Antisemitic Chase Targets Jews After Sabbath Prayer in Barcelona

The Federation of Jewish Communities in Spain reported a serious antisemitic incident in Barcelona that occurred after Friday night Sabbath prayers. A group of French Jews leaving a synagogue and Sabbath meal were identified by their attire, including kippahs and Hasidic clothing, and became targets of antisemitic slurs, spitting, and a prolonged chase.

According to eyewitness accounts, a woman wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh initiated the harassment, shouting antisemitic insults and spitting at the two Jewish men for about an hour and a half as they walked to their hotel. The situation escalated when dozens more people joined the pursuit, some on bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles. The crowd shouted phrases such as "Jews are not welcome in Barcelona," "baby killers," and "Israeli genocide," blocking the group’s progress until they reached their hotel. Security personnel prevented the mob from entering the hotel premises.

The Federation described the event as one of the most severe antisemitic cases in recent years in Barcelona and is considering legal action. They have called on witnesses and anyone with video or photographic evidence from the promenade, Olympic Port area, or near the Sofitel and Arts hotels on the night of the incident to come forward and share their materials with the Jewish community.