Photo: Vic Alhadeff is the CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. (Supplied)
New South Wales Community Relations Commission (CRC) chair Vic Alhadeff has resigned after making comments about Gaza that caused a backlash among the Arab community.
Mr Alhadeff, who is also the chief executive of the Jewish Board of Deputies, recently sent out an email where he said Israel's operation in Gaza is purely self-defence.
The email upset members of the Arab community and led to calls for his resignation.
In a statement, Mr Alhadef said it was clear the email caused offence to some and has become a distraction to work of the CRC and the role of the chair.
He said his resignation is in the interest of the Commission, which aims to foster harmony within society.
He was appointed to the role seven months ago.
At least 1,030 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed in the fighting since July 8 when Israel launched its offensive, aimed at ending rocket fire by Islamist militants out of Gaza.
About 40 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza, while three civilians in the Jewish state - two Israeli citizens and a Thai labourer - have been killed by rockets fired from Gaza.
