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Since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Europe has witnessed an alarming increase in anti-Semitic acts. Swastikas, graffitied Stars of David, verbal and physical attacks against individuals of the Jewish faith are all manifestations of hatred and intolerance which are increasing in several countries.
In France, home to Europe’s largest Jewish community, anti-Semitic acts have reached alarming numbers. Since October 7, more than 819 acts have been recorded, leading to 425 arrests. These figures are equivalent to “one or two years of anti-Semitic acts”, according to Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (Crif).
In the United Kingdom, the Community Security Trust (CST), an organization responsible for ensuring the security of the Jewish community, recorded at least 893 anti-Semitic incidents between October 7 and 31, compared to just 126 in the same period last year. last year. According to the CST, this is an unprecedented increase since 1984.
Germany is not to be outdone, with 1,800 anti-Semitic acts reported, according to the magazine Der Spiegel. Stars of David were painted on homes occupied by Jews, and synagogues were targeted with Molotov cocktails.
The situation is also worrying in other European countries, such as Spain, where the largest synagogue in Madrid was desecrated with pro-Palestine inscriptions, and the Netherlands, where acts of anti-Semitic vandalism were reported .
This rise in anti-Semitism in Europe is alarming and must be fought with determination. Governments and community organizations must work together to protect people of the Jewish faith and promote tolerance and mutual respect. All citizens have a duty to firmly condemn these acts of hatred and to commit to a more inclusive society that is more respectful of diversity.
In conclusion, zero tolerance towards anti-Semitism must be the guideline of our societies. Fighting all forms of discrimination and hatred is essential to building a better future, where every individual can live in security and harmony, regardless of their religion or origin.