Israel Research Status – What the Indices Really Describe?

Research evaluations by qualitative indices involve various advantages – but also many limitations and deficiencies. Despite their importance, these evaluations are controversial, and often – misunderstood. The main object of this study is to contribute to the understanding of the evaluations, particularly to consider the question – are they describe correctly the reality? Approaches and issues related to research evaluations are described, results and processes describing the research status of Israel and its universities –  are discussed. The main conclusion is that – although the present status is still respected – in recent years there is a clear decline in their status.