Warwick University student apologises for brandishing poster depicting Benjamin Netanyahu drinking blood from jar labelled ‘Gaza’
A student at the University of Warwick has apologised for brandishing a poster depicting the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, drinking blood from a jar labelled ‘Gaza’.
Mr Netanyahu was also depicted with a devil’s tail alongside the word “Satanyahu”.
The incident occurred at an anti-Israel protest organised by the Warwick Friends of Palestine Society.
According to the International Definition of Antisemitism, “Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism (e.g. claims of Jews killing Jesus or blood libel) to characterise Israel or Israelis” is an example of antisemitism.
The creator of the sign has since apologised, stating: “I wanted to start off by apologising to the Jewish community for my poster at the protest. I acknowledge that I should’ve done proper research before reusing an image that I was not properly researched on.
“I am aware that the ramifications of my actions are far-reaching and have potentially caused great trauma to the Jewish community. For that I am truly and sincerely sorry and promise that I will be more careful with what I use.
“I will also ensure that any criticism of Israel and the Israeli state and its policies does not ever veer into anti-Semitic territory because this is not a productive venture and the two should never be conflated. I apologise again to the Jewish community for any hurt that I’ve caused.”
The sign was condemned by both the University’s Jewish society and its Friends of Palestine society.
A spokesperson for the University said: “The University is aware of this incident and takes matters of this nature very seriously. We are investigating this matter now.”
If any students are concerned about antisemitism on campus or need assistance, they can call us on 0330 822 0321, or e-mail [email protected].