UPDATE: In a significant move, the U.S. Senate has confirmed Yehuda Kaploun as the new special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism, effective immediately. This appointment follows the recent antisemitic attack during a Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, Australia, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 15 individuals.
Kaploun, a Chabad rabbi and Miami businessman, replaces historian and diplomat Deborah Lipstadt, and steps into this ambassador-level role with an annual budget that has been increased to $2 million. His appointment comes as antisemitism continues to rise globally, underscoring the urgent need for dedicated action.
In his first public statements as envoy, Kaploun emphasized the transformative nature of his role, stating, “The president is sending a very strong message… I am the president’s representative, and I have kosher food.” He expressed his intent to shift the narrative towards pro-semitism through education, particularly highlighting the importance of Holocaust education as a vital tool in combating hatred.
The attack at Bondi Beach, where two Chabad rabbis, Eli Schlanger and Yaakov Levitan, were among those killed, has galvanized support for Kaploun’s mission. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) noted the attack as a stark reminder of the escalating antisemitism, citing a recent survey that shows 46% of adults globally hold elevated levels of antisemitic sentiments—an alarming increase from 1.1 billion a decade ago.
Israeli officials have welcomed Kaploun’s appointment. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar commented on the necessity of a united front against the “alarming rise” of antisemitism worldwide. Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli referred to Kaploun as the right person for this pivotal role, highlighting his creativity and moral compass.
President Donald Trump congratulated Kaploun in a post on Truth Social, praising his commitment to combating antisemitism and advocating for the Jewish community. “Yehuda will be the strongest representative for Americans and Jews across the globe,” Trump stated, emphasizing the need for peace in the face of rising hatred.
As Kaploun prepares to take on this critical role, he faces scrutiny over the administration’s handling of right-wing antisemitism. During his nomination process, he addressed concerns regarding Trump’s response to extremist rhetoric, reaffirming that the administration condemns all forms of antisemitism. “Antisemitism is anti-American. Racism is anti-American,” he asserted.
Looking ahead, Kaploun plans to prioritize initiatives that foster understanding and respect for all religions, aiming to “lower the antisemitic rhetoric around the globe immediately.” He is committed to educating the public on Jewish culture and history, stating, “We need to educate, educate, educate.”
As the world watches this appointment unfold, the implications of Kaploun’s role will resonate deeply within the Jewish community and beyond. The urgent call for action against antisemitism has never been more pronounced, and Kaploun’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping international dialogue surrounding this critical issue.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
