The official X account of Israel, which is run by the Israeli Foreign Ministry, promoted an upcoming four-day LGBTQ+ pride festival in June at the Dead Sea, which some detractors on social media noted is the traditional location of Sodom and Gomorrah. "Pride rises at the lowest place on earth," the Monday post read. "This June the Dead Sea becomes Pride Land, the biggest LGBTQ+ festival ever in the Middle East. Four days of nonstop celebration community and connection. Israel celebrates its LGBTQ+ community bigger than ever." The promotion of the event by Israel's official X account prompted significant backlash on social media, including from Christians who saw the event's location as an affront to God and a mockery of the Bible. Some users pointed out that the southern region of the Dead Sea has traditionally been considered the site of Sodom, Gomorrah and the other cities of the plain that God destroyed with fire and brimstone because of their rampant sexual perversion, according to Genesis 19. BREAKING NEWS: [21 minutes] Israel officials are stepping up efforts in recent weeks to advance a proposed trade corridor linking India to Europe via the Gulf, Jordan and Israel, as concerns grow over Iran’s influence in the Strait of Hormuz, officials said. The initiative, known as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, or IMEC, is intended to provide an alternative trade route that bypasses the strategic waterway, where Iran has disrupted shipping during the conflict. Israel officials say such a corridor could significantly reduce Iran’s leverage over the global economy and help ensure that international trade considerations do not constrain Israel’s military options in the future. Officials in the Foreign Ministry and Finance Ministry now view the current situation as a rare window of opportunity and are working to accelerate the project amid ongoing regional tensions. https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/s1raznia11e US President Donald Trump was awarded the Israel Prize on Wednesday during the Independence Day ceremony in Jerusalem, becoming the first foreign leader and non-Israeli citizen to receive the country’s highest honor for what officials described as a “Special Contribution to the Jewish People.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Education Minister Yoav Kisch announced the award, citing a series of actions they said had a lasting impact on Israel and Jewish communities worldwide. The prize was granted in the category of “Unique Contribution to the Jewish People” and presented during the country’s 78th Independence Day ceremony. According to the Ministry of Education, the decision reflected Trump’s role in promoting regional peace, combating antisemitism, and supporting Israel’s security. Officials also referenced efforts tied to the return of hostages, recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and the relocation of the US embassy. Additional factors cited included recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, backing Israel’s right to defend itself, and actions related to Iran’s nuclear program. The award was accepted in absentia, with Israeli officials indicating that a separate ceremony may take place during a future visit. The Israel Prize is considered the nation’s highest civilian honor and is traditionally presented annually on Independence Day to individuals recognized for significant contributions in various fields.
Israel promotes 'biggest LGBTQ+ festival ever in the Middle East' near site of Sodom: 'Mocking God'
Israel pushes IMEC trade corridor to bypass Hormuz amid Iran tensions:
Trump awarded Israel Prize for ‘special contribution to the Jewish people’