Leadership and ludicrous statements

Last weekend, the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) hosted its bi-annual national executive conference (NEC). The NEC is always a highlight of our calendar, as representatives of all of the Board’s regions come up to Johannesburg. The NEC provides a platform to report on various issues affecting our communities, including antisemitism, political dynamics, media influence, and other significant events.

This year’s NEC was particularly notable as we marked the election of the government of national unity (GNU), and continued to address the ongoing war in Gaza. It goes without saying that the events of 7 October have had a profound impact on our situation in the country and our relationship with the government. While antisemitic incidents have returned to pre-October levels and remain among the lowest globally, the spike following October underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures in safeguarding community rights. The GNU presents an opportunity to reengage with national leadership, albeit with caution, given the treatment of our community by certain elements over the past 10 months.

As can be expected, whenever a group of Jews meet, there’s robust debate and strong opinions. However, this is required and impactful, given that this is the forum in which the Board’s strategies are formulated and carried out. As a democratic institution, the decision-making processes can be lengthy and measured, but it’s important that there’s consensus, given our mandate as the representative body of the entire community.

Tension in Israel

Unfortunately, as I write this, tension in the Middle East is once again heightened following the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The SAJBD is dismayed by the statements by the South African ministry of international relations and co-operation (Dirco) on the death of Haniyeh, which ignored his atrocities against both Gazans and Israeli civilians. It’s also infuriating that the same Dirco failed to acknowledge the heartbreaking and callous murder of 12 Israeli children, bombed by Iranian proxy Hezbollah while they were playing soccer on Saturday, 27 July. Though we’re aware that Dirco has shown bias towards Hamas, given Haniyeh’s history, the hypocrisy of the South African government’s statement is frankly ludicrous.

We’re all on tenterhooks as we await an expected Iranian response to Haniyeh’s death among the continued rocket and missile fire from both Lebanon and Gaza. There’s community-wide anxiety as we collectively worry about our families and friends in Israel. We pray for the swift resolution of this tension and for the return of the hostages who have already marked their 300th day in captivity.

• Listen to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk, 101.9 ChaiFM, every Friday from 12:00 to 13:00.