French Jewish Leader Warns of Rising Antisemitism Amidst Riots

Dov Mimoun, a researcher of French Jewry, has warned that escalating riots in France, initially sparked by domestic issues, are increasingly targeting Jews, with calls of "Gaza is here" echoing the sentiment that "what Israel is doing to Gaza is being done to us here in France." Mimoun noted that over 5,000 people were arrested in a single week, 85% of whom were minors, and that one in four high schools were affected by the unrest. He emphasized that the protests began due to internal French problems such as teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms, not the conflict in Gaza. However, radical left-wing and pro-Palestinian groups have infiltrated the movement, leading to the display of Palestinian flags in some schools. Mimoun expressed concern that anti-Israel rhetoric could quickly devolve into attacks on Jews, a pattern observed in the past. He highlighted that many in France are angry about the government and the deteriorating economy, creating significant tension between the far-right and far-left, especially with upcoming elections. The far-left is reportedly using the Palestinian cause to mobilize young voters, with one spokesperson stating Palestine would be central to the election campaign. Mimoun explained that for some, Palestine symbolizes all the oppressed, connecting to French grievances about housing and finances, and is amplified by a growing Muslim population in France. He stated that Jews are often an easy target, and the narrative that "Israel kills babies every day" resonates with French youth who perceive Israel as the source of their economic and social crises. Mimoun believes that demographic changes mean French Jews' grandchildren will likely not live in France, returning the country to an era of rampant antisemitism. Despite this, he noted pockets of vibrant Jewish life in Paris, where some residents feel insulated from the unrest. Mimoun drew a parallel to the destruction of the Polish Jewish community in 1939, suggesting the future depends on the government's response to the riots. He observed that during recent protests, French police largely avoided confrontation, a tactic he described as "the French method." Mimoun anticipates a continued wave of immigration from France to Israel and hopes Israel will be prepared to absorb new arrivals.