Israel seeks to lure Oscar nominees with risky gift Israel has offered the 25 nominees for the top five awards at the Oscars, plus host Chris Rock, a personalised tour of the country, a 'dreamy visit' with a street value of up to $55,000 including first-class flights and luxury hotels. By doing this, the Ministry of Tourism is hoping to lure more people to the country and to promote a more positive image of the country after a fresh wave of Palestinian violence. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES