There seem to be no borders for anti-Semitic hatred. The Atlantic Ocean appears to be the only safe place.
The United States continued to experience elevated levels of antisemitic vandalism and violence this week. Most shockingly, anti-Israel demonstrators gathered outside a Los Angeles synagogue, attempting to block entry into the building and injuring counter-protesters during clashes. This appalling targeting of a Jewish institution prompted condemnations from politicians including U.S. President Joe Biden, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. During a Baltimore Orioles game at Camden Yards, fans waving "Free Palestine" flags were removed from the venue for "inciting fans" and for violating the team's policy forbidding "political signage."
Western Europe was also plagued by similar incidents this week. In a Paris suburb, three attackers harassed six Jewish youths with antisemitic hate speech and repeatedly slapped one of the victims, while in Brussels, assailants vandalized a memorial honoring non-Jews who helped protect Jews from the Nazis. The graffiti read, “Escalate for Palestine, everyone.”
Last May, a beautiful and inclusive ceremony organized by the Israeli embassy in Portugal with the support of all the country's Jewish communities, was surrounded by violent protesters who insulted, spat and threw paint at the guests, shouting "die Jew". All guests, including non-Jews, returned home in fear.
