Europe Faces Rising Islamist-Driven Anti-Semitic Attacks Following Hamas Gaza Offensive

The recent attack on a Manchester synagogue has underscored a persistent and lethal threat of Islamist-inspired violence targeting Jewish communities in Europe, particularly the UK. Jihad Al-Shamie's assault, influenced by extreme Islamist ideology, is part of a pattern of attacks and plots over the past decade, including the 2012 Greater Manchester plot, the 2017 Birmingham conspiracy, and the 2022 Colleyville hostage crisis in Texas. European authorities have increased security around Jewish institutions, preventing many attacks, but antisemitism has intensified and become a political tool since the Hamas-led Gaza conflict began two years ago. British officials and civil society face criticism for underestimating Islamist extremism's role in rising antisemitism, with calls for more honest acknowledgment and balanced counter-terrorism approaches. Meanwhile, broader discussions highlight the global rise of Islamophobia as a form of power that dehumanizes Muslims and facilitates geopolitical violence, complicating efforts to address both antisemitism and anti-Muslim sentiment. This complex dynamic calls for nuanced policies that confront radical Islamism without fueling Islamophobia, while ensuring the safety and dignity of all communities.