Strasbourg:Austrian Freedom Party (FPO) leader Herbert Kickl's recent remarks have marked a shift in Israel's stance towards the FPO, a party with historical ties to Nazism. Kickl's speech in Strasbourg, advocating against Islamism and antisemitism, included a notable acknowledgment of Israel's right to exist and a pledge to move Austria's embassy to Jerusalem if elected chancellor. This has led to a positive reception from Israeli officials, despite the FPO's controversial past.

According to Anadolu Agency, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar described Kickl's comments as a significant development, indicating Israel's willingness to engage in dialogue with the FPO. This stance was echoed by the Israeli Embassy, which called the speech "significant," even as Austria's Jewish community remains skeptical about the FPO's transformation.

The FPO, once isolated due to its Nazi origins, now leads Austrian polls. This reflects a broader trend across Europe, where radical right parties have gained prominence. Israel's shift is partly driven by the growing influence of these parties and their repositioning as defenders of a "Judeo-Christian" Europe against Islam. Additionally, changes within Israel's own political landscape, including Likud's alignment with European far-right groups, have influenced this strategic pivot.

As the FPO seeks to distance itself from its antisemitic roots, questions remain about whether Israel's evolving diplomatic posture will lead to an official end to the longstanding boycott of the FPO, which would be a significant victory for far-right movements in Europe.