From Nazi roots to Jerusalem? Austria’s far right turns toward Israel after decades of distrust

Israel is signaling a possible breakthrough in its long-frozen relationship with Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ) after leader Herbert Kickl apologized for Austria’s role in the Holocaust, unequivocally condemned Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre, and pledged to stand with Israel and Austria’s Jews.

Kickl rejected attempts to portray Oct. 7 as “resistance,” backed Israel’s right to defend itself, endorsed the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and pledged to move Austria’s embassy to Jerusalem if given the opportunity. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the speech an “important and positive development” that could open the way to substantive dialogue — but warned that rebuilding trust requires turning words into action.

The shift is particularly striking given the FPÖ’s deeply controversial history and Israel’s longstanding refusal to maintain official ties with the party. The FPÖ was founded by former Nazis, including first leader Anton Reinthaller, a former SS officer and Nazi government minister, and Jewish groups have remained deeply wary of it. Israel has not formally lifted its policy of distancing itself from the FPÖ, but contacts with Israeli political figures have expanded — making Kickl’s speech a potentially significant turning point.