Palestinian groups tried to 'hijack' antisemitism inquiry
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is investigating claims regarding the conduct of pro-Palestinian groups during a recent inquiry. Commissioner Virginia Bell clarified that the inquiry was not hijacked, despite accusations from Jewish community leaders regarding the nature of the questioning.
Why it matters
The inquiry highlights the ongoing social tensions in Australia regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict and the limits of advocacy in formal legal proceedings.
Commissioner Virginia Bell addressed the hearing on Wednesday. ( Supplied: Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion )
Commissioner Virginia Bell says pro-Palestinian groups "did not hijack" the royal commission on antisemitism hearing.
Jewish Board of Deputies president David Ossip was questioned by counsel representing pro-Palestinian groups.
The inquiry heard a prominent member of the Jewish community in a newspaper article accused the counsel of making "gratuitous slurs" against Israel.
Link copied Share Share article The royal commissioner leading the inquiry into antisemitism has responded to comments from a prominent member of the Jewish community who accused pro-Palestinian groups of attempting to "hijack" the inquiry through "clickbait theatrics and gratuitous slurs".
The Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) and the Palestine Action Group (PAG) were given leave to appear at the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion on Tuesday to question Jewish Board of Deputies president David Ossip.
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