Consul General Ofir Akunis Warns of Global Surge in Antisemitic Attacks, Targets U.S. Leadership

Israeli Consul General in New York Ofir Akunis spoke out following last weekend’s deadly attack in Australia, warning that similar assaults could take place worldwide—including in the United States—should leaders continue to demonstrate weakness in condemning extremism and antisemitism.

“I warned the Western world,” Akunis said during a recent interview. “What happened in Australia reflects a lack of resolve against evil.”

He emphasized that extremist groups exploit hesitation from democratic societies, stating: “They will attack you. This is the first rule with jihadists. If the Western civilization continues to reflect weakness, they will attack.”

The consul general referenced the recent mass stabbing at Bondi Beach in Australia, which claimed 15 lives, including children as young as 10 years old. Akunis stressed that the incident was not about gun violence but specifically antisemitism.

“This massacre must be thoroughly investigated,” he said. “The motive should not be mischaracterized.”

Turning to New York City, Akunis expressed concerns over Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s tolerance of anti-Jewish rhetoric and behavior. He cited the phrase “globalize the intifada” as particularly dangerous.

“You must know what ‘intifada’ means,” Akunis explained. “It is full destruction and violence.”

He urged city leadership to condemn such ideologies firmly, stating that even the new mayor must take a clear stance against antisemitism.

Akunis also challenged the notion that Jewish communities in the United States are separate from Israel, asserting: “Israel is the homeland of the Jewish people, period.”

Additionally, he called on world leaders—including British prime ministers and French presidents—to speak out more forcefully against antisemitism. “Ignoring antisemitism in your country will not help,” he warned.

Akunis concluded his remarks by highlighting the message of Hanukkah: “The light always prevails over darkness.” He described this light as American values, Israeli values, European values, and a collective resolve to stand together against extremism.