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United Nations

Rep. Elise Stefanik Decries 'Antisemitic Rot' in United Nations, Calls for Palestinian Aid Agency to be Defunded

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Rep. Elise Stefanik, a close ally of former President Donald Trump and a member of congressional leadership, made waves during her Senate confirmation hearing to become the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations by decriing "antisemitic rot" at the international body and calling for the defunding of a key Palestinian aid agency. The hearing, which took place on Tuesday, saw Stefanik defend a campaign ad criticized for promoting the antisemitic "great replacement" theory and reject allegations that Elon Musk had performed a Nazi salute at a rally following Trump's inauguration. Stefanik's statements could position her as a successor to Nikki Haley, who gained fans among pro-Israel activists for her outspoken defense of Israel during her time as U.N. ambassador.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rep. Elise Stefanik decried "antisemitic rot" at the United Nations, citing the body's disproportionate criticism of Israel and its allies.
  • Stefanik called for the defunding of UNRWA, a U.N. Palestinian aid agency accused of having ties to Hamas.
  • The congresswoman defended a campaign ad criticized for promoting the antisemitic "great replacement" theory, saying it was about border security.
  • Stefanik rejected allegations that Elon Musk had performed a Nazi salute at a rally following President Trump's inauguration.
  • She confirmed her support for the president's commitment to defunding UNRWA and expressed her opposition to U.S. taxpayer funds going towards terrorism.
  • Democrats raised concerns about accusations of antisemitism in Stefanik's own party and ideological camp, but she did not refer to the charge of promoting antisemitism in her defense of the campaign ad.
  • Stefanik believes Israel has a biblical right to the entire West Bank.

Statistics:

  • At least half of all U.N. resolutions are targeted at Israel, with some research suggesting that Israel is the most criticized country in the U.N.
  • Over 70% of the world's Jewish population lives in Israel and the United States.
  • The number of documented cases of antisemitic hate crimes has increased by over 35% in the past year alone.

Sources:

  • Jewish Telegraphic Agency
  • Institute for Nonprofit News’ On the Ground news wire

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