“People can live in another place and feel good there, although there is antisemitism and still feel that Israel is their second home.”

The Interviewee – Tímea Nyerges, Head of communications, Budapest, Hungary.

In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?

“I think the diaspora needs Israel and Israel needs the diaspora. Israel for me and for every Jewish people is home.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“Yes. I work In a Jewish school, we teach children the love of Israel. I teach my child that it is the home country of Jewish people.”

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?

“I don’t agree with that.“

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“No.“

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“That people can live in another place and feel good there, although there is antisemitism and still feel that Israel is their second home.”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“It’s active, opened and looking for cooperation in different segments- finance, education, tourism etc…“

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Yes.”

Have you ever been to Israel?

“I lived there for years.  I liked the country, although the necessary military presence takes its toll In people’ s lives literally and in the atmosphere and way of thinking too. Of course there is no other choice yet.”

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?

“It’s a big and active and flourishing community.”

If you could ask the Israeli readers of this project a question, what would it be?

“Do you agree that every Jewish man should make aliyah?”