Herzog thanks Aussie Jewry
“It was a very emotional meeting,” Herzog began, “and I thank you all [in Australia] for supporting the plight of the hostages.
Israel’s president Isaac Herzog expressed deep gratitude to Australian Jewry “for all that you do” for the Jewish state and empathised with everyone currently experiencing antisemitism, during a December 1 webinar co-hosted by the Zionist Federation of Australia and UIA Australia.
The webinar’s focus was on the Voice of the People initiative – a council of 150 members, including Australia, which Herzog launched early last year as a collaborative effort involving the President’s House, the World Zionist Organisation, the Jewish Agency and philanthropic partners.
The webinar began moments after Herzog completed a face-to-face meeting with relatives of Edan Alexander – an Israeli soldier who remains a hostage in Gaza and of whom Hamas released a video the previous day.
“It was a very emotional meeting,” Herzog began, “and I thank you all [in Australia] for supporting the plight of the hostages.
“I’m honoured to speak to the Australian Jewish community – a real, Zionist, strong and vibrant community, yet it faces many challenges.
“I’m very much aware of antisemitism growing in Australia and it bothers me terribly.
“It’s a combination of age-old antisemitism, brainwashing and of course, political forces.
“I’ve been noticing … the antisemitism on [university] campuses in Australia – I have the names of the campuses, I’ve spoken about it – and I think the counter-offensive has to do with explaining Israel’s [case].
“Keep on bringing Australian leaders and opinion makers to Israel – it makes a big difference – and also bring the voice of Israelis to the forefront in Australia.
“You also have very strong schools … and a fantastic legal system which needs to be used, from adjudication to law enforcement.
“Don’t give up.”
ZFA president Jeremy Leibler and UIA Australia president Esther Frenkiel praised Herzog for his vision for Voice of the People.
Leibler said, “On that fateful day [October 7, 2023], we were reminded that the threads that bind us as one people are far stronger than the differences that sometimes divide us.
“And while the President could not have anticipated the situation we find ourselves in today, this initiative feels more urgent and vital than ever.
“It offers a powerful opportunity to bring the Jewish world together to listen, to learn and to lead.”
Frenkiel added, “Your solidarity is both a source of strength and a reminder of the power of unity in the face of adversity – it truly makes a difference.”
To find out more, visit: voiceofthepeople.network/home-en
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