The Israelization of British Jewry: Balancing between home and homeland

What is it about?

This article examines the impact of Israel on British Jewish identity and culture, in comparison to the Jewish communities in France and the United States. The paper provides historical context and draws on interviews with leading figures in the community. It argues that Britain represents a unique model between America and France. In America, where security is greater, Jewish ethnic ties are loosening, whereas in France, doubts over the Jewish community’s future increase their focus on Israel. While British Jews experience hostility, they feel safer than in France. Flourishing British Jewish culture reflects commitment to multi-ethnic Britain, alongside loyalty to Israel. The dynamics of those loyalties are changing, however, with dissent against Israeli policies increasingly legitimised. We conclude that the Israelization of British Jewry is all encompassing, even while allowing for a thriving diaspora community.

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Why is it important?

The paper shows how the ‘Israelization’ of world Jewry – the growing centrality of Israel in shaping the lives of Jews in the diaspora – expresses itself in the unique case of British Jewry. It provides historical context to the present day relationship between British Jews and Israel, and explains the uniqueness of Britain as a home for Jews, with reference to the contrasting examples of the US and France. This is particularly important at a a moment when many are talking about Jewish discomfort in Europe, and antisemitism has become a major political issue on the British left. The paper shows how Israel shapes the diverse expressions of contemporary British Jewish identity and culture, drawing on multiple sources including in-depth interviews conducted by the authors with key figures in the British Jewish community. The paper also demonstrates how Israeli affairs continue to define the limits of Jewish loyalty, even whilst differences over Israel are an increasing source of tension among British Jews, and between British Jews and others.