The Rabbinical Center of Europe (RCE) said it was "astounded" by calls for the resignation of US Ambassador to Belgium, Howard Gutman, following controversial statements he made on the roots of anti-Semitism in Europe at a recent conference in Brussels.
"To label him as anti-Semitic is simply absurd and for any Jew to call for his resignation is to shoot oneself in the foot," said Rabbi Arie Goldberg, Deputy Director General of the RCE, an organization dedicated to meeting the religious and spiritual needs of Jewish communities in Europe.
"Whatever the nature of the debate regarding what he said, we would like to express our wholehearted support for Ambassador Gutman", he added.
"He is a warm Jew, a great supporter of the European Jewish communities, and by his actions he is a symbol of kindness and brotherhood for many Jews," Rabbi Goldberg said.
The Rabbinical Center of Europe reiterated its "unconditional support" for the Ambassador. "We look forward to an ongoing relationship with him."