British Jews Increase Attachment to Israel After October 7
The Institute for Jewish Policy Research found British Jews report stronger Zionist identification and higher concerns over antisemitism following the October 7 attacks.
Research from the Institute for Jewish Policy Research indicates that British Jews have developed a stronger emotional attachment to Israel and a higher likelihood of identifying as Zionist since the October 7 attacks. The study, titled “October 8 Jews: The Impact of October 7 on British Jewish Identity,” found that the percentage of British Jews identifying as Zionist rose to 66% by 2025.
This shift correlates with a sharp increase in concerns over antisemitism in the United Kingdom, where the proportion of Jews viewing it as a "very big problem" tripled to 50%. While the study noted an increase in the consideration of emigration to Israel, it found no long-term increase in religious practice or synagogue attendance.
Findings varied by political affiliation, as Jewish supporters of the Green Party showed a decline in both their attachment to Israel and their concern regarding UK antisemitism. Jonathan Boyd, director of the institute, characterized the overall trend as a community drawing closer together under pressure rather than a religious revival.
