BOG 2018: Annual Gandel Forum Wows Governors

Another scintillating overview on the current Middle East scene was enjoyed by a full house of attendees at the latest John Gandel Forum, held in the framework of the international Board of Governors meeting at the Raya and Josef Jaglom Auditorium.

Prof. Jacob Frenkel, Chairman of the Board of Governors, welcomed attendees to the event, which was “established by esteemed philanthropist and dedicated Israel friend John Gandel of Australia, a visionary creator of this Forum which has become one of the hallmarks of our Board meetings.”

Moderating the event was Nathan Disenhouse, President of the Canadian Friends (CFTAU), Ontario and Western Canada. Mr. Disenhouse has 30 years’ experience in finance, insurance and estate planning, is a leader of the local Jewish community, and is a passionate friend of Israel. Disenhouse introduced each of the two speakers: Dr. Danny Gold, founding father of the Iron Dome defense system and a TAU Honorary Fellow; and Prof. Uzi Rabi, Head of the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle East and African Studies.

Dr. Gold, who heads the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) arm, described some of the most exciting national security technologies coming out of the DDR&D. These included tools for tunnels detection, high-capacity monitoring of areas of interest, 3D imaging, preemptive attack systems and many other exciting technologies. Dr. Gold told the audience, “It’s important to note that the DDR&D does a lot of joint research with Tel Aviv University across several units.” He received a standing ovation at the conclusion of his presentation.

Prof. Rabi then gave a brief overview of what the Dayan Center does, as well as a rousing explanation of the current situation in the Middle East, particularly the complex Syria-Russia-Iran situation, as well as the goings-on in Saudi Arabia.

The lively event ended with the traditional question and answer session.