by Shmuel Junger
Dear Friends of Israel,
Long before the state of Israel declared its independence in 1948, Australia was woven into the fabric of the miraculous story of Israel’s rebirth in the Land of Israel. Under the Ottoman Empire, Australian eucalyptus trees were transplanted to the Land of Israel, helping to drain the swamps and fight the malaria that had made large swaths of land uninhabitable. Consequently, these Australian eucalyptus trees played a key role in the topographical and climatic transformation of the land of Israel, making Jewish resettlement in the land viable.
Australian soldiers – the legendary ANZAC’s – courageously fought and fell on the soil of the Land of Israel during World War I, most notably in the decisive cavalry charge at Beersheva in 1917 that opened the road to Jerusalem and shifted the course of the campaign against the Ottoman Empire. The strategic brilliance of Sir John Monash, an Australian general of Jewish heritage helped bring about the defeat of Ottoman forces in the region. And on November 29, 1947, when the moment of truth arrived, Australia cast a clear vote in favor of the establishment of a Jewish state while the margin was razor-thin and a “yes” or “no” decision by any country carried significant weight.
Undoubtedly, the People of Israel owe a huge debt of gratitude to Australia for playing a major role in our national revival in the Land of Israel. Yet since October 7th, Israelis have witnessed a very painful and sobering new reality in Australia – Anti-Semitic graffiti scrawled on countless buildings in Jewish communities. Visa entry requests arbitrarily denied to Israelis. Then came arson attacks on synagogues. Public demonstrations suddenly called for violence against Jews. And then finally, dozens of Jews were mercilessly gunned down on Bondi Beach while celebrating the first night of Hanukkah.
Notably, Israeli officials as well as supporters and friends of Israel in Australia had been sounding the alarm for many months. The “Never Again Is Now” movement mobilized across Australia, conveying a message of urgency to address the most troubling spike in anti-Semitism. Sadly, little was done if anything at all, providing us all with a profound demonstration of the consequences of a modern democracy dominated so much by pluralism that decisive action is paralyzed. Influenced by shifting voter sentiment and changing demographics, Australian officials have appeared all too hesitant, or even fearful of taking any meaningful steps in tackling anti-Semitism. Indeed, the very pluralism intended to protect minorities can fail the most vulnerable sectors of the population.
This is not so much an indictment of pluralism itself but rather a sobering reminder of its fragility. As difficult as it may be, we must look at the devastating tragedy on Bondi Beach as a wake-up call for us all to strengthen our communities and to ensure that the values we champion are lived out in practice. Australia’s historical friendship with Israel and with the Jewish people played a key role in the restoration of Jewish sovereignty in the Land of Israel. But even the greatest of friendships between peoples require constant renewal, vigilance and the courage to act when principles are tested. It is a challenge we must face together. And it is because of dear friends like you that I believe we will most definitely rise to the occasion.
May you and your family have a most blessed New Year!
Shmuel Junger
Executive Director