Israelis Worry About Weakening Ties With Younger American Jews

A growing concern is palpable among Israelis from diverse political and religious backgrounds regarding the fraying connection with younger American Jews. Recent findings from an AP-NORC survey highlight a generational shift, revealing that younger American Jews increasingly view support for Israel as less central to their Jewish identity compared to their elders.

"For us, it is extremely important," stated Itai Nixon, who leads the diaspora department at Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs. "We are the state of the Jewish people, not just of Israelis." This sentiment underscores a deep-seated belief in the shared destiny between Israel and the global Jewish community.

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For us, it is extremely important. We are the state of the Jewish people, not just of Israelis.

Lesley Sachs, a prominent figure in the Israeli Movement for Progressive and Reform Judaism, also emphasizes the critical role of a strong relationship with diaspora Jews, describing it as a "strategic asset" for both Israel and Jews worldwide. Her concern is amplified by the fear that diaspora Jews might lose the sense of Israel as a potential homeland, particularly as global antisemitism escalates, targeting them regardless of their political or religious affiliations.

"It was always very, very important that everyone, especially after the Holocaust, knew that there is a country that will always welcome them," Sachs reflected. "A few generations have passed since then, and this is less prominent in their DNA. And I think this is really a failure of Israel and world Jewry that we have not managed to keep it central."

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It was always very, very important that everyone, especially after the Holocaust, knew that there is a country that will always welcome them. A few generations have passed since then, and this is less prominent in their DNA. And I think this is really a failure of Israel and world Jewry that we have not managed to keep it central.

Organizations like Taglit-Birthright Israel, which has brought a million young Jewish adults to Israel since 2000, are working to counter this trend. Gidi Mark, the organization's CEO, believes their mission to connect people with Israel beyond political controversies is more crucial than ever. "What we give them is a mirror," he said, suggesting the trips offer a profound reflection of their heritage and potential connection.

However, the broader Israel-U.S. alliance, long considered steadfast, shows signs of strain. While the U.S. is still perceived as Israel's closest ally, Israeli Jews' belief that President Trump prioritizes Israel's security has significantly declined, according to the Israel Democracy Institute. This shift in perception, particularly concerning the response to the war with Iran, highlights the complex dynamics influencing the relationship between Israel and its key international partners.

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What we give them is a mirror.