Poll: 80% of Israelis concerned by growing antisemitism worldwide

A recent Israel-wide survey has found that almost 80% of Israelis are concerned about antisemitism globally, with almost three-quarters (73%) believing antisemitism is widespread. More than half (61%) believe that the problem of antisemitism has only grown stronger during the past five years.

The survey of more than 500 Israeli citizens, commissioned by World Likud and conducted by the Shiluv i2r Institute, also found that 58% of Israelis feel that Israel’s relations with the Diaspora have been harmed by the current government policy not to allow Diaspora Jews to enter due to COVID-19.

More than 60% think that Jews living abroad should be allowed to come to Israel during the pandemic and that the government should open Israel’s doors under humanitarian circumstances and in conjunction with COVID-19 requirements.

Israel’s former Ambassador to the UN and Chairman of the World Likud Danny Danon, said, “The results of the survey emphasize that many Israelis are expressing solidarity with Diaspora Jews and think that we need to establish special circumstances for Jews who wish to visit Israel, especially in humanitarian cases.

“I call on the health minister to urgently implement a plan that will allow Jews to visit Israel, even during the corona period and under the necessary restrictions, thus preventing further damage to the unique connection Israel has with Diaspora Jewry.”