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About JCAP - The Katz Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy

As JCAP expands its global operations, it is bringing its vital work to a broader international audience, building partnerships and engaging with decision-makers worldwide to safeguard Jerusalem’s future.

JCAP - The Katz Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy is the Zionist, Jerusalem-focused research and policy center dedicated to shaping the future of Jerusalem as Israel's indivisible capital. JCAP works on the forefront of strategic, geopolitical, and policy issues that impact the city’s sovereignty, security, economy and international standing. Through deep research, policy recommendations, and advocacy, JCAP aims to ensure that Jerusalem’s future remains unified, secure, and prosperous in the face of existential challenges.

Our Work at JCAP

Securing Jerusalem’s Sovereignty:

Ensuring Jerusalem remains the undivided capital of Israel while strengthening its position in the global diplomatic landscape.

Uprooting Radical Influences:

Combatting terror elements, hostile foreign influence, and jihadist activism in Jerusalem to safeguard the city’s governance and democracy.

Demographic & Urban Development:

Enhancing the Jewish democratic character of Jerusalem through sustainable urban development, curbing illegal construction in East Jerusalem, and promoting sustainable growth.

Global Advocacy:

Expanding JCAP’s outreach to international governments, organizations, and stakeholders to build support for Jerusalem’s future as Israel’s Jewish and democratic capital.

Meet The Team

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AMBASSADOR RAN ICHAY

Head of Research

Former Israeli Ambassador to Kazakhstan, former CEO of Jerusalem and Heritage Ministry, Former Deputy Director General in Netanyahu's office.

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YAIR DAN

Deputy CEO for Branding, Strategy, and Government Relations

Strategist and public relations expert.

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CHAIM SILBERSTEIN

Founder and President

MBA Hebrew University, Chairman Ohr Chai Real Estate and Marketing corp., Founder and Chairman IM ESHKACHECH-KEEP JERUSALEM Public Diplomacy org., Municipal councilman Beit El.

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Deborah R. Srour

Director of International Affairs

Attorney with 25 years of experience in International and Banking Law. Holds a Journalism degree and hosts a weekly radio show related to Israel. 

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Paul Teller

Senior Policy Advisor - Washington D.C

Veteran U.S. policy strategist and former senior congressional advisor, with extensive experience in Washington-based legislative strategy and government affairs.

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Bracha Weinberg

Director of Operations

Business operations specialist with 25+ years of experience in administrative leadership and organizational efficiency

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AVI ZIMMERMAN

Director of U.S Relations

Government, business and nonprofit strategist. Founder of the Judea and Samaria Chamber of Commerce and Industry, President of the Integrated Business Roundtable and the Founder of the Israeli-Palestinian Economic Forum.

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BARUCH YEDID

Chief Researcher and Analyst 

Arabic affairs commentator for top Israeli TV CHANNEL I24, Former IDF Governor of Shechem and Hebron, Former Palestinian and Arab consultant and liaison to COGAT - Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories.

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Elias Zarina

Arab Affairs Research Associate

East Jerusalem native with deep knowledge of local communities

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Ben Avrahami

Director of Middle East Relations

Prominent expert on Arab affairs, served for many years as an advisor on Arab affairs in the Jerusalem Mayor's Office. 

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Reut Wieder

Senior Research Associate

Middle East and Arabic Studies graduate and a skilled analyst specializing in monitoring, mapping, and interpreting Arabic-language discourse across digital platforms and regional media.

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MAJ. General (Ret.) Doron Torgeman

Senior Advisor for Security and Strategic Affairs  

Former commander of the Jerusalem District Police with extensive experience in security, counter-terrorism and Jerusalem municipal affairs

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RABBI STEVEN PRUZANSKY JD

Senior International Affairs Research Associate

Former community rabbi of the "Bnai Yeshurun" community in Teaneck, New Jersey. Practiced as a lawyer in New York for 13 years, authored 6 books.

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MUHAMED 

Data and Field Researcher

Consultant to the municipality and various government ministries on development plans for Jerusalem. Has many years of experience working with the population in the fields of education, employment, welfare and more.

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Turku Avci 

Turkish Affairs Research Associate

Turkish native with a background in political science, journalism and social media influence, specializing in regional analysis 

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HILLEL FENDEL

Research and Editing

Former editor of Israel National News. Author, editor and journalist for multiple publications

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ALON LEVI

Digital and Social Media Director

BA Hebrew University, Journalist with expertise and experience in law and the Jerusalem Municipality. Oversees digital assets and social media.

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RINA COHEN

Digital Research Associate

Extensive experience working media, entertainment industry, influence, and information operations. Specializes in cross cultural messaging

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BAREL TOLEDANO

Visual and Graphics Specialist 

Graduate of Betzalel School of Art. Many years’ experience in graphics, animation and other visual tools.

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Avner Franklin

CFO

Business Administration – University of South Africa.

Extensive experience from holding various Financial Officer roles in the past.

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Israel Office:

14/1 Abba Eban Street

Kiryat Ha'Leom

Jerusalem 9025804

U.S Office:

195 Route 46 West, Suite 4, Totowa NJ 07512

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 © 2026 JCAP Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy. Design by WCA

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