Calls for US to do more as antisemitic acts skyrocket in Europe: ‘enormously painful’
Amsterdam recently experienced a disturbing outbreak of antisemitic violence following a soccer match involving an Israeli team. The incident, which Israeli President Isaac Herzog described as an ‘antisemitic pogrom,’ saw an angry mob targeting Jews and Israelis in the streets, resulting in five victims being hospitalized. The violence continued with rioters setting a tram on fire, further highlighting the issue of antisemitism in Europe.
Rabbi Abraham Cooper, from the Simon Wiesenthal Center, expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the organization had issued a rare travel advisory for Amsterdam in the aftermath of the attacks. He highlighted the alarming increase in antisemitic incidents across Europe following a terror attack by Hamas on Israel, with countries like Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, the UK, and France reporting significant spikes in hate crimes against Jews.
The rise in antisemitism was not limited to Amsterdam, as similar incidents were reported in Belgium, Greece, and Berlin, where a youth soccer team was assaulted by a crowd chanting \”Free Palestine.\” The situation has become so tense in some areas that Jewish residents have been advised to exercise caution and avoid certain neighborhoods with high populations of Arabs.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center’s founder’s warning that \”It often starts with the Jews. It never ends with the Jews\” serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by escalating antisemitism. Jewish Europeans are resorting to self-censorship, removing identifiable symbols like yarmulkes and chai necklaces, in an effort to protect themselves from potential attacks.
In light of the increasing threat, concerns have been raised about the safety of Jewish Americans traveling abroad. While the U.S. State Department has not issued specific travel advisories related to antisemitism, there are calls for greater awareness and action to address the rising tide of hate crimes targeting Jews in Europe.
As the world grapples with the issue of antisemitism, there is a growing need for a unified and concerted effort to combat hatred and protect Jewish communities. The Simon Wiesenthal Center hopes that the incoming administration will prioritize the fight against antisemitism globally and make it a key component of American foreign policy.
It is crucial for European countries and the international community to take decisive action to address antisemitism and ensure the safety and security of Jewish communities. By standing together against hate and intolerance, we can work towards a future where all individuals can live without fear of persecution or discrimination.
