What’s Happening

An art display at the United Nations headquarters in New York has sparked controversy due to the inclusion of a slogan considered offensive and threatening by many Israelis. The exhibit features imagery associated with the phrase “From the River to the Sea,” often interpreted as a call for the destruction of the state of Israel.

Why It Matters

This issue has further tensions at the UN regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and highlights the sensitivity surrounding international perceptions and representations of this historical and contested issue. Israelis interpret the slogan as a direct threat to their existence, given its associations with groups that have historically advocated for the dismantlement of Israel.

The Response

Both Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, and international spokesperson Jonathan Harounoff have expressed strong disapproval, labeling the display at the UN as “shameful” and a clear indication of anti-Israel sentiment. They have called for the immediate removal of the exhibit, criticizing the UN’s stance and underscoring that it undermines efforts for peace and security in the region.

The Backdrop

Amid recent escalations involving groups like Hamas, with a notable attack on October 7, 2023, this art display refrains from acknowledging the plight of Israeli citizens and omits any condemnation of groups instigating violence towards Israel. This omission has heightened Israeli concerns about bias and unfair treatment on the global stage.

UN’s Position

The United Nations has indicated that steps were taken to properly cover the offensive messages following complaints and meetings with the exhibit’s sponsors. They stressed that further measures would be enforced to prevent the removal of coverings from such messages, signaling intentions to maintain balance in representations.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.