From Undercover to Discovery: How Tzvi Yehezkeli Found His Faith and Purpose

Tzvi Yehezkeli, a seasoned reporter and analyst on Arab affairs for Channel 10, had a transformative encounter when a Palestinian terrorist, Zakaria Zubeidi, narrowly decided against killing him. Yehezkeli's deep involvement with the wanted individuals in Jenin left him initially puzzled by the gunfire that rang out above him. "He later expressed regret, and we sat down for a conversation," recalls Yehezkeli. "It was in that conversation I realized my Jewish identity."

So it was a conversation with a terrorist that led you to religious belief?

"I was never strictly atheist, but I wasn’t a believer either. I grew up in a secular home where religion wasn’t discussed. However, Zubeidi challenged me on my identity after attempting to take my life. When I identified myself as 'Israeli,' he pressed further, and I admitted to feeling more Arab than Jewish. He called me a fool for denying my Jewish heritage, and this deeply bothered me. I was successful at 37, yet this encounter made me question everything and led me to explore the profound Jewish world."

Today, Yehezkeli has shifted his perspective considerably. "The Palestinians need to take responsibility for their own issues," he asserts. "They don’t want peace, and I’ve moved on from focusing on Palestinian affairs. Now, I’m intrigued by global Islam."

To investigate Islam worldwide, Yehezkeli has embarked on creating documentary series, such as 'Allah Islam,' where he posed as a Muslim across Europe, exploring the Islamization of the continent through engaging European Muslims. His subsequent series on ISIS delved into the motivations of young recruits joining the extreme organization. Continuing this exploration, his current series, 'Under Fake Identity,' unravels the radical visions of the Muslim Brotherhood across mosques in Syria, Turkey, Europe, and the U.S.

In the series, Yehezkeli adopts the persona of Khaled Abu-Salem, a Jordanian businessman, to gain insights into these environments. With the guidance of professionals, he perfects his Arabic accent and learns the intricacies of Muslim prayer rituals to blend in seamlessly.

Scary? Reconnecting With Faith is Scary, Too

Accompanied by director Ohad Gal Oz and equipped with hidden cameras and disguises, Yehezkeli aims to unveil the alarming spread of radical Islam. "As a journalist, it’s my duty to highlight emerging trends to the audience," Yehezkeli explains. "Islamic jihad’s impact on the West is significant, and our research confirmed that democracy offers a fertile ground for these ambitions to take root."

(Photo: Yonatan Sindel/Flash 90)

Will Islam Take Over the World?

"Complete dominance wouldn't happen in our lifetime. Still, within two decades, Islam could become a significant influence in places like France, Denmark, and Belgium," Yehezkeli predicts. "Financial backing for Islamic education is gradually turning the tide, bolstered by democratic freedoms." He reassures Israelis on potential fears, "Their chances here are slimmer. Rest easy for now, but the Western world should be concerned."

Did you feel scared undertaking this dangerous mission?

"Certainly. Reconnecting with my faith was equally daunting. But it’s a role I’m meant to play; otherwise, who would?"

Does your wife worry about the dangers?

"My wife understands it’s a professional need, not an ego trip. She sees the value in the work for others."

Were there moments of real danger?

"There were tense moments, like when we were detained by Turkish authorities on suspicion of terrorism activities. It was crucial to conceal our equipment and faked documents, as discovering them would have compromised everything. But we took meticulous precautions, employing cameras so small they were nearly undetectable."

The Arabs Don't Want Peace

How does making TV as a religious person differ from your secular days?

"Mainly, it’s the ego. I used to think it was all about me. Returning to faith made me realize the importance of shifting focus to Hashem. It’s an ongoing battle to stay humble, recognizing that without Hashem, I wouldn’t be here."

Does interviewing terrorists conflict with your faith?

"I’ve interviewed many notorious individuals, but understanding their mindset is crucial. When terrorists express their intentions clearly, it’s vital information to convey."

(Photo: shutterstock)

Does your embrace of Judaism make you more right-wing politically?

"I’m neither left nor right; I simply study the Arabs. I've received political offers, but it’s not my path."

What educational path do you choose for your children?

"I aspire for my children to be joyous and unharmed by their education. Joyful learning is my prayer."

Don’t you fear your kids might be confused by different influences?

"They see me in various societal roles and understand the world’s complexities. Their upbringing isn't confined to any single environment, and that's intentional."

Only My Wife, Everything Else is Secondary

Residing in Bat Ayin, Tzvi Yehezkeli lives with his wife and five children. Reflecting on his decade-long spiritual journey, he says: "At 37, I returned to faith, married by 38, had my first child by 40, and now five kids."

Born in Jerusalem to Iraqi immigrants, he served in an elite IDF unit and later as a Shin Bet security officer, eventually finding his calling in journalism. His impact as Arab Affairs Desk Chief at Channel 10 quickly gained widespread popularity.

As spirituality took root, Yehezkeli faced a gradual revelation process, ultimately merging his religious beliefs with his visible professional life. "Embracing faith has been a rewarding yet challenging journey," he admits.

Do you miss anything from your secular life?

"Not the lifestyle itself; perhaps the simplicity and lack of purpose I once had. But I wouldn’t trade my current path for anything."

Strict with Solitude

Amidst a busy career, Yehezkeli dedicates time daily to *hisbodedus* (solitude), a practice he maintains since his wedding. "It rejuvenates me," he insists. Exploring potential future projects, Yehezkeli turns towards teaching and learning Torah through initiatives like 'Segula.' "It’s about sharing what’s been given to me."