If they are serious about combating antisemitism, they should stand firm against pressure to reject or minimize the IHRA definition.
The IHRA definition provides a comprehensive framework that not only identifies the various manifestations of antisemitism but also guides policymakers in formulating strategies to combat it.
In November, the State Department stated that it "views the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism as integral to the fight to eliminate this scourge."
The rabbis believe that implementing the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's working definition of antisemitism will not stifle criticism of Israel.
Ronald Lauder's plea comes one day after a coalition of major US and global Jewish organizations wrote to UN leaders on Wednesday.
Eighty years after the Holocaust, Jewish communities are facing threat levels unprecedented in the post-World War II era.
Of the 719 incidents, there were 14 physical assaults, 21 threats, 122 incidents of damage and desecration, 140 literature/mass mailings and 422 incidents of abusive behavior.