This past Sunday, the Delegation of Argentine Jewish Associations (DAIA) responded to journalist Alejandro Bercovich after he criticized the speech given by Amos Linetzky, the president of the Argentine Mutual Israelite Association (AMIA), during the official ceremony marking the 30th anniversary of the AMIA bombing.
In their statement, the DAIA expressed full support for Linetzky’s words, stating, “We subscribe to every word spoken by Amos Linetzky.” The organization highlighted the importance of professional and critical journalism as a cornerstone of democracy, noting that such expressions often disturb those who believe they alone possess the truth.
DAIA suggested that Bercovich’s editorial was akin to the terrorism that targeted Argentina twice, as well as other countries and Israel on October 7. They emphasized that Linetzky’s speech addressed the ongoing nature of terror, the silence from some quarters, and the collusion with terrorist states that harbor animosity towards the Jewish people, seeking their elimination. They concluded that courageous and clear messages from leaders like Linetzky provoke discomfort among those who deny Israel’s right to defend itself.
Bercovich’s comments included accusations that the AMIA president was attempting to “wage another war” and had completely shifted the focus of the discussion. He lamented the persistent pain and impunity surrounding the anniversary of the attacks, recalling vividly what occurred that day and the years of the Menem administration that allegedly tried to cover up the true culprits while sabotaging the investigation.
The journalist further alleged that the diversion of the investigation served powerful Zionist interests, claiming that their narrative treats Zionism as the sole legitimate voice of the Jewish community without consulting the community itself.
In a related critique, Bercovich noted Linetzky’s harsh attacks on feminist groups, UNICEF, and human rights organizations, suggesting that his comments reflected a rigid adherence to his narrative. He remarked that Linetzky’s challenges to these organizations stem from their refusal to align with his views, touching upon the broader and long-standing conflicts in the Middle East, which he believes are perpetuated by Western interference.
Additionally, Linetzky faced accusations of xenophobia and anti-Semitism from Bercovich due to his statements regarding other organizations over the past 30 years of impunity, arguing that pointing fingers at UNICEF, Bolivia, feminism, and human rights groups only serves to obscure deeper issues and justify violence and massacres currently happening in Gaza.
Bercovich concluded his remarks by highlighting the extreme threats faced by those who deviate from the official narrative, indicating that the community leadership seems to be engaging in a different battle altogether. He described the situation in Gaza and characterized the use of the term “war” in that context as a grave misrepresentation.
At the official AMIA ceremony on July 18, Linetzky had delivered a speech that drew various criticisms, including from Bercovich. He lamented the lack of solidarity from feminist groups towards Jewish women and questioned UNICEF’s silence regarding the plight of Jewish children affected by violence. Linetzky’s comments reflected a deep frustration with the ongoing struggles faced by the Jewish community, asserting that despite the suffering of many, there was a noticeable absence of support from prominent social organizations.
Source: https://www.perfil.com/noticias/actualidad/atentado-a-la-amia-fuerte-cruce-entre-alejandro-bervovich-y-la-daia-que-acuso-al-periodista-de-terrotista.phtml
