Austrian Far-Right Leader Condemns Hamas, Apologizes for Holocaust Role

Herbert Kickl, leader of Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ), has publicly condemned Hamas's October 7th attack for the first time, calling it "not resistance" and acknowledging Austria's role in the Holocaust. This marks a significant shift for the FPÖ, one of two far-right parties globally still under an official Israeli political boycott.

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar described Kickl's statements as a "significant and positive development," suggesting it could pave the way for lifting the boycott. Sa'ar emphasized that while Kickl's words are welcome, building trust requires translating commitments into actions. He noted that Kickl's remarks allow for "substantive, open, and honest dialogue" to deepen understanding.

Kickl explicitly blamed Hamas for the October 7th atrocities, distinguishing them from the religion of Islam and labeling "Islamism" as a "radical political ideology." He also condemned Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Boko Haram. Kickl stated that antisemitism is rising in Europe and warned of potential "mini October 7ths" across the continent, calling the October 7th massacre the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust and a crime against humanity.

Kickl directly apologized to Holocaust survivors, their descendants, the Jewish people, and Austrian Jews for Austria's part in the Holocaust. He also expressed support for moving Austria's embassy to Jerusalem, though he is not part of the Austrian government. Kickl acknowledged the historical connection of the Jewish people to Judea and Samaria and committed to deepening practical cooperation with Israel.

Israeli officials, including Minister Amichai Chikli and European Parliament member Harald Vilimsky, along with Samaria Regional Council Chairman Yossi Dagan, were reportedly involved in facilitating the dialogue that led to Kickl's speech.