Politicians' Hesitation to Defend Jews Against Antisemitism: A Calculated Political Stance

In the calculated world of politics, where every move is weighed for its impact on public standing, the authentic human response of empathy often takes a backseat. This is particularly evident in the reluctance of many politicians to unequivocally defend Jewish communities against rising antisemitism.

The article highlights a disturbing trend: political capital is now a primary consideration when deciding whether to offer sympathy or solidarity to victims of tragedy. The question is no longer simply about human decency, but about the potential cost in terms of voting blocs and the risk of alienating supporters whose sensitivities might be offended. This cynical calculus has become the norm, transforming genuine consolation into a strategic decision.

The case of Norway serves as a stark example. King Harald V's desire to send a personal condolence following the October 7 events was reportedly blocked by the Foreign Affairs Ministry, with the argument that such a message should come from the government. Tragically, no such message ever materialized. It took over two years for the deliberate oversight to be recognized as a grave mistake, leaving the Norwegian Jewish community feeling betrayed and sensing an unwelcoming atmosphere.

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I’m seriously worried about the situation for Jews in Norway and especially in Oslo right now.

Similarly, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces criticism for his delayed response to escalating antisemitism. Despite years of massive protests and inflammatory language, including the use of the phrase "globalize the intifada," Starmer remained largely silent. It took the torching of Jewish ambulances and the stabbing of two individuals before he finally condemned the rhetoric, linking it to terrorism. The article questions where he has been for the past two and a half years, suggesting a pattern of inaction that has allowed hatred to fester.

This piece, from the Jerusalem Post, underscores a critical issue: the erosion of genuine empathy in politics, replaced by a cold, strategic assessment of potential gains and losses. The silence and hesitation from political leaders in the face of rising antisemitism not only alienates vulnerable communities but also signals a broader societal shift away from fundamental human compassion.

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If you support people who say ‘globalize the intifada,’ you are calling for terrorism against Jews.