While headlines report escalating security tensions and high alert, a group of Jewish students from Argentina chose to come to Israel on a mission of identity and solidarity. The young adults, who arrived as part of the Birthright project, did not come only to visit, but to roll up their sleeves, experience Israeli social action up close, and lend a hand to those who need it most.
"In Argentina I'm careful not to identify as Jewish, I avoid wearing a Star of David and I face harsh accusations at university," says Melina, one of the participants. She shares how campus life has become more difficult since the war began: "A lecturer at the university said that Israel is committing genocide and didn't allow any response."
Melina explains that even communal spaces, once considered safe, are no longer a given: "They tried to demonstrate outside my synagogue because Israeli soldiers were coming to give a lecture."
The participants say that antisemitism has changed their day-to-day behavior. "I no longer speak as freely as I used to about being Jewish and Zionist — I'm cautious," says Geraldine. Lara adds, "I avoid saying that I'm Jewish or wearing a necklace with a Star of David." Ezekiel describes adds: "There are places where my friends don't feel comfortable being who they are in everyday public spaces."
The fear also seeps into close social circles. "It hurts to have to explain to friends why anti-Zionism is the modern form of antisemitism, and to deal with difficult conversations to choose to lose relationships because of it," Geraldine shares.
While in Argentina they are sometimes forced to keep their heads down, here in Israel, despite security threats, they chose to hold their heads high with pride.
Moshe Cohen, CEO of Chasdei Naomi, said: "The decision of these young people to come precisely now, to lend a hand and connect with social action, deeply moves us. They bring with them a spirit of giving and practical Zionism, and remind us all that the connection between Jews around the world and Israel passes through the heart and through acts of kindness."
The irony is not lost on them: they came to Israel as part of a vacation away from the antisemitism they experience in Argentina, only to find themselves in a country coping with security tensions and regional threats. And yet, between fear of identity, antisemitism abroad, and the complex reality in Israel, they chose to be present, to help, and to turn the identity they fear at home into a source of action and meaning.
