Esther Surkis
Essays on power, religion, and the Middle East.
Writing about a region where belief is strategic, and strategy is theological.
This page brings together my recent essays and thematic series.
Where to read my work:
About me:
I’m a writer and researcher based in Jerusalem, specializing in the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Islamic world, Iran, and Jewish communities around the globe. I’m 36, married, and the mother of Eliana Chana.
I hold a law degree from MGIMO University — Russia’s leading institution for international relations — where I focused on international law and wrote my thesis on the legal status of mass media. Later, I completed a degree in humanities and political science at the Open University of Israel, concentrating on civil-military relations and media coverage, particularly in the context of Israel’s disengagement from Gaza.
Since making aliyah in 2012, I’ve worked with several Israeli institutions: Shavei Israel (Jewish return and absorption, marketing), Neve Yerushalayim (religious education for women, content and outreach), and the Jerusalem Foundation during Nir Barkat’s tenure as mayor (urban development and fundraising).
My articles have appeared in Kikar HaShabbat, Eurasian Studies, the Middle East Countries Research Institute, and other news and analytical platforms. I’m also a self-taught artist creating Judaica-inspired works, deeply engaged with Jewish spiritual traditions. I love to travel — so far, I’ve visited 18 countries.