Editor's Notes: In era of Jewish uncertainty, Israel must rework its relationship with Diaspora

Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid's recent foreign policy speech, outlining six goals for Israel's international relations, has drawn attention for its approach to Diaspora Jewry. While Lapid is recognized for his fluency in the concerns of world Jewry, his speech notably omitted specific issues like the Western Wall compromise, conversion, and the Chief Rabbinate, which have been points of contention and concern for many in the Diaspora.

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In contrast, Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism Minister Amichai Chikli has voiced strong concerns about the demographic future of Diaspora Jewry. He cited a high intermarriage rate as a "catastrophe" and pointed to the growing Orthodox community as a model. Chikli emphasized that formal Jewish education is the primary mission to preserve identity, arguing that a community unable to explain itself to its own children will struggle to maintain its connection to Israel. He also noted a "provisional" generosity from Diaspora communities, funding Jewish life abroad while viewing its survival as a potential failure.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has presented a more ambitious goal, aiming to attract one million immigrants from North America and Europe within a decade, a scale of aliyah he compares to Israel's past intensity in security and settlement efforts. This contrasts with Lapid's proposal to abolish the ministry responsible for Diaspora affairs, potentially impacting such large-scale immigration initiatives.

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Seventy percent intermarriage is a catastrophe.

The differing perspectives highlight a central tension in the Israel-Diaspora relationship: how to foster a strong, enduring connection in an era of Jewish uncertainty. While some Israeli politicians focus on education and identity preservation abroad, others prioritize large-scale immigration. The debate over these approaches underscores the complex challenges in maintaining a unified and vibrant global Jewish community.

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Until our brothers come home, he said, we will do everything to make the communities there as strong as they can be.