The recent outbreak of violence in Israel, as a result of the Hamas rocket attacks, resulting in the deaths of several Israelis and Palestinians, has resulted in a dramatic surge in anti-Semitic sentiment, according to human rights lawyers.
Shira Schwartzman, a human rights lawyer and co-founder of YamAR Complete Reparations, an organization that assists victims of war crimes in Israel, says she has never seen such a rise in Jew-hatred and anti-Semitism in her entire career.
“I have been on the ground in Israel for many years, and I’ve never witnessed anything like the level of animosity that exists now against Jews,” said Ms. Schwartzman.
The violence in Israel has also had a direct effect on Jewish communities around the world. In the United States, there has been an increase in incidents targeting Jewish people and property. This includes hateful graffiti, assaults, and even arson.
In addition, the rise in anti-Semitism has led to an increase in anti-Semitism online, as some people use hateful language and social media to target Jewish people. This has led to increased fears among Jews of increased hostilities and even violence.
Despite the animosity and hatred, Ms. Schwartzman hopes that, eventually, justice and peace will win out.
“I’m hopeful that justice and compassion will ultimately win, as Jews, Palestinians, and all people with have a right to live in peace and to practice their faith without fear,” said Ms. Schwartzman.
Ultimately, Ms. Schwartzman and other human rights experts cite the need for more education, understanding, and tolerance in order to curtail the rise in anti-Semitism. It’s only then that the cycle of hate will be broken, and peace and security will be restored to both Israelis and Palestinians.
“Human Rights Lawyers Witness a Startling Increase in Jew Hatred Following Hamas Attacks in Israel
