With the ever-increasing popularity of streaming platforms, television shows first produced outside the United States have become a hot commodity. Within the international entertainment industry, Israeli TV series in particular have rapidly gained traction. Streaming sites from Amazon Prime to Netflix have picked up Israeli shows, which have struck a responsive chord with American audiences.
Since there are so many Israeli TV series to choose from, a guide to highlight some of the most compelling shows is in order. Therefore, we have compiled a list of Israeli programs available for streaming or download. Below, in no particular order, is what we found:
1. Fauda
Where to Watch: Netflix
After premiering in 2015, “Fauda” surprised critics all over the world with its instantaneous success. Prior to its release, television executives did not believe audiences would be interested in a story following the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, especially since more lighthearted or less political viewing choices existed. However, since its release, “Fauda” has proven to be the most successful television show on the Israeli Yes satellite network. The New York Times even declared the first season to be among the best of all the international series that have been produced.
Fauda, Arabic for “chaos,” focuses on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian issue. This Israeli TV series centers on Doron Kavillio, the commander of an Israeli Special Forces unit, after he comes out of retirement to hunt down Hamas terrorist Abu Ahmad. By showcasing complex characters, the audience gets a comprehensive look at both sides of the conflict.
2. Tehran
Where to Watch: Apple TV+
Another Israeli spy drama, “Tehran,” gained significant traction after its release during the Coronavirus pandemic. What makes this Israeli series different is that the plot lines are based on the experiences of a female protagonist.
“Tehran” tells the story of Tamar Rabinyan, an Iranian-Israeli spy sent to the Islamic Republic to sabotage its nuclear program. Her mission is to hack into Iran’s antiaircraft system so Israel can then launch an attack.
As exciting as Tamar’s mission seems to audiences, “Tehran” has been criticized for being an overdramatized depiction of Israeli spycraft. However, though former director-general of the Mossad Shabtai Shavit has pointed out the show’s inaccuracies, he has also said that “the series was made with an audience of ordinary people in mind, and it’s a success.”
3. Shtisel
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Shtisel” strikes the right chord with viewers captivated by the show’s innovative depiction of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. It is the first television series to reach American audiences that has such a significant focus on the lives of Haredi Jews.
The show skyrocketed to popularity almost immediately following its release on Netflix, especially among — but not limited to — Jewish audiences. Positive responses from American viewers have even prompted an American remake, created by co-creator of “Friends” Marta Kauffman.
The show follows the Shtisel family as it navigates life in a Haredi neighborhood in Jerusalem. The characters journey through love, betrayal, and a strong sense of community — all while observing their religious traditions. By portraying such an unconventional group as experiencing the gamut of emotions, “Shtisel” elicits a powerful response from audiences of all religious backgrounds.
4. When Heroes Fly
Where to Watch: Netflix
While not as widely revered as other thriller genre counterparts, namely “Fauda,” “When Heroes Fly” nonetheless cracks the list of best Israeli TV shows for its ambitious storyline that spans over a decade and across two continents.
The show adds dramatic flair to the depiction of real experiences that soldiers serving in the Israel Defense Force have lived through. According to Haaretz, “what it does best is show how in Israel, mandatory army service is the melting pot that throws diverse groups together — so an Ashkenazi elite or Orthodox Jew can end up taking orders from a scrappy Mizrahi kid in a combat unit — and how these formative experiences bond them like brothers for life.”
“When Heroes Fly” jumps between a bloody battle with Hezbollah guerrillas during the 2006 Lebanon War and the present day. This band of brothers is shown dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and attempting to pull their lives back together. Though these army buddies become separated over time, they reunite in order to go on a rescue mission in Columbia, where they believe a friend they thought to be dead is being held captive. The performances delivered by the cast of “When Heroes Fly” create an engaging storyline from start to finish.
5. Valley of Tears
Where to Watch: HBO Max
Of all the shows on this list, “Valley of Tears” arguably evokes the strongest emotional reaction from its viewers. It opens up old wounds and exposes the world to the traumatizing impact that the 1973 Yom Kippur War had on Israeli society.
The show is a realistic depiction of the war, going so far as to recreate battles in their original locations. In telling the story of this devastating time in the Jewish state’s history, younger generations of Israelis, as well as people living outside of the country, learn about the surprise attack from Egypt and Syria on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.
“Valley of Tears” breaks boundaries, finally making it possible for viewers to regain a sense of solidarity and even nostalgia as they pertain to this painful episode in Israeli history.
6. False Flag
Where to Watch: Hulu
Known in Hebrew as “Kfulim,” “False Flag” was inspired by the 2010 assassination of Hamas official Mahmoud al-Mabhouth, carried out by an Israeli team that used fake passports. Taking after the likes of “Fauda” and the American-made “Homeland,” “False Flag” makes this list of Israeli TV shows due to it being a non-stop, action-packed, psychological thriller.
The series throws viewers into the intense, interweaving lives of five characters, each falsely accused of kidnapping an Iranian general. The plot of “False Flag” revolves around these individuals trying to clear their names, while figuring out the motives behind and identities of the people who framed them. Beyond the quest to clear their names, the show also follows the characters’ personal trials and tribulations — keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.
Additionally, audiences have been intrigued by the series’ raw naturalistic approach that focuses on dry humor and suspense instead of brute physical violence. Unlike many American shows of the thriller genre that put a premium on bloodshed, “False Flag” is packed with complex storylines and personalities.
7. Binge-Watching Israeli TV Series: Honorable Mentions
Prisoners of War (Hatufim): Hulu
The inspiration for the show “Homeland,” “Hatufim” tells the story of three Israeli soldiers held in captivity in Lebanon and their attempts to re-adapt to society after their release.
Losing Alice: Apple TV+
“Losing Alice” is a psychological erotic Faustian thriller following a filmmaker and her growing obsession with a young screenwriter.
Our Boys: HBO Max
Based on true events, “Our Boys” focuses on the events leading up to the 2014 war in Gaza – catalyzed by the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli youths.
Srugim: Amazon Prime
Hailed by many as the Israeli version of “Friends,” “Srugim” is a witty comedy about six single Orthodox young adults living and navigating life in Jerusalem.
Hashoter Hatov: Netflix
“Hashoter Hatov,” or “The Good Cop,” follows the comedic antics of a police officer in suburban Israel.
Mossad 101: Netflix
Similar to other shows on this list, “Mossad 101” tells the story of a secret Mossad compound and the training process that a group of individuals must undergo before heading off into service.
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