Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized New York City Mayor Eric Adams, accusing him of "fomenting hate" with his rhetoric regarding Israel. Netanyahu's remarks come in the context of rising antisemitic incidents and follow Mayor Adams' calls for Netanyahu's arrest over an International Criminal Court warrant.
In a statement highlighted by Fox News' "Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter, Netanyahu asserted that the mayor's anti-Israel pronouncements are causing fear among Jewish residents in New York. He pointed to a recent synagogue stabbing incident as a consequence of such rhetoric, calling the mayor's language "shameful." Despite the controversy, Netanyahu stated his intention to visit New York in September.
The newsletter also noted that Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns recently attended a Jewish youth fundraiser in New York, reportedly calling it an honor to represent the city. This appearance occurred amidst a surge in antisemitic hate crimes in the city and as other NBA figures have faced backlash for engaging with anti-Israel sentiments online.
Separately, Representative Adam Smith, a Democrat from Washington, disclosed that threats from anti-Israel activists forced him to cancel town hall meetings for over a year. Smith, who serves as the ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, described activists as "unhinged" and cited vile death threats directed at his home and his wife, which he stated were silencing free speech.
The "Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter also reported that a new analysis indicated 2025 was the deadliest year for antisemitic attacks globally in over three decades, with 20 individuals murdered in Western nations. The report attributed the increase in violent hate crimes, which it stated rose by 97% since 2022, to online hate and anti-Israel extremism, leading many Jewish communities to feel unsafe.
Additionally, the newsletter touched upon political developments, mentioning that some Jewish Democrats in Michigan are reportedly considering voting Republican if Abdul El-Sayed, an anti-Israel candidate, wins the party's Senate primary. These donors have expressed concerns that El-Sayed's stance endangers local Jewish communities.
The newsletter also included commentary from Ze'ev Orenstein, director of international affairs for the City of David Foundation in Jerusalem, who argued that fundamental American principles trace their origins to Jerusalem's biblical heritage. A quote from ADL Senior Director of Global Research and Diplomatic Affairs Aykan Erdemir was featured, stating, "History shows Jews are the canary in the coal mine: When hatred against Jews rises unchecked, it's an early warning that everyone's safety and rights are at risk."