Spanish Jewish Community Reports Surge in Antisemitism

The Jewish community in Spain has reported a significant increase in antisemitic incidents, with 221 crimes and incidents recorded in 2025. This represents a 14.5% rise from the 193 cases documented the previous year. According to a joint report by the Federation of Jewish Communities of Spain and the organization "Movement Against Intolerance," hostility towards Jews has not subsided since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, instead becoming deeply embedded in the daily lives of Spanish Jews.

David Obadia, president of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Spain, stated that the post-October 7th period has drastically altered the community's living conditions. "Since October 7, 2023, Spanish Jews have been forced to visit our community institutions under heightened security measures," Obadia said. "Our children are the only ones who go to school under police protection, and insults and discrimination have become part of our daily reality." The community estimates that between 13,000 and 15,000 people identify as Jewish in Spain, with a broader estimate of Jewish descent at 40,000 to 50,000.

The report's authors highlight that antisemitic manifestations are becoming entrenched in educational, cultural, and digital spheres, with society gradually becoming accustomed to expressions of hatred disguised as political protest. Esteban Ibarra, president of "Movement Against Intolerance," emphasized that antisemitism should not be considered an opinion or a disagreement, as it undermines social cohesion and weakens democratic institutions. The report's release coincides with discussions surrounding the Spanish cabinet's stance on Israel and criticism directed at Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.