Israel’s Future: Embracing Cultural Renewal

In the fast-paced world of modern geopolitics, Israel faces many external challenges—from hostile neighbors to international diplomacy. However, a more insidious threat is emerging from within the United States: the shifting attitudes of younger generations. As Adam Stahl recently highlighted in his article in The Hill, Gen Z is increasingly unsympathetic toward Israel, viewing it through a distorted lens of social justice that dangerously oversimplifies the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

A Fractured Historical Memory and Cultural Disconnect

The roots of this shift can be traced back to a significant disconnect between younger Americans and the historical context that has shaped Israel’s existence. As Stahl points out, recent surveys have revealed alarming gaps in Holocaust knowledge among millennials and Gen Z. However, while some argue that a renewed emphasis on Holocaust education is necessary, I believe that this approach has yielded limited results. The focus should instead be on increasing efforts at religious, textual, and historical Jewish education that positively illuminates the enormous cultural and intellectual gifts of the Jewish Bible, Torah, history, and ethics.

This shift in focus is particularly important among young American Jews, who are increasingly disconnected from their cultural and religious heritage. Most have little to no knowledge of their natural cultural background, as many did not continue Hebrew school beyond the early grades, and few received a Jewish education in high school. Virtually all pursued their college education in secular institutions, further distancing themselves from their heritage. Additionally, only a small percentage have ever visited Israel, and even fewer regularly attend synagogue services, whether weekly or even annually.

The Power of Jewish Education

Instead of focusing on Holocaust education, which often emphasizes the victimization of Jews, we should celebrate and promote the positive aspects of Jewish culture, history, and ethics. Jewish education should highlight the enormous contributions that Jewish thought has made to the world, particularly through the Jewish Bible, Torah history, and ethical teachings.

By engaging young Jews in a deep and meaningful exploration of their heritage, we can foster a stronger connection to their identity and a greater understanding of the importance of Israel. This approach not only builds pride in their cultural roots but also equips them with the knowledge and context necessary to engage with the complex issues surrounding Israel and its place in the world.

The Influence of Media and Social Justice Narratives

In the digital age, the rise of social media has only exacerbated these trends. Platforms like TikTok, where anti-Israel posts reportedly outnumber pro-Israel content by a ratio of 200:1, have become breeding grounds for misinformation and bias. These platforms are where many young people form their opinions, often without the benefit of a nuanced or historically informed perspective.

Moreover, the framing of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within a binary oppressor-oppressed framework resonates strongly with the social justice movements popular among Gen Z. This framework fails to account for the complexities of the conflict, including the legitimate security concerns of Israel and the historical context that has shaped its policies. Instead, it reduces the situation to a simplistic narrative that unfairly demonizes Israel and ignores the threats it faces.

The Need for Israeli Self-Reliance

While much needs to be done to develop the relationship with young Jewish and non-Jewish Americans through education and advocacy, Israel must also reassess its dependence on American support. The changing attitudes among younger generations in the U.S. make it increasingly clear that Israel cannot afford to rely solely on the backing of a single ally, no matter how powerful.

Israel needs to become increasingly self-reliant, both militarily and diplomatically. This means investing in its defense capabilities, building stronger regional alliances, and diversifying its international partnerships. By becoming more self-sufficient, Israel can better safeguard its future, even as it works to rebuild and strengthen its relationships with younger generations in America.

The Role of Leadership and Advocacy

Beyond education, there is also a need for stronger leadership and advocacy, both from Israel and its allies in the United States. Israel must be more proactive in pushing back against the distorted narratives that dominate social media and public discourse. This means engaging directly with younger audiences, providing them with the facts and historical context necessary to understand Israel’s position.

At the same time, U.S. politicians and thought leaders must exhibit the courage to denounce the rising tide of antisemitism that often accompanies anti-Israel sentiment. As Stahl notes, this includes confronting the normalization of Jew-hatred, which has become more prevalent in recent years, especially on university campuses.

Time: The Silent Threat

In the end, Israel’s greatest threat may indeed be time. As younger generations grow increasingly disconnected from the historical realities and cultural richness that have shaped Israel’s existence, the support that Israel has long relied on from the United States could erode. This is not a threat that can be countered with military might or diplomatic maneuvering; it requires a concerted effort to educate, inform, and engage with the next generation in a way that highlights the positive and enduring legacy of Jewish thought and culture.

Israel’s survival depends not only on its ability to defend itself physically but also on its ability to maintain the support of its allies. As time marches on, the battle for hearts and minds will become ever more critical. By taking steps now to strengthen Jewish education, counter misinformation, and build self-reliance, we can ensure that the lessons of the past are not lost—and that Israel’s future remains secure.

Citing: Stahl, Adam. “Israel’s Greatest Threat is Time: Gen Z is Increasingly Unsympathetic Toward its Cause.” The Hill, August 18, 2024.