Andorra Carnival Float Depicting Netanyahu Sparks Antisemitism Row

A Carnival float in Encamp depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the king of Carnestoltes, with a Star of David on its face, has drawn sharp criticism from Andorra's Jewish community as antisemitic, while organizers insist it was political satire targeting the Gaza conflict.

The effigy appeared in a satirical sketch on February 14 during Encamp's Carnival festivities, which mocked international leaders and the global rise of far-right politics. Musketeers fired at the figure in a traditional mock hanging, with photos shared on social media by the Encamp Festivals Commission. The images spread to Israeli media without full context, prompting international reports that portrayed Andorra negatively.

Isaac Benchluch, president of the Associació Cultural Israelita de les Valls d’Andorra (ACIV), described the display as a "grave insult" to Jewish people, religion, and history, arguing the Star of David on a hanged figure symbolized the entire community. He called it "totally denunciable" antisemitism, rejecting the parish council's response as insufficient and demanding explicit public apologies like "We are sorry, we made a mistake." Benchluch noted support from Head of Government Xavier Espot and General Syndic Carles Sans, as well as a call from Israel's ambassador to France, Joshua Zarka, but stressed that Andorran Jews—not Israelis—make up the local community. He acknowledged possible ignorance in using Israel's flag but insisted religious symbols were unjustified, warning such acts harm Andorra's image as a tolerant nation. ACIV has not confirmed plans for formal complaints.

The Festivals Commission issued a statement clarifying the sketch criticized Netanyahu's policies and the Gaza war, not any religion, people, or state. They highlighted Carnival's tradition of symbolic political satire, expressed respect for all faiths and nations, and regretted misinterpretations. Participants reiterated this during the Sunday Ball de l’Óssa, condemning Gaza events and emphasizing the theatrical nature of the photos, which do not reflect official positions.

The effigy disappeared Saturday night, reportedly stolen by Canillo's Arlequins in a traditional parish rivalry. Informal complaints reached Encamp officials under Laura Mas, the General Council, and government, which confirmed no formal filings but passed concerns to the council. Officials urged balancing free expression with sensitivity to religious and ethnic groups, while sources indicated Israel's embassy in Spain and Andorra might contact Foreign Affairs Minister Imma Tor as early as Tuesday.