Jewish Leaders Withdraw from Antisemitism Conference in Jerusalem Over Far-Right Politicians

A significant boycott of an international antisemitism conference in Jerusalem has emerged as prominent Jewish leaders declined to attend, protesting the involvement of far-right European politicians. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu highlighted the risks of unchecked antisemitism, while critics emphasized the problematic invitations extended to controversial political figures.

Prominent Jewish leaders, including Israel's President and the Chief Rabbi of the UK, chose to boycott an international conference on antisemitism held in Jerusalem. Their withdrawal stems from the decision to include several far-right European politicians in the event, which has ignited concerns about the potential normalization of extremist rhetoric.

Attendees who opted out of the conference voiced their dissent against the presence of politicians from parties such as France's National Rally and Spain's Vox. The UK’s antisemitism advisor, Lord Mann, rejected his invitation, asserting that there was "nothing for the UK to learn" from such figures. Meanwhile, Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis expressed his reservations, noting the "populist" nature of some of the attendees.

During the conference, held on the same day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored the escalating threat of antisemitism in Europe, warning of the parallels to the period before the Nazi Holocaust. He emphasized that the fight against this prejudice is crucial for the preservation of free societies.

The event was organized by Amichai Chikli, the Minister of Diaspora Affairs, who has actively sought partnerships with far-right factions across Europe. In his defense of including these politicians, Chikli remarked that they have been unfairly labeled and that their perspectives deserve a platform.

Notable among the contentious attendees was National Rally President Jordan Bardella, who, while acknowledging the historical significance of his presence in Israel, avoided comments on his party's controversial past. He insisted that under the leadership of Marine Le Pen, his party would champion the rights of Jews in France, framing it as a bulwark against the "Islamist threat."

The gathering also featured discussions focused on perceived biases against Israel in international institutions, raising discussions around the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its recent actions against Israeli leaders. The tensions surrounding the conference reflect deeper issues related to antisemitism and the dynamics of contemporary European politics alongside Israel's ongoing concerns about its global perception.