The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), the state’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the appearance of former Israeli official and indicated war criminal Yoav Gallant at a speaking engagement held Tuesday in Livingston, New Jersey, citing his complicity in war crimes stemming from the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
Gallant, who formerly served as Israel’s Minister of Defense between 2022 and 2024, has been accused by international human rights organizations of playing a leading role in the ongoing atrocities committed against Palestinians in Gaza.
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[NOTE: Last year, CAIR’s national office applauded the International Criminal Court (ICC) decision to reject outside pressure and issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza genocide.]
Dozens of peaceful protesters gathered outside the Synagogue-Suburban Torah Center to denounce Gallant’s appearance and to call for accountability for the more than 69,000 people killed in the US-backed Israeli genocide of Gazans. Police reportedly used extreme force to disperse protesters during the demonstration, resulting in several confrontations between law enforcement and attendees.
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The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued a warrant for Gallant’s arrest on charges related to alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. CAIR-New Jersey is calling on people of conscience, elected officials and community members to oppose Gallant’s presence in New Jersey and to refrain from attending or legitimizing any event featuring him.
In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“Yoav Gallant’s appearance in New Jersey is a moral failure. Providing a public platform to a figure indicted for war crimes sends a dangerous message that Palestinian lives are disposable and that accountability does not matter.
“Communities across New Jersey are grieving the loss of thousands of their loved ones slaughtered by Israel in Gaza. Those responsible for such heinous crimes should not be welcome to speak at events with no regard for the suffering they caused. That is unacceptable.
“We call on local institutions, venues and public officials to reflect on what values they uphold when they extend such invitations. Our communities deserve leaders and speakers who champion justice, not impunity.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi, 551-208-5482, aelamroussi@cair.com