Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, there has been a significant increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Germany. Reports indicate that the number of such incidents has surged from an average of seven per day in 2022 to 32 per day since the attack.
In Berlin, the synagogue of Rabbi Dovid Roberts was targeted in an attempted arson just days after the attack. He noted that many community members now feel unsafe and prefer to wear caps instead of yarmulkes to avoid being identified as Jews. The environment around Jewish institutions has become increasingly tense, with police providing round-the-clock protection.
Data from the Research and Information Center on Anti-Semitism (RIAS) highlights various forms of anti-Semitism, including graffiti, public harassment, and physical assaults. Jewish students across several German universities have reported open anti-Jewish sentiment and a lack of support from university authorities.
While some members of the Jewish community express criticism of the Israeli government, there is a consensus on the dangerous intertwining of anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism. Rabbi Roberts pointed out that anti-Jewish sentiment exists across multiple political spectrums, including far-right and far-left groups.
In response to the rising anti-Semitism, Jewish organizations in Germany have implemented new support services, including a hotline for Israelis in Germany seeking information about family members affected by the conflict. The Central Organization for Jewish Social Care in Germany is also working to create 'Safe Spaces' for individuals affected by anti-Semitic incidents.
Abraham Lehrer, president of the Central Organization, expressed shock at the recent escalation of anti-Semitism, stating that the community had hoped for better management of these issues. The overall atmosphere for Jews in Germany has become one of fear and uncertainty since the events of October 7.