Concerns are surfacing among progressive Jewish communities in Hungary and the United States regarding the nomination of Ben Landa as the new US ambassador to Hungary. Landa, who awaits Senate confirmation, is set to succeed David Pressman, the ambassador appointed by the Biden administration. His connections to the Israeli far-right, particularly to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have raised alarms.
Landa’s ties to Ben-Gvir include hosting a meeting at his New York home in May, where the minister expressed gratitude for Landa’s “years of friendship.” During this gathering, Landa reportedly referred to Ben-Gvir as a “tzadik,” or righteous person, and voiced his hopes that Ben-Gvir would eventually become Prime Minister of Israel.
Community Concerns and Reactions
In response to Landa’s appointment, Zsuzsa Fritz, a retired director of Budapest’s Jewish Community Centre, emphasized the significant influence ambassadors can have on local communities. “I don’t think he will be someone who is very open to dialogue,” she stated, expressing worries that Landa’s views may not align with those of many community members regarding issues in Gaza and broader global affairs.
Similarly, community organizer Adam Schonberger criticized Landa’s perceived support for extreme right-wing forces in Israel. He stated, “Certainly, it will give the American ambassador the chance to emphasize one particular side,” indicating a fear that this could limit the representation of diverse views within the community.
While some community figures have signed a petition titled “On behalf of the shared humanity of Palestinians and Jews,” urging the Israeli government to enhance protections for Palestinian rights, not all share this perspective. Rabbi Zoltan Radnoti of Budapest’s Beit Shalom Synagogue expressed his discontent with the petitioners, suggesting that their actions contribute to division within the Jewish community during a time of conflict. He remarked, “They are giving voice to those who, according to halakha, aren’t actually Jewish. They’re merely Jewish sympathisers.”
Hope for Pluralism
Despite the contrasting opinions, Rabbi Radnoti expressed a hope that Landa would adopt an open and pluralistic approach if confirmed. “He shouldn’t be biased,” he asserted, noting that Landa is affiliated with Chabad, which exercises less influence in Hungary compared to the United States.
As the Senate deliberates Landa’s nomination, the Jewish community in Hungary remains watchful, hoping for a representative whose approach fosters dialogue and inclusivity rather than division. The outcome of this appointment could have lasting implications for US-Hungary relations and the Jewish community’s dynamics in both nations.