US warns European officials could face travel restrictions over antisemitism

The United States has warned that European leaders and officials could face travel restrictions, including potential entry bans, ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup if they are deemed to have pursued antisemitic policies.

Speaking at a conference in Brussels on April 15, Yehuda Kaploun, appointed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump, said: “We are holding countries accountable for ministers who are saying things, and they are not being allowed into the country," Euractiv reports. 

Kaploun suggested that access to the FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States this summer, could be affected. Concerns have reportedly emerged within EU circles that officials travelling to the tournament may be stopped at U.S. border controls.

The comments come amid heightened concern over antisemitism in Europe, following a series of attacks targeting synagogues in countries including Belgium, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Kaploun claimed antisemitism in Europe is at “1933 levels.”

When asked about potential further measures, he said: “We can take any step that the secretary of state and the president deem necessary to protect the community. Those are options. As to how that is, we’re not going to get into any nitty gritties.”

Tensions have also surfaced between Washington and Brussels, with Bill White accusing Belgium of failing to adequately address antisemitism — claims denied by the Belgian government.

“People are saying they no longer feel safe,” White said at the same event.

Kaploun confirmed White had the administration’s backing, adding: “The whole world doesn’t have a problem with this, so why would Belgium pick this as an issue?”

By Sabina Mammadli