Throughout the generations, the Jewish people have encountered many figures — like Mamdani, individuals who turned hatred into their compass, hatred of Israel into an ideology, and incitement into a political career. Our generation has learned one clear lesson: we must not ignore such things. We must not take them lightly. We must not be deceived by a smile or pious words that conceal deep hostility and a violence that can erupt at any moment.
This morning we received the news that Mamdani was elected Mayor of New York. This is nothing less than an earthquake at the heart of one of the greatest symbols of world Jewry. New York is the city with the largest Jewish community outside of Israel, a city that was supposed to be a strategic partner, and now has become a potential threat. If it can happen there, what will we say about Los Angeles? Paris? London? And how quickly will it spread to places where our communities are even more vulnerable? We may soon meet new Fernandos and Isabels.
Until now, the Jewish people in the Diaspora have been central partners in strengthening and building the State of Israel. They have mobilized, contributed, and stood by us at every moment of need and crisis. But reality has changed. This moment is a wake-up call for us in Israel: we are no longer just the home of the Jewish people. We are required to be the rear guard, the shield, the center of assistance for every Jew, everywhere in the world.
Just as the IDF, Mossad, and Shin Bet defend the State of Israel, we must develop an international Jewish organization that embodies deep mutual responsibility, one that prevents the next disaster before it begins. No longer responding after the fact, but leading with initiative, preparedness, and protection.
We stopped the disaster of October 7th with our own hands, through unparalleled civil and military bravery. Today, that responsibility extends beyond our borders. Courage is required once again, the courage of connection.
To stand as one for each other. To go beyond ourselves. And to ensure that Jews are safe in every corner of the world.
The time to act is now. We must establish an Israel–Diaspora infrastructure unlike anything seen before, developing shared understandings and building effective emergency aid mechanisms, coordinated with all governmental bodies in various countries. And no less important: to build, from the ground up, a new Jewish defense alliance, strong, connected, and future-oriented.
Yoel Zilberman, Founder and CEO, HaShomer HaChadash