ILOwnership & classification
Founded: 2012
Ownership
The Times of Israel was founded in 2012 by Israeli journalist and founding editor David Horovitz together with American billionaire investor Seth Klarman, who is its primary funder and board chairman. It operates as a privately held company; Horovitz has said he and Klarman were its only investors. Both have stated that Klarman has no editorial control over the paper.
Funding
Funded by Klarman's private backing plus digital advertising, sponsored content and partnerships targeting English-speaking Jewish and pro-Israel audiences worldwide; Klarman has pledged to donate any profits to charity. It is not a registered nonprofit despite that pledge.
Affiliation & stance
The outlet is privately owned by its founders with editorial independence maintained from its financier, and presents a broadly mainstream, pro-Israel but politically varied range of coverage. Private commercial ownership free of party or state control makes it INDEPENDENT; the site's INDEPENDENT/CENTER labels are accurate.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 410
85/100
Factual
77/100
Objective
506
Articles
506
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
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Recent coverage
Israeli-founded cycling team enjoys calmer Tour de France after axing Israel from name
The Israeli-founded NSN Cycling Team participated in the Tour de France without facing the same level of protest as in previous years, following a rebranding effort that removed explicit references to Israel. Last year, the team—then known as Israel-Premier Tech—faced demonstrations from pro-Palestinian activists criticizing Israel's military actions in Gaza. This year, the team operates under a new identity, managed by Spanish sports company Never Say Never, which is based in Catalonia. The change appears to have reduced tensions, allowing the team to participate in the event without significant disruptions. The team emphasized that their focus remains on athletic performance rather than political issues.
US national studying at Jerusalem’s Mir yeshiva charged with spying for Iran
A 21-year-old U.S. citizen studying at Jerusalem's Mir Yeshiva has been indicted for allegedly spying for Iran. Eli Levon received cryptocurrency payments from two Telegram accounts linked to Iranian intelligence, which tasked him with covert activities including photographing locations, hiding notes, and planting a USB drive. Despite suspecting the accounts represented Iranian operatives, Levon carried out the tasks. This case follows a pattern of Israeli citizens being arrested for collaborating with Iran-linked agents through social media in exchange for financial incentives. Authorities emphasize the escalation of such operations from minor acts to more serious espionage-related activities.
Elderly man said injured as settlers attack Palestinians, foreign volunteers in West Bank
Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian residents and foreign volunteers in the West Bank, resulting in multiple injuries, according to Palestinian media reports. Footage showed settlers throwing stones and using pepper spray against Palestinians attempting to reach their land. The Palestinian Authority's news agency, Wafa, reported that an elderly man was among those injured. Settlers also reportedly stole mobile phones during the attacks. These incidents occur regularly in the West Bank, often with involvement from Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) personnel. While some settlers face legal action, attacks continue with limited prosecution.
Haredi parties deny report of deal with Netanyahu to pass array of pre-election laws
Haredi parties Shas and United Torah Judaism have denied reports of a deal with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to support coalition legislation in exchange for advancing their own legislative agenda. The reported discussions followed a meeting between Netanyahu, Shas leader Aryeh Deri, and Degel HaTorah leader Moshe Gafni. This comes amid a boycott by Haredi lawmakers against coalition legislation, initially triggered by the coalition's refusal to advance the 'Daycare Law,' which would restore subsidies for children of draft evaders. The boycott has expanded to include broader demands related to conscription exemptions for yeshiva students. According to Ynet, the sides reportedly agreed to move the upcoming Knesset election to October 20 and for Haredi groups to support certain coalition bills, including splitting the attorney general's role and establishing an inquiry into Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. In return, the coalition would support Haredi-backed legislation, such as a Basic Law recognizing Torah study as a foundational state value and a bill to halt arrests of yeshiva students who avoid military service. However, the 'Daycare Law' would not be included in
Khamenei lies in state in Tehran as Iran begins week of mass funeral ceremonies
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's former Supreme Leader, was lying in state in Tehran as the country began a week of mass funeral ceremonies following his death on February 28 in Israeli-American airstrikes. His body is set to be transported to several religious centers in Iran and Iraq before being buried in Mashhad. The funeral comes amid significant internal challenges for Iran, including economic hardship, widespread protests, and a lack of visible leadership under Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since being injured in the attack. Despite these issues, the Iranian government is emphasizing national unity and displaying strong state control during the mourning period.
Moving past a ceasefire: Recognizing Israel is a big step, but 'normal,' says Lebanese diplomat
The article discusses the recent US-brokered framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which aims to address tensions along their shared border. The agreement ties Israel's gradual withdrawal from Lebanese territory to Hezbollah's disarmament and the restoration of Lebanese state control over military forces. This framework contrasts with a parallel US-Iran memorandum of understanding, which focuses on nuclear restrictions and sanctions relief. The article highlights the differing approaches: one seeks to include Iran in regional de-escalation efforts, while the other excludes Tehran and frames Hezbollah as a threat to Lebanese sovereignty and Israeli security. The agreement also introduces elements such as preventing reconstruction funds from reaching armed groups and establishing working groups for a comprehensive peace deal. However, some aspects of the agreement remain undisclosed, raising questions about transparency.
The warmth of community, the heat of hostility: Yona Speidel’s Jewish journey
Yona Speidel, a transgender Emmy-nominated television writer and former performer known as Our Lady J, shared her journey of converting to Judaism after a decade of exploring the religion. Her conversion ceremony in Los Angeles in March 2025 marked the culmination of her spiritual quest, which began after growing up with limited exposure to Jewish culture. Speidel, who is intersex, found resonance in biblical passages like Isaiah 56, which speaks of inclusion for those who are marginalized. She joined the TV show 'Transparent,' which features a Jewish family with a transgender parent, and later took steps toward conversion, which she paused before resuming during the pandemic. Her experience highlights both the challenges and acceptance she encountered within the Jewish community.
‘Extravagant ceremony for a dictator’: Some Iranians will avoid Khamenei’s funeral
The funeral of Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, scheduled to begin on Saturday, is expected to attract millions of attendees. However, some Iranians are choosing not to participate due to concerns over safety, including fears of potential attacks, overcrowding, and the risks associated with attending a large-scale event. Reports indicate that parts of Tehran have seen reduced foot traffic, with many residents opting to leave the city. The funeral takes place amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, following recent conflicts and a fragile truce. Concerns about the organization of the event and the safety of participants—particularly children brought in from other regions—are prominent among those avoiding the ceremony.
Quiz: America by the numbers
The article presents an interactive quiz titled '250 years of American Independence' which challenges users to guess historical numbers related to American history. The quiz consists of 250 questions divided into multiple rounds, each containing ten questions ranging from easy to difficult. Users can drag a slider to make their guesses, lock them in, and then view the correct answers along with their scores. The quiz aims to engage users with U.S. history through numerical data, offering repeated gameplay opportunities due to the large number of questions.
IDF says it killed Hamas terrorist who abducted tank officer Daniel Perez, held hostages
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet confirmed the killing of Muhammad Na’im Jandiya, a high-ranking Hamas operative responsible for the abduction of IDF officer Cpt. Daniel Perez during the October 7, 2023, attack. Jandiya, identified as the chief of security in Hamas’s Shejaiya Battalion, was involved in capturing Perez and other hostages, including Yotam Haim, Samar Talalka, and Alon Shamriz. He was killed in a strike in the northern Gaza Strip. The IDF stated that Jandiya played a key role in Hamas operations against Israeli forces. Perez’s family expressed gratitude for the action, while the families of the deceased hostages acknowledged the loss but noted that eliminating terrorists brings some measure of justice. The article highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, focusing on the targeting of militants linked to the abduction of Israeli soldiers.
Iranian general warns of 'harsh response' if Israel, US attack during Khamenei's funeral
An Iranian general, Ali Abdollahi, head of the Khatam al-Anbiya military command, warned Israel and the United States against any attacks during the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which is taking place over a week across multiple cities in Iran and Iraq. The funeral, described as the largest in Iran's history, follows the joint US-Israeli strikes in February that killed Khamenei along with several family members. His son, Mojtaba, now serves as the new supreme leader. During funeral preparations, Khamenei's coffin was publicly displayed in Tehran, drawing large crowds and participation from high-ranking officials, including the IRGC Commander Ahmad Vahidi. Iranian officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, have called on citizens to seek vengeance for Khamenei's death.
Far-right Alternative for Germany buoyant as it eyes slice of power in regional elections
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is gaining momentum ahead of regional elections in eastern Germany, positioning itself as a potential governing force. The party, which has seen increased support since its strong showing in the 2025 national election, aims to secure a significant share of votes in the upcoming Saxony-Anhalt state election on September 6. AfD leader Alice Weidel has called 2026 a 'year of destiny' for the party, though mainstream parties maintain a 'firewall' against cooperation. While AfD has previously secured local administrative roles, such as in Thuringia, opponents warn of risks associated with its governance, including potential security threats and alignment with far-right ideologies. The party plans to hold its leadership convention in Erfurt, drawing both supporters and protesters.
20-year-old US citizen arrested in Jerusalem, to be charged with spying for Iran
A 20-year-old U.S. citizen living in Jerusalem has been arrested and will be charged with spying for Iran, according to police. The suspect allegedly took photos and videos of 'sensitive sites' for an Iran-linked agent and received payment for these activities. The case involves a joint investigation by the Shin Bet and police under a gag order, and the suspect is among several individuals accused of espionage for Iran. Authorities emphasized the threat posed by foreign agents recruiting Israelis through social media, starting with minor tasks before escalating to more serious offenses. No details about the suspect's identity were released, and the U.S. embassy did not immediately comment.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Iran warns US, Israel against attacks ahead of long-delayed Khamenei funeral
Maccabiah Games open in Jerusalem as global celebration of Jewish pride
Smotrich says plans drawn up to establish 3 Israeli settlements in Gaza
Umm el-Fahm schools close in protest of MK Zvi Sukkot visit
Zini cancels Shin Bet Pride event, slashes budget for all LGBT programming - report
Some Jewish allies of Mamdani denounce his use of ‘monsters’ to describe AIPAC
Jewish groups push back against Trump’s Iran deal, more quietly than in 2015
Trump-backed pastor Jackson Lahmeyer, who says Antichrist will be Jewish, drops from GOP race
