British patriot Tommy Robinson recently visited Yad Vashem, the Holocaust museum in Jerusalem, for the first time. During his visit, he expressed strong support for Israel and highlighted the alarming rise of antisemitism on social media.
Robinson shared his reflections on the experience, stating that seeing the museum helped him grasp the severity of the crimes against the Jewish people. He noted that understanding the history behind these atrocities is crucial. He recognized that the violence against Jews did not happen in isolation but was preceded by harmful propaganda and antisemitic narratives.
He admitted that he previously struggled to understand why certain words or phrases could provoke such strong reactions within the Jewish community. However, after his visit, he felt he had gained a deeper insight into the emotions and fears that many Jews carry due to their historical experiences.
Robinson emphasized the importance of Israel as a homeland and a safe haven for Jewish people worldwide. He concluded that this understanding reinforces the necessity for Jews to continue fighting for their rights and safety.
Earlier this month, Israel’s Diaspora Affairs Minister, Amichai Chikli, invited Robinson to Israel, praising him as a “courageous leader” in the battle against radical Islam. Robinson, who has been vocal about his opposition to jihadist extremism, accepted the invitation, framing his trip as a personal mission. He stated that the recent tragic events, including the Manchester terrorist attack, underscored the shared struggle between the UK and Israel against Islamic jihad.
Robinson’s visit and comments come at a time when antisemitic sentiments are rising, prompting leaders like Chikli to express solidarity with the Jewish community. The Speaker of the Knesset, Amir Ohana, also welcomed Robinson, emphasizing the global nature of the fight against extremism and the need for unity in defending democratic values.
Robinson’s trip to Israel and his reflections on the Holocaust museum highlight the ongoing dialogue about antisemitism and the importance of understanding history to combat prejudice today.