Abe Foxman, prominent US Jewish leader and Israel advocate, passes away

Abraham “Abe” Foxman, Prominent Jewish American Leader and Israel Defender, Dies at 86

Abraham “Abe” Foxman, a prominent figure in the Jewish American community and Israel advocacy, has passed away at the age of 86. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which he led for nearly three decades, confirmed his death on Sunday.

Foxman joined the ADL in 1965 and served as its national director from 1987 to 2015. During his tenure, the organization became one of the most influential advocacy groups in the country. He was described by ADL Board Chair Nicole Munchnik as a “longtime adviser” to US presidents and world leaders.

Foxman was known for his outspoken and passionate advocacy on behalf of the Jewish people and Israel. A Holocaust survivor, he helped shape the conversation around Israel and anti-Semitism in the US for decades. He also remained a strong supporter of Israel, defending its conduct during conflicts such as the genocidal war on Gaza.

In recent years, Foxman has been critical of Palestinian rights advocates who have accused the ADL of demonizing pro-Palestine activists and conflating criticism of Israel with anti-Semitism. The organization has intensified its campaign against Israel’s critics since the start of the conflict in Gaza.

Foxman also expressed support for US-Israel relations, including the war on Iran, and warned about the rise of anti-Semitism on both the left and right sides of the political spectrum in the US. He was a longtime adviser to US presidents and world leaders, and his views were widely reported in the media.

The ADL has confirmed Foxman’s death, describing him as an “outspoken, passionate, and tireless advocate for the Jewish people and Israel”.

Source: Al Jazeera