A recent report from the Institute of Jewish Policy Research (JPR) indicates a "wave of pessimism" among British Jewry regarding the Israeli government, with concerns over the state of

democratic governance in Israel. The study, based on polling conducted since the end of 2022, revealed record disapproval ratings for key figures, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right coalition allies, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, the finance minister and national security minister respectively.

The disapproval ratings for Netanyahu and Smotrich climbed substantially over the past six months, indicating growing unease within the British Jewish community. One significant factor contributing to this sentiment is the Israeli government's ongoing judicial reform plans, which have led to widespread protests in the country. The proposed reforms aim to curtail the judiciary's power and independence, prompting concerns about the future of Israel's democracy.

Optimism about democratic governance in Israel remains low, not just among British Jews but also within Israel itself. Approximately 72 percent of British Jews expressed pessimism about the country's democratic future, while only 18 percent of Israelis reported feeling optimistic.

The report highlights a potential shift in the relationship between British Jews and Israel. While around 90 percent of British Jews have visited Israel and feel a sense of attachment to the country as part of their identity, there are indications that this bond may be evolving. The number of British Jews identifying as 'Zionist' has decreased by about ten percentage points over the past decade, suggesting increased uncertainty or ambivalence among some individuals.

Authors of the report, Jonathan Boyd and Carli Lessof, emphasized that the high disapproval ratings for key members of the current Israeli government raise concerns about the strength of the longstanding ties between British Jews and Israel. They warned that the societal rupture caused by Netanyahu's judicial assault in Israel could potentially spread to British shores.

As Israeli society grapples with questions about the country's future direction and commitment to democratic principles, Jews in the UK are also facing a new dilemma regarding which version of Israel they support. The tensions in Israel could potentially impact diaspora Jewish communities, and the data suggests that signs of strain are already emerging within the UK.

The report draws on data from two recent JPR panel surveys conducted in 2022 and 2023, shedding light on the complex relationship between British Jews and Israel and raising concerns about potential implications for the future. Photo by Beny Shlevich, Wikimedia commons.