French Officials Urged to Heighten Jewish Community Protection Amid Rising Anti-Semitic Incidents

The Israeli Diaspora Minister, Amichai Shikley, has raised urgent concerns about the rising threat of anti-Semitism in France, citing intelligence assessments that highlight an increased danger to Jewish communities ahead of the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre. Shikley has written to French Prime Minister Sebastian Corney and Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, urging immediate action to enhance the protection of Jewish institutions and individuals during the coming days.

Recent demonstrations in French high schools have become platforms for overt anti-Semitic expressions, including the display of Palestinian flags, calls against Israel, and the use of swastikas. These incidents underscore a troubling trend of incitement that aligns with broader anti-Israeli sentiment. The situation has been exacerbated by the convergence of violent protests with the remembrance of the October 7 attacks, creating an environment where anti-Semitic rhetoric can flourish.

On September 15, an Israeli flag displayed among 196 national flags in Bastille Square was vandalized with blood-like red paint, a clear act of hostility. Activist groups have also called for the cancellation of the Paris Rising Fair on October 11, further indicating the growing hostility toward Jewish and Israeli symbols. These actions reflect a coordinated effort to undermine Jewish presence and identity in France.

According to official data from the French Interior Ministry, 533 anti-Semitic acts were reported in the first half of 2026, representing 46% of all anti-religious acts in the country. Jews, who make up less than 1% of France’s population, are disproportionately targeted. The Diaspora Ministry has documented 34 anti-Semitic and anti-Israeli incidents between January 1 and July 26, 2026, alongside 60 anti-Israeli demonstrations in the same period. These figures illustrate a disturbing escalation in hostility.

As the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre approaches, Shikley warns that the threat to Jewish communities is intensifying. Student organizations have called for a national recruiting day on October 6, involving blockages of schools and universities, which has been declared a day of rage. Demonstrations are planned for October 7, some of which are openly celebrating the massacre. This alignment of events presents a significant risk to Jewish safety.

Shikley has demanded that French authorities take concrete steps to secure Jewish institutions, community memorial events, and the Paris immigration fair. His letter emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and protective measures, reflecting the gravity of the situation. The Israeli government is urging France to act decisively to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of Jewish citizens.

The situation in France highlights the complex interplay between political activism, religious identity, and public safety. As the world reflects on the events of October 7, the need for vigilance and solidarity with Jewish communities becomes ever more critical. The biblical call to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18) serves as a reminder of the moral imperative to protect all people from hatred and violence.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Hebrew)