Published: 4 September 2025
Last updated: 4 September 2025
In a few weeks, on Rosh Hashanah, Jews worldwide will pray for the good of humanity in the Jewish year to come, 5786. An end to war and to hunger, an end to injustice and to persecution – a year of peace and a personal resolve to do better. Jews will also pray for their country, its leaders and its government.
In the United States, Jews in many synagogues will intone a prayer for the wellbeing of the President and his Administration – and quietly murmur under their breath: “May God bless and keep Donald Trump... far away from us!”
Trump’s first year has been defined by unpredictability and uncertainty, a dismissal of the opinions of Congress, a wave of executive orders and a desire to sell out to dictators. It is government by real estate agents.
On the Jewish level, this represents a reversal of the Jewish Enlightenment, the Haskalah which promoted modern Jewish values – a reverence for democracy, rationalism and the rule of law. Trump’s regime has delighted the haredim who never historically accepted the Haskalah and its openness. Instead, they preferred to rebuild the ghetto walls from which they had been liberated.
Another group of Jews which has welcomed the second coming of Trump has been a section of the Jewish business community and several now have important posts in government. Jewish communities have always depended on the generosity and munificence of Jewish philanthropists.
Comments3
Mark Drukker4 September at 06:39 pm
In recent weeks the JC has published several articles praising Chabad, which is very right wing, and seems to be one of the few well-funded Jewish groups. They specialise in attracting lapsed Jews all over the world. Trump went to the grave of their Rebbe before his re-election last year.
Lionel Blumenthal4 September at 09:57 am
Dear Colin,
Thank you. Contrary to you, I believe that apart from the Muslims the main threat to Israel and to Jews in the Galut comes from the Left rather than the Right. I have long thought that in a few years it will be impossible for a self respecting Jew to vote for the Democratic party in the US, given their recent comments and voting (I can give you examples but I am sure you are aware of them), just as no self respecting Jew here can vote Labour anymore. Certainly, I no longer feel any sense of security here, or that the police will protect us in time of crisis. Do you?
Regards and Shana Tova
Jeremy Brown4 September at 08:45 am
Colin,
I always respect your historical knowledge and wisdom.
The Democrat party has always been a firm supporter of israel, and always attracted a large Jewish vote. Obama’s two terms, and then Biden created the scenario that Trump, with all his shortcomings as a statesman, was a preferred President in 2025 for Israel. Admittedly his liaison with Qatar, is less than savoury.
Your reference to the far right conference in Israel, in which Chief Rabbi Mervis withdrew his attendance, is at this time a difficult topic. French Jews are more fearful of the left in France, with its allegiance to Islamism, which is why they reluctantly might feel safer under Marine Le Pen.
The war in Gaza is tearing parts of Israel apart, whilst the ineffective Arab league has said Hamas can no longer rule Gaza, and with biased Israel hating UN, they do not have the means to act .. this is left to Israel to crush Gaza City.
So whilst you bleat on about Trump, Bibi and the war, it would be good to have your input on alternative ways forward.
Best wishes