Prominent Jewish leaders have decided to boycott an international antisemitism conference in Jerusalem, protesting the inclusion of far-right politicians from Europe. Notable figures such as Israeli President Isaac Herzog and UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis chose to withdraw from the event, which they deemed inappropriate given the controversial guest list.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his address at the conference, highlighted the alarming resurgence of antisemitism in Europe, likening the current situation to the precarious years leading up to the Nazi Holocaust. He cautioned that unchecked antisemitism poses a grave threat to free societies. "Racial antisemitism is inciting a global war against the existence of the Jews," he emphasized.
However, the ongoing celebration of far-right politicians, including members from France's National Rally and Spain's Vox, incited backlash, leading to the refusal of UK government advisor Lord Mann to attend. He explicitly stated that there was "nothing for the UK to learn" from these individuals.
Chief Rabbi Mirvis, citing the participation of far-right populist figures, also expressed regret over his decision to join the event. Meanwhile, President Herzog opted for a separate gathering with Jewish leaders, seeking a compromise in light of the controversy.
The conference was organized by Israel's Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli, who has been building connections with far-right parties across Europe. Chikli defended the decision to include these politicians, asserting they were victims of misinformation.
Among the contentious attendees was Jordan Bardella, President of France's National Rally, a party with a history of antisemitism allegations. He acknowledged the significance of his invitation to Israel and positioned his party as a defender against threats to French Jews. "Islamism is the totalitarianism of the 21st century," stated Bardella, which resonated with sentiments often echoed by his party.
The conference underscored Israel's perception of mounting hostility from certain international entities, featuring discussions centered on "Addressing Anti-Israel Bias in International Institutions" and "How Radical Islam Fuels Antisemitism in the West." Controversy continues to grow around the International Criminal Court’s recent actions against Israeli officials, viewed by many in Israel as a manifestation of antisemitism.
