Ask the Right Questions: Responding to Iran by Recalibrating Your Giving to Israel

With the launch of Operation Rising Lion—Israel’s campaign against Iranian nuclear capabilities—this next phase of the Iron Swords War marks a sobering return to bomb shelters, air raid sirens, and tragic casualties.

It’s not just another escalation. It’s an inflection point.

For those who give to Israel, this is a moment to pause—not to retreat, but to reassess. What was relevant at the onset of the war may no longer reflect the needs of the moment. The question is no longer how much to give—but how to give in a way that is meaningful, mindful, and measurable.

That begins by asking the right questions—of yourself, and of the people and organizations you support.

Start With Yourself: What’s Driving Your Giving Now?

Giving with purpose isn’t just about what you fund—it’s about why. Before evaluating others, take a moment to assess your own approach:

1. What does meaningful giving look like for me today?
   Is it about national security? Human dignity? Economic resilience? Spiritual or educational continuity? What aligns most deeply with your values right now?
   
2. What am I aiming to change as a result of my giving?
   This might include specific outcomes (e.g., trauma recovery, resettlement), or broader objectives (e.g., societal cohesion, Jewish continuity, global solidarity).
   
3. What would make me feel confident that my support is making a difference?
   Clarity around this question will guide both what you fund and how you follow up.
   
4. Do I want to concentrate my giving or diversify it?
   Some donors find meaning in depth, others in breadth. Both are valid—but knowing your preference helps you avoid drifting.
   

Then Ask More From Your Partners: Are They Aligned with Your Purpose?

Once you’ve clarified your purpose, turn to the people and projects you support in Israel. These are your partners on the ground. Ask them:

1. Which needs are you focused on right now, and why?
   Their priorities don’t have to mirror yours—but there should be a clear rationale that lets you assess alignment.
   
2. What are you doing today that you weren’t doing six months ago?
   This will tell you if they’re actively responding to a changing reality, or focusing on different objectives.
   
3. What does success look like in the next 3–6 months?
   Their answer should reflect real-world conditions and measurable progress, even if informal.
   
4. How are you tracking your impact?
   Metrics, stories, community feedback—however they do it, you want to hear that they care about outcomes, not just activity.
   
5. How do you make decisions about what not to do?
   Especially in wartime, focus and discipline are crucial. Understanding their tradeoffs reveals maturity and strategy.
   

When Purpose Meets Impact

This is not a time for passive philanthropy.

The most effective giving doesn’t start with urgency—it starts with clarity. And it leads not just to support, but to results.

By asking the right questions of yourself and your partners, you turn giving into a journey—a process that strengthens Israel and your relationship with its people.