This post is also available in:
English
Short answer
Most Jews worldwide feel a deep connection to Israel, viewing it as their ancestral and spiritual homeland. This connection is reflected in their strong support for Zionism, the belief in the right of the Jewish people to self-determination. For instance, 97% of British Jews feel “personally connected” to events in Israel, and 82% of American Jewish adults consider Israel important to their Jewish identity.
However, a small but vocal minority opposes Zionism. Groups like the Neturei Karta and Jewish Voice for Peace often align with radical groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, undermining Israel’s existence. Despite these fringe groups, the overwhelming support for Zionism among Jews worldwide remains steadfast.
Long answer
The vast majority of Jews worldwide view Israel as an integral part of their identity. This deep connection is rooted in history, religion, and a shared sense of belonging to the Jewish people. Israel, seen as the ancestral and spiritual homeland, provides a sense of security and a place where Jewish culture and traditions can thrive.
For instance, a staggering 97% of British Jews feel “personally connected” to events in Israel, while 80% self-identify as Zionists. Similarly, 82% of American Jewish adults consider Israel important to their Jewish identity and about 60% feel emotionally attached to Israel.
Jews of every kind – native-born in Israel, immigrants, and those living abroad, young and old, secular and highly religious – agree that all Jews everywhere should have the right to make “aliyah,” or move to Israel and receive immediate citizenship.
While the vast majority of Jewish communities express a strong connection to Israel and support Zionism, a small minority holds opposing views. Organizations like Jewish Voice for Peace and groups like the Neturei Karta often present themselves as progressive or religiously devout, respectively. However, their anti-Zionist stance, which often equates Zionism with colonialism and oppression or views it as a dangerous heresy, is rooted in a distorted understanding of history and Jewish tradition. These extreme Jewish groups have aligned themselves with radical groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, fueling anti-Jewish hatred and emboldening those who seek to harm Jews.
While these groups may garner attention, it’s important to emphasize that they do not represent the views of the broad Jewish community. The overwhelming support for Zionism among Jews worldwide reflects a deep-rooted connection to Israel and a belief in the right of the Jewish people to self-determination.
These findings debunk the notion that Zionism is separate from Jewish identity or that Judaism is a religion without a connection to Israel.
