Israeli Consul Warns of Growing Security Threats to New York Jewish Community

Ophir Akunis, Israel's consul in New York, issued a stark warning about the deteriorating personal security situation for the Jewish community in New York, the largest Jewish population outside Israel. In a radio interview on June 3, 2024, Akunis confirmed that Jews in New York currently face a tangible danger. He described a severe decline in the city's safety climate for Jews, which was once considered one of the safest places for them.

Akunis traced the troubling trend back to violent protests on American campuses and universities that escalated into aggressive demonstrations in the city streets, accompanied by hostile public discourse and extreme rhetoric against Jews and Israel. He noted an increase in physical attacks, particularly in neighborhoods with high Jewish populations.

The consul sharply criticized local U.S. politicians, especially New York State Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of fostering a hostile environment through anti-Israel statements based on ignorance of the complex realities in Israel. Akunis also condemned American law enforcement and government agencies for insufficient practical measures to combat the rise in antisemitic incidents, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement and prosecution of hate crimes beyond mere verbal condemnations.

When asked if he advises American Jews to immigrate to Israel due to these threats, Akunis distinguished his personal view from his official role, stating that while he personally sees Israel as the national center for Jewish life, his diplomatic position does not involve promoting aliyah.