As the modern Israeli state celebrates 70 years, the prevailing sentiment is one of extraordinary accomplishment. In 1948, there were some 650,000 Jews in Israel, who represented about 5 percent of the world’s Jews. Today, Israel’s Jewish population has grown ten-fold and stands at about 6.8 million people. The Israeli military is bracing for a possible Iranian missile or drone attack. International support for Israel remains a concern: In 1948, many American Jews were deeply conflicted about the creation of a Jewish state.

Source: National Post April 19, 2018 21:22 UTC