Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has urged Jews in Western countries to move to Israel, pointing to a sharp rise in antisemitism. This call came during a Hanukkah ceremony on December 21, 2025, just a week after a deadly shooting at a Jewish event in Sydney that killed 15 people.
Saar’s Urgent Message to Jews Abroad
Saar spoke at a public event in Jerusalem, marking the end of Hanukkah. He stressed that Jews deserve safety everywhere but warned that history proves such security can vanish quickly.
He named countries like Britain, France, Australia, Canada, and Belgium as places where Jews face growing threats. Saar described the situation as Jews being “hunted” worldwide and invited them to “come home” to Israel for protection.
This message builds on ongoing concerns from Israeli leaders. They have linked recent attacks to broader hatred fueled by global events.
Details of the Bondi Beach Tragedy
The attack happened on December 14, 2025, at a Hanukkah gathering on Sydney’s Bondi Beach. A gunman opened fire, killing 15 and injuring many others.
Australian officials say the shooter drew inspiration from Islamic State ideology. The event was meant to celebrate the holiday with lights and community spirit, but it turned into a nightmare.
Witnesses described chaos as people ran for cover. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, and the area locked down for hours.
Investigations continue, with police exploring the attacker’s background and possible ties to extremist groups. This incident has shocked Australia and drawn global attention.
The death toll included families and children, amplifying the horror. Leaders worldwide condemned the violence and called for unity against hate.
Rising Tide of Antisemitism Worldwide
Israeli officials have warned about increasing antisemitism since the Gaza war started in 2023. They blame foreign governments for not doing enough to protect Jewish communities.
Saar and others point to protests and online hate that have spiked in recent years. In Europe and North America, synagogues and Jewish centers have faced more vandalism and threats.
For example, a synagogue attack in Manchester, Britain, in October 2025 raised alarms. Similar incidents in France and Canada have fueled fears.
Experts track these trends through reports from groups monitoring hate crimes. Data shows a 30 percent jump in antisemitic acts in Western countries over the past two years.
This surge ties to geopolitical tensions, with some blaming media portrayals and social media for spreading misinformation.
Global Reactions and Leaders’ Responses
World leaders reacted swiftly to Saar’s call and the Sydney attack. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese vowed stronger measures against extremism.
In the United States, officials expressed solidarity and pledged support for Jewish safety. European nations like Germany and France announced reviews of their security protocols.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Saar’s words, urging Western governments to act. He called antisemitism a “cancer” that spreads when ignored.
Social media buzzed with discussions, some supporting the call to Israel, others debating immigration policies.
Here are key reactions from notable figures:
- Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong: Expressed sorrow and committed to fighting hate.
- US President: Promised aid in investigations and global cooperation.
- French President: Highlighted the need for vigilance in diverse societies.
- British Prime Minister: Announced funding for Jewish community security.
These responses show a mix of grief and resolve to address the issue.
Historical Context of Jewish Migration to Israel
Israel has long encouraged aliyah, the return of Jews to their ancestral homeland. This policy dates back to the nation’s founding in 1948.
Waves of immigration followed major events, like the Holocaust and conflicts in the Middle East. In recent decades, economic and safety concerns have driven more moves.
From 2020 to 2025, over 100,000 Jews made aliyah, according to official figures. The latest call could boost those numbers amid current fears.
Israel offers support like financial aid and housing for newcomers. Programs help with language and job placement to ease the transition.
| Year | Number of Immigrants | Main Countries of Origin |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 45,000 | Russia, Ukraine, US |
| 2024 | 50,000 | France, UK, Canada |
| 2025 | 60,000 (projected) | Australia, Belgium, US |
This table illustrates recent trends, showing a steady increase tied to global unrest.
Impact on Jewish Communities and Future Outlook
Jewish groups abroad feel the pressure from these events. Many report higher anxiety and calls for better protection.
In Sydney, community leaders plan memorials and push for policy changes. Similar efforts happen in other cities facing threats.
Experts predict more discussions on immigration and security. Some see Saar’s call as a wake-up for governments to tackle root causes.
For individuals, the decision to move involves family, jobs, and culture. Support networks in Israel aim to make it viable.
The situation highlights the need for global action against hate. As tensions persist, communities seek ways to build resilience.
What do you think about this call to action? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to raise awareness about fighting antisemitism.
