One of the many beautiful aspects of Judaism is the concept of “Elu v’elu Divrei Elokim Chayim” (there is more than one legitimate way to connect to G-d). Meaning, no one has the monopoly on the right way to live as a Jew. So along those lines, whether someone chooses to serve our country through fighting in the Israeli army, learning Torah or doing Sheirut Leumi (National community service), these are all methods that each individual can choose to contribute to Israel in a way that is meaningful for them. And one can certainly argue that all thee of these approaches are necessary. The same principle would apply to the questions of eating rice on Pesach (Passover), or waiting 1, 3, 5.1 or 6 hours after meat before consuming dairy, or “stay-at-home moms” versus working moms and many more examples.

The Beis Hamikdash (Holy Temple) was destroyed due to “baseless hatred” among Jews. According to the Talmud, every generation in which the Temple is not rebuilt is as if we destroyed it. In other words, if the Mashiach (Messiah) has not yet come, it means that we are perpetuating that same hatred of our brothers that caused the initial destruction and exile!

And ironically, there is so much more that unites us all, than divides us. Yet many of us still manage to zoom in on our differences. And unfortunately, it seems that Hashem often needs to send tragedies our way, as those are often  the only things that seem to remind us that we’re really all one family.

Going back to your question, there are many different Halachik opinions about Zionism, ranging from those who believe it is a terrible thing to those who believe it’s a great thing. And there are also those who will both support it and oppose it, depending upon how you define Zionism. But what is generally not disputed is that Israel is our homeland.

May we learn to respect one another, and to treat each other like true brothers and sisters!