Jerusalem Post correspondent to speak at E.B. Jewish Center

EAST BRUNSWICK — Yaakov Katz, military correspondent and defense analyst for The Jerusalem Post, will lead a discussion at the East Brunswick Jewish Center, Ryders Lane, Feb. 16 at 7:30 p.m.

The event, “A Dangerous Neighborhood: Israel’s Challenges for 2010,” is presented by CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America), in conjunction with the synagogue, the Campus for Jewish Life and the Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Katz will discuss the Palestinian conflict as well as the Israeli military’s stance on Iran’s nuclear program and Israel’s options in the face of the threat.

“The East Brunswick Jewish Center prides itself on its connection to Israel and its support of the Jewish homeland,” the synagogue’s rabbi, Aaron D. Benson, said. “To effectively advocate for Israel, one must understand the challenges and complexities the country faces, especially in light of today’s volatile geopolitical landscape. Mr. Katz and CAMERA are uniquely qualified to educate on this vital topic.”

Andrea Levin, CAMERA’s executive director, said the organization works to counter bias and misinformation in the media concerning Israel and the Middle East. It also sponsors national speaking tours with prominent scholars and professionals.

As the military correspondent and defense analyst for The Jerusalem Post, Israel’s leading English daily, Katz has a deep and multifaceted understanding of the threats currently facing the Jewish homeland as well as potential strategies to combat them, according to a press release announcing the event. His weekly column, “Security and Defense,” and his frequent appearances on news programs provide a behind-the-scenes look at the decision-making process in the Israeli defense establishment. Katz spent January 2009 with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) along Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip, leading The Jerusalem Post’s coverage of Israel’s war against Hamas. In 2006, he covered Israel’s war against Hizbullah for both The Jerusalem Post and USA Today. He has also written on settler affairs and served as chief correspondent during the Gaza Strip disengagement in the summer of 2005.

Early registration for the event is recommended. RSVP with name, address and email to Isabel Smith at [email protected] or 732-613-1185. There is a suggested donation of $10 payable to CAMERA to help offset the costs of the evening. The event is open to the greater community.