Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, Amichai Chikli, has expressed confidence in the Trump administration's commitment to addressing the rise of antisemitism following the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre by Hamas. Chikli highlighted the upcoming role of former Rep. Elise Stefanik as the new U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, emphasizing her dedication to fighting antisemitism.
Stefanik's track record includes advocating against antisemitism at American universities and her recent Senate confirmation where she pledged to combat Jew-hatred at the U.N. She has also criticized the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for its alleged ties to terrorist activities.
Chikli outlined four proposed measures to combat antisemitism, including enforcing Title VI to address discrimination on campuses, withholding federal funding from institutions supporting antisemitism, and revoking funding from groups promoting antisemitic or terror-related activities.
In response to evidence linking UNRWA staff to the Oct. 7 massacre, Israel has taken steps to ban the organization from operating within its borders. This decision has sparked discussions about finding alternative aid solutions for Palestinians in the region.
Despite UNRWA's denial of involvement in terrorist activities, testimonies from individuals like Ayelet Samerano, whose son was kidnapped by a UNRWA employee, have fueled calls for the organization's closure. Samerano and others argue that UNRWA's alleged connections to terrorism undermine efforts for peace and stability in the region.
Israeli Ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, praised Stefanik for her unwavering support for Israel and her commitment to combating antisemitism. He expressed optimism about collaborating with her to address the distortions and demonization of Israel within the U.N.
