This year, Hanukkah has marked an escalation of worrying antisemitic acts around the world. In just eight days, at least ten cases of antisemitic incidents to Jewish communities and Jewish symbols took place, causing shock.
Antisemitism during Hanukkah celebrations
In Toronto, Canada, a large Hanukkah menorah that was placed near the Jewish community was violently toppled. The incident occurred in the evening, and concern arose among the community. City officials condemned the act and promised to investigate the incident.
U.S. antisemitic incidents creep up on the holiday season
The antisemitic events of the Jewish holiday also reached the U.S. In the city of Little Rock, Arkansas, protesters disrupted the lighting of the menorah. The event, held in the city center, was interrupted when a group of protesters began shouting antisemitic phrases and inciting provocations. Former Governor Mike Huckabee was also present at the event as a guest of honor, who expressed shock at the incident.
In Los Angeles, a menorah placed by the Chabad House in the Sherman Oaks neighborhood was toppled and damaged. The vandalism occurred overnight and was recorded on security cameras. Members of the Jewish community regrouped to restore the menorah and continue the celebrations.
A broken menorah was also seen in New York City, which was left on the street. The act was supposedly done at an antisemitic protest, and local police have launched an investigation. In addition, residents expressed concern about the recent increase in vandalism.
Protests in London against Jews during the holiday
At a Hanukkah event in London, a protester shouted at participants that Jews are celebrating support for genocide. The incident occurred during the lighting of candles in a central square in the city. Local authorities were required to intervene, but no arrests were made at the scene. In a town north of London, a menorah was destroyed by young people. The incident raised the need to increase security around Jewish symbols in public areas.
In the Gants Hill neighborhood of London, a group of Asian men verbally attacked Jewish attendees. Following the incident, the local Jewish community realized that it was necessary to document similar cases to ensure that the authorities would deal with them.
On the University of London campus, Palestinian flags were placed behind a Hanukkah menorah that had been placed there by Jewish students. The act was seen as an attempt to provoke and undermine the sense of security of Jewish students on campus. The university administration called for calm and dialogue between the groups.
Dr. Racheli Bartz-Rix, head of the World Zionist Organization's Department for Combating Antisemitism, commented on the events. "We are witnessing a worrying wave of antisemitic incidents, specifically directed against Hanukkah celebrations. Ten incidents in eight days, spanning three continents, constitute a serious warning sign. The attacks on holiday symbols and the harassment of worshippers indicate a dangerous escalation in overt anti-Semitism.
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“We are working with law enforcement in all relevant countries to investigate the events and bring those responsible to justice. Antisemitism is not just an attack on the Jewish community, but a direct violation of basic human rights values and the foundations of democratic society. When we fight antisemitism, we defend the fundamental right of every person to live in dignity, freedom and security, regardless of their religion, origin or beliefs,” she said.
Bartz called on world leaders to take a clear stand against anti-Semitism and to act decisively to eradicate this trend. "The right of Jews to celebrate their holidays safely is a basic and inalienable right. The wave of antisemitic incidents during this year's Hanukkah holiday highlights the challenges facing Jewish communities around the world. Against the backdrop of the Christmas atmosphere and the increase in terrorist acts in markets, antisemitism continues to pose a real threat that must be combated through education, legislation, and public activism," she emphasized.