One People, Two Realities: Israeli and American Jews in Tension (285)

From Orthodox Conundrum: R Scott Kahn by R Scott Kahn.

Published: Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000
Duration: 01:11:58
Audio: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/ca13f691-b9be-420f-a20b-b6d1d09222f5/OC_fine_frank_final_with_music.mp3?dest-id=3650922
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In the wake of war, many Israelis have begun asking a difficult question:

Have American Jews become more distant from Israel, or does it only feel that way?

In this wide-ranging and deeply honest conversation, Rabbi David Fine and Dr. Laura Shaw Frank join me to explore what is really happening beneath the surface. Together, we examine shifting patterns of engagement, the emotional and psychological divide between Israeli and American Jewish experiences, and the uncomfortable reality that what strengthens one community can sometimes strain the other.

From declining fundraising and "compassion fatigue," to rising antisemitism in the United States and divergent beliefs about the advisability of the current war, and the very different ways each community experiences this moment, this episode challenges easy assumptions. It also raises a deeper question: are we witnessing disengagement, or simply living in two very different Jewish realities?

This is not a conversation about blame. It is an invitation to greater understanding, greater sensitivity, and a stronger sense of shared destiny.

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Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com

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