Boycotting Israel’s antisemitism conference won’t solve the problem - comment

What happens when Israel’s political priorities clash with those of Jewish communities abroad? The backlash over Israel’s International Conference on Combating Antisemitism is a case study in this growing divide.

While Israel is focused on securing international allies—sometimes from unexpected corners—many Jewish leaders, particularly in Europe, remain deeply uncomfortable with the inclusion of far Right politicians.

The result? A controversy that has led to high-profile withdrawals, heated debates, and a stark reminder that the Jewish world is far from unified in its approach to combating antisemitism.

At the center of this divide is a growing divergence in priorities. Israel needs as much global support as possible, especially as antisemitism surges worldwide.

This has led some Israeli officials to embrace leaders long considered off-limits by Jewish communities abroad—figures such as Geert Wilders in the Netherlands, an outspoken supporter of Israel who has yet to be deemed "kosher" in ...
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