Rabbis Targeted by Abuse in Eindhoven Conference Walk

Jewish Leaders Report Intimidation Incidents

A group of visiting rabbis experienced intimidation and verbal abuse during a recent walk in Eindhoven, Netherlands. The incident occurred while spiritual leaders from across Europe were in the city for a conference.

Abhorrent Chants and Actions During Stroll

The group, including prominent Jewish teachers, was subjected to spitting and hateful chants. “We were soon spit, among others by young people cycling through the group,” stated Simcha Steinberg, representing the Jewish municipality of Eindhoven. The perpetrators reportedly yelled phrases such as “cancer jews,” “Hamas, Hamas, all Jews on the gas,” and “Free Palestine.”

Steinberg, also the rabbi of the Dutch-Israelite main synagogue Brabant, confirmed that security personnel were present, and the police were in the vicinity. The distressing encounter took place around 5:15 PM Tuesday near the Witte Dame Library, involving an estimated five to six individuals. The situation was described as “very intimidating” by those affected.

Pattern of Intimidation Verified

Upper Rabbi Binyomin Jacobs, who was also present, indicated that this was not an isolated event. He reported that the group faced intimidation from different individuals on multiple occasions throughout their stay. The rabbis intend to file a formal report with the municipality, emphasizing the critical importance of safety.

The Rabbinical Center of Europe (RCE) organized the conference, which ran from Monday to Wednesday. These gatherings are typically held to discuss Jewish law, culture, customs, and current societal challenges faced by European rabbis.

Escalating Antisemitism Linked to Gaza Conflict

The increase in antisemitic incidents across Europe has been significant since the Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent war in Gaza. In the Netherlands, reported antisemitic incidents saw an alarming rise of 818% following these events, according to data from CIDI (Center for Information and Documentation Israel).

In a related development, antisemitic incidents have surged globally. For instance, the Anti-Defamation League reported a more than 300% increase in antisemitic incidents in the United States in the final quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022 (ADL, 2024).