Israeli Journalist Attacked While Filming Documentary on Antisemitism in Northern Ireland

During the filming of a documentary series on antisemitism in Europe, i24NEWS reporter Yonatan Roah and cameraman Nadav Abas were attacked in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The incident occurred as part of a project examining antisemitism and attitudes toward Israel across European streets. The team openly identified themselves as Israeli during interviews, which usually proceeded without incident, even with critics of Israel. However, once the assailant realized their Israeli identity, the atmosphere quickly turned hostile, culminating in an attack.

Roah described the event as frightening and emphasized that their goal was to engage in dialogue rather than provoke confrontation or violence. He noted that while the attack does not represent the entire Northern Irish public, it highlights the complex reality Israelis face in Europe. Roah observed that although they find some supporters of Israel, such individuals are increasingly rare. He stated that even those not actively protesting against Israel often hold very negative views toward it.

A significant theme in the interview was the perceived failure of Israeli public diplomacy. Roah criticized Israel’s efforts as minimal and insufficient to counter the powerful negative narratives spreading globally, especially among European youth. He stressed the importance of a young person’s first exposure to Israel, warning that if it is framed as a "genocide state," changing that perception later is extremely difficult.

Roah also discussed his recent coverage in Spain, where he identified a distinction between classical antisemitism and hostility toward Israel and Zionism, noting that the latter is more prevalent but the line between them can be thin. He concluded by expressing hope for a future when Israelis can openly express their identity in Europe without fear.

The Belfast incident is the third installment in Roah’s documentary series, following episodes filmed in Spain and New York. The Northern Ireland episode is scheduled to air in the coming weeks. The footage vividly illustrates the gap between public discourse on antisemitism and the direct experiences of Israelis in Europe, as the film crew itself became a target of violence once their nationality was known.