Concerns Arise Among French Authorities as Paris is Targeted by Antisemitic Graffiti

Acts of antisemitism in the Paris area have caused concern among political leaders, who have drawn comparisons to the 1930s. On Monday night, approximately 60 Stars of David were found painted on walls in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. France has experienced a significant increase in antisemitic incidents, with over 850 reported since the Hamas attacks in Israel on October 7. In response, the authorities in Paris have launched an investigation into the property damage, aggravated by racist intent. Residents affected by the graffiti expressed their distress, with one individual recalling the hate they experienced as a child. The mayoralty of the 14th arrondissement highlighted the resemblance of these acts to the events of the 1930s, which resulted in the extermination of millions of Jews. Paris deputy mayor Emmanuel Grégoire confirmed that the stars would be removed, and further investigation would be conducted. Grégoire emphasized the persistence of antisemitism and pledged to continue the fight against it. In a separate incident, a woman was shot and critically injured by police following her threatening behavior and refusal to obey instructions. Similar incidents of graffiti were discovered in other Parisian suburbs, accompanied by slogans expressing support for Palestine. Local officials have called for those responsible for these antisemitic and racist acts to face legal consequences. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne condemned the disgraceful acts, and a poll indicated that 83% of French people are concerned about the sharp increase in antisemitic incidents. Political leaders, including President Emmanuel Macron, have warned about the potential importation of tensions from the Israel-Hamas conflict into France. The month has witnessed the arrest of approximately 400 individuals involved in antisemitic activities, according to Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti.