Reports of Houthi rebels imprisoning Yemeni Jews must be investigated as antisemitism

NEW YORK – Media outlets have reported in recent days that Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are arresting and imprisoning Yemeni Jews and urging them to leave the country in an ethnic cleansing effort. Though the flow of information in and out of Yemen is limited due to protracted conflict, these reports coming to light in Arabic media are disturbing. World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder said the following in response: 

“Though the horrific reports we are reading about the persecution of Yemeni Jews are unconfirmed, the international community has a responsibility to investigate the situation and to protect this vulnerable population. The severely precarious political and humanitarian situation in Yemen leaves targeted communities even more at risk, and we must act diligently and vigorously to identify harassment, discrimination and intimidation and protect those under attack.  

“We have seen a frightening rise in antisemitism across the globe in recent years, and this evil threatens the safety of Jews in communities large and small. Governments must prosecute instances of hatred against Jews and other minorities, and must prioritize religious equality.”