Alex Koifman, President of RJCF (Russian Jewish Community Foundation). Lives in Newton, Massachusetts.

The RJCF is a non-profit organization created for charitable purposes by Russian speaking Jewish immigrants from the former USSR now residing in Massachusetts. RJCF goals are to preserve and enhance the Jewish identity among Russian Jews and to support Israel.

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

“Very important. Strong Israel means strong Jewish community outside of Israel.”

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

“Yes. I’m involved in Jewish advocacy in Boston.”

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

“So far I have been very proud of Israel’s conduct in the conflict with Arabs. Including Palestinian Arabs and Arab Israelis.”

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

“It is the diaspora Jews in America who fail to understand Israel’s difficulties/predicament.”

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

“There is no direct action of the Israeli officials towards Jews in America. Israel works with the US elected officials and public organizations (lobbies) such as AIPAC.”

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

“Yes.”

Have you ever been to Israel? 

“I have been in Israel 6 times.”

Anything you would like to add?

“Change the curricular in Arab schools so Arabs are not indoctrinated with anti-Israel propaganda. Also, teach more Zionism in all schools in Israel so anti-Israel organization like Btselem have no support in Israel. Prisons for terrorists should not be a place where they plan more terror and enjoy privileges of cell phones. Israel should not wait for peace to be delivered by Arabs, Israel needs victory then peace will come.”