דלג לתוכן הראשי

Self-Defense

In a world where open support for Hamas and other terrorist groups is being normalized on college campuses, city streets, and even by global institutions, pro-Israel advocates can no longer afford to be physically unprepared. While diplomacy, advocacy, and public education are vital, the right to physical self-defense is foundational. Self-defense is not an act of aggression—it is the natural and moral response to those who seek to harm you for your identity, beliefs, or presence.

Every Jew and every Israel supporter—particularly those living in cities with a high frequency of hostile protests or terror sympathizers—should consider self-defense training not optional, but essential.

Training and Methodology​

The most effective form of real-world self-defense training is Krav Maga, the Israeli system developed for rapid response under life-threatening conditions. Unlike traditional martial arts, Krav Maga focuses on practical techniques for disarming weapons, escaping holds, neutralizing threats, and surviving ambush attacks. It is ideal for civilians who may face violence in urban environments.

Other suitable systems include:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (for grappling and escape)
  • Muay Thai (for striking and stamina)
  • Tactical street defense programs (with a focus on real-life scenarios)

Training should emphasize situational awareness, decision-making under stress, and strategic disengagement. Your goal is not to fight—your goal is to survive and escape.

In addition to physical training, it is important to develop psychological readiness. This includes recognizing pre-attack indicators, maintaining spatial awareness in public settings, and developing the ability to stay calm under pressure.

Self-defense must always be lawful. Each country—and in federal systems, each state or province—has different laws regarding use of force. Individuals must familiarize themselves with:

  • What constitutes reasonable force
  • The legality of carrying non-lethal weapons (e.g., pepper spray, tactical pens, personal alarms)
  • When and how to legally use tools such as expandable batons or concealed carry firearms (where permitted)

Do not carry any defensive weapon without proper training and legal knowledge. A tool you do not know how to use is more dangerous to you than to your attacker.

If your country permits it, consider applying for a legal firearm license and pursuing formal firearms training. In nations where this is not possible, carry a legally approved tool and make sure you know how to deploy it under pressure.

Community and Preparedness​

Self-defense is not just about individuals—it is about community readiness. Form local groups that train together, exchange information about threats, and conduct safety drills. In high-risk areas, Jewish and pro-Israel communities must begin to function like resilient networks with clear response plans and mutual support.

Final Note​

Self-defense is a basic human right—and today, it is a necessary one. The enemies of Israel are not limited to battlefields. They are present in cities, universities, and online spaces, emboldened by silence and inaction. Every supporter of Israel must be prepared not only to speak truth, but to defend life. Training saves lives. Awareness prevents harm. And readiness ensures that terror does not win.