Herzog: Vilifying Israel Is Antisemitism

Vilification of Israel and denying Israel’s right to exist are antisemitism, President Isaac Herzog said to a joint session of the US Congress on Wednesday, July 19, honoring 75 years of Israeli Independence.

“I respect criticism, especially from friends, although one does not always have to accept it. But criticism of Israel must not cross the line into negation of the State of Israel’s right to exist. Questioning the Jewish people’s right to self-determination is not legitimate diplomacy, it is antisemitism.”

“Vilifying and attacking Jews, whether in Israel, in the United States, or anywhere in the world is antisemitism,” Herzog said. “Antisemitism is a disgrace in every form, and I commend President Joe Biden for laying out the United States’ first ever National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism.”

Herzog’s remarks came the day after Congress passed a resolution affirming US support for Israel and calling it a democratic ally, as well as condemning antisemitism.

Herzog later added that “as president of Israel, I am here to tell the American people, and each of you, that I have great confidence in Israeli democracy. Although we are working through some issues, just like you, I know our democracy is strong and resilient. Israel has democracy in its DNA.”

He also thanked Congress for supporting Israel throughout its history, and said the US-Israel relationship is a “two-way alliance, in which Israel has been making critical contributions to the national security and interests of the United States in numerous ways.” (JPost /VFI News)

“God, we thank You for helping us defend and pursue Israel’s causes worldwide. We are especially grateful for our American allies that defend our sovereignty, the rights of Israeli people, and help combat antisemitism.”