Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the rise of antisemitic encampments at elite colleges and universities in the United States in a video address, denouncing the violence and intimidation carried out by “masked cowards” who smash windows and barricade doors. He addressed the Jewish community, expressing support and solidarity in the face of this hatred and calling for a united effort to combat antisemitism and defend civil liberties for all individuals.
Herzog’s comments came as law enforcement officers were called to the University of California, Los Angeles to remove an anti-Israel encampment that was declared unlawful. He spoke of prominent academic institutions being tainted by antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments, and emphasized the importance of standing together against such bigotry. Herzog acknowledged the heroism of those who are fighting against this hatred and reiterated Israel’s support for those facing hostility and threats on campuses and in Jewish communities worldwide.
The Israeli president called on friends and supporters across the United States and around the world to stand strong and proud in the face of antisemitism, asserting that Israel stands with them and cares for them. He reassured the Jewish community that together, they will overcome this resurgence of hatred and discrimination. Herzog’s address was especially poignant as Holocaust Remembrance Day approached, serving as a reminder of the horrors of the past and the need to remain vigilant in combating antisemitism.
In contrast to Herzog’s message of unity and support, Iran expressed support for the anti-Israel demonstrations at top U.S. universities, applauding protesters who disrupted campus facilities and faced arrest. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian denounced law enforcement actions against these protesters, condemning them as suppression of freedom of expression. He criticized the U.S. government for its alleged support of Israeli actions and the crackdown on anti-Israel demonstrations, highlighting what he perceives as a contradiction in America’s stance on freedom of speech.
At UCLA, police faced off against a left-wing mob as they dismantled an anti-Israel encampment and arrested protesters for disrupting campus activities and trespassing. Officers in riot gear removed barriers and made arrests throughout the morning, signaling a proactive approach to restoring order on campus grounds. The clashes at UCLA underscore the tensions and divisions that have arisen in response to the Israel-Palestine conflict, showing the complexities and challenges involved in addressing such contentious issues in an academic setting.
Overall, Herzog’s message reflects a call for unity, tolerance, and resilience in the face of antisemitism and discrimination. His stance stands in stark contrast to Iran’s support for anti-Israel demonstrations, highlighting the divergent perspectives on the Israel-Palestine conflict present in international discourse. The incidents at UCLA and other universities serve as a reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding this issue and the need for diplomatic and peaceful solutions to foster understanding and cooperation in a complex and interconnected world.
