Israeli Ambassador to Sweden, Ziv Nevo Kulman, highlights the increasing antisemitism in the West since October 7, while praising Sweden's efforts to combat it. A controversial Palestinian demonstration in Umeå, featuring provocative installations, sparked significant reactions. Kulman criticizes the misuse of the term 'genocide' in the context of Gaza, emphasizing the need for political responsibility in addressing antisemitism.
Israeli Ambassador on Rising Antisemitism: 'Life Becomes Unbearable'
Israeli Ambassador on Rising Antisemitism: 'Life Becomes Unbearable'
Life for many Jews in the Western world has become unbearable since October 7, according to Israel's ambassador to Sweden. However, Sweden's government is doing a commendable job in combating antisemitism, says Ziv Nevo Kulman.
"I know they take it very seriously," he told Expressen.
On July 18, a Palestinian demonstration was held in Umeå. The event gained significant attention due to an installation set up in the square.
Dolls dressed in striped shirts, Stars of David, and prisoner numbers were hung in nooses in the square. A woman in a Palestinian scarf sat in front of the installation, with a banner above reading "a genocide is a genocide is a genocide."
"I saw them, as I believe most others in Sweden did, and I saw the reactions. I must say that one can criticize Israel, but antisemitism that deliberately targets Jews and blames them for what Israel's government does is pure antisemitism, and it is shocking," says Ziv Nevo Kulman.
Three people are suspected of incitement against an ethnic group following the demonstration—one for the installation itself and two for spreading an image of it.
'Wrong to Call It Genocide'
The group Umeå for Palestine, which posted images of the dolls on their social media, claims the installation aimed to "draw parallels between two horrific genocides and emphasize that it is unacceptable, regardless of who is affected."
Kulman argues that it is wrong to call what is happening in Gaza a genocide.
"The word genocide was created after the Holocaust to ensure such atrocities never happen again. Using that term against Jews, or the state of Israel, today is to trivialize the expression. It is tragic that civilians suffer in the Middle East, but calling it a genocide is false."
Umeå for Palestine is far from alone in calling what is happening a genocide. Left Party leader Nooshi Dadgostar has done so, as have UN investigators and representatives from several countries. The International Criminal Court has warned of a significant risk of genocide.
On Monday, days after the interview with the ambassador was conducted, two major Israeli human rights organizations released reports claiming that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, writes The Guardian.
They argue that Israel has targeted civilians in Gaza "solely because of their Palestinian identity," the newspaper reports.
Genocide is defined as acts intended to destroy, in whole or in part, a group based on nationality, ethnicity, or religious affiliation. This can involve killing, harming, or forcibly relocating children.
Politicians' Responsibility
The demonstration sparked strong reactions on social media, particularly among politicians. Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch (KD) wrote on X that "diminishing and ridiculing the Holocaust is completely unacceptable," and that politics "must take a stand." Left Party leader Nooshi Dadgostar called the event "disgusting and threatening."
Ziv Nevo Kulman believes that Sweden's government is doing a good job in fighting antisemitism.
"They are doing a lot. But there are politicians from all possible parties who must take responsibility."
'Sad'
In general, the problem of antisemitism has grown since October 7, says Kulman. Not only in Sweden but in large parts of the world.
"Unfortunately, we see a dramatic increase in antisemitism, making life unbearable for Jewish communities in several places in the Western world."
How safe can Jews feel in Sweden today?
"It's best to ask them. But it's sad that something as everyday as visiting a synagogue or a cultural event has become so extremely difficult."