Buildings in Paris have been marred with graffiti depicting the Star of David, evoking memories of the dark times of the 1930s for many residents and political leaders. On Monday night, about 60 of these symbols were discovered in Paris’s 14th arrondissement.
This recent act follows a surge in antisemitic occurrences in France. Since the events in Israel on October 7 involving Hamas, over 850 antisemitic incidents have been recorded, as per Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin. An investigation focusing on property damage with a racist undertone has been initiated by Paris officials.
A distressed resident of a defaced building voiced their shock to BFMTV, recounting the hate they felt during their childhood. The local government of the 14th arrondissement compared the incidents to the prejudice of the 1930s, which culminated in the tragic loss of millions of Jewish lives.
Deputy to Paris Mayor, Emmanuel Grégoire, declared that the offensive graffiti will be cleaned and investigations will proceed. Grégoire emphasized the persistent nature of antisemitism, vowing to relentlessly combat it.
In an unrelated incident, a woman faced grave injuries post an encounter with the police, as they alleged her non-compliance and threatening behavior.
Graffiti similar to those in Paris appeared in neighboring areas like Vanves, Fontenay-aux-Roses, Aubervilliers, and Saint-Ouen, some bearing messages supporting Palestine. The Mayor of Saint-Ouen, Karim Bouamrane, demanded stringent legal actions against those responsible for the racially charged defacement.
Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne labeled these acts as “disgraceful”. A recent poll suggests that the escalation in antisemitic acts is a concern for 83% of the French population. Notable political figures, including President Emmanuel Macron, highlighted the potential of foreign conflicts, such as the Israel-Hamas conflict, spilling over into French society. Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti disclosed that around 400 individuals have been apprehended for antisemitic actions this month.
