Introduction: A call to spread risk in perilous times
In a period of intensified conflict and rising anti-Semitism, people have spoken of a frightening possibility: a second Holocaust. The fragility of security reminds Jews everywhere that relying on a single homeland is not a foolproof plan. Barbara Lobeliner’s poignant words at her husband’s funeral—urging all Jews to consider service and solidarity—underline a broader question: should the Jewish people spread risk by strengthening ties to Israel while sustaining lifelines across the diaspora?
Israel’s demographics and the global diaspora
Israel today is home to about 7.3 million Jews, just over 46% of the world’s Jewish population. The country also houses roughly 555,000 residents who are not Jewish but arrived under the Law of Return because a Jewish ancestor was in their lineage. Arabs constitute about 21.5% of the population, roughly 2.213 million people. In 2024, about 5,000 Arabs naturalized through family unions, continuing a long pattern of demographic blending that shapes society and policy.
Aliyah and emigration: the dynamic two-way street
Over the past decade, Israel has welcomed hundreds of thousands of newcomers. From 2014 to 2024, 338,915 immigrants arrived—an average of about 33,892 per year. The Ukraine war triggered a spike in 2022, when 74,807 people made aliyah. In תשפ”ה (the Hebrew year corresponding to 2024–2025), about 25,000 new Olim joined Israel, while about 79,000 people left the country that year, a net migration of around -28,000. Between 2018 and 2024, 322,600 Israelis emigrated, with 175,100 returning, a net outflow of 147,500. These figures illustrate a persistent, cyclical flow of people, ideas, and capital that continues to shape Israel’s economy and society.
The two-way street: benefits of brain circulation
Israel’s strength is rooted not only in inviting Jews home but in the ongoing exchange of knowledge and capital with the world. The cycle of immigrants, students, and professionals—often highly educated—enriches science, technology, and entrepreneurship. For many, the path is not linear: some leave for education or work abroad and later return with skills and networks that advance Israel’s innovation economy. This brain circulation can offset traditional “brain drain” by turning outward mobility into an asset for the homeland.
Economic and social gains from a diverse diaspora
Global connectivity acts as an economic bridge, linking Israeli ingenuity with international markets. Diaspora networks support research collaborations, startups, and investment. The participation of educated returnees, including women, aligns with strong employment figures: educated workers, particularly women, pursue opportunities with high participation rates, reinforcing growth and resilience. This cross-border exchange helps sustain Israel’s advancement and reinforces its position as a hub for innovation.
Policy implications: spreading risk to strengthen resilience
Given regional volatility and a turbulent security outlook, a robust, interconnected diaspora can be a practical shield and an engine of growth. Policies to consider include expanding aliyah avenues while maintaining deep ties with world Jewry, fostering investment channels that support Israeli startups, and promoting educational exchanges that encourage eventual returns. Encouraging diaspora involvement in civil defense, culture, and entrepreneurship creates a more resilient national fabric. The goal is not to promote mass exodus or dependency on one homeland, but to cultivate a globally engaged Jewish people who contribute to Israel wherever they live.
Conclusion: a question for the global Jewish people
Barbara Lobeliner’s question—why not every Jew enlist or return—speaks to a broader rethinking of belonging and security. In a world where anti-Semitism rises and conflict persists, a diverse, engaged diaspora can amplify Israel’s safety and vitality. Perhaps the future holds a renewed glow of return, sustained ties abroad, and a safer, stronger homeland for all who share the Jewish future.
