The current situation for Israel and Jews worldwide has become alarming. Despite our mission to be a “light unto the nations” (Isaiah 42:6), Israel has become one of the most vilified nations in history. Our image worldwide has possibly never been lower. PM Netanyahu’s speech at the UN General Assembly was delivered to a mostly empty chamber. Many nations that had previously been supportive have recently become extremely critical.

Antisemitism has never been so widespread, even during the darkest days of World War Two and anti-Jewish acts are taking place somewhere in the world every day, even in traditionally friendly and supportive nations such as England, France, other European nations, the United States, Australia, and now even in Africa and South America. Many Jews on college campuses have been ridiculed, bullied, and oppressed, and Jews worldwide are increasingly fearful. Many are afraid to exhibit their Jewish identity publicly.

Israeli athletes are being banned from international sporting events; Israeli films are being excluded from international film festivals; moves are afoot everywhere to shun Israeli professionals, scientists, artists, medical practitioners, musicians, singers and academics; Jews are threatened when traveling on trips abroad; Jewish and Israeli-owned eateries, manufacturers, food producers and other companies linked to Jews and Israel are becoming targets of boycotts, vandalism, and hatred; there are calls to suspend trade agreements everywhere. All this is sparking severe economic damage for Israel.

There has been an increase in criticism of Israel, even among Jews in Israel, the US, and other countries, contributing to a negative migration balance, with young and talented Israelis leaving the country, contributing to shortages in key areas, such as health, education, and hi-tech. For example, 79,000 Israelis left in 2024, while only 46,000 made aliyah or returned home. This is especially worrisome since antisemitism has become so widespread throughout the Diaspora.

The chances of normalization of relations with Saudi Arabia and other Muslim nations have been dramatically reduced. 

A major reason for the above is Israel’s response to the horrendous massacre by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Of course, Israel had the right to respond forcefully. However, when people saw that tens of thousands of Gazans........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)