It's been an incredibly difficult two years, says Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews. I think our Jewish identity is being worn far more heavily these days given the pain of it all. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has intensified feelings among British Jews related to safety, community connection, and identity. Events such as the attacks on 7 October have left deep emotional scars, with some victims having direct ties to the UK. The environment of rising antisemitism reflects a concerning trend; instances of hate crimes against Jews have doubled from 1,543 in 2023 to 3,282 by 2024. This crisis has forced many Jews, including youth, to reevaluate their relationship with their identity and connection to Israel. The increasing generational divide has led to varied opinions among young Jews regarding Zionism, with many feeling a strong need to express their support for Israel in light of the pervasive threats against the community. In contrast, others are urging more critical perspectives on Israel's actions, suggesting a split in the community's opinion that mirrors broader societal debates about justice and activism. Individuals are navigating these shifts in a context where discussions about Israel are fraught, complicating an already challenging discourse. The ongoing safety concerns and rising tensions create a complex, often painful environment for British Jews, one that requires careful navigation as they seek to find solidarity within their community amidst external pressures.