Serbia has adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism, the latest Balkan country to do so following Romania, Bulgaria and North Macedonia.
European Jewish Association Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin today welcomed the move:
“Serbs, along with Jews, suffered the worst excesses of Nazism, as Hitler blamed both for the first world war. We welcome Serbia to the fold of countries that understand the danger of resurgent antisemitism across the continent and are rigorously committed to stamping it out and clearly stating what it is, without equivocation.
We continue to urge other countries who have not signed up in full, to do so. The coronavirus will, thank goodness, pass and eventually be eradicated. We still have much work to do to eliminate the virus of antisemitism. “
‘’Iran is a known state sponsor of terrorism,” wrote Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that the European Union strongly condemns Iran’s attacks on Israel.
“This is an unprecedented escalation and a grave threat to regional security,” Borrell wrote on his X account.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, condemned the Iranian attack on Israel and called for restraint on all sides.
“I strongly condemn the blatant and unjustified attack against Israel,” she wrote on the social network X. “I call on Iran and its accomplices to cease these attacks immediately. The parties must now refrain from further escalation and work to restore stability to the region.”
Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani mentioned that he is in close contact with the ambassadors in Tehran and Tel Aviv, adding, “We have spoken with the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister. The government is prepared to handle any scenario.”
Acting Dutch Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, said the situation in the Middle East is very concerning, noting, “Earlier today, the Netherlands and other countries sent a clear message to Iran to stop attacking Israel.”
“The Netherlands strongly condemns Iran’s attack on Israel. Further escalation must be avoided. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” Rutte added.
“We strongly condemn the ongoing attack, which could plunge an entire region into chaos. Iran and its proxies must stop this immediately. Israel offers our full solidarity at this time.” said Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
“By deciding on such an unprecedented action, Iran is taking a new step in its destabilizing actions and taking the risk of a military escalation,” French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné wrote on X.
“France reaffirms its commitment to Israel’s security and reinforces its solidarity,” he added.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on X: ‘’Iran is a known state sponsor of terrorism. Its direct attack on Israel is a dangerous escalation of violence in the Middle East. I condemn this large-scale attack on Israel and urge all parties to show restraint. An immediate ceasefire is long overdue.’’
Belgium strongly condemns Iran’s attack on Israel. This is a major escalation and a danger to regional stabikity. This attack endangers the population and further distance us from peace,’’ said Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib on X.
