White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, has once again expressed concern over the growing wave of antisemitic threats in the United States amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East.
However, she refrained from categorizing all anti-Israel protesters as “extremists” when asked to provide a label for them during a briefing at the White House on Monday, Oct. 30, 2023.
Last week, Jean-Pierre faced criticism for her response to questions about the rise in reports of antisemitism, as her comments primarily focused on Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim.
In her latest briefing, Jean-Pierre began by addressing the concerning increase in reported antisemitic incidents in schools and on college campuses.
The Anti-Defamation League has documented a more than fourfold surge in antisemitic attacks in the U.S. following the Hamas terror attack in Israel on Oct. 7, and Israel’s subsequent military actions in Gaza. Antisemitic violence has also been observed in various parts of the world.
She emphasized: “There’s no place for hate in America, and we condemn any antisemitic threat or incident in the strongest terms.”
Regarding specific incidents, Jean-Pierre expressed the administration’s concern and close monitoring of antisemitic threats at Cornell University.
The university recently had instances of antisemitic graffiti spray-painted on campus sidewalks, and a professor, who has taken a leave of absence, made controversial remarks about the Hamas attack.
Directing her message to college students, Jean-Pierre assured them that their safety is a priority. She stated, “To the students at Cornell and on campuses across the country, we’re tracking these threats closely. We’re thinking of you, and we’re committed to countering terrorism and antisemitism at Cornell and nationwide.”
However, when questioned by Peter Doocy of Fox News about whether President Biden views anti-Israel protesters as extremists, Jean-Pierre refrained from making a broad characterization.
She reiterated the administration’s unequivocal stance against antisemitism but did not label all anti-Israel protesters as “extremists,” recognizing the diversity of opinions within this group.
