Israel calls for global coalition in war against rising antisemitism

Published: MARCH 20, 2024 16:30

Updated: MARCH 20, 2024 19:13

Israel Katz, Foreign Minister to the United Nations points at family members of hostages in the audience during a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, at U.N. headquarters in New York, US March 11, 2024. (photo credit: REUTERS/DAVID 'DEE' DELGADO) — Israel Katz, Foreign Minister to the United Nations points at family members of hostages in the audience during a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, at U.N. headquarters in New York, US March 11, 2024.

(photo credit: REUTERS/DAVID 'DEE' DELGADO)

Katz said that the antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment was being advanced on all media fronts, and it required the mobilization of Israeli citizens.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz called for a global coalition to fight against antisemitism and the defamation of Israel and Jews on Wednesday afternoon.

Katz said that the antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment was being advanced on all media fronts, and it required the mobilization of Israeli citizens, the Jewish diaspora, supporters of Israel and the Jewish people, and international allies to participate.

“Together we can overcome the hatred that seeks to divide and weaken us as a nation,” said Katz. “Our unity and determination define us, especially in times of adversity. It is the strength found in our solidarity that will guide us through this storm.”

Awash with a wave of antisemitism

The world is awash with a wave of antisemitism since October 7, Katz said, targeting not just Israel but Jewish communities everywhere.

“The fear facing many who are now scared to show their Jewish identity is unacceptable,” said Katz. “This is a clear reminder that our right to self-defense and existence is being challenged. We cannot stand idly by and rely on others to fight for us.”

Foreign Minister Israel Katz speaks at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 16, 2023 (credit: BOAZ ARAD)

Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America applauded Katz's statements about the media's contributions to the rise in antisemitism and antizionism, as they uncritically amplified Hamas's claims.

"We have always maintained that critically examining the news, fighting back against distortions, and never backing down are essential for the Jewish community’s survival," said CAMERA Executive Director Andrea Levin.

"It's crucial to confront false narratives directly and immediately, and to stand firm on the truth without compromise. We’re glad the Israeli foreign ministry is taking this problem seriously."

The Foreign Ministry cited a Diaspora Ministry, Jewish Agency, and World Zionist Organization report that indicated a dramatic increase in antisemitic incidents worldwide. Brazil saw a 961% rise in antisemitic incidents, Australia a 738% increase, England a 512% increase, and the United States of America a 337% increase.