FBI Investigates Antisemitic Arson Targeting IDF Veteran in Missouri

In Clayton, Missouri, the FBI is investigating a hate crime involving arson and antisemitic graffiti targeting an American citizen who served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Early on August 5, three vehicles were deliberately set on fire outside the victim's home, with the phrase "DEATH TO THE IDF" spray-painted on the driveway. Leo Terrell, head of the Trump administration's Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, condemned the attack and vowed strict enforcement against antisemitic hate crimes, emphasizing zero tolerance for Jew hatred in the U.S. Local officials, including Clayton's mayor and the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, condemned the act as a violent intimidation tactic that reflects a disturbing increase in antisemitic violence. FBI data shows that while overall hate crimes slightly declined in 2024, antisemitic incidents against Jews reached historic highs, with Jews disproportionately targeted relative to their population size. Authorities, including the FBI and regional arson units, continue to investigate the incident with no suspects identified yet.