He expressed concern for Jewish communities and described prominent academic institutions as "contaminated" by hatred and ignorance.

The comments came as tensions continued to escalate at universities across the US, with hundreds of police and protesters in a stand-off at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Protests have taken place at over 30 US universities in the past month, with demonstrators setting up tent encampments to protest the high death toll in Gaza.

The Israeli offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 34,596 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

This response came after Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures.

Approximately 250 hostages were taken, with 129 still in Gaza, including 34 presumed dead, according to Israel.

The protests have presented a challenge for US university administrators, who are trying to uphold free speech rights while addressing allegations of criminal activity, anti-Semitism, and hate speech.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed friends on campuses and in Jewish communities around the world, expressing solidarity and concern over violence, harassment, and intimidation against Jews.

He condemned masked cowards who assault the truth and manipulate history, and pledged to stand strong together against threats and breaches of friendship.

Herzog also vowed to work together to free hostages held by Hamas and fight for civil liberties and the right to live peacefully and securely as Jews and Israelis.

The Israeli president spoke at an event preceding Holocaust Memorial Day, encouraging remembrance of the past and resilience in the face of anti-Semitism.

He urged unity and strength in the face of this "terrifying resurgence."