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Tel Aviv – Israel’s cultural and commercial heart – was rocked by direct missile strikes from Iran. In this episode, Aviva sits down with Deputy Mayor Asaf Zamir to discuss how the city is recovering from the attacks.

They explore what it felt like on the ground during the missile strikes, the challenges of rebuilding homes and lives, and whether Tel Aviv’s trademark confidence has been shaken. Asaf reflects on the emotional toll on residents, the scale of destruction, and Tel Aviv’s unique place in Israeli society – both as a symbol of defiance and as a hub of solidarity for the families of hostages still held in Gaza.

Guest Bio

Asaf Zamir is the First Deputy Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo and former Consul General of Israel in New York. A longtime public servant, Zamir previously served as a Member of Knesset for the Blue and White party and as Israel’s Minister of Tourism.

He began his political career in Tel Aviv, where he became the youngest Deputy Mayor in the city's history and has since led efforts on urban development, education, transportation, and LGBTQ+ rights.

A graduate of Tel Aviv University and the Sorbonne, Zamir is known for his commitment to strengthening civic life in Israel and deepening ties with Jewish communities abroad. He lives in Tel Aviv with his wife, actress Maya Wertheimer, and their two children.