Michael Freund is a prominent figure in Israeli public life, having served as deputy communications director in the Prime Minister's Office under Benjamin Netanyahu. He is the founder and chairman of Shavei Israel, a Jerusalem-based organization dedicated to assisting the Lost Tribes of Israel and 'hidden Jews' seeking to reconnect with their heritage. Freund's work has earned him several prestigious awards, including the Jerusalem Prize and the Moskowitz Prize for Zionism.

In addition to his organizational leadership, Freund has been a correspondent and syndicated columnist for The Jerusalem Post for over two decades. A native of New York, he is a graduate of Princeton University and holds an MBA from Columbia University. He has authored two books, received rabbinical ordination, and made aliyah to Israel in 1995. Freund is also a proud father of five sons, all of whom serve in the Israeli military, and remains an enthusiastic supporter of the New York Mets.