French Unrest Fuels Antisemitic Chants, Calls for Aliyah

France is experiencing a week of escalating protests and violence, initially framed as a student movement for better educational conditions, but increasingly marked by antisemitic incidents. During a blockade of a high school in Carpentras on October 1, 2026, masked youths reportedly chanted anti-Jewish slogans and "We burned Israel," alongside a burning bin and a Palestinian flag. This incident, along with others like a teacher being doused in gasoline and beaten in La Seyne-sur-Mer, suggests the protests are being exploited by Islamist elements, potentially linked to the large influx of migrants into the EU since 2015.

The article highlights a significant rise in antisemitic events in France, with 1,320 incidents recorded in 2025 by a community security organization, and an increase in physical violence compared to the previous year. This trend predates the current unrest, which is exacerbating the situation for French Jews. The judicial system has also seen cases like an imam in Paris being ruled to have incited hatred against Jews, and in Britain, two ISIS supporters were sentenced to life for plotting attacks on an anti-racism march and a Jewish area in Manchester.

European leaders have acknowledged the growing threat. French President Emmanuel Macron warned in October 2020 of Islamist organizations aiming for full control, and former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau cautioned in May 2025 about efforts to establish an Islamic state governed by Sharia law. In Germany, Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on September 21 that "Jewish life in Germany is no longer safe," calling the situation a "disgrace."

In light of these events, the chairman of Ofeq Israeli, an organization promoting immigration, is urging Jews in France, Britain, and across Europe to make Aliyah (immigrate to Israel) immediately. The organization plans to hold employment conferences in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and London to assist those interested in relocating. The article stresses that while personal and professional lives are important, family safety and future are paramount, advocating for a proactive move to Israel, a sovereign Jewish state responsible for its citizens' protection.

Israel is called upon to prepare for a significant wave of immigration, including comprehensive absorption plans for housing, employment, professional recognition, Hebrew language studies, and education. The government, employers, and local authorities are urged to collaborate with clear goals, timelines, and budgets to ensure the successful integration of new immigrants.