NEW YORK -- In response to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio “Lula” da Silva's comparison of Israel's actions in Gaza to those of Nazi Germany and accusing Israel of genocide, WJC President Ronald S. Lauder has issued a forceful condemnation.
"The allegations by President Lula are not only historically inaccurate but dangerously blur the lines of antisemitism. Such comparisons are not just a distortion of reality but are profoundly disrespectful to the victims of the Holocaust and the October 7th massacre," stated Lauder.
“Israel's military engagement is a legitimate act of self-defense against Hamas, a recognized terrorist group,” he added.
“With antisemitism surging across the world, it is particularly important that political leaders be informed and supportive of their Jewish communities. In this case, President Lula must urgently correct course to ensure that Jews feel protected in Brazil, home to one of the largest populations of Holocaust survivors.”
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