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B’nai B’rith contributed to a report published by Israel, through the World Zionist Organization, detailing its concern about the growing anti-Semitism in several Latin American countries. Read more in Iton Gadol in Spanish. Read in English below.

Israel, through the World Zionist Organization, published a report that Iton Gadol accessed, detailing its concern about the growing anti-Semitism in several Latin American countries.

Among them, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile are highlighted in the report, where there has been an increase in discriminatory attitudes, hate speech, and even physical attacks.

The report examines the current state of anti-Semitism in South America, exploring its historical roots, contemporary manifestations, and efforts to combat it.

It also highlights the events of October 7, 2023, as a significant turning point for anti-Semitism worldwide and specifically in Latin America.

The document thanks the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Argentina and the organization affiliated with the WZO, B’nai B’rith International, for their valuable contributions to this report.

The report was a collaboration between B’nai B’rith International, represented by Professor Daniel M. Schydlowsky, a member of the Enlarged Zionist Committee, and Dr. Raheli Baratz, head of the department to combat anti-Semitism and strengthen the resilience of the WZO.

The report examines the situation in key countries in the region, highlighting the diverse responses and emerging challenges as follows:

Brazil

  • In February 2024, President Lula stirred controversy by comparing Israel’s military operations to Nazi actions.
  • Israel declared Lula persona non grata until he retracted his statements and invited the Brazilian ambassador to Yad Vashem.
  • Lula refused to retract his comments and removed the Brazilian ambassador from Israel.
  • The Jewish community found itself in a difficult position, caught between criticizing Lula and being perceived as supporting Bolsonaro.
  • The Israeli ambassador maintained a low profile during this period.
  • The Simon Wiesenthal Center has promoted the adoption of the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism, with 9 Brazilian states accepting it since February.
  • In southern Brazil, far-right and neo-Nazi movements continue to grow.

Chile

  • There is a serious fear of being identified on the street as a Jew. After October 7, Israel has been frequently attacked in local media.
    Jews are advised not to frequent certain places.
  • Jewish institutions face threats from mobs, including an incident in which a pregnant woman was accused of “carrying a future genocidal.”
  • President Boric’s government banned Israeli companies from participating in a major defense project.
  • Chile joined South Africa in the process against Israel before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
  • The Palestinian community, together with the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies’ Chilean-Palestinian Friendship Society, planned to commemorate “a year of genocide, 76 years of suffering” on October 9, 2024, distorting the events of October 7, 2023.

Colombia

  • President Petro broke off relations with Israel and expelled the Israeli ambassador.
  • Petro frequently posts content on social networks that has been criticized as anti-Semitic.

Uruguay

  • The current government has shown its support for Israel.
  • It is possible that the next elections in November will result in a shift towards a left-wing government.
  • On International Women’s Day (March 8), there was an anti-Semitic demonstration in Montevideo, where justice refused to intervene.

Argentina

Since October 7, 2023, most political parties have recognized Hamas as a terrorist group and affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense.

  • Calls for the release of hostages have received broad support.
  • Only the far left promotes anti-Israeli rhetoric, with limited influence.
  • Legal action has been taken against some far-left leaders for anti-Semitic speeches.
  • The new government shows strong support for Israel, which has provoked some criticism from the opposition.
  • The latest annual report on anti-Semitism by the DAIA indicates concerning attitudes towards Jews among young people, highlighting the need for educational initiatives.
  • The Jewish community in Argentina has been experiencing the daily impacts of global waves of anti-Semitism, particularly from supporters of far-left parties.
  • In public universities, there has been an increase in “new anti-Semitism” under the guise of anti-Zionism.
  • Jewish students say they are afraid of openly identifying themselves as Jews for fear of extremist violence.
  • Concerns about security in Jewish institutions have increased, with numerous threats against the AMIA, the center of Jewish corporatism in Buenos Aires.
  • In a significant event, the Argentine authorities, with the help of the Israeli security service, dismantled a terrorist cell in Mendoza that was planning an attack against local Jewish communities. Weapons and explosives were seized in the operation.
  • Despite the current government’s support for Israel, the daily life of Jews has been significantly altered since October 7, 2023.
  • The community expresses hope that conditions in the country will improve.

This report highlights the complex and varied panorama of anti-Semitism in Latin America after the events of October 7, 2023. While some countries have experienced increased tensions and manifest anti-Semitic actions, others maintain positions of support for Israel and Jewish communities. The situation remains dynamic, influenced by political changes, public opinion, and international events. In Argentina specifically, the Jewish community faces a challenging environment, balancing government support with increasing security concerns and social tensions.

Key Findings:

  1. Various responses: Countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Colombia have seen an increase in tensions, while Argentina maintains a generally supportive position despite growing concerns.
  2. Political influences: The attitudes of governments vary from openly hostile (Colombia) to supportive (Argentina), with some (Brazil, Chile) adopting controversial positions that have strained relations with Israel.
  3. Rising concerns: Throughout the region, there is an increase in anti-Semitic incidents, from threats to Jewish institutions to the growth of far-right movements.
  4. Climate on campuses: Universities have become hotbeds of “new anti-Semitism” under the guise of anti-Zionism, particularly affecting Jewish students.
  5. Security challenges: The increase in threats has led to stricter security measures in Jewish institutions, impacting daily life.

Despite these challenges, the resilience of Jewish communities in Latin America stands out. The report highlights the critical need for:

  • Strengthening Jewish identity: In the face of growing anti-Semitism, strengthening cultural and religious ties within communities becomes paramount.
  • Promoting education: Both inside and outside the Jewish community, education about Judaism and the dangers of anti-Semitism is crucial.
  • Improving community resilience: Building strong and supportive networks within Jewish communities can help resist external pressures.
  • Fostering dialogue: Promoting understanding with society in general and political entities is essential for security and long-term acceptance.
  • Maintaining international connections: Strengthening ties with global Jewish communities and Israel can provide support and resources.

Despite the multiple anti-Semitic situations and the growth of hate speech, the report received by Itongadol highlights the “enduring spirit” of Latin American Jewish communities and their efforts through interreligious dialogue, community solidarity, and educational initiatives.