Global Antisemitism Surges Amid Rising Violence, Political Tensions

Antisemitism is rising globally, manifesting in increased violence, hostility, and discrimination against Jews both in Europe and the United States. A prominent Jewish rabbi recounts being physically assaulted in Vienna by an Islamist mob during a "Free Palestine" rally, highlighting the pervasive danger for visibly Jewish individuals in Europe, where police response was inadequate. In the U.S., the FBI reports that Jews, though only 2% of the population, suffer nearly 70% of religion-based hate crimes, prompting many American Jews to alter their lives out of fear. The politicization of antisemitism, including misuse of the term to shield criticism of Israel or for political gain, complicates efforts to address the real threats faced by Jewish communities. Experts emphasize the crucial role of comprehensive Holocaust and Jewish history education in schools to foster understanding, combat ignorance, and build resilience against antisemitism. Meanwhile, incidents such as a UK NHS doctor facing professional consequences for pro-Hamas and antisemitic views illustrate the broader societal impact of extremist ideologies linked to antisemitism.