Following a Polish MP’s accusations of “genocide” against Israel and display of a swastika-emblazoned flag in Parliament, the U.S. Ambassador to Poland voiced strong condemnation.
U.S. Ambassador Responds to MP’s Statements
Tom Rose, the U.S. Ambassador to Poland, participated in the March of the Living on April 14th, commemorating the Holocaust. He shared his experience on his personal X account and subsequently responded to events in the Polish Sejm.
The Ambassador’s comments came after Konrad Berkowicz accused Israel of “genocide with particular cruelty” during a parliamentary session and presented an Israeli flag defaced with a swastika instead of the Star of David.
Ambassador’s Direct Response
“Shame, shame, shame on you. Perhaps you’ve noticed that we, the Jews, are no longer so easily pushed around, right? We defend ourselves with all our might without apology, we stand with our friends, and we know how to fight and defeat our enemies,” Ambassador Rose wrote in response to a post about Berkowicz.
Statements on White Phosphorus and Alleged Genocide
Berkowicz stated during the Sejm session that “Jews are using banned white phosphorus bombs that absorb oxygen from the air and lead to death by suffocation.” He further described the effects of the substance, claiming it causes severe burns.
Berkowicz then asserted that “Israel is committing genocide with particular cruelty before our eyes” and likened Israel to “the new Third Reich.”
Use of White Phosphorus and International Law
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have reported for years on Israel’s alleged use of white phosphorus, which causes severe burns upon contact with skin. Recent reports suggest its use in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, though the IDF denies these claims.
White phosphorus is prohibited under international law.
Ongoing Conflict and Diplomatic Efforts
Diplomatic efforts are underway to negotiate an end to the war between Israel and Hezbollah, with meetings scheduled in Washington. However, the prospects for a resolution are considered slim.