Everyone is eulogizing Israel - one evening in Tel Aviv proved how wrong they are | Yossi Achimeir

Yossi Achimeir describes an evening in Tel Aviv where he attended an international piano competition, presenting the city as thriving, vibrant, and democratic, in contrast to the gloomy image portrayed in the media. He highlights normal life, full restaurants, the light rail, and the beaches, comparing this to the harsh security and international reality. The column praises Israeli resilience while acknowledging the high cost of living.

Yossi Achimeir describes an evening in Tel Aviv where he attended an international piano competition with his granddaughter. He is impressed by the virtuoso playing and the complete detachment from the grim reality. After the concert, he notices illuminated intersections, restaurants and cafes packed with revelers, laughing young people, and towering skyscrapers. He compares Tel Aviv to New York in the heart of the Middle East. Achimeir also mentions an outing to the Gesher Theater in Jaffa, where all tickets were sold out in advance, and the surrounding restaurants were full. The light rail passed by, picking up crowds of revelers. He asks whether this picture is unique to Tel Aviv, and mentions factories, agriculture, the development of defense weapons and medicines, and aid to earthquake-stricken Colombia. The column highlights Israeli democracy in the heart of a dictatorial and Islamist space, while acknowledging the high cost of living. Achimeir concludes with a quote from Pirkei Avot about the responsibility to continue acting.