Israel Risks Losing a Generation of Jews Amid Rising Antisemitism

Dr. Liram Koblenz-Shtenzler warns that Israel could lose an entire generation of Diaspora Jews if the connection between them and the Jewish state becomes too costly. She highlights a growing pressure, particularly since the October 7th Hamas attacks, to separate Jewish identity from Zionism and Israel. This trend is evident in instances where Jewish individuals emphasize their Jewishness to distance themselves from Israeli policies, and in cases where anger towards Israel is directed inward, impacting Jewish youth.

Koblenz-Shtenzler recounts experiences where Jewish children are exposed to negative portrayals of Israel in schools, leading to a sense that they must downplay their Jewish identity to avoid becoming targets. She also describes a situation where a video editor refused to include footage of Israeli soldiers in a Bat Mitzvah presentation, deeming it a "red line." These incidents illustrate the complex challenges faced by Diaspora Jews, with some feeling alienated while others, like the mother in Seattle, find their connection to Israel strengthened by the adversity.

Data supports these concerns, with a 2025 study in Boston showing 39% of young Jews aged 18-29 felt a weaker emotional tie to Israel after October 7th. A UK survey from the same year found that 24% of Jews aged 20-29 identified as anti-Zionist, with another 20% as non-Zionist. Koblenz-Shtenzler argues that Israel must prioritize its relationship with Diaspora Jewry, especially the younger generation, by investing in education, fostering familiarity with Israel, and providing tools to combat antisemitism and misinformation.

She stresses that the responsibility for maintaining this connection is mutual, as Diaspora communities have historically supported Israel. The article concludes by urging Israel to actively nurture this bond, presenting itself not just through conflict and social media, but as a listening partner that invests in long-term relationships. The author emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues now, before a generation's connection to Judaism and Israel is irrevocably damaged.