“Israelis see themselves as superior to other people as a result of ongoing threat they are going through. This is a threat to Jewish life as Israelis tend to behave rather impolitely in the Diaspora.”
The Interviewee – Robbert Baruch (Born 1970), Manager Public Affairs, The Hague, Netherlands.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Safety, an insurance policy for the Jewish people.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes.”
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?
“Modern orthodox without being too religious (not keeping shabbat). Dominance of any religion is a threat to any country.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“Yes.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“Israelis see themselves as superior to other people as a result of ongoing threat they are going through. This is a threat to Jewish life as Israelis tend to behave rather impolitely in the Diaspora”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Israel should invest in strengthening the Jewish communities in the Diaspora.“
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes.“
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?
“Yes. Great country/hard to life.“
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“1,000 people, The Hague, modern orthodox.“
If you could ask the Israeli readers of this project a question, what would it be?
“How would you like to be involved in strengthening the Jewish communities to defend the state of Israel?”
