Ireland’s Chief Rabbi, Yoni Wieder, has criticised President Michael Higgins for using a Holocaust memorial event to condemn Israel’s response to Hamas’s October 7 attack. Wieder described the remarks as inappropriate and condemned the forced removal of Jewish attendees who silently protested the president’s speech, reports YNetNews.
The Holocaust memorial, held on Sunday, was meant to honour the victims of Nazi atrocities. However, Wieder expressed frustration that Higgins chose to politicise the occasion. He argued that the event should have focused on remembrance rather than criticism of Israel.
During Higgins’ speech, some Jewish attendees turned their backs in protest. Security personnel forcibly removed them from the venue, an act Wieder called “shameful.” He contrasted this with the freedom granted to Hamas and Hezbollah supporters, who regularly march in Ireland, calling for attacks on Tel Aviv.
Higgins highlighted the importance of education in preventing future atrocities and addressed the ongoing war in Gaza. He acknowledged the suffering of Israeli families after the October 7 attack but focused on urging an end to hostilities.
“The grief caused to families by the horrific acts of October 7, and the response to them, is unimaginable,” Higgins said. “The loss of civilian lives, the displacement of people, the destruction of homes and institutions—all are beyond comprehension.” He called for a “massive increase in humanitarian aid” and the immediate release of all remaining hostages.
Jewish leaders and attendees viewed his remarks as an attempt to equate Israel’s military actions with the atrocities committed by Hamas. Wieder condemned this as “deeply inappropriate” for a Holocaust remembrance ceremony and criticised the removal of Jewish participants who peacefully protested.
This incident has fuelled tensions between Ireland’s Jewish community and the government, raising concerns about the country’s stance on Israel and its handling of antisemitism.
Photo credit: Collins Photos
More News
