The official announcement is at http://bitcoin.org.il/files/Israel%20Bitcoin%20Conference%20Cancellation%20Notice.pdf.
I am truly sorry it turned out this way despite my earlier outspoken optimism.
sorry to hear about it Meni - but you've got to admit, you're a fucking wierdo trying to hold such an event in a war zone. TelAviv just isn't suitable for business. That's a fact. Won't be for another 50 years. If you guys don't smash every last one of those Palestinians, they are going to come back at you like cockroaches over and over again. Maybe move to TelAviv West (Manhattan)? At least they haven't had a serious attack in 12 years.
We've also had many Bitcoiners travel here (see for example some guest lectures we've had) and they always love it here.
It is usually very safe here. True, once in a while we have more troubled times, like now - but even then it shouldn't be blown out of proportion, the risk isn't bigger than what you're taking when driving a car. And of course, the fact of the matter is that people do have conferences and all kinds of other business here.
Another time
There are facts and there is propaganda. It's usually pretty clear which is which. The facts are:
1. The status quo is that the Palestinian leadership is using the available funding for combat measures rather than building civilian infrastructure, causing their population to live in terrible conditions.
2. Hamas has, without provocation, abducted and murdered 3 teenagers.
3. We've retaliated to clarify this is unacceptable. Hamas is deliberately putting civilians at risk during these attacks.
4. We're constantly seeking a truce, and Hamas constantly rejects it.
5. We're handling everything with velvet gloves. Our restraint is the paragon of countries everywhere. If someone did to the US what the Hamas does to us, they'd be crushed into little cubes.
Could we do the Jesus thing and turn the other cheek? Maybe... But there is such a thing as being too nice.