UPDATE: The U.S. Senate has just confirmed Yehuda Kaploun as the new Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism, a position previously held by historian Deborah Lipstadt. This urgent appointment comes amid rising global antisemitism, highlighted by the tragic Bondi Beach Chanukah attack that left 15 dead, including two Chabad rabbis, Eli Schlanger and Yaakov Levitan.
Kaploun, a Chabad rabbi and Miami businessman who actively supported Donald Trump in the 2024 election campaign, will oversee an unprecedented annual budget of $2 million dedicated to combating antisemitism. His role carries ambassador-level status, making the urgency of his mission even more significant as antisemitic sentiments reach alarming levels globally.
In his first statement as envoy, Kaploun declared, “This is a game changer.” He emphasized that his presence as a Jewish representative will convey a strong message about the U.S. commitment to fighting antisemitism. “When I get off a plane, I will represent the president with my yarmulke and kosher food,” he added, underscoring the importance of cultural representation in diplomacy.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) welcomed Kaploun’s appointment, emphasizing the need for coordinated international action against antisemitism. Their recent Global 100 survey revealed that 46 percent of adults worldwide, an estimated 2.2 billion people, hold elevated levels of antisemitic sentiments—a staggering increase from 1.1 billion just a decade ago.
Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, expressed their support, recognizing the critical nature of Kaploun’s role as antisemitism rises globally. Sa’ar stated, “This joint fight is more important now than ever.” Meanwhile, Israel’s Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli praised Kaploun as the right person for this pivotal role.
World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder echoed support, stating, “President Trump made a strong choice in nominating Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun.” The sentiment from both Jewish organizations and Israeli officials reflects a united front against the scourge of antisemitism.
President Trump congratulated Kaploun via Truth Social, praising him as a “staunch advocate for the Jewish Faith and the Rights of his people to live and worship free from persecution.” He acknowledged Kaploun’s potential to represent American Jews globally, stating, “Yehuda will be the strongest Representative for Americans and Jews across the Globe, and promote PEACE.”
As the Senate Foreign Relations Committee moved forward with his nomination, Kaploun committed to prioritizing education about the Holocaust as a primary strategy against antisemitism. He faced questioning from Democrats regarding the administration’s stance on right-wing antisemitism, particularly concerning Trump’s previous comments about extremist influencer Nick Fuentes. Kaploun maintained that the administration unequivocally condemns antisemitism, asserting, “Antisemitism is anti-American. Racism is anti-American.”
Kaploun has also indicated a desire to shift the global narrative towards “pro-semitism” through education, stating, “We need to educate, educate, educate.” Reflecting on personal experiences with antisemitism, he mentioned being accosted in a hotel lobby, reinforcing the urgency of his mission.
Looking ahead, Kaploun aims to “lower the antisemitic rhetoric around the globe immediately.” With the weight of his newly appointed role, he is positioned to make significant strides in the fight against antisemitism, particularly in a world where anti-Jewish sentiments are alarmingly on the rise.
Stay tuned for further updates on Kaploun’s initiatives and the ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism worldwide.
