Green Graffiti Spree in Paris: Jewish Institutions Targeted
Multiple Jewish establishments in Paris have been marked with green pigment - Parisian Jewish Institutions Defaced with Green Paint
Unidentified assailants launched a wave of attacks on Jewish-linked establishments in Paris, splattering several locations with green paint. The disgraceful spree affected the national Holocaust memorial, three synagogues (Tournelles, Agoudas Hakehilos, and Belleville), and a popular Israeli restaurant, Chez Marianne. This disturbing incident has sparked widespread condemnation from French authorities and representatives, both at home and abroad [1][2][5].
Over the years, anti-Semitic acts in France have seen a substantial increase, especially since the Gaza conflict resurfaced on October 7, 2023. In 2024 alone, France recorded 1,570 anti-Semitic occurrences, more than tripling the number from the previous year (436) [5]. Historically, the figures have varied between 311 and 851 annually since 2012 [5]. Moreover, the recent surge mirrors a broader European trend where tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict have fanned the flames of anti-Semitic incidents [5].
The attacks form part of a larger, lingering context of tension related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Some French officials have faced criticism for their handling of the situation, with accusations of causing irreparable discord between communities [5]. The Israeli embassy has highlighted this discord as a contributing factor that affects not just Israel but also Jewish communities worldwide [5]. In light of these concerns, French authorities have reinforced protective measures at Jewish institutions [5].
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau commented on the attacks through an online platform, expressing "immense disgust" over the despicable actions aimed at the Jewish community [3]. Paris' Mayor, Anne Hidalgo, vehemently denounced these intimidation tactics, asserting that anti-Semitism has no place in their city or republic. The President of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions in France, Yonathan Arfi, showed "deep sadness and indignation" at the defaced establishments [4].
French President Emmanuel Macron had advocated for EU penalties against Israel just days prior to the attacks if Israel didn't promptly remedy humanitarian aid delivery to the Gaza Strip given the dire situation there. Following Macron's call, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar rebutted, declaring that Macron was "on a crusade against the Jewish state" [3]. Amidst these escalating tensions, Israel's President Isaac Herzog shared his "shock" regarding the Paris attacks and urged French authorities to promptly apprehend the perpetrators and protect the Jewish people from hate and violence [6].
As the investigation into the vandalism progresses, authorities remain vigilant in apprehending the culprits. Meanwhile, calls for improved protection of Jewish communities continue to gather momentum [2][5]. Sadly, the recent tension across France and Europe offers no signs of abating, as long as anti-Semitic incidents persist in our midst.
- Amidst the ongoing political discussions about Israel-Gaza conflict, calls for community aid to construct new buildings for protected Jewish institutions have risen significantly in response to the increased anti-Semitic occurrences in France.
- The general-news of the disheartening spate of crime-and-justice incidents targeting Jewish establishments in Paris has reignited debates in the Politics sphere, prompting discussions about the urgent need for enhanced aid and protection measures for these vulnerable communities.
