Lior Raz said this week that the global hit series “Fauda” has become “one of the best PR for Israel,” telling a sold-out Magen David Adom event in Westchester, New York, that the show’s upcoming fifth season will focus heavily on the Oct. 7 attack and its aftermath.
“We couldn’t even imagine that we can write something not about October 7th,” Raz said during an onstage conversation.
The event, organized by American Friends of Magen David Adom, drew nearly 500 members of the local Jewish community and marked the first major Northern Westchester community gathering in support of MDA. Organizers said it introduced many first-time supporters to the organization’s emergency medical, blood services and wartime operations across Israel.
Speaking about the show’s international reach, Raz called “Fauda” one of Israel’s strongest cultural exports during a difficult period for the country.
“It’s not just Jewish people who watch it,” he said. “It’s huge all over the world.”
Raz said the series has become especially popular in India, Brazil, Lebanon and across Europe. He recalled that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently asked to meet him during a visit to Israel.
Speakers also highlighted MDA’s work during the recent war with Iran, including its emergency response under missile fire, treatment of the wounded and management of Israel’s blood supply.
“Magen David Adom has been Israel’s heartbeat, answering an emergency call every nine seconds, running toward danger when everyone else runs away,” said Ali Bernstein, director of major gifts at AFMDA.
Raz praised MDA responders, calling the organization “the melting pot of Israel.”
“Arabs, Jews, Christians, Orthodox, non-Orthodox, everybody working together, volunteering in order to save lives,” he said. “It’s an honor to be part of this organization and to support and help this organization.”
The evening also honored event co-chair and AFMDA Northeast Leadership Council member Anita Greenwald, who helped organize the gathering with her husband, Rich Greenwald, and a local host committee. She received a special MDA mezuzah in recognition of her leadership and support.
Raz also addressed rising antisemitism abroad and what he described as growing reluctance in parts of Hollywood to publicly support Israel.
“They’re all afraid,” Raz said. “Everything that you say in our industry can cancel you.”
He urged Jews abroad to remain outspoken and proud of their identity.
“We need to show them that we are strong,” he said. “Be proud of who you are and not afraid.”
During the event, attendees pledged support for ambulances, emergency medical equipment, blood services and other emergency resources for MDA operations across Israel.