image sourced from original article at The recent ousting of Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela has sparked hope and cautious optimism among the country's Jewish diaspora, many of whom fled decades of political instability, economic collapse, and antisemitic rhetoric under the regimes of Hugo Chávez and Maduro. Once a thriving community of 25,000, Venezuela's Jewish population has dwindled to just a few thousand, with most emigrating to Israel, the United States, and other countries during years of hardship and persecution.
Exiled Venezuelan Jews, while relieved at Maduro's removal, remain wary about the prospects of returning. Many recall the deep scars left by years of antisemitism, government crackdowns, and the destruction of community institutions. Some, like Samy Yecutieli and Sammy Eppel, express hope for reconstruction and renewed diplomatic ties with Israel, but acknowledge that the path to rebuilding will be long and uncertain.
Despite the promise of new opportunities and the possibility of political change, most members of the diaspora are hesitant to envision a mass return. The trauma of exile, fractured families, and lingering instability mean that, for now, the idea of going back remains a distant hope. As Venezuela enters a new chapter, its Jewish community watches closely, hoping for a future where they might once again call their homeland home.
