Growing Concerns Over Israel-Diaspora Relations

Israelis from various political and religious backgrounds express concern over weakening ties with younger Jewish Americans. Recent findings from an AP poll reveal that younger Jewish Americans deem support for Israel less central to their Jewish identity compared to older generations.

Itai Nixon, who leads the diaspora department for Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, emphasized the importance of this connection, affirming Israel’s role as the state of the Jewish people. Lesley Sachs from the Israel Movement for Progressive and Reform Judaism views a strong relationship with diaspora Jews as a strategic asset. She worries about the diminishing perception of Israel as a homeland amidst rising antisemitism.

‘It was crucial after the Holocaust for Jews to know there’s a country that will always welcome them,’ Sachs remarked in her Tel Aviv synagogue. ‘This should remain central to their identity, but it’s fading.’

Since 2000, Taglit-Birthright Israel has offered free discovery tours to a million Jewish young adults, aiming to reinforce their connection to Israel beyond political issues. Gidi Mark, CEO of the organization, noted the increased need for showing the significance of these ties.

The long-standing partnership between the United States and Israel is showing signs of strain. Although historically strong allies, tensions have arisen following policy disagreements, such as those between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu over conflicts with Iran. A study from the Israel Democracy Institute revealed a significant drop in the perception of Trump’s prioritization of Israeli security.

Amid diplomatic challenges, the role of Jewish Americans who have traditionally advocated for U.S. support for Israel becomes vital. Concerns rise as young progressive Jews increasingly view supporting Israel as incompatible with their values. Protests erupted in the U.S., especially after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel in October 2023, prompting a military response that led to substantial casualties in Gaza.

According to the AP-NORC poll, about 40% of religious Jewish adults under 45 in the U.S. consider supporting Israel essential to their identity, contrasted by nearly half of older adults. Additionally, perceived justifications for military actions in Gaza vary significantly between religiously affiliated and unaffiliated Jews.

Despite these divisions, antisemitism remains a serious concern, compelling Israelis to highlight the importance of a Jewish homeland. As Asaf Zamir noted, opposition to government policies fits within the discourse, yet understanding Jewish history is incomplete without acknowledging Israel’s role.

To strengthen bonds, Israel supports exchange programs targeting secular and liberal Jews, particularly those in North America. These include visits to Jewish summer camps and free trips to Israel, offering personal interactions to bridge ideological gaps.

Initiatives focus on secular Jews and Reform Judaism, which prioritizes progressive values. Orthodox Jews typically maintain stronger connections to Israel than their secular counterparts, a trend echoed by Tamar Hermann from the Israel Democracy Institute.

Within Israel’s Reform movement, efforts are underway to send young Israelis, like Alma Edry, as counselors to North American camps. Emphasizing shared progressive values fosters cooperation to reshape Israel together.

‘Such one-on-one outreach is essential,’ Sachs advocated. ‘We share ideals and must unite in crafting the Israel we aspire to.’

Alma Edry, spending time as a camp counselor in Ontario, observed the significance of Israel among Jews outside the country, highlighting their opportunity to celebrate their bond against prevalent opposition.

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Associated Press religion coverage is part of the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, supported by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP holds sole responsibility for this content.