The first episode in our three-part series tells the story of Israel’s initial reaction to the pandemic, which was characterized by good intentions and unprecedented collaborations, but also a logistical balagan (chaos).

With a complete disregard for hierarchy and protocols, high-tech entrepreneurs started collaborating with academics, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Intelligence and engineering officers sat down with doctors, the Mossad was deployed to put its hand on medical equipment, and pilot projects were fast-tracked. 

This unique combination of an innovative entrepreneurial society and culture with a governmental health coverage system that is wired for cross-sector collaboration is what gave Israel its edge. But it was also clear that it was all just a stalling tactic.  A means to hold down the fort until a decisive surprise attack could be deployed.