Prominent Jewish leaders have chosen to boycott a significant international conference on antisemitism in Jerusalem, citing concerns regarding the participation of European far-right politicians. Notable absences included Israel's President Isaac Herzog and the UK's Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis.
During the conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a stark warning regarding the resurgence of antisemitism, paralleling it with the historical era preceding the Holocaust. He asserted that "racial antisemitism is inciting a global war against the existence of the Jews," emphasizing the need for societies to combat this growing threat.
The attendance of far-right party representatives sparked controversy, with UK government antisemitism advisor Lord Mann declining his invitation, expressing skepticism about the lessons to be learned from "some of these characters." Chief Rabbi Mirvis also withdrew, citing concerns over the nature of the attendees.
The conference, organized by Amichai Chikli, Israel's Diaspora Affairs Minister, included notable figures from France's National Rally and Spain's Vox party, both of which have faced accusations of antisemitism in the past. Chikli defended their inclusion, claiming they are unjustly maligned in relation to Israel.
Jordan Bardella, President of the National Rally, addressed the audience, acknowledging the significance of his invitation to Israel while stressing his party's commitment to protecting Jewish communities in France. His remarks underscored ongoing tensions regarding Islamism and its perceived threat to Western values.
Overall, the event served as a reflection of Israel's complex relationship with international perceptions of antisemitism, with discussions focusing on topics such as anti-Israel bias and the intersection of radical Islam and antisemitism. The gathering underscored the delicate balance Israel must navigate in addressing both internal political alliances and international criticism.
