A protester attempted to challenge Tommy Robinson’s visit to Israel, but Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli intervened, defending the British activist for his advocacy on behalf of the Jewish people.
Chikli emphasized that he had closely monitored Robinson’s statements and actions over the past year and a half before extending the invitation. “I’m listening, I’m looking for antisemitic comments. I never heard anything antisemitic from Tommy Robinson,” Chikli told the protester, who aligned with groups like the Board of Deputies of British Jews and Jewish Leadership Council. These organizations had previously condemned both Chikli and Robinson for the activist’s visit to Israel.
The protester questioned whether Chikli believed inviting Robinson would benefit Jews in the U.K., to which Chikli responded affirmatively, labeling “radical Islam” as the greatest threat to Jewish communities. He praised Robinson’s “bold leadership” against challenges faced by his country and highlighted the importance of connecting with figures who “stand with Israel proudly.”
Rebel News Australia Bureau Chief Avi Yemini reiterated the argument, asking, “Give me one thing he’s ever said against Jews.” Chikli further criticized the Board of Deputies as consisting of “rich, middle-class, reform Jews” focused on societal status rather than authentic advocacy. He stressed the need for leaders like Robinson, who speak directly to ordinary people, contrasting them with what he called “populists” unfairly labeled as negative figures.
Following a synagogue shooting in Manchester, Robinson—known for his opposition to Islamic fundamentalism—was invited to Israel by Chikli, marking a significant moment in his advocacy work.
