Israeli TV experiences a surge in popularity of supernatural stories as new hits attract large audiences.

Israeli television viewers are increasingly tuning in to a wave of paranormal dramas that are gaining significant attention. These shows range from eerie military base tales to stories of Druze reincarnation, as networks launch more ambitious supernatural series.

The current sensation in global streaming is the new season of "Stranger Things," which generated such high demand that Netflix experienced technical difficulties during its release. However, for those seeking additional supernatural content, two Israeli shows are currently airing that delve into paranormal themes.

The first is "Nutuk," a Keshet production that explores reincarnation and the Druze community in Israel and Syria. This series has been keeping viewers on edge with its strong start and continued plot twists. The final two episodes are yet to air, with previous episodes available for streaming on mako.co.il.

Meanwhile, KAN has launched a new supernatural drama, "Hammam," which airs on Sundays and Wednesdays after the news. The show is also available on kan.org.il. The first four episodes indicate an intriguing blend of supernatural elements, military thriller, and biblical allegory. The story follows Shaul, a tightly controlled commander, played by Daniel Gad, who leads a team of soldiers to a deserted base in the Jordan Valley. This base, once home to ancient Turkish baths, holds many mysteries. It's plagued by wild dogs, potentially rabid, and is built on a network of underground tunnels that conceal sinister surprises.

Things take a strange turn when Shaul is bitten by a dog and, while seeking medical treatment, encounters an elderly Bedouin man. The man warns him that the base is cursed and a place of death. As Shaul's authority is questioned, he becomes entangled in a developing rivalry with Dudi, a former religious soldier. The relationship between Shaul and Dudi mirrors biblical figures, and although this allegory is subtle, it adds an extra layer of depth to the series.

The show grapples with weighty questions about fate and the forces shaping our destinies, particularly within the context of Israels history. Despite these philosophical themes, the series remains highly engaging, with Gads performance anchoring the storyline. "Hammam" is the creation of Michael Alalu, the director of the acclaimed short film "How I Killed Rabin," and was produced by Dori Media, Sumayoko Productions, and Abbot Hameiri.

On a lighter note, Netflix is set to release "Kugel," the prequel to "Shtisel," on December 8. The series, originally aired on Yes, stars Sasson Gabai as Nukhem Shtisel, the brother of Shulem Shtisel, and Hadas Yaron as his daughter, Libbi. Set in Antwerp before the family relocates to Jerusalem, the show explores Nukhems troubled marriage and his relationship with Pnina, a baker who specializes in kugel. The series highlights the complexities of family life within a tight-knit ultra-Orthodox community, where personal struggles must often be kept secret.

Libbi, at 22, is still unmarried, despite her parents efforts to find her a suitable match. As she navigates her desires for love and independence, the show weaves humor and charm, showcasing Gabai and Yarons performances, which were also seen in the film "We Were the Lucky Ones."

In other programming news, the documentary "Unraveling UNRWA," a critical investigation into the Palestinian refugee services agency, will be aired on KAN 11 on December 6 at 10:30 PM. The film provides a detailed look at the agency's role in perpetuating the Palestinian refugee crisis and its controversial involvement with Hamas. Through interviews with experts, former UNRWA officials, and former refugees, the documentary paints a sobering picture of an organization that has, for decades, influenced the region's ongoing conflict. The film was produced by Zygote Films and Beetz Brothers Film Productions.