The Coordinating Committee of Belgian Jewish Organisations (CCOJB) and the Forum of Jewish Organisations (FJO) issued a joint statement condemning the recent police raids on the homes of mohels in Antwerp, describing them as a flagrant violation of religious freedom.
“The CCOJB and the Forum der Joodse Organisaties express their deep concern regarding the recent searches carried out in Jewish families’ homes in Antwerp in connection with religious circumcision. This intervention represents a troubling infringement on freedom of religion and has sparked strong indignation and profound unease within our community.
Circumcision is a fundamental religious practice, legal and respected for centuries, both in Belgium and around the world. That it can now lead to disproportionate police measures is a painful reminder of darker times when Jewish traditions were under pressure. The media coverage of these events has further led to the stigmatisation and public humiliation of the Jewish community.
Such actions fuel antisemitic sentiment and undermine trust in the rule of law. We call for strict respect for religious freedom and for measures to be taken to ensure that such a precedent cannot be repeated.”
