The Research and Information Centre for Antisemitism (RIAS) in Bavaria has recorded a total of 527 antisemitic incidents related to Israel since the violent attack by Hamas on the Jewish state.
As the anniversary of the terrorist attack approaches, the number of antisemitic incidents is expected to rise, especially during public demonstrations.
RIAS Director Seidel-Arpacı recalled only one pro-Palestinian vigil that did not feature antisemitic slogans.
Up until April, RIAS documented 127 gatherings across Bavaria where antisemitic rhetoric was used under the guise of “criticism of Israel.”
Seidel-Arpacı pointed out that the term “criticism of Israel” has gained prominence, but when double standards apply or when Israel is delegitimised or demonised, it constitutes Israel-related antisemitism, which is distinct from valid critiques of the Israeli government’s policies.
RIAS has compiled a 140-page report documenting incidents of Israel-related antisemitism in Bavaria since 7 October, many of which were previously unreported.
Notable cases include the disruption of a speech by a Jewish CEO of a US software company at the Technical University of Munich by pro-Palestinian activists, and the chants of “Khaybar khaybar ya yahud” heard in downtown Munich, referencing a historic massacre of Jews.
Before 7 October, RIAS recorded an average of seven such incidents monthly, which has surged to 88 cases per month since. This spike began immediately after the Hamas attack, not with subsequent Israeli military actions. In the first six months post-attack, RIAS documented five direct assaults, twelve acts of vandalism, nineteen threats, eleven mass letters, and 480 instances classified as “hurtful behaviour.”
These incidents reflect verbal violence, which, according to Bavaria’s Social Minister Ulrike Scharf, can lead to lethal attacks. She described the figures as “outrageous,” urging that they serve as a significant warning.
