Israeli Businessman and Philanthropist Dr. Shmuel Haralaf Dies at 82

Dr. Shmuel Haralaf, a prominent Israeli businessman and philanthropist, passed away at his home in Kfar Shmaryahu on Wednesday night at the age of 82. Haralaf was a leading figure in Israel's business sector, serving as chairman of Cal-Mobil, a major automotive company. He held a PhD in philosophy from Harvard University and a bachelor's degree from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he also taught in the late 1970s. He is survived by his wife, Anat, two children, and seven grandchildren.

Born in 1944 to Matilda and Amichai Haralaf, Shmuel joined the family business in 1982 after his father's death in 1975. He acquired the shares of his brothers and became the controlling owner of Cal-Mobil alongside his stepmother Tamara and his son Yoav, who held minority shares. Under his leadership, Cal-Mobil began importing Mitsubishi vehicles in 1988 and Hyundai cars in 1994, eventually controlling 20% of Israel's car market and making Haralaf one of the country's wealthiest individuals.

Haralaf was also an early investor in Mobileye, one of Israel's most successful high-tech companies. In recent years, he and his wife focused on philanthropy, donating significant sums to science and medicine in Israel. In 2025, they contributed $10 million to the Weizmann Institute of Science to help rebuild after damage from Iranian missile attacks. Additionally, Haralaf donated approximately 600 million shekels to Beilinson Hospital to establish a new heart and brain medical center. The couple chose not to name the building after themselves, inspiring other donors to increase contributions to Israel's healthcare system.

Beyond business and philanthropy, Dr. Haralaf published numerous articles and opinion pieces on economic, social, political, and technological topics, blending philosophical insight with business experience. He was also dedicated to physical fitness, completing three full marathons, including his first in New York at age 60 and a European rowing championship.

Summary: Dr. Shmuel Haralaf, a leading Israeli businessman, early Mobileye investor, and philanthropist, died at 82. He led Cal-Mobil to dominate Israel's car market and donated millions to science and healthcare, leaving a lasting legacy.

Points: - Dr. Shmuel Haralaf, 82, died at home in Kfar Shmaryahu, survived by wife, children, and grandchildren. - He chaired Cal-Mobil, controlling 20% of Israel's car market and expanded imports of Mitsubishi and Hyundai. - Early investor in Mobileye, contributing to one of Israel's biggest high-tech successes. - Donated $10 million to Weizmann Institute and 600 million shekels to Beilinson Hospital for medical centers. - Published numerous articles combining philosophy and business expertise. - Completed three marathons, maintaining active physical fitness into later life.