Un-presidented! White House calls Trump’s remarks about American Jews ‘antisemitic’
Former president urged American Jews to ‘get their act together’, saying they were unappreciative of his strong support for Israel
The White House has branded remarks about American Jews by former US President Donald Trump “antisemitic and insulting.”
Trump came under fire when he issued a statement, claiming: “No president has done more for Israel than I have. Somewhat surprisingly, however, our wonderful Evangelicals are far more appreciative of this than the people of the Jewish faith, especially those living in the U.S.”
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reacted to his comment in a briefing, calling it “antisemitic and insulting both to Jews and to our Israeli allies.”
Trump also claimed he could “easily be PM” in Israel due to his high approval ratings in Israel, adding that “U.S. Jews have to get their act together and appreciate what they have in Israel — Before it is too late!”
“Let’s be clear, for years now, Donald Trump has aligned with extremist and antisemitic figures. It should be called out. We need to root out antisemitism everywhere it rears its ugly head,” Jean-Pierre added.
Trump was also condemned by American Jewish organisations following his statement.
“Trump’s ignorant comments would be outrageous and unacceptable coming from anyone. But they are exponentially more dangerous when expressed by a former president of the United States who leads an anti-democratic, ethno-nationalist political movement,” the left-wing Jewish advocacy group J-Street said.
J-Street also lashed out at Republican lawmakers for failing to condemn Trump: “Leading elected officials and candidates from the Republican Party have so far refused to challenge or even address Trump’s comments.”
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