Israel hosts European far-right leaders for anti-Semitism conference, sparks controversy

Jordan Bardella, leader of the far-right National Rally party in France, is set to attend an international conference on combating antisemitism in Israel, marking a significant shift in relations between the Israeli government and far-right European parties. This conference, organized by Amichai Chikli, is seen as a historic opportunity for the National Rally to further distance itself from its anti-Semitic past. While Bardella aims to highlight the rise of antisemitism in France, some Jewish figures are uncomfortable with his presence, reflecting ongoing tensions regarding the party's history. The Israeli government's decision to invite these far-right leaders indicates a willingness to engage with parties previously criticized for their extremist ties. Critics note that this move aligns with Prime Minister Netanyahu's efforts to forge alliances amid international scrutiny. The invitation comes as Israel faces a complex backdrop of rising antisemitism linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict, complicating the narrative around European far-right politics.