A significant protest unfolded at a recent international conference on antisemitism in Jerusalem, where numerous prominent Jewish leaders, including Israel's president and the UK's chief rabbi, chose to boycott the event because of the inclusion of far-right political leaders from Europe.
Prominent Jewish Leaders Skip Conference on Antisemitism Amid Far-Right Controversy
Prominent Jewish Leaders Skip Conference on Antisemitism Amid Far-Right Controversy
Jewish figures boycott Jerusalem event due to far-right participants, raising concerns over antisemitism response.
High-profile Jewish leaders, including Israel's President Isaac Herzog and the UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, boycotted a critical conference on antisemitism in Jerusalem, citing concerns over the participation of far-right politicians from Europe. The event saw the presence of controversial figures associated with parties known for their anti-immigrant and nationalist ideologies, stirring significant opposition from some attendees.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opened the conference with a strong warning against the rising tide of antisemitism, comparing it to the unchecked proliferation of hatred seen in the years leading up to the Nazi Holocaust. Netanyahu's speech reminded attendees of the grave consequences of failing to combat antisemitism, emphasizing the bond between free societies and their commitment to eradicating such hatred.
Despite the alarming statements from Netanyahu, the inclusion of far-right representatives from parties like France's National Rally, Spain's Vox, and Sweden Democrats sparked backlash. UK antisemitism adviser Lord Mann publicly declined his invitation, asserting that there was nothing beneficial for the UK to learn from those with controversial backgrounds.
Chief Rabbi Mirvis expressed his concerns in a statement, noting his withdrawal after learning about the participation of figures connected to far-right movements. President Herzog opted to engage with Jewish leaders separately, signaling a rift over the event's guest list.
The conference's organizer, Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli, defended the invitation extended to far-right figures, arguing that they have been unfairly maligned regarding Israel. Among those present was National Rally President Jordan Bardella, who acknowledged the historical significance of his invitation to Israel but refrained from addressing his party's controversial past directly.
In his remarks, Bardella proclaimed that the National Rally, under Marine Le Pen, would serve as a protector of Jews in France, framing Islamism as a primary threat to societal values. His attendance added to the divisive atmosphere, especially as discussions at the conference focused on topics such as international bias against Israel and the interplay between radical Islam and antisemitism.
The conference unfolded against the backdrop of tensions surrounding the International Criminal Court's recent actions, including an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, which fueled accusations of antisemitism directed at international institutions. The event highlighted the complexity of tackling antisemitism amidst diverse political ideologies and the ongoing struggles within the Jewish community regarding representation and advocacy.
