In response to Israel defending itself from Hamas’ attacks against the Jewish state, worldwide protests have popped up around the world with supporters on both sides. However, the situation seems to have taken a violent and highly anti-Semitic turn, particularly in France.
The BBC reports up to 18 youths were arrested during violent protests in Paris this past Sunday. Thousands of people could be heard shouting “gas the Jews” and “death to Jews” while marching down the streets at an anti-Israel rally. The protestors never got a permit from the authorities, which forced the French police to get involved.
Photos show the violent protestors burning trash cans and clashing with policemen. They also broke into shops and restaurants owned by Jews, in addition to firebombing a synagogue in the Sarcelles neighborhood.
Nicknamed “Little Jerusalem” for its big Jewish community, residents of Sarcelles were shocked to witness these anti-Semitic acts.
The mayor of Sarcelles, Francois Pupponi, said members of the Jewish community “were in fear,” explaining that “such an outpouring of violence had never been seen in the suburb before.”
Manuel Valls, France’s prime minister added, “What happened in Sarcelles is intolerable. An attack on a synagogue and on a kosher shop is simply anti-Semitism. Nothing in France can justify this violence.”
On Monday religious leaders from all over France gathered for an interfaith meeting to discuss the situation, including the Chief Rabbi of France Haim Korsia, the Imam of Drancy Hassen Chalghoumi, and the Bishop of Pontoise.
The violent anti Semitic protests in France were part of a wave of attacks that have erupted all over Europe since the start of Israel’s recent military operation in Gaza.
Pro-Palestine rallies have recently taken place in London, Vienna and Berlin, where an Israeli tourist was attacked during a protest.
Post a Comment