As Israel grapples with the ongoing aftermath of the October 7th attacks and a shifting geopolitical landscape, American Jewry’s support of Israel remains steadfast. One of the key figures ensuring that the voices of American Jews are heard both in Israel and the United States is William Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Daroff has been instrumental in fostering dialogue between American Jewry and Israeli leadership, as well as advocating for policies that reinforce the U.S.-Israel alliance.
Since the Hamas-led massacre of October 7th, Daroff has visited Israel 11 times, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of American Jews to the Jewish state. His visits have had a dual purpose: providing moral support and physically standing with Israelis in their time of need, and engaging in critical discussions with Israeli government officials to maintain and enhance the relationship between the two nations. Daroff has spent time with evacuees from the north and south of Israel, toured communities surrounding Gaza, and met with political leaders to ensure that American Jewry’s support is felt and heard across the country.
Daroff was present in Washington, D.C. during Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s latest visit and noted that relations between the Trump administration and the Israeli government are moving in a more positive direction. Unlike the Biden administration, which at times placed conditions on military aid and issued warnings about Israel’s military operations, the new Trump administration has signaled stronger support. This shift has been seen as an opportunity for Israel to take decisive steps in its military and diplomatic goals.
The presence of American-born officials in Netanyahu’s government, including International Affairs Advisor Caroline Glick, Ambassador to the U.S. Yachiel Leiter, and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, has further strengthened the alignment between the two nations. With fluent English speakers and American-born conservatives in key positions, the Israeli leadership finds itself more attuned to American political dynamics than ever before.
Challenges Facing American Jewry
American Jewry has faced significant challenges in the wake of October 7th. While the Jewish community in the U.S. rapidly mobilized and raised nearly $2 billion for Israel’s war effort, it also suffered from a deep betrayal by many former allies. As William Daroff pointed out, progressive organizations, civil rights groups, and university communities that had previously stood with American Jews were often silent in response to the attacks. This abandonment has led to a shift in how American Jews perceive their place in broader coalitions and emphasized the need for stronger internal Jewish unity.
Antisemitism has also skyrocketed in the U.S., particularly on college campuses, where Jewish students face intimidation and exclusion. Under the Trump administration, the Department of Education has launched unprecedented investigations into antisemitic discrimination on campus, signaling a tougher stance on holding universities accountable. This is a significant pivot from previous years and could lead to substantial policy changes in how higher education institutions handle hate speech and harassment targeting Jews.
The Future of the Diaspora-Israel Relationship
William Daroff believes that the past several months have led to a reawakening of American Jewish identity. Synagogue attendance, Jewish communal engagement, and advocacy for Israel have all surged as Jews increasingly recognize their shared fate with the Jewish state. This trend may also lead to an increase in Aliyah (Jewish immigration to Israel) once the war subsides, particularly as American Jews see Israel as both a cultural homeland and a strategic necessity in an increasingly hostile global environment.
At the same time, Israel is evolving in ways that could make it more self-reliant. Israeli officials and pundits have noted that the war has exposed the dangers of over-reliance on the U.S. for weapons and military aid. As a result, there is now a concerted push within Israel to expand its domestic arms industry, develop cutting-edge military technologies and establish itself as an exporter of defense innovations. The meeting between Prime Minister Netanyahu and Elon Musk highlighted Israel’s ambitions to become a leader in AI and advanced defense technologies, a shift that could further transform its economic and security landscape.
A Pivotal Moment in Jewish History
As William Daroff embarks on the 50th annual mission of the Conference of Presidents, he does so with a profound sense of historical significance. This is not just another gathering of American Jewish leaders, but a mission that comes at a defining moment in Jewish history. In previous years, the conference focused largely on diplomacy, but this year, it is deeply personal. Meeting with soldiers, evacuees, and hostages’ families, Daroff stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Israel and notes that it is the families themselves who often give him strength.
Despite the hardships, Daroff remains optimistic. The bond between Israel and American Jewry has been tested and has emerged stronger. The Trump administration provides a more stable diplomatic backdrop for Israel. American Jewish institutions are also rediscovering their sense of purpose in advocating for Jewish rights and security. As Daroff continues his work, he remains committed to ensuring that this moment of unity and strength carries forward into a new chapter for American Jewry and Israel.
Don’t forget to check out more videos and subscribe to @JNS_TV!