South African Activists Demand Arrest of Local Jews Amid Rising Antisemitism
Anti-Israel activists in Cape Town displayed wanted posters featuring local Jews, demanding their arrest or deportation. Targeted individuals denied any crimes and criticized the actions as antisemitic. Rising antisemitism has been reported following recent events, with violent incidents occurring during protests. Officials express deep concern over the escalation of hostility and its implications for the Jewish community.
In Cape Town’s Sea Point Promenade, a group of anti-Israel activists publicly displayed wanted posters featuring the photographs and names of individuals from South Africa’s Jewish community. The protesters demanded these individuals be arrested or deported, as reported by the South African Jewish Report. Many of those targeted denied any wrongdoing, with some asserting they had no connections to Israel.
A Johannesburg remedial educator expressed her pride in her Jewish identity despite being featured on a poster. She emphasized that such actions would not alter her commitment to defending Israel’s existence. Another Jewish individual condemned the posters, stating that they imply guilt solely based on his Jewish identity, and described the situation as deeply troubling.
The rise in antisemitism within South Africa has intensified since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Fluctuating global sentiments have led to protests in support of Palestinians, with notable increases in hostile and violent rhetoric, according to Cape SAJBD Executive Director Daniel Bloch. He reported incidents of physical violence against those supporting Israel, including an assault captured on video involving a group of protesters.
Many protest posters contained alarming slogans advocating violence and resistance against Israel. Cape SAJBD Chairperson Adrienne Jacobson referred to these gatherings as targeted harassment and underscored their underlying antisemitic nature. She raised concerns over the protesters’ support for Hamas, particularly in light of recent brutal attacks, labeling the calls for violence as incitement.
The protests in South Africa reflect a concerning surge in antisemitism, manifested through aggressive demonstrations against the Jewish community. Activists are employing tactics that not only target individuals but also promote violence and hostility towards Jews, who are being unfairly labeled as guilty. This escalation of hostility warrants significant attention and action to safeguard the rights and safety of all individuals, regardless of their religious background.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
