Why is Israel so important?-

Why Israel? The modern State of Israel was established as the homeland of the Jewish people in 1948. Based on the basic tenet of Zionism-that Jews must have their own country to survive-Israel has served as a refuge for Jews the world over and has been built on the values of freedom and democracy, fulfilling both a political and historic imperative. The Land of Israel had not been an independent political entity for the previous 2,000 years, and Jews suffered nearly two millennia of exile and persecution. Israel's creation allowed the Jewish people to control their own destiny in a sovereign state on the very land where ancient Jews had once established a great nation and built a thriving civilization. Click here to view the Map History of Israel's Borders. Dear Friend of Israel, Why is Israel so important? At some point or another, this question has likely been asked of you as a pro-Israel supporter. While we all may have varying ties to Israel, there are common fundamental reasons why modern Israel's existence is so important. Biblical Heritage Millions of American Jews and Christians feel a deep religious connection to the land of Israel.Read more... The Holocaust. In 1933, the Jewish population of Europe stood at over nine million. Most European Jews lived in countries that Nazi Germany would occupy or influence during World War II. By 1945, the Germans and their collaborators killed nearly two out of every three European Jews as part of the "Final Solution," the Nazi policy to murder the Jews of Europe. Read more... Quest for Statehood The Jewish people established its first independent political entity in the land of Israel some 3,000 years ago, and has maintained a continuous presence there ever since. Read more... Israel Today Israel is a vibrant democracy that, like the United States, stands out as a leading force for good in the world. Israel’s national revival enabled the Jewish people to exercise their right to self-determination, with the commitment to ensure the rights of all Israeli citizens. Read more... Israel's Achievements By sharing its experience, technologies and know-how with others, Israel has improved the lives of millions of people worldwide. Read more... A mere 60 years after its establishment, Israel has emerged as a thriving democracy, a model of innovation creating and sharing new technologies that have improved the lives of millions of people while also becoming one of the America's staunchest allies. Read more about the importance of the Jewish State. Thank You, Brian Shankman Director of Regional Affairs & Development

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