Benjamin Netanyahu has recently pointed fingers at prominent leaders, including UK’s Sir Keir Starmer, France’s Emmanuel Macron, and Canada’s Mark Carney, claiming they have contributed to rising antisemitism. This accusation follows a tragic incident in Washington, D.C., where two Israeli embassy employees were shot and killed.
Netanyahu stated that these leaders are "on the wrong side of humanity and history." His comments came after they threatened to take serious action against Israel due to its military operations in Gaza, which they described as "egregious." He believes that their criticism of Israel’s actions is linked to the shooting that occurred outside the Capital Jewish Museum.
The shooter, identified as 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, reportedly shouted, "I did this for Gaza" and "free, free Palestine" during his arrest. The victims, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, had just attended an event for young Jewish professionals at the museum before the shooting took place.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the attack, calling it a direct result of antisemitic rhetoric that has escalated since the recent Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. He emphasized that there is a connection between public criticism of Israel and violent acts against its citizens.
Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, labeling the shootings as a consequence of rampant antisemitism and incitement against Israel. He referred to the concept of "blood libels," historically used to justify violence against Jews, and stated that such accusations can lead to tragic outcomes.
Amichai Chikli, Israel’s diaspora minister, also criticized the leaders, suggesting that their failure to take a strong stance against antisemitism is enabling terrorist actions. He stated that those who support such hatred must be held accountable.
In response, a spokesperson for the French foreign ministry rejected the claim that European leaders are to blame for the attack, calling it "completely outrageous." They reiterated France’s commitment to condemning antisemitism in all its forms.
Following the shooting, both Starmer and Macron expressed their condolences. Starmer condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to fight antisemitism wherever it arises. Macron also offered his sympathies to the victims’ families, labeling the incident an antisemitic attack.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Israel and Palestine, as well as the rising concerns over antisemitism in various parts of the world.