Through this open letter, I address your recent statement on the program “Shqip” on Dritare TV, hosted by Rudina Xhunga, in which you declared: “In 1492, Vlora had 90% Jews and 10% Albanians.” This statement has triggered an unprecedented wave of digital anti-Semitism in Albania, with more than 10,000 negative comments directed at you, the State of Israel, and the longstanding Albanian-Israeli relations that have developed over centuries.

You are an internationally recognized figure in the field of dentistry, a respected Albanian Jew, a humanist, and someone who has made significant contributions to science and society. As a native of Vlora and Albania, where you were born and raised, you have never forgotten your homeland. You have consistently worked to enhance the image of Albanians and Albania in America and throughout the world. Your book, “The Flower of Vlora,” serves as a testament to this, in which you not only highlight the cherished values of Albanians—hospitality, faith, and the rescue of Jews during World War II—but also, through numerous testimonies and historical episodes, describe the elements, values, circumstances, and events that have shaped your identity. All these are commendable and represent an important contribution not only to Holocaust literature but also to our homeland, Albania, which stands as a........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)