Cindy Seni, known from the Netflix series “Jewish Matchmaking,” is now in a relationship but remains in contact with matchmaker Aleeza Ben Shalom.
Seni has experienced significant events firsthand, including her service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) during the COVID-19 pandemic, living in Jerusalem during the October 7 attacks, and now the commencement of Operation Rising Lion.
“It’s been a whirlwind,” Seni told Digital. “It feels like a perpetual wound that we are constantly trying to heal, only for it to be reopened, making things very difficult.”
Since the began, Israeli civilians have been instructed to remain in bomb shelters or safe areas for extended periods. Seni describes this as “anxiety-inducing” due to the uncertainty of how long these orders will last.
“Sometimes it’s a matter of an entire night or just a few hours,” she stated. “I am fortunate to have a safe room in my apartment, but many others do not, forcing them to run outside at night with their children, which is incredibly stressful.”
While acknowledging the anxiety and fear of living in Israel currently, Seni also highlighted the resilience of the Israeli people, which she deeply admires. Seni explained to Digital that Israelis continue to live their lives not because they lack fear or stress, but because they have no other choice; as Seni put it, “they can’t stop.”
Her husband, Eldad Cohen, is one such resilient Israeli who has greatly influenced Seni’s life amidst the ongoing war and conflict.
“He’s a very, very resilient Israeli. He’s been through a lot of things,” she said. “He was also injured in the army, and having grown up during the Second Intifada in Jerusalem, he possesses a unique resilience that truly grounds me.”
Seni also enjoys spreading positivity online through her Instagram account, “,” where she shares skits, photos, and personal stories.
“‘Israel with Cindy’ was initially created to spread joy within the Jewish community and it expanded from there,” Seni explained. “When events like these occur, as with October 7th, I encountered a great deal of hatred and antisemitism. I decided to use my platform to showcase and seek peace and long-term solutions by humanizing Israelis and Jews, which I feel is often overlooked in today’s polarized world.”
According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, as of Wednesday, Iran’s retaliatory strikes had resulted in 24 deaths and over 800 injuries. Additionally, 3,800 people have been evacuated from their homes.
Despite these grim statistics, Seni maintains in the Israeli security forces and in God.
“I’m a believer in God, so, I believe that we have divine protection. I think that, God willing, everything will be okay.”