Israel Hayom Conference to Address Jewish Identity and Security in New York
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
An upcoming Israel Hayom conference in New York will examine the challenges faced by American Jews regarding security and identity post-October 7. Data shows a decrease in antisemitic incidents but a rise in physical assaults, leading to increased insecurity, while simultaneously revealing a strengthening connection to Israel and Jewish identity.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Conference to address Jewish identity and security in New York.
- Antisemitic incidents down, but physical violence at a record high.
- Majority of American Jews feel less safe since October 7.
- Connection to Israel and Jewish identity show signs of strengthening.
- Younger generation seeks deeper, more meaningful ties to Israel.
A conference organized by Israel Hayom in New York on November 11 will focus on the complex realities facing American Jews, particularly concerning their identity, security, and connection to Israel. While antisemitic incidents have reportedly decreased, physical violence has reached a peak, leading a majority of American Jews to feel less secure and prompting many to downplay outward signs of their Jewishness. Despite these concerns, research also indicates a strengthening of Jewish identity and a deeper connection to Israel among this demographic.
Recent data reveals a significant shift. The Anti-Defamation League reported 6,274 antisemitic incidents in the US in 2025, a 33% decrease from the previous year but still the third-highest total since 1979. However, physical assaults hit a record high with 203 incidents. A summer AP-NORC poll found that six in ten American Jews feel less safe since October 7.
Concurrently, a UJA tracking study indicated that in 2025, 64% of American Jews felt some or strong connection to Israel, with 62% expressing pride in their Jewishness due to Israel. The proportion feeling a strong connection rose from 31% in 2023 to 36% in 2025. Yet, expressing these views has become more challenging, with 47% of New York Jews uncomfortable voicing opinions about Israel in non-Jewish spaces, up from 35% in 2023.
Meir Holtz, CEO of Masa Israel Journey, emphasized the younger generation's search for a deep connection with Israel, stressing the need for a partnership built on choice, belonging, and shared action. Ari Steinberg, Chairman of Wingate, highlighted the parallel challenge in Israel, where education and sports provide a vital anchor for youth amidst societal upheaval, fostering resilience and self-belief.
The conference will explore the dynamics between security and identity, the relationship between Israel and American Jewry, and intergenerational differences. Discussions will cover policy, security, economic, and technological issues, with a significant focus on the future of global Jewry, combating antisemitism, and strengthening the connection of young Jews to Israel.
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