The American Jewish Committee (AJC) has condemned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for claiming that Israel “feeds on the blood of innocents.” The remarks, made during a Ramadan dinner speech, have been denounced as dangerous antisemitic rhetoric. The AJC accused Erdoğan of fueling anti-Israel sentiment, pointing out his history of inflammatory comments against the Jewish state.

Erdoğan’s history of inflammatory remarks on Israel

In his speech, Erdoğan alleged that Israel was deliberately targeting Palestinian civilians during its ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza. He went on to claim that Israel’s actions were proof of an “evil system that feeds on the blood of innocents.”

The remarks sparked immediate backlash from Israeli officials, who accused Erdoğan of inciting hatred. The AJC, one of the most prominent Jewish advocacy groups, released a statement condemning the comments as “a modern blood libel” and a dangerous escalation of rhetoric against Israel.

AJC and other Jewish groups demand accountability

In response to Erdoğan’s comments, Jewish organizations worldwide have urged Turkey’s leadership to distance itself from antisemitic rhetoric.

“Such statements go beyond criticism of Israel’s policies,” an AJC spokesperson said. “They invoke the worst antisemitic stereotypes and inflame tensions at a time when responsible leadership is needed.”

Despite criticism, Erdoğan has remained defiant, doubling down on his condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza and calling for international pressure on the Jewish state.

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