Israeli president highlights rising antisemitism in New Year address

The president concluded with a broader reflection on Jewish resilience, saying that throughout history the Jewish people had overcome tragedy by relying on shared purpose and responsibility.

By Pesach Benson, TPS

Israeli President Isaac Herzog used his annual Rosh Hashanah message on Sunday to address Jewish communities worldwide, acknowledging rising antisemitism and stressing Israel’s role in defending democratic values and bringing home its hostages from Gaza.

“I know it has not been an easy time to be a Jew anywhere around the world,” Herzog said, noting that hostility toward Jews and supporters of Israel has intensified.

“Israel’s fight is a just fight. It is a fight in defense of its people, and it is a fight in defense of the entire Free World,” he said, urging solidarity with Israel against extremist ideologies.

Herzog praised diaspora Jewish communities for their resilience, citing advocacy for the release of hostages held in Gaza, opposition to antisemitism, and public expressions of Jewish identity.

He said disagreements within the Jewish world had not weakened unity but rather reflected a long tradition of debate alongside shared commitment.

The president also pointed to his “Kol Ha’am – Voice of the People” initiative, launched earlier this year, which brings together Jews in Israel and abroad for dialogue on issues facing the global community.

“All Jews have a place and a voice in Israel,” he said, emphasizing the project’s goal of strengthening ties across borders.

Addressing Israel’s domestic situation, Herzog noted that Israelis will head to the polls in national elections next year.

He expressed confidence in the country’s democratic system, describing open debate as a hallmark of its political life. “I have full faith in our democracy and optimism about the future,” he said.

Herzog also reiterated his call for the safe return of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. “As we welcome the promise of a new year, we pray that our hostages come home, every single one of them, as soon as possible. We must all fight for it,” he said.

The president concluded with a broader reflection on Jewish resilience, saying that throughout history the Jewish people had overcome tragedy by relying on shared purpose and responsibility.

These qualities, he argued, would continue to sustain Israel and Jewish communities worldwide.

The High Holidays start with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which begins at sundown on Monday. The High Holidays also include Yom Kippur and the week-long festival of Sukkot.

The October 7 attack took place during the festive holiday of Simchat Torah, which concludes the High Holidays.

Approximately 1,200 people were killed and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas’s attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 48 remaining hostages, about 20 are believed to be alive.