BREAKING: The newly established Jewish Council of Australia is making headlines as it calls for urgent action in response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Formed in February 2024, the organization aims to provide a critical Jewish perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advocate for justice for Palestinians.
Dr. Max Kaiser, Executive Officer of the Jewish Council, reveals that the organization emerged as a response to the genocide in Gaza. “We needed a Jewish voice to challenge the conflation between anti-Semitism and criticism of Israel,” he stated. With escalating violence and humanitarian concerns, the Council is advocating for a ceasefire and demanding the Australian government hold Israel accountable to international law.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the Jewish Council has seen a surge in support, with over 1,000 Jews signing the statement of core principles. “We’ve established grassroots discussion and advocacy groups across Australia,” Dr. Kaiser added. The Council now hosts major in-person events aimed at mobilizing community action, highlighting a growing shift in the Jewish community’s sentiments regarding the situation in Gaza.
However, the organization faces significant challenges. Operating as a volunteer group, it competes against larger, well-funded organizations. Dr. Kaiser acknowledged the ongoing polarization within the Jewish community, noting that while some have aligned strongly with pro-Israel stances, others are increasingly supportive of the Council’s mission.
In a recent development, the Australian Special Envoy to Combat Anti-Semitism presented a plan for addressing anti-Semitism, allegedly without consulting the Jewish Council. Dr. Kaiser criticized this lack of engagement, claiming the envoy’s plan echoes a “far-right wish list” and fails to address anti-Semitism in conjunction with other forms of racism.
“The Jewish Council is committed to combating all forms of racism, including anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Palestinian racism,” Dr. Kaiser emphasized. The organization seeks to build coalitions with various communities to foster cooperation and understanding.
Despite the challenges, the Jewish Council is determined to make its voice heard. Dr. Kaiser expressed that the motivation driving its members is a strong ethical and moral objection to the violence in Gaza. “People see the genocide unfolding and want to add their voices to stop it,” he explained.
The Jewish Council’s focus on grassroots engagement has led to meaningful connections with the Muslim community, with ongoing efforts to establish interfaith alliances. “We’ve worked with numerous Muslim groups on projects aimed at fostering understanding and cooperation,” Dr. Kaiser noted.
As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the Jewish Council of Australia’s urgent calls for action and advocacy for justice are resonating more than ever. The organization remains poised to challenge the status quo and push for accountability from the Australian government.
In a climate where narratives often drive division, the Jewish Council offers a fresh perspective aimed at uniting communities and advocating for peace and justice. The urgency of their mission reflects the dire circumstances faced by those in Gaza and seeks to amplify voices calling for change.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Jewish Council of Australia continues its fight for justice and community engagement.
