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Friends of Yad Sarah host landmark panel on Israel, the diaspora and antisemitism
Natasha Hausdorff, Leo Pearlman and Jonathan Sacerdoti among speakers at charity event in London
On 11th September, Friends of Yad Sarah hosted a landmark panel discussion in London, exploring the vital themes of Israel, the diaspora, and the rise of antisemitism.
The evening, moderated by Daniel Greenberg, featured leading commentators Natasha Hausdorff, Leo Pearlman, Jonathan Sacerdoti and Jake Wallis Simons. The event opened with remarks from trustee Alistair Marks, who introduced a special video message from Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Speaking from Jerusalem, President Herzog reaffirmed the unbreakable bonds between Israel and Jewish communities worldwide. “The bonds that we share, friends, are the best antidote to hatred, uncertainty and heartbreak,” he said. He praised Yad Sarah as “a vital web of solidarity and caring that helps keep our Israel home,” and urged support for its work in the face of the challenges since October 7.”
Throughout the evening, speakers reflected on the evolving nature of antisemitism, now increasingly expressed as hostility towards the Jewish state. They highlighted the inextricable link between Israel’s security and the safety of Jews worldwide, while emphasising the dangers of misinformation, the weaponisation of international law, and generational challenges in maintaining Jewish pride and identity.
Pearlman stressed the responsibility to inspire the next generation with pride in Israel and Jewish identity, while Hausdorff called for greater confidence in confronting false narratives. Sacerdoti and Wallis Simons underscored the importance of truth, resilience, and articulating Israel’s achievements with clarity.
The evening closed with an appeal to support Yad Sarah, Israel’s largest volunteer organisation, with 8,000 volunteers delivering vital medical and social care across the country.
Alistair Marks said: “As we approach the High Holy Days, this is a time for reflection and tzedakah. Supporting Yad Sarah means standing with everyday Israelis at their most difficult hour. Our solidarity must be more than words — it must be action.”
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