White House spokesperson sharpens comments on antisemitism after criticism

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre opens up today’s press briefing by clarifying a response she gave yesterday that appeared to downplay an uptick in antisemitic attacks since the outbreak of the Gaza war.

Asked about the degree of concern in the White House about the potential for an increase in antisemitism in light of the war, Jean-Pierre said Monday, “We have not seen any credible threats… But look: Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim have endured a disproportionate number of hate-fueled attacks.”

"What is [Biden's] level of concern right now about a potential rise of antisemitism?"

KARINE JEAN-PIERRE: "Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim have endured a disproportionate number of hate-fueled attacks" pic.twitter.com/q1WYkpbKmn

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) October 23, 2023

After coming under fire for the remarks, Jean-Pierre tweeted hours later, “To be clear: the President and our team are very concerned about a rise in antisemitism, especially after the horrific Hamas terrorist attack in Israel.”

But the press secretary goes further in her latest remarks to open today’s press briefing.

“When Jews are targeted because of their beliefs, or their identity, when Israel is singled out because of anti-Jewish hatred, that is antisemitism, and that is unacceptable. There’s no place for antisemitism full stop, period,” she says.

“This is important to the President, it’s important to me personally and to everyone in the administration, following the Hamas terror attacks in Israel, which were the deadliest for Jews since the Holocaust. The president has been consistent and clear: We must all do our part and forcefully speak out against antisemitism and we must ensure that there is no place for hate in America — not against Jews, not against Muslims, not against Arab Americans, not against Palestinian Americans, not against anyone.”