Promoting Diaspora aliyah will never succeed through anger - opinion

The Jerusalem Post, a leading Israeli news outlet, presents a critical response to a controversial opinion piece by fellow journalist Haggai Segal. Segal's assertion that American Jews are 'traitors' for not immigrating to Israel en masse, and his ultimatum that Israel should cease promoting aliyah if mass immigration doesn't occur by 2031, has sparked significant debate.

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Beyond the inflammatory choice to call fellow Jews traitors, I would contend that Haggai made some very basic yet critical mistakes in his analysis.

This article, penned by Gael Grunewald, directly challenges Segal's inflammatory rhetoric and flawed analysis. Grunewald argues that while aliyah is a profound expression of Zionism, it is not the sole measure of commitment. The piece emphasizes the diversity within American Jewry, highlighting that millions of individuals cannot be painted with a single brushstroke of betrayal or indifference. This perspective resonates with a common understanding in Israel that the Diaspora is complex and multifaceted, not a monolithic entity to be dictated to.

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Aliyah to Israel is a profound realization of the Zionist vision, and certainly the most practical way to demonstrate one’s sincere commitment to that vision.

From an Israeli standpoint, the debate touches upon deeply held Zionist ideals and the evolving relationship between Israel and its global Jewish communities. While there's a historical and ongoing imperative for Jews to make aliyah, the tone of ultimatum and accusation, as seen in Segal's piece, is often seen as counterproductive and alienating. Grunewald's response reflects a sentiment that fostering connection and understanding, rather than issuing threats, is a more constructive approach to strengthening the bond between Israelis and Diaspora Jews.

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But at the very same time, we need to be honest and say that while it might be the highest expression of Zionism, that need not mean that in the absence of moving to Israel, one is incapable of being a committed and respected Zionist.

This piece uniquely highlights the internal Israeli discourse on aliyah and Jewish identity. While Western media might focus on the inter-community relations aspect, an Israeli publication would naturally delve into the Zionist underpinnings and the practical implications for Israel's demographic and social fabric. The article underscores that even within Israel, there are differing views on how best to engage with and encourage aliyah, reflecting a dynamic and sometimes contentious conversation about who constitutes 'us' and what defines true commitment.

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It is impossible to treat millions of Jews as a single unit and certainly not as a bloc that can be accused all at once of betrayal, alienation, or indifference.