Rachel and David were held captive in their Ofakim home by 5 gunmen from Gaza Strip for 15 hours, as their son waited outside, until security forces burst in to save them

The ease with which Hamas controlled the community for 17 hours made many appreciate both locals' resolve and their country's vulnerability

Many young partygoers attending outdoor raves wound up in areas overrun by Hamas; some managed to send messages to parents, who rushed south laden with heavy hopes and fears

The Times of Israel's regular feature on what is happening in Israel's property market right now

An ancient stream of Judaism whose members distrust rabbinical authority, Karaism is seen growing in popularity among skeptical Israelis

Part 1 of a Times of Israel series examining what a down payment of about $90,000 can get homebuyers looking to climb the nation's steep real estate ladder

Even as sirens blared, there’s been no rush to shelters at new rehab center placed 40km from Strip, since all beds and staff are placed in a vast reinforced area

Tamar retains overall top spot for Jewish girls names for fifth consecutive year; among Jewish boys, David reigns

Separately, 60-year-old in serious condition after stabbing in Bat Yam, in day of violence across Israel

Move comes after flooding claimed seven lives and amid predictions by scientists that climate change will bring less rain but more extreme downpours