US Midterm Elections Raise Concerns for Israel and Jewish Communities
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Political consultant Ruti Lieberman expressed concerns that the US midterm election results could lead to legislation making people vulnerable to antisemitism. She noted a breakdown in bipartisan cooperation and a rise in political extremism. Lieberman also revealed efforts to phase out US aid to Israel, viewing it as a hindrance to cooperation. While acknowledging increased antisemitism and security concerns for Jewish communities in the US, she does not anticipate a significant wave of immigration from the US to Israel.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- US midterm election results could lead to legislation making people vulnerable to antisemitism, according to Ruti Lieberman.
- Political extremism has increased on both sides, causing a complete breakdown in US bipartisan cooperation.
- Efforts are underway to phase out US aid to Israel, with the goal of reaching zero aid.
- Antisemitism in the US is a growing concern, leading to increased security at synagogues.
- Lieberman does not foresee a significant wave of immigration from the US to Israel despite concerns.
Ruti Lieberman, a political consultant and founder of the Yes! Israel project, expressed concern over the implications of the US midterm elections, particularly the rise of progressive candidates within the Democratic Party. She noted that with Democrats controlling both houses of Congress, there is a potential for legislation that could leave people vulnerable to antisemitism. Lieberman highlighted a significant shift towards political extremism on both sides, leading to a complete breakdown in cooperation between Democrats and Republicans, which she finds worrying.
Lieberman, who has spent years building personal relationships with US government officials, including hosting senators and congressmen in Israel to educate them on the country's complexities, stated that these connections have deepened, especially since the recent war. She mentioned receiving calls from Trump's chief of staff and senators seeking advice on discussing Israel-related issues with the President. Her organization, Yes! Israel, aims to foster informed perspectives among US politicians by exposing them to the realities of Judea, Samaria, Jerusalem, and Israel's borders.
Regarding the potential cessation of US aid, Lieberman revealed that her organization has been working for 18 months with the Prime Minister's office and Ambassador Mike Huckabee to gradually reduce aid to zero. She believes that US aid is no longer beneficial and has become a limiting factor, hindering mutually beneficial cooperation and reducing pressure on Israel. Lieberman argued that Israel does not need to be perceived as a burden by the US and should not grant them the right to dictate policy.
Lieberman also addressed concerns about rising antisemitism in the US, noting that synagogues are now heavily guarded. She expressed worry that existing anti-antisemitism laws might not be enforced. Despite the political shifts, she does not foresee a significant wave of immigration from the US to Israel, though some are considering spending more time or purchasing property in Israel.
She reflected on the US political landscape, comparing the deep divisions to those in Israel, and suggested that external factors like rising fuel prices and perceptions of Donald Trump significantly influenced voter behavior in the midterms, rather than purely ideological stances on issues like the Iran conflict.
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