Listeners:
Top listeners:
play_arrow

by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Chief International Correspondent
JERUSALEM (Worthy News) – The daughter of a senior Israeli minister who had publicly accused her parents and others of abuse was found dead under unclear circumstances, authorities said, prompting women’s groups to call for a broader investigation.
National Missions and Settlements Minister Orit Strook confirmed the death of her daughter, Shoshana Strook, 34, in a social media statement.
“Updating with a broken heart about the passing of our beloved daughter, Shoshana,” she wrote.
Shoshana Strook was found dead Sunday in her home in northern Israel, and police have opened an investigation into the case.
In recent months, she had published videos and messages on social media alleging what she described as sexual abuse within her family from a very young age, including what she called “ritual abuse,” as well as alleged exploitation later in life.
CALLS FOR EXPANDED INVESTIGATION
Women’s rights groups in Israel have urged authorities to widen the investigation, raising concerns about how her case was handled before her death.
Bonot Alternativa, a women’s advocacy group, said the circumstances require a thorough review.
“We cannot give up on her demand; the duty of the state is now clear: to investigate, examine, and uncover the truth,” the group said.
Activists also questioned whether adequate protection had been provided after her public statements.
A silent protest was held in Jerusalem’s Zion Square, where participants called for accountability and held signs reading “we believe you, Shoshana.”
ALLEGATIONS AND RESPONSE
Shoshana Strook had described what she said was abuse and exploitation beginning at a young age in a series of social media posts and videos.
Some of her posts appeared to reference both parents, though Worthy News could not independently verify the claims, and police have not confirmed them.
Officials have not indicated any connection between her death and the accusations she made.
Some activists say the case has raised broader concerns about how allegations of sexual abuse are handled, including cases under investigation that allegedly involve politicians and others.
POLITICAL CONTEXT AND REACTION
Orit Strook is a prominent member of Israel’s right-wing government and serves as minister responsible for settlements and national missions.
Following the announcement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to the minister and her family.
Several senior officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, also offered support.
Smotrich cautioned against what he described as “politicizing the tragedy,” saying such actions would be inappropriate.
The case has emerged at a sensitive time for Israel’s government, which has urged national unity amid the ongoing war against Iran and regional tensions.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
The U.N. General Assembly voted Thursday to let Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas address next week’s gathering by video after the United States denied him a visa for the second year in a row. The measure passed 152–3, with four abstentions. The United States, Israel and Paraguay voted against it.
The State Department has approved a possible $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, bringing the kingdom closer to acquiring one of America’s most advanced warplanes.
For decades, St. Peter’s Evangelical Church in central Tehran was more than a sanctuary. Its ten-acre compound held homes, two schools and offices tied to Iran’s Protestant community. Now the church is closed, its residents have been evicted, and guards have been posted to keep worshippers from returning.
Two figures in the latest Census Bureau report offer a clear sign of economic progress: American households earned more, and a smaller share of the country lived in poverty in 2025.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed an unprecedented proposal for Canada to become the European Union’s first “associate member” despite threats of economic retaliation from U.S. President Donald J. Trump.
A Hungarian television and radio presenter has been fired after failing to immediately cut off a live caller who suggested using a sniper to “eliminate” Prime Minister Péter Magyar, amid wider concerns over violent political rhetoric in Hungary.
Russia’s attack drones are getting faster, and Ukraine’s defenders are being forced to adapt. New Geran models use turbojet engines instead of the propellers carried by earlier drones, shortening the time between an air-raid warning and a possible strike.
The Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs encapsulate the beauty, wisdom, and eternal truths found in the Bible, creating an immersive experience that resonates with believers and seekers alike.
Copyright The New Jerusalem Media.