A Jewish primary school in Paris’s 20th arrondissement was vandalized this weekend in what Jewish groups have decried as a reminder of the alarming level of antisemitism Jewish communities in France face.
On Saturday night, unknown individuals went to Beth Loubavitch-Beth Hannah and smashed three windows, damaged surveillance equipment, and ripped off a plaque. According to the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office, the plaque was later found in a nearby square.
Police said the plaque clearly identified the building as a Jewish educational institution.
The Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation into aggravated criminal damage, citing two aggravating circumstances – the offence was committed by a group, and it was motivated by religion.
Jewish groups condemned the incident, and Israel’s Foreign Ministry said, “Targeting a school, a place of learning and gathering for children, constitutes a grave and deeply alarming act.”
The European Jewish Congress said the attack was “yet another reminder of the alarming level of antisemitism facing Jewish communities in France and across Europe.”
It added, “Acts of hatred directed at Jewish institutions, especially those involving children, must be met with absolute zero tolerance.”
“Protecting Jewish schools, synagogues, and community institutions is not optional; it is a fundamental responsibility.”
