Israel Summons Belarusian Ambassador Over Lukashenko's Holocaust Comparison

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Belarusian Ambassador Yuriy Yaroshevich on June 17 to deliver an official reprimand following controversial remarks by President Alexander Lukashenko comparing the military situation in Gaza to the Holocaust. The summons was ordered by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, with the ministry's Director-General Eden Bar-Tal conveying Israel's official position to the ambassador, emphasizing that such comparisons are unacceptable.

In an interview with Al Arabiya English, Lukashenko criticized Israel's military operations in Gaza, stating that Israel should "be more careful" and consider international reaction to the consequences of its actions. He drew parallels between the destruction in Gaza and the Holocaust, declaring: "What Holocaust? What Holocaust can there be, which Israelis speak of, when they killed so many people, primarily women and children?" Lukashenko also asserted that Gaza has been completely destroyed and dismissed post-war reconstruction plans as "complete stupidity."

Israel's foreign ministry responded with a strongly worded statement, asserting that it "decisively rejects" any comparison between the horrors of the Holocaust—including atrocities that occurred on Belarusian territory during World War II—and what it characterizes as Israel's "just war against terrorism." The ministry also rejected Lukashenko's suggestion that the international community applies double standards by discussing crimes against Israelis while ignoring Israeli actions in Gaza.

The incident reflects broader tensions between Belarus and Israel over Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which has drawn international scrutiny and criticism. Lukashenko's remarks carry particular weight given Belarus's significant Jewish history and the Holocaust's impact on its territory during World War II. The diplomatic protest underscores Israel's sensitivity regarding historical comparisons involving the Holocaust and its ongoing efforts to defend its military operations in Gaza against international criticism.