Herzog Warns of Rising Harassment Against Jewish Students in US Universities

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has issued a stark warning about the growing harassment faced by Jewish students on American university campuses, calling it "a wake-up call unbelievable shocking!" His remarks came during a meeting with 18 federal judges from across the United States, who are visiting Israel under the auspices of the World Jewish Congress.

As a lawyer himself, as well as the son and husband of lawyers, Herzog took a particular interest in discussing legal systems, including Israel’s judiciary and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which he believes is increasingly biased against Israel. “There is no trust in the judges,” he said, adding that international law is becoming politicized.

Reflecting on Israel’s role in the global fight for democracy, Herzog emphasized, “We are here protecting the West and the free world,” underscoring Israel’s status as the only democracy in the region. He also noted that shifting geopolitical dynamics in the past year have altered how neighboring states perceive Israel.

The conversation soon turned to one of Herzog’s most urgent concerns the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. He stressed that their plight remains at the forefront of every diplomatic meeting he attends, whether with world leaders or small groups.

One of the visiting judges posed a challenging question: Was Israel concerned about losing the global battle of ideas? Herzog acknowledged this concern, not just for Israel but for Jewish communities worldwide. He pointed to the disturbing rise in hostility faced by Jewish students in American universities, describing it as part of a larger crisis.

Beyond this serious discussion, the meeting had moments of levity. Judge Roy Altman, the group’s leader, introduced himself by proudly declaring that he came from "a much better place" than any of his colleagues Miami. “We’ve got Jews, we’ve got Zionists and we’ve got Cubans,” he quipped, comparing the city to Tel Aviv.

Before concluding, Altman asked Herzog whether he or his father, Chaim Herzog, had been the better president. Without hesitation, Herzog responded, “My father,” before detailing his father’s vast contributions to Israel.

Following the meeting, the delegation continued to Israel’s Supreme Court, where Herzog encouraged them to meet with the Chief Justice.

As antisemitism continues to rise across university campuses and beyond, Herzog’s words serve as both a warning and a call to action. The strength of Israel and the Jewish people is tested in times like these but history has shown that unity, perseverance, and unwavering identity will always triumph.

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