy,” the uneasy balance between safety and belonging, and why events far from Israel increasingly feel tied to Israel’s choices—and Israel’s image—at home. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit marcschulman.substack.com/subscribe