{
  "id": 8352519,
  "title": "What survives the smoke: From New York’s memorial to Jerusalem’s living future - opinion",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/what-survives-the-smoke-from-new-yorks-memorial-to-jerusalems-living",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-19T01:46:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Jerusalem Post",
    "slug": "jerusalem-post",
    "url": "https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-908897"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On a recent trip to Jerusalem, a community tour group stopped at the 9/11 Living Memorial Plaza, an extraordinary site that pays tribute to the nearly 3,000 people murdered during the September 11 attacks. Embedded in the base of the monument is a piece of metal recovered from the Twin Towers, a physical reminder of the connection between New York and Jerusalem.\n\nOne inscription caught the reporter's attention, stating, \"This metal piece, like the entire monument, is a manifestation of the special relationship between New York and Jerusalem.\" This sentiment, while intended to be timeless, now appears almost dated after witnessing the political changes in New York. The reporter drew a parallel to an ancient verse from Exodus, \"A new king arose over Egypt who did not know Joseph,\" reminding us of the forgotten contributions of individuals and the dangers of amnesia.\n\nIn the years following the October 7 attacks, New York witnessed a significant shift in its relationship with Israel. Jewish students faced hostility on campuses, and Zionism became a term of abuse. The city's mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has accused Israel of genocide, refused to affirm its right to exist as a Jewish state, and distanced himself from the city's Israel parade. These actions represent a stark departure from the city's long-standing commitment to Israel.\n\nThe metal piece embedded in the monument remains fixed in Jerusalem stone, but the political relationship it symbolized no longer seems as solid. Its flame now represents something precious lost to politics. However, the reporter's journey did not end at the memorial; they continued to the Old City for slihot, a celebration filled with joy, unity, and a sense of belonging among Jews from diverse backgrounds.\n\nDespite the political turmoil in New York, the reporter found hope in Jerusalem. The streets were filled with young Jews singing, dancing, praying, and enjoying each other's company. Regardless of religious observance, age, or background, everyone came together in slihot, acknowledging their shared Jewish identity and pride in Jerusalem. This scene contrasted sharply with the somber atmosphere of the 9/11 Living Memorial Plaza, highlighting the fragility of political alliances and the enduring strength of the Jewish people.",
  "summary": "Hopefully, one day, the friendship between New York and Jerusalem will be repaired. But whatever politicians decide, our future will not be determined in City Hall.",
  "key_points": [
    "9/11 Living Memorial Plaza in Jerusalem honors 2,996 victims of 9/11 attacks",
    "Embedded piece of Twin Towers metal symbolizes New York-Jerusalem connection",
    "Political shift in New York threatens Jewish students and Israel's right to exist"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The shift in New York's relationship with Israel highlights the fragility of political alliances, but also underscores the enduring strength of Jewish identity and community in Jerusalem.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}