Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt, the U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, is visiting Israel from January 8 to 9, 2025, marking a significant moment in her tenure. This will be her fourth trip to Israel and fifth to the broader Middle East and North Africa. It also holds special significance as her final official overseas visit in her role as Special Envoy.
Ambassador Lipstadt’s visit includes high-level meetings with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The purpose of the trip is to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to combatting antisemitism globally, as well as to deepen the cooperation between the United States and Israel in addressing this growing challenge.
Throughout her tenure, Lipstadt has played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. policy toward antisemitism, advocating for stronger international partnerships, and ensuring that the U.S. government’s response is both comprehensive and effective in combating hate speech, violence, and discriminatory practices against Jewish communities.
During her final visit to Israel, Lipstadt is expected to engage with Israeli leaders on regional security issues affecting Jewish communities, as well as exchange insights on global efforts to combat antisemitism. Her meetings will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing mutual efforts to counter hate-based violence, which has been on the rise in several parts of the world.
As Special Envoy, Ambassador Lipstadt’s leadership has been instrumental in coordinating international efforts to monitor and combat antisemitism, contributing to efforts that led to the United States’ adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism.
Her leadership has also been crucial in amplifying the importance of education and dialogue in combating hatred and fostering a more inclusive society. Lipstadt’s legacy includes not only strengthening the United States’ diplomatic efforts in the fight against antisemitism but also advancing global initiatives aimed at protecting the safety and dignity of Jewish people everywhere.
A Legacy of Advocacy
Ambassador Lipstadt’s visit to Israel marks a moment of reflection on her significant contributions in the global fight against antisemitism. Her tenure has seen tangible changes in the way nations collaborate to address the rise of hate-based violence. She has worked closely with government officials, international organizations, and civil society leaders to help craft policies and initiatives that promote the safety, dignity, and equality of Jewish communities worldwide.
Ambassador Lipstadt’s role as a strong advocate for human rights and global justice has solidified her place as one of the leading figures in the international effort to counteract hate and bigotry. In her final diplomatic engagement as Special Envoy, she remains deeply committed to ensuring that the fight against antisemitism remains a central focus of U.S. foreign policy.
For those wishing to follow Ambassador Lipstadt’s final diplomatic visit, updates can be found on her official social media accounts: @StateSEAS and @State_SEAS.
Her legacy of dedication and impactful advocacy will resonate long after her departure from the role, ensuring the continued protection and support of Jewish communities around the globe.