French Police Warn of Inability to Protect Jews Amidst Rising Antisemitism
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
The president of the Mizrachi in France, Yitzhak Bar Shevat, stated that French police have warned they cannot guarantee the safety of the Jewish community if civil unrest erupts. He described a severe rise in antisemitism, fueled by political tensions ahead of elections and extremist groups seeking to prevent a right-wing victory. Many French Jews are considering immigrating to Israel due to fears for their safety and the perceived loss of government control, while communities are enhancing their own security.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- French police warned they cannot protect the Jewish community if civil war erupts, according to Yitzhak Bar Shevat.
- Antisemitism in France is described as extremely sharp and severe, impacting the Jewish community.
- Extremist left-wing groups are reportedly intensifying efforts to prevent a right-wing election victory.
- Jewish communities are considering immigration to Israel due to fears for their safety.
- President Macron is criticized for losing control and not adequately protecting citizens and communities.
The president of the Mizrachi in France, Yitzhak Bar Shevat, has revealed that French police have warned they may be unable to protect the Jewish community if civil unrest escalates into widespread violence. Bar Shevat described a sharp increase in antisemitism in France, exacerbated by the country's complex economic and security situation. He noted that extremist left-wing groups are intensifying their efforts to prevent a predicted victory for the right-wing in upcoming elections, as the right is seen as the only political force openly supporting Israel.
Bar Shevat stated that the Jewish community is accustomed to antisemitism but that the current situation is more severe. He recounted a recent police warning that in the event of a revolution or civil war, authorities would be unable to guarantee their safety, advising them to prepare. He pointed to recent events where 65,000 police officers struggled to control the situation, suggesting that Jews would be the first victims of civil unrest. Signs have reportedly appeared stating, "We are not Jews, don't throw gas at us."
In response to the escalating tensions, Jewish communities are not only preparing for self-defense but are also increasingly considering immigration to Israel, fearing a loss of government control. Bar Shevat mentioned the implementation of private and community security measures across Europe, acknowledging that police focus on migrant issues in cities like Marseille and Lyon leaves synagogues vulnerable. He also noted that Jewish businesses were disproportionately targeted in recent unrest, while Muslim-owned businesses were left untouched.
Bar Shevat indicated that Israeli agencies and the embassy have urged preparedness, while in the US, a "Marshall Plan" has reportedly been discussed to facilitate Jewish emigration from France. Despite the grave concerns, he expressed hope that the situation might de-escalate soon. He criticized President Macron's perceived lack of control and engagement, suggesting that many believe his resignation and early elections could be a solution.
