An attempted arson attack targeting the Jewish community building and synagogue in Skopje has drawn strong condemnation from both local leaders and the European Jewish Congress, amid growing concern over rising antisemitism in Europe.
According to local reports, two individuals set fire to the entrance door of the building before fleeing the scene. Police have launched an investigation and reinforced security measures around Jewish sites in the city.
The Jewish community in North Macedonia described the incident as unprecedented in recent history. “This act is not just an attack on a religious building, but a deeply disturbing attack on the basic values of a civilised society — coexistence, dignity and mutual respect,” the community said in a statement.
The European Jewish Congress echoed these concerns, strongly condemning the attack and underlining its broader implications. “Targeting a synagogue is an attack on religious freedom and on the safety of Jewish communities,” the organisation stated. It further emphasised that such acts are intended to intimidate and disrupt Jewish life across Europe.
Both the local Jewish community and the European Jewish Congress called on authorities to fully investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. They also urged governments to strengthen protections for Jewish institutions, which remain vulnerable to targeted violence.
In their appeal, community leaders called for unity across society: “We urge religious leaders, institutions and citizens alike to condemn this act clearly and unequivocally. Only through shared responsibility and vigilance can we ensure that hatred, fear and ignorance do not prevail over reason, humanity and justice.”
The incident in Skopje highlights ongoing concerns about the security of Jewish communities across Europe, as authorities and civil society continue to grapple with the persistence of antisemitic threats.
