The Rise of European-Style Antisemitism in America

The American Jewish community is reeling from the shock of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack and the increase in domestic Jew hatred it has sparked. Antisemitic vandalism, harassment, intimidation, and violence have skyrocketed across the country, including an incident last week where Queens high school students rioted over a teacher attending a pro-Israel rally, shattering personal relationships. Antisemitism in America has reached unprecedented levels, reminiscent of the situation in Europe, with a 240% year-over-year increase in antisemitic incidents in Germany and a fivefold increase in Britain. In London, antisemitic incidents jumped 1,350% compared to the same period last year. In France, more than 1,500 antisemitic attacks occurred in the month after Oct. 7. The sheer intensity and quantity of antisemitic incidents and violence are new to Europe, with a viral video of Paris Métro passengers expressing pride in their antisemitism. Jews now conceal their identity and fear for their safety. This virus of antisemitism has spread to the U.S., where anti-Israel protesters have taken over college campuses and city streets. It is driven by ignorance and ideology that views only oppressors and oppressed, turning the cause of antiracism against Jews. Jews make up only a tiny percentage of the world’s population and are victims of the majority of religious-based hate crimes in France and the U.S. Antisemitism comes from both the far left and Islamist extremists, and all forms of it must be condemned. The U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, developed in part by the American Jewish Committee, is a step in the right direction, but the underlying causes of antisemitism need to be confronted as well. The hope is that America’s history of antisemitism will be far shorter and less painful than Europe’s.