UFC Fighter Natan Levy Leads Self-Defense Course Amidst Antisemitism Surge
Gaza Hostage Crisis: A Catalyst for Solidarity
500 days have passed since Hamas seized hostages in Gaza, a grim milestone that Israeli UFC fighter Natan Levy marked by instructing a self-defense course.
"For years now, especially since October 7th, antisemitism has been on the rise," Levy explained to Fox News Digital before a seminar in New York. "Today, at 500 days, it’s crucial to strengthen our community."
Levy’s Mission: Empowerment and Defiance
Levy expressed his heartfelt hope for the safe return of all hostages from Gaza. He recounted a powerful encounter with Andre Kozlov, a former Hamas captive, whom he had the privilege to train.
"Meeting and training him was an honor," Levy said. "It reinforced my belief that Jews should not be perceived as victims. We will not be intimidated or victimized."
Seminars Geared Towards Jewish Community and Beyond
While Levy’s seminars primarily cater to the Jewish community, he emphasizes that they welcome anyone "who feels like they’re being bullied or targeted."
At a recent seminar at Renzo Gracie Rockland in New York, Levy guided students of various ages through defensive techniques, correcting common mistakes and instilling confidence.
StandStrong: Uniting Against Hate and Terror
Levy’s partnership with StandStrong, an organization founded in 2020 following a report on the prevalence of Jewish students hiding their identity on campus, is a testament to his commitment to empowering the Jewish community.
"Our mission immediately resonated with Natan," said Matt Travers, Executive Director of StandStrong. "His classes are electrifying, inspiring young people to embrace their culture and identity while also understanding the importance of self-defense."
Antisemitism on the Rise: A Disturbing Trend
On the eve of the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ attacks on Israel, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) released a sobering report: from October 2023 to September 2024, the United States experienced its highest number of antisemitic incidents since the ADL began tracking data in 1979.
The report documented over 10,000 incidents, including more than 8,015 cases of harassment and over 150 physical assaults.
Defiance and Solidarity: A Clarion Call
Natan Levy’s self-defense course serves as a potent symbol of defiance against antisemitism. It empowers Jewish individuals to stand strong, defend themselves, and send a clear message that hatred and intimidation will not be tolerated.
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