The repercussions of the most recent Israel-Gaza flare up will continue to unfold and be felt for some time. While recent Israel-Gaza conflicts have led to significant spikes in anti-Semitism in Europe, this was the first time it did so, to that level, in the United States. And while the rockets may have stopped firing, the anti-Semitic attacks continue. Perhaps not at the same level as a few weeks ago, but it feels a rubicon has been been crossed. What were once unacceptable statements and behaviors are becoming commonplace.
In light of this, we asked our readers to take our survey on reactions to the Gaza War and the results were very enlightening — and to some degree heartening.
There’s no question that you feel less safe in the Diaspora when Israel is at war (87%). This is despite most of you (80%) saying that Diaspora Jewry should not be held accountable for actions in Israel. (7% of you felt it should; 13% weren’t sure.)
The combination of these two figures that means Diaspora Jewry feel increasingly, and unfairly, under threat by its fellow citizens when conflict breaks out in Israel. That’s a very uncomfortable thought and could reinforce the centuries-old reality for Diaspora Jews that they are never quite “at home.” Which could explain why an overwhelming number of you (80%) reported that you were not surprised by the drastic spike in anti-Semitism.
These are very sad and scary numbers, but the heartening news is that Jews aren’t shrinking away. Whereas in the past Jews would try to downplay their Jewish identity during periods of anti-Semitism, today it seems that Jews choose to be more vocal and outward about their identity when faced with anti-Semitism. Nearly all of you (93%) said that a rise in anti-Semitism makes you more certain about exhibiting your Jewish identity, and all of you (100%) said that when Israel is attacked you become more vocal about your support for it.
That strong sense of identity will serve Diaspora Jewry in good stead, as many of you feel that another conflict will break out within one (43%) or two (50%) years. Only 7% think the ceasefire will last three years. Less than half of you (40%) believe Israel was successful in its latest conflict with Gaza, while 27% of you said Israel was unsuccessful and 33% of you weren’t sure.
What came through clearly is that you all believe Israel is important to Jewish survival, with 20% of you saying it is very important, while an overwhelming 80% said it is extremely important.
The survey is still open if you haven’t yet participated.
