[TAG]Rabbi Shammai Engelmayer contributed to the writing of this essay.

These are extraordinarily difficult times for Jews, for the Jewish state, and for Judaism itself. All three face growing pressures from multiple directions, and many signs suggest that matters may yet worsen. I wish we did not feel compelled to write this article, but we believe there is still time to reverse some of these trends — if we are willing to examine honestly how we arrived at this moment and what changes may still be possible. Our hope is that these reflections will encourage respectful and meaningful dialogue about a better future for all the children of Abraham: Jews in Israel and the Diaspora, and our Palestinian cousins.

Judaism teaches that we are to be a holy people (Leviticus 19:2), a kingdom of priests (Exodus 19:6), God’s witnesses in history (Isaiah 43:10), and “a light unto the nations” (Isaiah 49:6). Yet today the world increasingly does not see us that way and, regrettably, neither do many of us. Israel and Jews worldwide face growing hostility and isolation. Nations and institutions once broadly supportive of Israel have become increasingly critical, while accusations directed against the Jewish state have grown harsher and more sweeping.

Ever since the Gaza war began, large demonstrations against Israel have continued across Europe, North America, Latin America, and elsewhere. International organizations, church groups, labor unions, student movements, and segments of progressive political parties increasingly portray Israel not primarily as a victim of terrorism despite the atrocities of October 7, but as an oppressor. The language directed against Israel now often includes accusations of apartheid, genocide, ethnic cleansing, and war crimes. According to a recent Pew survey, unfavorable views of Israel among Americans have risen significantly in recent years.

At the same time, antisemitism has surged globally. In countries long considered relatively safe for Jews — including the United States, Britain, France, and Australia — anti-Jewish incidents have increased dramatically. Online antisemitism has spread through conspiracy theories, Holocaust distortion, and extremist rhetoric from both the far right and the far left. Jewish students on many university campuses report harassment, intimidation, and social isolation. Many Jews now hesitate to display visible signs of Jewish identity in public.

Israel also faces growing cultural and economic pressures internationally. Israeli performers, academics, athletes, and businesses increasingly encounter boycotts, exclusion campaigns, and hostility abroad. While criticism of Israel has always existed and always will, the breadth and intensity of today’s hostility are difficult to ignore.

Meanwhile, Israel faces growing internal strains of its own. Increasing numbers of Israelis are leaving the country (yeridah), including many young, highly educated professionals, particularly in the high-tech and medical sectors. While aliyah from Western countries remains significant, it no longer appears sufficient to offset the broader trend. These developments raise concerns about economic vitality, social cohesion, and confidence in Israel’s future.

There is also this to consider: For decades, Israel was seen as the........

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