For many young Americans, Israel has become a source of growing controversy since the October 7 Hamas attack and the ongoing war that followed. But for content creator Margot “Malka” Will, the conflict only deepened her connection to the country she chose to call home.
Margoux Malka Will
Will spoke openly about her journey from a Catholic upbringing in the United States to converting to Judaism, moving to Israel and publicly defending the country online despite intense criticism and threats.
“The first thing that attracted me to the religion was the sense of community,” Will said, explaining that Judaism offered her a feeling of belonging she had not experienced growing up Catholic. Over time, she said, her connection became spiritual and personal. “I changed my entire life to be here, to be Jewish, to be a part of the Israeli story.”
Since October 7, Will said she has made it her mission to advocate for Israel on social media, despite facing backlash that included losing friends and receiving death threats. While many around the world have distanced themselves from Israel during the war, she said she felt compelled to stand by the country even more strongly. “Being Israeli is coming together in these times,” she said. “I’m not running.”
Will also recently shared publicly that recognition of her Jewish conversion had been delayed because she converted through the Reform movement, an issue that continues to spark debate in Israel over religious authority and recognition. She said the situation has been emotionally painful, especially after recently getting married and beginning to think about raising a Jewish family.
“I love Israel so much and I hope Israel would love me back,” she said.
Despite the uncertainty, Will said she plans to remain in Israel and continue building her life there. Following her social media post about the issue, she said she received an outpouring of support from Israelis and Jews around the world.
“People have been so amazing and supportive,” she said. “The people in Israel really have made my journey what it is.”