The Jewish Diaspora and Israel: The Need for Consistent, Clear Support

In the wake of a vicious pogrom targeting Israelis and Jews in Amsterdam, a pressing question arises: What does it truly mean to support Israel?

I’m part of a WhatsApp group with 25+ secular Jews in the diaspora, so naturally, these events were being discussed on Friday morning. Yet, while still trying to process what had occurred, some members felt compelled to focus on the supposed missteps of Israeli fans or to separate the attacks as “anti-Israel” rather than antisemitic, instead of addressing the atrocity itself.

Taking focus away from the atrocity itself is the exact opposite of what it means to stand in true solidarity. Supporting Israel, especially as antisemitism and anti-Zionism continue to rise, requires an unwavering commitment. If the Jewish diaspora intends to support Israel, all focus should be on the real issues: blatant bias against Israel and the physical safety of Israelis.

This doesn’t mean ignoring areas where Israel can improve; spending a single Saturday evening in Tel Aviv is enough to realize that the Israeli people are already vocal enough on these issues. It’s about understanding what it truly means to support Israel as a Jew in the diaspora.

Standing for Israel today requires consistency. After Israelis were targeted, interrogated, and attacked by gangs waiting near train stations and hotels, while attackers shouted “Free Palestine”,  some diaspora voices shifted focus. Even in the face of such blatant hatred for Israel, some felt the need to rather discuss the supposed missteps of Israeli fans instead of condemning the attack itself. Especially since Jews in the diaspora typically have the option to just be South African, or American or the nationality of whichever country their accent represents, shifting focus in this way is not supporting Israel. It weakens Israel’s position and strengthens the position of those who wish to harm the Jewish State.

I understand the inner conflict that comes from being a Jew in the diaspora, balancing local values with support for Israel. But true support for Israel cannot be ambiguous or selective. In the greater context of the conflict, there are two sides. Those that support Israel and those that do not. Being silent or inconsistent with your support for Israel directly benefits the voices that seek the destruction of the Jewish state. 

To truly support Israel, we must stand firm and clear. Whether it’s a message in a Whatsapp group or a post to your Instagram, our voices must focus on supporting Israel and its citizens.