Leviathan's News Roundup

A New York Times study illustrates that symbolic gestures, like Israel officially apologizing for the 1948 war and Hamas and co. recognizing Israel's right to exist, are surprisingly important elements to both sides of the conflict.

• NYTimes.com- How Words Could End a War

Anti-Semitic acts around the world in January '09 triple last year's number.

• Haaretz.com

Thomas Friedman lays down why the window of opportunity for a two-state solution is drawing to a close...seriously this time.

• NYTimes.com- This is Not a Test

Quick (pessimistic) bites from newspaper op-eds in response to the Gaza ceasefire.

• BBC News- Media Cool on Gaza Ceasefire

Birthright finalizes $20 million pledge from "world's richest Jew," despite fear that financial crisis would end the free trips to Israel.

• Haaretz- Birthright Nails Down Tycoon Adelson's $20m Pledge for Youth Trips

New, updated version of Rehov SumSum (Shalom Sesame/Israeli Sesame Street) to be released, targeting Israeli, Arab, and Jewish American kids!

• Jpost.com- Say Shalom to a New Sesame

-lizrick