Advocacy Group Firmly Rejects Holocaust Denial as 'Criticism of Israel' in Direct Message to Megyn Kelly

A prominent advocacy group, Affirm Reality, recently issued a stark statement directly to media personality Megyn Kelly, asserting that "Holocaust denial is not 'criticism of Israel' and no, we're not up for debating it." The tweet underscores a growing tension surrounding the distinction between legitimate critique of Israeli policies and antisemitic rhetoric, particularly Holocaust denial.

The direct address to Kelly comes amidst increasing scrutiny of her and other conservative media figures regarding their approach to antisemitism. Kelly has faced criticism for her perceived neutrality on right-wing antisemitism and her continued association with commentators like Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens. Carlson, in particular, has drawn widespread condemnation for platforming Nick Fuentes, a self-proclaimed white supremacist and Holocaust denier, on his podcast.

Critics argue that Kelly's reluctance to unequivocally denounce such figures, stating her "fight is with the left" and that she has "no obligation to 'separate' myself from anyone," blurs essential moral lines. Jonathan S. Tobin, editor-in-chief of JNS, highlighted that "neutrality on right-wing antisemitism is immoral," suggesting that influential voices have a responsibility to confront hatred. The debate centers on whether treating Holocaust denial or antisemitic tropes as legitimate discourse compromises journalistic integrity and normalizes extremism.

This exchange reflects a broader struggle within conservative media to define acceptable boundaries of speech, especially concerning Israel and Jewish communities. Experts note a trend where extreme views, once relegated to the fringes, are gaining traction, often under the guise of free speech or anti-establishment sentiment. The firm stance from Affirm Reality emphasizes that Holocaust denial, a historical falsehood and a form of antisemitism, cannot be re-framed as valid political commentary on Israel.