Lauder Urges Israel to Repair Ties with Diaspora Jews Amid Rising Antisemitism

World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder warned in an interview with The Jerusalem Post that Israel must urgently strengthen its relationship with Diaspora Jewry, stating the bond can no longer be taken for granted. Speaking during the WJC’s 90th-anniversary commemorations in Geneva, Lauder emphasized that Diaspora Jews are vital ambassadors for the Jewish state and called for immediate efforts to repair any fractures in this connection. He linked rising global antisemitism to radical extremist ideologies opposing Western values, noting that hostility toward Israel has become a primary vehicle for modern antisemitism. Lauder praised former US President Donald Trump as the most pro-Zionist leader since Ronald Reagan, expressing confidence in his ability to address the Iranian threat decisively. Additionally, Lauder highlighted the critical role of Jewish education in rebuilding community identity post-Holocaust and stressed the need for continued Holocaust restitution efforts. He argued that long-term regional stability requires resolving the Israeli-Arab conflict, while simultaneously advancing the legitimacy of Judaism in the Arab world to ensure the future security of Jewish communities globally.