Why Now is the Time to Make Aliyah: Rising Anti-Semitism and Global Trends

In recent years, the global rise of anti-Semitism has led many Jews around the world to reconsider their safety and future in their current countries of residence. Anti-Semitic incidents have increased in many parts of the world, creating an environment of uncertainty for Jewish communities. This situation, combined with Israel’s long-standing role as a safe haven for Jews, makes it an opportune time for many to consider making Aliyah (immigration to Israel).

Here’s a deeper look at why the rise in anti-Semitism is contributing to a renewed wave of Aliyah and why now could be the right time to make the move.

1. Rising Anti-Semitism Around the World

Europe

Anti-Semitism has been on the rise in Europe, particularly in countries like France, Germany, and the UK. Attacks on Jewish communities, synagogues, and Jewish-owned businesses have become more frequent. Anti-Semitic rhetoric is surfacing not only from extremist groups but also in mainstream political discourse, leading to an unsettling environment for Jews in Europe.

• France: France has seen a surge in violent attacks, including attacks on Jewish schools and synagogues. Many French Jews have felt increasingly unsafe, with incidents ranging from hate speech to physical assaults. Over the past decade, thousands of French Jews have made Aliyah, citing concerns about safety and rising anti-Jewish sentiment.

• Germany: Despite Germany's efforts to combat anti-Semitism, recent reports have highlighted increasing incidents of anti-Jewish violence, vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, and harassment, often fueled by far-right and Islamist extremism.

• UK: Anti-Semitism has become more visible in the UK as well, particularly in the political sphere and on social media. Several high-profile incidents have led to concerns about the safety of Jewish communities in the country.

United States

Even in the U.S., traditionally seen as a relatively safe and tolerant country for Jews, anti-Semitic incidents have sharply risen. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), the U.S. has seen record-high levels of anti-Semitic attacks and harassment over the past few years, including mass shootings at synagogues, vandalism of Jewish institutions, and the spread of anti-Semitic conspiracy theories.

The Charlottesville rally in 2017 and the deadly shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018 and Chabad of Poway in 2019 are just a few examples of how the U.S. is not immune to violent anti-Semitism.

Other Parts of the World

Anti-Semitism is also rising in Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Australia, driven by a combination of economic instability, far-right populism, and Islamist extremism. Jewish communities in these regions have expressed concerns over their safety and future, particularly as economic hardships often lead to the scapegoating of minority groups, including Jews.

2. Social Media and Online Anti-Semitism

The internet and social media platforms have become fertile ground for spreading anti-Semitic rhetoric. Hate speech, conspiracy theories about Jewish influence, and Holocaust denial are rampant on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. Online harassment of Jewish individuals and organizations has increased, often spilling into real-world violence.

This amplification of anti-Semitic messages online makes it difficult for Jewish communities to feel safe, even in countries with strong protections for religious minorities.

3. Political Anti-Semitism

In some regions, anti-Semitic sentiments are embedded in politics, with extremist parties gaining traction. This is evident in both far-right and far-left political ideologies, where Jews are either demonized for their economic influence or vilified for their connection to the state of Israel.

For example:

• Far-right extremism: Often focuses on racist, xenophobic views, blaming Jews for globalist agendas, economic downturns, and immigration issues.

• Far-left extremism: In some cases, the far-left conflates anti-Israel sentiment with anti-Semitism, targeting Jewish communities under the guise of political activism.

This political shift has led to Jewish communities feeling increasingly isolated and vulnerable.

4. Israel as a Safe Haven

Israel was founded as a refuge for Jews around the world, and it continues to fulfill that role in times of global unrest. In Israel, Jews live in a state where their cultural and religious identity is not only accepted but celebrated. The Israeli government actively works to ensure the safety of its Jewish citizens, providing robust security infrastructure.

• Strong Jewish Identity: In Israel, Jewish holidays, traditions, and culture are deeply ingrained in everyday life. Many Jews find comfort in the fact that they can live openly as Jews without fear of discrimination or violence.

• Government Support for Olim: Israel offers a range of support services for new immigrants (Olim), including financial assistance, housing help, language learning (Ulpan), and employment support. These benefits make it easier for Jews facing increasing hostility abroad to relocate and integrate into Israeli society.

5. Aliyah as a Practical Solution

Many Jewish families are viewing Aliyah as a practical solution to the growing dangers abroad. Israel offers:

• Economic Opportunities: Israel’s booming high-tech sector and vibrant economy present opportunities for many Jews, particularly those with skills in technology, medicine, and education.

• Strong Social Infrastructure: Despite regional tensions, Israel’s social infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security are highly developed. The government actively works to integrate new immigrants into society, providing educational support, healthcare, and job assistance.

6. A Call to Return Home

For many Jews, the increasing anti-Semitism is seen as a signal that the time has come to return to their ancestral homeland. The Law of Return grants Jews and their descendants the right to immigrate to Israel and claim citizenship. Aliyah is not just a practical choice but often a deeply emotional and spiritual one, as many see it as a fulfillment of Zionist ideals and a way to ensure the future safety and prosperity of the Jewish people.

Given the rising levels of anti-Semitism globally and the growing uncertainty facing Jewish communities, now may indeed be the time to consider making Aliyah. Israel offers a secure environment where Jews can live openly and safely, with a government that actively supports new immigrants. As the situation for Jews deteriorates in many parts of the world, Israel’s role as a refuge becomes even more vital.