New York, NY, July 18, 2014 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed concern over virulent anti-Semitic rhetoric at anti-Israel protest rallies in New York City, as the Jewish state continues to defend its citizens and cities against Hamas rockets from the Gaza Strip.
A demonstration earlier this week outside the United Nations featured signs with language equating Israel with Nazi Germany and other Holocaust references, including, “It Wasn’t OK in Nazi Germany, Why is it OK in Palestine,” “One Holocaust Does not Justify Another” and “UN Must Stop Muslim Holocaust in Gaza.” Another sign read, “Spot the Difference” with a photo of Adolf Hitler and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. At another rally, one demonstrator led the crowd in chants of “Death to Israel.”
More examples and photos from New York rallies are available on the League’s web site.
“The presence of virulently anti-Semitic rhetoric is a phenomenon we have seen at many other anti-Israel rallies around the country and overseas,” said Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director. “It is shocking to see that level of vitriol here in New York City as well.”
Mr. Bernstein added, “We call on community leaders to make clear that no matter how passionately protestors feel about what is happening in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, comparisons between Israel’s actions and the Nazi Holocaust, and other expressions of anti-Semitism have no place in our city or state.”
At least four more anti-Israel demonstrations are scheduled to take place in New York City in the coming weeks.
On July 14, anti-Israel protesters disrupted an Israel solidarity press conference carrying signs that stated “New Yorkers Stand With Gaza Against Israeli Genocide,” “Israel = Ku Klux Klan,” and “Palestinians are Freedom Fighters.” Several hundred protesters attended an anti-Israel rally in Union Square on July 11 holding signs that called for the destruction of Israel with drawings of the Israeli flag next to a swastika. On July 9, more than 1,000 demonstrators gathered outside the Israeli Consulate bearing similar signs comparing Israel to the Ku Klux Klan and Nazi Germany, as well as signs legitimizing violence against Israel.
The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry. Follow us on Twitter: @ADL_NY