Former Israel-U.S. Ambassador Ron Dermer Urges Las Vegas Jewish Community to Lead Fight Against Antisemitism

Ron Dermer, former U.S. ambassador to Israel, urged the Las Vegas Jewish community to take a leading role in combating antisemitism during a recent gathering in Henderson. Speaking at Congregation Ner Tamid, Dermer emphasized the enduring nature of antisemitism, noting that it has persisted through history and is not confined to the Holocaust. He argued that many Jews are caught off guard by the current rise in antisemitic incidents, partly due to a distorted historical perspective shaped by the Holocaust.

Dermer’s remarks were part of his “Unite. Fight. Lead” national tour, where he addressed the importance of Israel to the global Jewish community and the state of the U.S.-Israel alliance. He defended Israel’s response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis, most of them civilians. Dermer, who played a key role in the release of Israeli hostages during the conflict, spoke to a small audience and answered questions from Rabbi-Cantor Jessica Hutchings.

The Anti-Defamation League reported over 6,200 antisemitic incidents in the U.S. in 2025, a decline from the previous year but still the third-highest number since 1979. Dermer acknowledged the shock many Jews feel about the current climate, attributing it to a lack of historical awareness. He warned against anyone claiming to end antisemitism, stating that it is a persistent force that can only be pushed back, not eradicated.

Dermer also addressed the complex relationship between criticism of Israel and antisemitism. He argued that valid criticism is permissible as long as it does not involve demonizing Israel, holding it to a double standard, or denying its right to exist. He suggested that these three “Ds” account for about 95 percent of antisemitism, with the remaining 5 percent being legitimate criticism of the country, much like any other nation.

Recent Pew Research data shows a decline in favorable views of Israel among Americans, with 52 percent expressing favorable opinions in July 2025, down from 67 percent in 2022. Favorability for the Israeli government has also dropped, from 47 percent four years ago to 32 percent now. These trends highlight the challenges facing the U.S.-Israel alliance and the broader Jewish community in addressing rising antisemitism.

Dermer’s call for Jewish leadership in the fight against antisemitism aligns with the biblical principle of standing firm against injustice. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, God desires people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him. In the face of rising hostility, the Jewish community is urged to remain vigilant, informed, and united in the pursuit of peace and justice.

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