Global Jewish Leaders Visit Dublin to Show Solidarity Amid Rising Antisemitism

Leaders from seven major Jewish communities worldwide convened in Dublin, Ireland, on Tuesday to express solidarity with the local Jewish community, which is facing an unprecedented wave of hostility. The delegation, representing the J7 organization which encompasses over 90% of global Jewry, held a public rally in Herzog Park and met with local government officials. Maurice Cohen, Chairman of the Irish Jewish Representative Council, revealed at the rally that 143 antisemitic incidents were recorded in Ireland between July 2025 and January 2026. "This is an extremely worrying number for a small community of only about 2,200 people," Cohen stated, referencing a campaign to remove the name of former Israeli President Chaim Herzog, a Belfast native raised in Dublin, from the park. He noted that such actions reflect growing animosity forcing Jews to choose between their Irish and Jewish identities. Cohen emphasized the need for practical security measures and political leadership, not just expressions of concern.

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), who read the joint statement from the community leaders, highlighted that 2025 was the deadliest year for Diaspora Jews in three decades, with 20 victims of antisemitic attacks. He asserted that anti-Israel rhetoric in Ireland creates a hostile environment directly impacting the community's safety. Due to the severity of the situation, Ireland will be the focus of a special chapter in the ADL's annual report, despite not being one of the seven member countries (USA, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Argentina, and Australia).

The delegation urged the Irish government to take immediate preventive measures. Key demands include allocating dedicated security budgets for Jewish community and educational institutions, strict enforcement of hate crime laws, and holding political figures accountable for public rhetoric that demonizes Jews. Greenblatt addressed the local government, stating that Ireland cannot afford to wait for a tragedy before taking action.