EU Ambassador to Israel Reflects on Life During War, 'My 9-Day-Old Daughter Slept In Bomb Shelter'

Michael Mann, the European Union's ambassador to Israel since September 2025, discussed his experiences during an appearance on "The Ambassador's Room" Podcast hosted by Miki Dvori of the Center for Jewish Impact.

Mann revealed that his daughter was born in Israel in mid-February, and nine days later, fighting escalated during Operation Rising Lion. He and his family spent nearly a month sleeping in their home's bomb shelter each night as a result.

Despite the security challenges, Mann expressed admiration for Israeli resilience under fire. "People are sitting at a wine bar in Tel Aviv, the siren sounds, everyone goes into the shelter, comes back out, and continues drinking their wine," He said. "It's amazing."

Mann also commented on his adjustment to life in Israel, describing Israeli driving as the biggest "culture shock" He encountered. He praised Israeli cuisine and said he has gained weight since arriving, listing local tomatoes, traditional Shabbat fish, and falafel among his favorites. His favorite Hebrew word is "Yofi," Meaning "great" Or "beautiful."

Regarding the rise in antisemitic incidents across Europe since October 7, Mann called the trend "shameful, embarrassing and unacceptable." He distinguished between legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies and hatred directed at Jews, saying of perpetrators: "These are ignorant and foolish people who are racist and discriminatory."

In a separate interview with Ynet, Mann noted that the European Union has adopted a ten-year strategy to combat antisemitism, strengthen security for Jewish institutions, and promote Jewish life across Europe.

On diplomatic matters, Mann reaffirmed the EU's support for a two-state solution with a viable Palestinian state living alongside Israel in peace and security. He reiterated that Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by the European Union, should have no future role in Gaza's governance or security, must be fully disarmed, and that the Palestinian Authority should ultimately assume governance over all Palestinian territories following conditional reforms.