When I speak with some American Jews, I’m sometimes surprised by their level of criticism towards Israel. One Jew explained, “Most American Jews are more concerned with issues impacting Jews in America than in Israel.”
When challenged, he rebutted, “Are Blacks intensely engaged with the African nations and their policies? Do they vote based on America’s relationship with African countries or their treatment here?”
Although his remarks about Blacks and Africa were indisputable, we both understood that many Jews would not concur with his views regarding American Jews’ connection to and steadfast support for Israel. This perspective is crucial to consider as it highlights the diverse opinions within the demographic.
The connection to Israel among American Jews remains strong overall. Still, there exists a significant diversity of opinion among American Jews concerning Israel and its policies based on religious intensity, age, and political identity.
Overall Connection
A majority of American Jews still feel emotionally attached to Israel. According to a May 2021 Pew Research Center survey, nearly 60% of U.S. Jews say they are either very (25%) or somewhat (32%) emotionally attached to the modern state of Israel. This connection is particularly strong among Jews by religion (67%) compared to Jews of no religion (33%).
Image courtesy of Pew Research
Denomination / Sect
Not surprisingly, conservative Jews generally express a stronger attachment to Israel than Reformed Jews and non-practicing Jews. And
among Orthodox Jews, 82% say they are very attached to Israel. Conservative Jews also tend to be more supportive of Israeli government policies. Conversely, liberal Jews seem to be experiencing an erosion in their sense of closeness to Israel as many are becoming uncomfortable voicing traditional defenses of Israeli policies, especially those relating to their enemies.
Age plays a significant role in American Jews’ connection to Israel as 63% of Jews aged 50 – 64 express an attachment to Israel. Among younger Jews, those aged 18-29, only 48% say they are very or somewhat emotionally attached to Israel. Among those 65 and older, 67% have an attachment to the Homeland.
Party affiliation is a clear dividing line in Jewish Americans’ views on Israel as 72% of Republican-leaning Jews say they are very or somewhat attached to Israel while just 52% of Democratic-leaning Jews: 52% express the same level of attachment.
When it comes to political differences, it’s important to consider the perspective of Evangelicals, many of whom align with the Republican Party. They firmly believe the Bible instructs believers to acknowledge, support, and defend Israel’s sovereignty. This belief significantly contributes to why Republicans have a strong affinity for Israel. And staunch Republicans, especially Evangelicals and Jews within the party, are undoubtedly influenced to a degree by the Republican Party’s platform. This might explain the 20% gap between the two major parties.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is a whopping 90% of American Jews who have traveled to Israel more than once have an attachment to the Holy Land. Did they visit more than once due to a pre-existing connection or was it developed as a result of one or more visits?
Impact of Recent Events
The October 7, 2023 attack on Israel has further complicated these dynamics as it deepened existing divides within the American Jewish community. Many liberal Jews felt a sense of betrayal from progressive allies who focused more on Palestinian issues than on Israeli victims while other left-leaning Jews are reassessing their relationship with Israel in light of these events.
The complex and deeply rooted conflict between Israel and Palestine is a historical issue that dates back thousands of years. It’s important to consider that some liberal viewpoints might see this as a situation where heavily armed Israeli forces face Palestinians with limited resources, often labeling Israelis as aggressors and bullies. However, this perspective may not fully account for the ongoing threat of terrorism that has impacted Israeli citizens since their country’s founding in 1948. Understanding both sides of the narrative, beyond a perceptual basis, is crucial for a balanced view of this enduring conflict.
While the connection to Israel remains strong for many American Jews, there are clear divisions based on religious observance, political affiliation, and age. Liberal and younger Jews tend to have a more complicated relationship with Israel, often struggling to reconcile their liberal values with Israel’s policies. These trends suggest a potentially shifting landscape in American Jewish attitudes toward Israel in the coming years.