Benjamin Graumann, head of the Jewish Community of Frankfurt, has voiced growing concern over a marked increase in antisemitism across Europe since the October 7th attacks by Hamas. In a commentary published Tuesday, Graumann describes a disturbing acceleration of antisemitic incidents, citing examples in Austria, Spain, Greece and Italy that are contributing to a pervasive sense of insecurity within Jewish communities.
He reports that many Jewish citizens in Germany are actively questioning whether Europe remains a viable long-term home for their families. Graumann specifically points to university campuses, which he characterizes as increasingly becoming centers for antisemitic sentiment. This climate, he suggests, is fueled by the rise of both far-right and far-left political groups united primarily by their antagonism towards Jews.
Graumann strongly rejects the notion that distancing themselves from Israel could offer Jewish communities a solution to rising antisemitism. He argues that the very suggestion that Jewish people should “buy” their safety by disavowing Israel is deeply insidious. Instead, he asserts that Israel provides a crucial protective function, serving as a refuge should the situation deteriorate further. He contends that criticisms of Israel are often used as a pretext to justify all forms of antisemitism, pointing out the disproportionate level of scrutiny directed toward the country. Graumann emphasizes it isn’t criticism of Israel that is prohibited, but rather, criticism “of” anti-Israel rhetoric.
