By Dr. Shimon Samuels

Paris, 28 November 2024

Mr. Secretary,

I write to you in view of the position of the US Embassy in Egypt in relation to last week’s Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) and its president, actor Hussain Fahmy, who opened the proceedings by stating: “Our stance is clear: we will not accept any sponsorship from companies on the Arab boycott list or those supporting the Israeli occupation.”

This is a clear reference to the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) campaign, targeting Israeli and Jewish businesses and institutions. The BDS movement uses the codewords and rhetoric denying Jewish self-determination and the legitimacy of Israel’s existence, thus forbidding constructive dialogue and normalization of relations. As such, BDS is a form of antisemitism. The US Congress voted largely against BDS in 2019.

Samuels with Blinken in 2001, Paris (photo CSW-Europe).

Nevertheless, a post was published on the US Embassy in Cairo Facebook page, stating:

“As the Cairo International Film Festival comes to a close, we are grateful to have been part of such a remarkable celebration of cinema... We were especially moved by the contributions of Hussain Fahmy, whose leadership... not only enriches the festival... but also highlighted the power of cross-cultural collaboration. His influence underscores how Egyptian and American cinema can inspire and shape one another, creating a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.”

Apparently, this “cross-cultural collaboration” applies Blatant Double Standards (BDS), G-d forbid with “lasting impact worldwide”!

Antony, your mother and her friend, my late wife Graciela, would have been shocked at a US Embassy “moved” by the antisemitic remarks of Hussain Fahmy.

Best regards,

Shimon

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