Israel's Foreign Minister Slams Austrian President's War Crime Accusations

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar sharply rebuked Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen for accusing Israel of war crimes during a UN General Assembly session. Van der Bellen stated that the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank and violence against Palestinians constitute war crimes, and warned that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government was acting in a "dangerous zone." He also affirmed Israel's right to self-defense and stated that not all citizens should be held responsible for their government's actions.

Saar responded via X, urging Van der Bellen to "be ashamed of his words." He invoked Austria's historical association with crimes against Jews and accused the Austrian president of making baseless accusations against Israel, which he said is fighting a "jihadist axis." Saar called Van der Bellen's remarks "nonsense" and, mirroring the president's sentiment, stated that Austrians should not be held responsible for their leader's words.

Sources within Israeli political and diplomatic circles expressed embarrassment over Saar's harsh response to the leader of a friendly nation. They suggested that criticizing the Austrian president in such a manner was inappropriate and that alternative diplomatic channels should have been used. One source noted that Austria has gradually reduced its support for Israel in recent years, particularly after government changes, and that Van der Bellen often asserts his independent views.

The head of Austria's Jewish community, Oskar Deutsch, offered a more measured critique, pointing out that Van der Bellen's statement only mentioned one side of the conflict. Deutsch highlighted the existential threat to Israel from Palestinian terrorist organizations and Iran, and the calls for the destruction of Jews, which the president omitted. He also noted a significant rise in antisemitic incidents in Austria, with a majority targeting Israel-related individuals or institutions.

The office of the Austrian Federal Chancellor also issued a statement, emphasizing Austria's historical responsibility towards Israel and affirming Israel's right to self-defense alongside international law, stating that only a court can determine legal violations.