As the war marks its third anniversary, this new JPPI study examines its impact on Jewish communities in Europe and how Israel should address the geopolitical changes that have occurred as a result.
By: Dr. Dov Maimon
By: Dr. Dov Maimon
This set of policy recommendations prioritizes strategic preparations for Jewish communal organizations to address potential deterioration in European Jewish security and civil rights. This focus reflects the urgency of establishing robust protective frameworks given the confluence of rising extremism from multiple political directions and the broader transformation of European social cohesion.
The complexity of current challenges requires a sophisticated multi-level response. Jewish leadership must balance immediate security needs with long-term community sustainability while navigating the enhanced influence of actors hostile to Jewish interests.
The success of Ukrainian Jewish evacuation efforts provides valuable lessons for future crisis response. The coordination between different Jewish organizations that enabled the evacuation of over 70,000 Jews should be codified into permanent emergency response protocols.
Developing financial independence from potentially compromised sources becomes crucial as Qatar expands its influence in European financial systems. New funding mechanisms should be established through partnerships with Abraham Accords nations and Western financial institutions less vulnerable to pressure from hostile powers.
Israel must carefully calibrate its response to European security needs while maintaining strategic flexibility. The success of the Arrow-3 sale to Germany demonstrates how security cooperation can enhance broader diplomatic relationships. However, Israel must maintain its ability to act independently vis-à-vis Iran and other strategic threats.
Israel’s expertise in critical security domains (cyber, counterterrorism, drone defense) provides leverage for deepening European relationships. The establishment of joint research and development initiatives with European partners could strengthen both security cooperation and diplomatic ties.
Drawing upon Article 6(b) of Israel’s 2018 Nation-State Law, which enshrines Israel’s responsibility to “strive to ensure the safety of members of the Jewish people,” Israel must act to ensure the security of Diaspora Jews facing antisemitic threats when local authorities cannot. While security agencies within each country have primary responsibility, Israel should assist Diaspora communities unable to eliminate serious antisemitic risks through training, information sharing, and emergency planning when required. Proactive measures are crucial for the security of world Jewry.
Given the diversity and challenges across Jewish communities in Europe, the following measures are adapted to address shared vulnerabilities while respecting local contexts. These steps aim to enhance safety, awareness, and preparedness across the continent.
Encourage families to independently develop contingency plans, including:
Ensuring the safety and resilience of Jewish communities in Europe requires coordinated efforts: European Jewish leaders should prioritize preparedness and advocacy, international Jewish leaders must mobilize resources and support, and Israeli policymakers need to enhance readiness for potential Aliyah and crisis intervention. Together, these actions will provide the foundation for security and solidarity in the face of growing challenges.