UPDATE: In a significant move, the US Senate has just confirmed Yehuda Kaploun as the new special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism. This appointment comes on the heels of a tragic attack during a Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed, highlighting the urgent need for action against rising antisemitic sentiments.
Rabbi Kaploun, a prominent Chabad rabbi and businessman from Miami, will replace former envoy Deborah Lipstadt, a historian and diplomat. His role holds ambassador-level status and comes with a significantly increased budget of $2 million, a fourfold increase from previous years.
The timing of Kaploun’s appointment is crucial, especially following the horrific Bondi Beach incident, which underscores the global surge in antisemitism. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has stated that 46 percent of adults worldwide—an estimated 2.2 billion people—harbor elevated antisemitic sentiments, more than double the figure from a decade ago.
“The horrific attack on Chanukah celebrations at Bondi Beach underscores the urgent need for coordinated international action,” said the ADL.
Kaploun expressed his commitment to this vital role, declaring it “a game changer.” He emphasized the president’s strong message, saying, “I get off a plane, I am the president’s representative… and embassies will have kosher food.” His appointment is seen as a pivotal step towards addressing the alarming rise in antisemitism globally.
Israeli officials have welcomed Kaploun, with Gideon Sa’ar, Israel’s foreign minister, stating, “We appreciate the Trump administration’s strong commitment to combat antisemitism.” Amichai Chikli, the country’s diaspora affairs minister, lauded him as the “right person” for this critical role, affirming the need for his creativity and innovation.
Ronald Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, praised the appointment, calling it a strong choice during a time of increasing anti-Jewish hatred. “I am deeply grateful to the president for ensuring this critical position is filled by a dedicated fighter against anti-Jewish hatred,” Lauder stated.
President Trump himself congratulated Kaploun via a post on Truth Social, highlighting his advocacy for the Jewish community and the importance of fighting antisemitism. “Yehuda will be the strongest Representative for Americans and Jews across the Globe,” Trump wrote.
As Kaploun steps into his new role, he has promised to prioritize education about the Holocaust as a key strategy in combating antisemitism. During his Senate confirmation, he emphasized the administration’s clear stance against all forms of antisemitism, stating, “Antisemitism is anti-American. Racism is anti-American.”
In a recent address, Kaploun noted the need to shift the conversation towards pro-semitism, urging continued education on the topic. He recalled a personal encounter where he faced hostility, reaffirming the reality of antisemitism today. “Antisemitism is alive and well,” he said, as he aims to reduce antisemitic rhetoric globally.
The appointment of Yehuda Kaploun is a critical development in the ongoing battle against antisemitism, as the world watches how his leadership will shape US policy and international cooperation in this crucial fight. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
