The Evolving Relationship Between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora

Posted on Aug 17, 2024 in Religion

Is Israel Losing the Jewish Diaspora as a Foreign Policy Tool?

Relevant Arguments

Historically, there was an unspoken agreement that the Jewish Diaspora would support Israel’s actions on the world stage. Two decades ago, most financial support for Israel flowed directly to the Israeli government through official fundraising campaigns. Donors essentially gave the Israeli government carte blanche to use the funds as they saw fit.

However, the last two decades have witnessed significant changes. Today, over 60% of the money sent to Israel bypasses the government and goes directly to specific organizations. Some donors support settlements, while others prefer to direct their contributions to organizations serving Arabs, Ethiopians, or other causes. This shift in funding reflects a more discerning approach by the Diaspora, demonstrating a desire to influence Israeli decision-making.

Adding to this complexity, there’s been increasing opposition from the US and Europe to certain Israeli foreign policy decisions. The Obama administration, in particular, made notable attempts to influence Israel’s approach to the peace process, signaling a departure from the unwavering support experienced during the Bush era.

Israel recognizes the significance of these developments within the American Jewish community. The near-automatic support enjoyed during the Bush years has given way to a more nuanced relationship, with the US now exerting meaningful pressure on issues like the two-state solution.

Shifting Allegiances

In the past, Jewish communities worldwide largely aligned their perspectives with Israel’s policies. There were few instances of open dissent or criticism from within the Diaspora.

The American Jewish Community

The American Jewish community, in particular, has long held a position of influence. However, even this community, which once echoed Israel’s foreign policy stances, is experiencing a shift.

While American Jews have historically been staunch supporters of Israel, there are now segments within the community, particularly in Britain and France, that are becoming increasingly critical of certain Israeli policies. This growing criticism stems from several factors.

Erosion of the Israeli Narrative
  • Negative Perception of Israel: The prevailing narrative surrounding Israel has shifted, with the country often portrayed as aggressive. This negative perception has left many Jewish communities uneasy.
  • Impact of the Second Intifada: The Second Intifada marked a turning point. Accusations against Israel, such as the alleged killing of a child, put many American Jews in a difficult position, feeling compelled to defend Israel against what they perceived as unfair attacks. This period led to a sense of being targeted for their identity, a stark contrast to the pride many felt prior.
Challenges to Diaspora Unity
  • Support for Settlements: The issue of settlements has created tension, with some Jewish organizations in the US financially supporting settlements despite opposition from the US government. This discrepancy highlights the growing divide between the Diaspora’s actions and the policies of their respective governments.
  • Limits of Influence: The question of how much Israel can rely on the Diaspora for political support has become increasingly relevant. For example, when the US government allocated $100 million in aid to the PLO, it was unclear whether Netanyahu could successfully leverage groups like AIPAC to lobby against this decision. This situation underscores the changing dynamics and the limitations of the Diaspora’s influence in the face of shifting geopolitical realities.
  • Strained Relations: The peace process, or lack thereof, has become a significant point of contention. Statements from the Israeli government dismissing the relevance of countries like France, Britain, Germany, and Portugal have further strained relations. This dismissiveness undermines the importance of strong Jewish communities in these key international capitals.

Historical Background

The relationship between Israel and the Diaspora is complex and rooted in history. The Law of Return, granting all Jews the right to become Israeli citizens, while intended to unify the Jewish people, created diplomatic challenges. For example, the USSR perceived the embrace of Golda Meir by Soviet Jews as a direct challenge to their authority, fearing a potential exodus. Similar tensions arose in other countries with significant Jewish populations, highlighting the delicate balance between Israel’s self-proclaimed role as a homeland for all Jews and the political realities of the international system.

Key Turning Points

  • The Six-Day War (1967): This war marked a turning point. The sense of relief and pride following Israel’s victory led to a wave of ideological immigration (Aliyah), particularly from Western countries. However, it also exacerbated tensions with the Soviet Union, which viewed the desire of Soviet Jews to emigrate as an embarrassment and a challenge to their ideology. The internationalization of this issue, fueled by the advocacy of American Jews, further strained US-Soviet relations.
  • The Yom Kippur War (1973): This war, despite its initial setbacks for Israel, reinforced the sense of solidarity between Israel and the Diaspora. The global efforts to isolate Israel, including the Oil Embargo, were met with staunch opposition from Jewish communities worldwide.
  • Operation Entebbe (1976): The Entebbe rescue of hijacked hostages, where a distinction was made between Jewish and non-Jewish passengers, further solidified the sense of Jewish unity and vulnerability, strengthening the bond with Israel.
  • Operations Moses and Solomon (1980s-1990s): The airlifting of Ethiopian Jews to Israel during a period of civil war demonstrated the continued commitment of Israel, in cooperation with the US, to the well-being of Jewish communities facing danger. This period represented a high point in Israel-Diaspora relations.

Emerging Challenges

  • The First Intifada (Late 1980s-Early 1990s): The First Intifada and the Lebanon War led to increased criticism of Israel’s policies, even from within the Diaspora. The media’s portrayal of these conflicts challenged the previously unquestioning support for Israel.
  • Religious Conversion Controversy: The controversy surrounding the conversion of non-Orthodox Jews further strained relations. The refusal to recognize conversions performed outside the Orthodox Rabbinate alienated many American Jews, particularly those from Reform and Conservative movements. This issue highlighted the growing internal divisions within the Jewish world.

Conclusion

The relationship between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora is at a crossroads. While historical bonds and shared experiences remain strong, the evolving geopolitical landscape, coupled with internal divisions within the Jewish world, presents new challenges. The once unwavering support from the Diaspora is giving way to a more complex dynamic, characterized by greater scrutiny, increased criticism, and a growing need for dialogue and understanding. As Israel navigates the complexities of the 21st century, finding a way to maintain a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the Diaspora will be crucial for its future.