Summary
Antoun Sehnaoui, a top Lebanese banker, was publicly praised for his support of Israel during an event at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, despite ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Morgan Ortagus, a US Middle East envoy and reportedly Sehnaoui’s partner, highlighted his family's history of supporting Israel, which triggered strong criticism in Lebanon.
Key Facts
- Antoun Sehnaoui is the chairman of Societe Generale de Banque au Liban (SGBL).
- Sehnaoui was praised at a Holocaust Memorial Museum event for supporting Israel and his family's pro-Israel stance.
- Morgan Ortagus, a US Middle East envoy and reportedly Sehnaoui's romantic partner, gave the praise.
- Lebanon forbids dealings with Israeli individuals or institutions, making Sehnaoui’s support controversial and potentially illegal.
- Sehnaoui’s family has a history of supporting Israel, including funding a Christian militia allied with Israel during the 1982 invasion of Lebanon.
- Israel’s recent military actions in Lebanon have caused many deaths, displacements, and accusations of war crimes.
- Many Lebanese criticized Sehnaoui on social media, accusing him of betrayal.
- Ortagus has been criticized in Lebanon for her strong pro-Israel stance and opposition to Hezbollah while serving in the US government.
