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Edited by: Fern Sidman
In a recent interview with The Jewish Voice, Israel’s new consul general, Ofir Akunis, expressed grave concerns about the potential for New York City to experience similar radical influences as seen in various European cities. Akunis, who assumed his position in May, emphasized the urgent need for New Yorkers to recognize and respond to these dangers to prevent the city from facing the same issues as London, Paris, and Malmö.
Akunis’s arrival as consul general comes after a period of turbulence for the Manhattan consulate. He replaced Asaf Zamir, who resigned and was subsequently dismissed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in March 2023. The consulate had been without a full-time leader since Zamir’s departure.
Akunis highlighted the alarming situations in several major European cities, describing them as being under “radical Muslim occupation.” He pointed to London, Paris, and Malmö as examples where certain areas have become “no-go zones” due to radical Islamic influences. These zones are characterized by heightened tensions and violence, making them effectively off-limits to the general public and authorities alike.
Drawing parallels with the situation in Europe, Akunis warned that New York City could be at risk of similar radicalization. “They burned an American flag right here, in front of the doors of the Manhattan consulate,” he noted, highlighting the tangible threats already present. He also made note of the fact that demonstrators in front of the Israeli Consulate held aloft Hezbollah flags and that at Columbia University anti-Israel demonstrators proudly.
“Let’s not forget that both Hezbollah and Hamas have been designated by the United States and other countries as terrorist organizations. And these organizations clearly pose a real and present danger to the democratic values that we hold dear. And that means freedom, liberty and justice for all,” Akunis declared.
Akunis’s concerns are backed by a recent poll conducted shortly after October 7, which revealed that 57% of American Muslims believed that Hamas’s attack on Israel was “justified.” This statistic highlights the deep divisions and the potential for radical sympathies to spread within communities.
He also pointed to his deep admiration for the United States and the fact that it stands as a beacon of hope for the entire world. “I have always had tremendous respect and affection for the US and what it represents. As a matter of fact, I can tell you that the two greatest miracles in the annals of history has been the creation of the modern state of Israel and the United States, “ he told The Jewish Voice.
He added that, “Just as the US defeated Al Qaeda in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on 2001, Israel is equally determined to vanquish Hamas from the planet. The reality is that terrorist groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah that are being bankrolled by Iran do not just seek the destruction of Israel and every Jewish inhabitant there but of the entire free world, with America at the top of its list.”
“Your September 11th is our October 7th. It’s radical Islam,” Akunis declared, drawing a direct parallel between the infamous attacks on American soil and the recent Hamas assault on Israel.
Akunis did draw a stark distinction between Islamic radicals and the vast majority of the Muslim world. “I must say that radical Islamists are indeed in the minority and that the large percentage of Muslims in this world also strive each day or peace, freedom and security. They loathe any form of terror.”
While radical Islamists are in the minority, they never cease to take the opportunity to extol their malignant ideology and to engage in murderous acts of terror,
To solidify his point, Akunis said, “I think that every American should see the video clips of American flags being burned in European capitals, in New York and throughout the United States” He also referenced the recently held pro-Hamas demonstration that took place in front of the Nova Music Festival exhibit in the Wall Street area. “It was a chilling scene of seething mobs calling for the total annihilation of Israel and the US, “ he recalled, with palpable emotion in his voice.
Despite this, Akunis is hopeful that peace between Muslims and Jews can be achieved. “I was a big supporter of the Abraham Accords that was crafted by former White House official Jared Kushner. I would like to see continued harmonious relations between Israel and other Arab and Muslim countries as we both need true peace and prosperity, “ he said.
As to the future of the war in Gaza, Akunis said that Israel will not cease military activity there until “we defeat and demilitarize Hamas and until we see the freedom of the 120 hostages that still remain in Hamas captivity.” Akinus also remarked, “We owe this not only to the citizens of Israel, but to our brave troops who are not only battling Hamas but the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement. And we also owe it to the United States, Europe and elsewhere as this threat to Israel’s existential survival is also a threat to them. The sooner this radical Islamist threat is completely neutralized, the free world will be a safer place.”
Akunis also observed that some in the Muslim world who are described as “moderates” need to stop up to the plate. He was referencing Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. “We are still waiting for Abu Mazen, the Holocaust denier and fundraiser for the Black September terror group that was responsible for the brutal murder of 11 Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics in 1972 to finally condemn the October 7th massacre. Thus far, he has remained eerily silent on this and that should be of deep concern to the United States in any kind of negotiations with him.”
Since taking charge, Akunis has faced a demanding schedule, primarily driven by the surge in pro-Hamas demonstrations at major American universities. These demonstrations reflect broader geopolitical tensions and have necessitated a vigorous response from the consulate.
Akunis has observed an alarming escalation in the most egregious manifestations of anti-Semitism in New York City, describing it as the worst it has been since Jewish immigration to the United States increased significantly in the late 19th century. “My late grandmother — she was born in Poland 100 years ago — [told me] what happened in … Europe in the ’30s. I never imagined that we would see that with the young people here,” he reflected, evoking memories of the pre-Holocaust era to emphasize the severity of the current situation.
To that end, on Sunday, Akunis joined the Combat Antisemitism Movement as they launched the largest-ever global influencer summit in New York City. Bringing together more than 300 social media influencers, celebrities and thought leaders, the event’s objective was to address the surge in anti-Semitism and combat misinformation about Israel in the digital age. He was also joined by New York City Mayor Eric Adams whom he praised as a “brave leader” and also acknowledged the efforts of Governor Kathy Hochul and Representatives Tom Suozzi and Ritchie Torres. Their support has been vital in combating the rising anti-Semitic sentiment and ensuring the safety and security of Jewish communities in New York.
However, Akunis did not shy away from criticizing some of the city’s Jewish elected officials, particularly Senator Chuck Schumer, the Senate Majority Leader. Akunis took issue with Schumer’s call for regime change in Israel and his characterization of the Israeli Prime Minister as an obstacle to peace. “The biggest problem in his speech was that he said that the Israeli prime minister is an obstacle for peace. I think that was a huge mistake,” Akunis stated. He emphasized that, despite disagreements, it is inappropriate to label an Israeli leader as a barrier to peace efforts. “Even when I have disagreed with an Israeli prime minister I never said they were an obstacle for peace.”
At Sunday’s event, Akunis said, ““We live in a world in which lies become truth, truth becomes a lie, victims become aggressors and aggressors become victims. But know this—those who started this war will be defeated. We will not be victims of violence anymore. Enough.”
Akunis urged New Yorkers to stay vigilant and proactive: “I’m calling on New Yorkers: wake up before it will be too late!”
By drawing parallels between historic and recent acts of terrorism, and by highlighting both supportive and critical political stances, Akunis paints a comprehensive picture of the challenges ahead. His advocacy for vigilance and proactive measures is a crucial step towards ensuring that New York remains a safe and inclusive city for all its residents.
Early Life and Professional Background
Ofir Akunis was born on May 28, 1973, in Tel Aviv, Israel. His early years were marked by a strong interest in media and public affairs, which would later shape his career trajectory. Akunis pursued his higher education at Tel Aviv University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and International Relations. His academic background provided a solid foundation for his future roles in both media and politics.
Akunis’s professional journey began in the media industry, where he quickly established himself as a proficient journalist and media personality. He worked for several prominent Israeli media outlets, including the Israel Broadcasting Authority (IBA). His roles in the media not only honed his communication skills but also provided him with a deep understanding of public opinion and the power of media in shaping political discourse.
Akunis transitioned from media to politics in the late 1990s, driven by a desire to influence Israeli policy directly. He joined the Likud party, one of Israel’s major political factions. Akunis’s early political career was closely tied to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with whom he shared a vision for Israel’s future.
Throughout his political career, Akunis has held numerous significant positions within the Israeli government. His roles have spanned various ministries, reflecting his versatility and broad expertise in governmental affairs.
Akunis’s initial role in politics was as a spokesperson for the Likud party, where he utilized his media experience to enhance the party’s public image and communication strategy.
In 2009, Akunis was elected to the Knesset, Israel’s national legislature. During his tenure, he was known for his robust defense of Israel’s security policies and his advocacy for economic reforms.
Akunis served in various capacities within the Israeli government, including as Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office. He was later appointed as Minister of Science, Technology, and Space, where he promoted Israel’s advancements in scientific research and technology. His tenure was marked by efforts to enhance international cooperation in these fields.
In May 2023, Akunis was appointed as Israel’s Consul General in New York, a critical diplomatic post given the city’s large Jewish community and its status as a major center of international diplomacy and commerce. His appointment came during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East, following a significant escalation of conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Ofir Akunis’s career is a testament to his versatility and commitment to Israel. From his beginnings in media to his significant political roles and now his diplomatic position, Akunis has consistently worked to advance Israel’s interests and to protect its citizens. His current role as Consul General in New York places him at the forefront of addressing contemporary challenges, including antisemitism and international diplomacy, as he continues to advocate for Israel on the global stage.
