Three years following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, a new survey from the Hebrew University-European Forum has uncovered notable changes in how Israelis perceive their national identity, security, and their relationship with Europe. The 2026 Barometer reveals that Jewish Israelis feel a heightened association with their Israeli identity and increasingly view Israel as more rooted in the Middle East rather than Europe.
The Evolving Identity of Jewish Israelis
The 2026 survey, tempered by earlier analyses from 2022 and 2024 that documented more modest shifts in perception, was spearheaded by Professor Gisela Dachs of the Hebrew University. The research, which probes the mutual perceptions between Israel and key European nations—Germany, France, Great Britain, and Poland—demonstrates a significant evolution in the understanding of safety and identity among Jewish Israelis. A striking 62% indicate a stronger sense of Israeli identity, reflecting how recent conflicts have bolstered nationalist sentiments.
Skepticism Toward Europe
The survey reveals a growing skepticism among Israelis regarding the European Union. Many respondents perceive the EU as failing to meet its objectives, with a stark contrast from earlier views where the majority regarded it as a success in fostering unity and economic collaboration. Interestingly, the majority of Israelis consider their country safer for Jews compared to Europe, while European respondents exhibit a more divided perception on the issue. Countries like Germany and Hungary remain among those viewed favorably by Israelis, whereas France and Spain are increasingly seen as antisemetic.
Shifting Perceptions of Middle Eastern Identity
Despite the heightened sense of Israeli nationalism, there is also a marked sentiment among Israelis that connects their identity more closely with the Middle East. In the latest survey, 42% of respondents explicitly identified Israel as a Middle Eastern country, compared to just 18% who identified it as European. A notable change is observed among Arab respondents, whose identification of Israel as part of the Middle Eastern sphere has tripled since 2022.
Concerns About European Antisemitism
The evolving sentiment comes amidst rising concerns regarding antisemitism in Europe. Overwhelmingly, Israelis predict worsening conditions for Jews in Europe, with 69% expressing the belief that the situation will decline in the future. This reflects a narrative that links their national security directly with the perceived safety of Jewish communities abroad. As well, there is a significant distinction in how Jewish and Arab Israelis view their identity and safety, with Arab respondents feeling a weakening sense of Israeli identity compared to their Jewish counterparts.
Overall, the 2026 Barometer underscores a foundational reassessment in Israeli perspectives on identity, security, and the intricate relationship with Europe. Dachs emphasizes that this study captures a pivotal moment, showcasing how events of the past few years have reshaped views and experiences, prompting a broad reconsideration of alliances and perceptions of safety on both sides. The implications of these shifts will likely resonate far beyond the survey findings, potentially influencing future political and social dynamics in the region.