Rajoub has openly called Jews “criminals,” “terrorists,” and “worse than the Nazis.” He has described Hamas’ massacre of Israelis on October 7 as “epic” and consisting of “acts of heroism,” and he has also threatened another, “more violent explosion.”

Nonetheless, this did not prevent the International Olympic Committee, or other world leaders, such as French President Emmanuel Macron and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, from greeting Rajoub and posing with him for pictures. Just before the opening ceremonies, Rajoub posted pictures on Facebook of himself being welcomed by these and other dignitaries.  

Posted text: “During the reception held by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Mrs. Brigitte Macron for [Fatah Central Committee Secretary] Jibril Rajoub at the French presidential palace (Élysée Palace) [parentheses in source] shortly before the launch of the Olympic Games in Paris, the capital of France.