A deepening fracture is forming between the State of Israel and Jewish communities living overseas. Amichai Chikli, the minister specifically appointed to strengthen these bonds, is instead championing a controversial strategy that is pushing many away. His recent alignment with European far-right figures and harsh criticism of liberal American Jews marks a stunning departure from decades of diplomatic tradition.
This shift has sparked intense debate regarding the future of Zionist unity. Observers are alarmed by rhetoric that suggests the Israeli government now views parts of the diaspora not as partners, but as ideological opponents. The very bridge meant to connect Jerusalem with the world is shaking under the weight of political polarization.
The Jabotinsky Doctrine and New Policies
The roots of this new approach lie in a hardline interpretation of Zionist history. Minister Chikli has drawn attention for referencing the “Iron Wall” philosophy of Zeev Jabotinsky. Jabotinsky was the ideological father of the Israeli right wing.
A quote attributed to Jabotinsky, “Eliminate the diaspora, or the diaspora will eliminate you,” currently sits on a wall at a Tel Aviv institute named after him. This sentiment drives the current policy. It suggests that Jewish life outside of Israel is fundamentally flawed or doomed to disappear.
Key Shifts in Ministry Policy:
- Prioritizing Aliyah: Urging immediate immigration to Israel rather than strengthening communities abroad.
- Ideological litmus tests: Favoring conservative groups while shunning liberal organizations.
- New Alliances: Seeking support from Christian Evangelicals over traditional Jewish partners.
Jean-Pierre Filiu, a historian and professor, highlighted this tension in a recent column. He notes that the current government sees unconditional support as the only acceptable form of Zionism. This leaves little room for the complex, democratic dialogue that characterized relations for the last fifty years.
The Labor Zionists who founded the state believed in a partnership. Benjamin Netanyahu and his appointees like Chikli appear to believe in a demand for loyalty. This fundamental disagreement is reshaping Israel’s foreign policy in real time.
Embracing Europe’s Far Right Parties
One of the most shocking developments for European Jews is Chikli’s warm relations with far-right parties. The minister has openly displayed closeness to France’s National Rally party. This is the political home of Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella.
For decades, these parties were shunned by Israeli officials due to their historical ties to antisemitism. However, Chikli argues that the political map has changed. He views the nationalist right in Europe as a tactical ally against radical Islam.
This “enemy of my enemy” approach is risky. It alienates local Jewish communities in countries like France. These communities often feel threatened by the very nationalist rhetoric Chikli embraces. They fear that endorsing the far right endangers their standing as minority citizens in their own countries.
“In Netanyahu’s eyes, diaspora Jews have become Israel’s second enemy, alongside Muslims.”
— Art Spiegelman, Author of Maus
Critics argue this is a short-sighted transaction. Trading long-term Jewish safety for short-term political support creates a dangerous precedent. It validates parties that have historically been hostile to minorities.
Alienating Liberal Jews in the United States
The situation across the Atlantic is equally tense. The vast majority of American Jews identify as liberal or progressive. They have historically been the backbone of financial and political support for Israel in Washington.
Chikli has frequently clashed with this demographic. He has criticized the “woke” culture he perceives in American universities and Jewish institutions. He often blames American Jews for a “loss of identity” rather than trying to understand their dual experiences.
The Growing Divide:
| Traditional Approach | Chikli’s Strategy |
|---|---|
| Bipartisan outreach (Democrat & Republican) | Heavy focus on Republicans and Conservatives |
| Engagement with Reform and Conservative Judaism | Preference for Orthodox and Evangelical streams |
| Tolerance for criticism of government policy | Criticism of policy is labeled as disloyalty |
This strategy risks severing the link with the Democratic Party base. It relies heavily on Evangelical Christian support as a replacement. While Evangelicals provide massive political backing, they do not share the familial bond that connects the Jewish people.
Many American Jewish leaders feel abandoned. They see a minister who is supposed to represent them instead using his platform to attack their values. This creates a feeling of homelessness for Jews who love Israel but disagree with its current government.
From Kibbutz Upbringing to Radical Politics
Amichai Chikli’s personal story adds a layer of irony to the current crisis. He was not born into the hardline right. His father was a Conservative rabbi, a stream of Judaism often marginalized by the current Israeli religious establishment.
Chikli grew up on a kibbutz in the Galilee. It was a place where secular and religious Jews lived together in relative harmony. He served in elite combat units and dedicated years to the military.
His shift to the far right happened later. He entered politics and quickly aligned with those seeking to reshape the judiciary and expand settlements. His rejection of his more moderate roots mirrors the broader rightward shift of the country.
Why this matters:
- He understands the language of the liberal diaspora but chooses not to speak it.
- His background gives him credibility with secular Israelis, even as he pushes religious policies.
- He represents a new generation of leaders who do not feel beholden to old alliances.
This transformation is symbolic. It shows that the current conflict is not just about policy. It is a battle over the soul of the state and who gets to define what it means to be a Zionist in the modern world.
A Future hanging in the Balance
The actions of the Diaspora Affairs Minister are creating ripples that will last for years. By challenging the legitimacy of Jewish life outside Israel, the government risks isolating itself from its most loyal family. The bond between Israel and the diaspora has survived wars and economic crises. It remains to be seen if it can survive this internal political assault.
What do you think about this shift in Israel’s relationship with Jews worldwide? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you are discussing this on social media, use the hashtag #IsraelDiasporaDebate to join the global conversation.
