Full Breakdown
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar Calls for Global Jewish Aliyah Amid Rising Antisemitism
12/25/2025, 5:46:41 AM
Urgent Call to Action
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has made a significant appeal for Jews living in Western countries to immigrate to Israel, citing a troubling rise in antisemitism. This call was made during a Hanukkah event in Rishon Lezion and comes in the wake of a recent antisemitic terror attack in Sydney that resulted in 15 fatalities. Sa’ar specifically urged Jewish communities in the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, and Belgium to consider making Aliyah, emphasizing that Israel is the only place where Jews can ensure their safety and identity.
The J-50 Forum and Its Purpose
Sa’ar convened the J-50 Forum, a gathering of 50 Jewish community leaders from around the world, to discuss strategies for combating antisemitism. This forum, established in May 2025, aims to maintain ongoing dialogue and cooperation with Jewish communities globally. During the conference, which runs from December 21-24, participants will receive policy briefings and engage in workshops designed to equip them with tools to address the current antisemitic climate.
Context of Rising Antisemitism
Sa’ar's remarks come against a backdrop of escalating antisemitic incidents globally. He criticized foreign governments for their inadequate responses to this surge, stating that Israel has invested considerable diplomatic efforts to combat antisemitism, including hosting an international conference earlier in the year. He noted that the historical experiences of Jews necessitate vigilance in recognizing threats.
Official Statements and Responses
In his address, Sa’ar stated, “Jews have the right to live safely anywhere, but history teaches us to recognize danger when we see it.” He framed his appeal as a moral duty, asserting that it is essential for Jews to raise their families in a secure environment. Danielle Mor, vice president of Israel Allies and Global Philanthropy at the Jewish Agency, highlighted that approximately eight million Jews worldwide are eligible for Aliyah, with aspirations for one million to immigrate within the next five years.
Criticism and Opposition
While Sa’ar's call has garnered support, it has also faced criticism. Some dissenting voices argue that the emphasis on Aliyah may overlook the complexities of Jewish life in the Diaspora, where many feel secure and integrated. Critics suggest that the focus should be on combating antisemitism locally rather than encouraging mass migration.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There is a discrepancy in the reported increase in Aliyah applications. While Mor noted a rise in interest from France and moderate increases from the United States, the actual number of Jews making Aliyah remains low. This gap highlights the challenges faced by potential immigrants, including economic conditions and personal circumstances.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today I call on Jews in England, Jews in France, Jews in Australia, Jews in Canada, Jews in Belgium: come to the Land of Israel! Come home!” — Gideon Sa’ar, Israeli Foreign Minister
- “We stand for the right of every Jew to live in security anywhere. But today, I am calling on Jews in the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Canada, and Belgium to immigrate to Israel,” — Gideon Sa’ar, during the J-50 Forum
Sa’ar's call for Aliyah reflects a broader concern for Jewish safety amid rising global antisemitism, emphasizing the need for a united response from Jewish communities worldwide.
