Editor's Notes: American Jews are changing after Oct. 7, but we cannot abandon them - comment

Columnist Zvika Klein argues against writing off progressive American Jews, despite criticism from Israeli historian Gadi Taub at the National Conservatism Conference in Jerusalem. Klein highlights shifts in American Jewish leadership since October 7, including Reform rabbis renewing commitments to Zionism and ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt becoming a staunch defender of Israel. He urges Israelis to recognize these changes and maintain dialogue with Jews who disagree with them.

Columnist Zvika Klein pushes back against Israeli historian Gadi Taub's assertion at the National Conservatism Conference in Jerusalem that progressive Jews who appease antisemites are 'no longer our friends.' Klein, who was born in Chicago and grew up in Israel, argues that American Jewish life has changed significantly since October 7 and that Israelis are missing these shifts. He highlights Reform Rabbi Ammi Hirsch's efforts to strengthen Zionism within his movement, including a May 2025 conference that adopted resolutions renewing commitments to Jewish peoplehood. Klein also defends the ADL and its CEO Jonathan Greenblatt, noting Greenblatt's transformation into a staunch defender of Israel on American television since October 7. He urges Israelis to recognize changes in American Jewish leadership, maintain dialogue with those who disagree, and consult local Jewish communities before offering political endorsements to foreign parties.