Rising Concerns: Surge in Antisemitic Attacks grips Europe during Israel-Hamas Conflict
Antisemitic attacks surge in Europe amid Israel-Hamas conflict, evoking harrowing memories Chief Rabbi Engelmayer laments the devastation of holy books in a desecrated ceremonial hall, invoking a chilling reminder of the darkest times in history
Chief Rabbi Jaron Engelmayer, while observing the wreckage of a charred ceremonial hall, expressed that the incident harks back to the most somber period in history. Following a merciless arson attack on the Jewish cemetery in Vienna, the building's structure lays in ruins, sacred scriptures scattered and torn, and detestable swastikas adorning the exterior walls.
However, the attack also reignited painful memories. "It brings us back to a time when books were being burned," expressed Engelmayer. "This is an assault on the moral and spiritual principles of both the religion and humanity that occurred in this very place."
The previous instance of the cemetery being targeted in such a manner was almost 85 years ago, coinciding with Kristallnacht - a violent campaign by the Nazis against Jewish establishments, residences, and synagogues. Engelmayer conveyed, "It is unimaginable that 80 years after the Nazi era, we are regressing to such times and witnessing acts of anti-Semitism here, in the heart of Europe," during his interview with CNN.
Crowds on the tarmac at Makhachkala Uytash Airport (MCX) in the southern Russian Republic of Dagestan on Sunday, October 29.
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In the aftermath of Hamas' brutal attacks in Israel, which led to a war with Israel, there has been a surge in antisemitic assaults affecting Jewish communities across Europe. Oskar Deutsch, the leader of Vienna's Jewish Community, revealed that over the past three weeks alone, there have been 167 reported incidents in the city. This significant increase is particularly concerning considering the relatively small Jewish population of around 12,000 in Vienna.
Antisemitism in Austria, Europe, and worldwide witnessed a significant surge following the seventh of October," Deutsch expressed. He further mentioned that young children were grappling with the decision of attending Jewish schools, while older individuals found themselves haunted by thoughts of the Holocaust resurfacing in their minds.
"Thats not the life we want."
Swastikas were sprayed on the walls outside the Vienna cemetery.
Georg Hochmuth/APA/AFP/Getty Images
The scale is completely different
The spike in antisemitic attacks in Europe has been wide-reaching.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin revealed on Monday that the number of antisemitic acts in the country since October 7 has surpassed 800, almost doubling the total for the entire year of 2022.
According to the Metropolitan Police, there was a staggering 1,353% surge in antisemitic incidents in London during the first week following the Hamas attacks.
Germanys Vice Chancellor, Robert Habeck, stated in a video message on Wednesday that Jewish communities in Germany are relocating their members out of concern for their safety. He underscored the unsettling fact that such measures are being taken almost 80 years after the Holocaust. Rabbi Menachem Margolin, the chairman and founder of the European Jewish Association, emphasized that the current situation is drastically different in scale.
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"There is an alarming amount of harm inflicted on individuals in public spaces, coupled with the proliferation of death threats on social media," he expressed concern.
"It is crucial for governments worldwide to recognize the urgent need to heighten security measures and vigilance around Jewish institutions and neighborhoods. This situation calls for immediate action."
When an attack occurs, it instills shock and fear in local Jewish leaders and residents.
"It is a call that should concern all of us - a concern for the values of our free world that are currently at risk," Rabbi Engelmayer expressed to CNN. He acknowledged that certain Jews in Austria and throughout Europe are contemplating leaving, possibly for Israel or the United States, in order to ensure their safety.
The incident of the fire that swept through his cemetery came as a shock to Austria. The chancellor of the country, Karl Nehammer, expressed his strong condemnation of the attack stating, "Antisemitism has no place in our society and will be combated using all political and legal avenues. I remain hopeful that the perpetrators will be swiftly apprehended."
Alongside the fear, defiance
Tal Yeshurun, a resident of Dublin, Ireland, continues to experience the distressing aftermath of the Hamas October 7 attacks. Tragically, four of Yeshurun's family members lost their lives in the incident, and an additional seven remain unaccounted for.
According to Yeshurun, the remains of one of his relatives were so severely damaged that it took authorities a duration of two weeks to successfully establish any traces of DNA for identification purposes.
He still has hope. "I believe 100% that my seven family members are alive and are taken care of. I have to, theres just no other way."
People attend a rally in Berlin last month to support Israel and protest antisemitism.
Annegret Hilse/Reuters
As he anxiously awaits updates, he finds himself confronted with fear and uncertainty within his own household.
Expressing his concern, he emphasizes that numerous communities in Europe and the US seem to lack awareness of the gravity of the situation at hand. "It is crucial to be direct and forthright about it. Israelis and Jews globally are faced with a genuine existential peril."
"You make an effort to stay isolated, avoiding large gatherings of Israelis or Jews," he remarked, contemplating the escalating frequency of antisemitic acts throughout Europe. "Avoid any association with Hebrew writings or speaking the language. Steer clear of Jewish-related venues, such as synagogues."
However, in addition to the fear, the surge in antisemitic incidents has been met with unwavering resistance.
"Were going on to live our Jewish lives," Engelmayer said in Vienna, after the attack on the cemetery. "The schools are open, the synagogues are open. We wont let our enemies scare us."
