Michael Che's 'Weekend Update' genocide joke about Israel draws criticism

Key Points:

• On NBC's "Saturday Night Live," co-host Michael Che made a controversial joke referencing genocide while discussing voter turnout in Israel's recent elections, drawing criticism for trivializing a serious issue.
• The Campaign Against Antisemitism and other organizations condemned the joke, arguing it perpetuates a baseless and harmful narrative accusing Israel of genocide, which fuels antisemitic abuse and violence globally.
• NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck criticized the segment for misusing the term "genocide" and suggested the show missed an opportunity to highlight Arab participation in Israel's elections as a counterpoint to such accusations.
• Che has faced prior backlash for comments about Israel, including a 2021 joke implying Israel's COVID-19 vaccination campaign favored Jewish citizens, which was condemned by the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Committee.
• The recent Israeli election saw Arab-led parties projected to win a combined 19 seats, a fact some critics believe could have been used to challenge genocide claims rather than make light of them.