At a ceremony marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Israeli Ambassador Dor Shapira and B'nai B'rith President Gabriela Cantergi called on politicians to speak out against antisemitism.

Shapira and Cantergi warned that the failure of Portuguese politicians to condemn rising antisemitism could lead to physical attacks on Jews. They noted a concerning trend of silence among politicians following a surge in antisemitic incidents across Portugal.

The increase in antisemitic rhetoric and attacks in Portugal has been linked to events such as Hamas's attack on southern Israel and the subsequent conflict with Israel. Incidents in Portugal include vandalism at synagogues, Jewish cultural centers, and businesses with ties to Israel. Threats against the Jewish population and the publication of lists targeting Jewish individuals have also contributed to the worrying trend.

A recent demonstration in Porto urged people not to rent from "Zionist murderers," reflecting tensions within the community. The publication of lists of individuals working for Israeli investors by Esquerda.net has further escalated the situation.

Cantergi criticized party leaders for their failure to condemn these acts of hate, warning of the historical dangers of scapegoating Jews and the potential for further attacks.

The Jewish community in Porto has taken legal action by filing a criminal complaint against those inciting hatred and violence. They demand accountability for the publication of lists targeting Jewish individuals.

The vandalization of a synagogue in Porto following the Hamas attack underscores the urgent need to address antisemitism in Portugal. Despite its small Jewish population, estimated at around 5,000, there is a pressing need for political and legal authorities to take concrete action to combat hate speech and ensure the safety of Jewish communities.

Israel War Day-132: Hamas Leader Calls for Ceasefire and Israeli Withdrawal from Gaza

US Reportedly Plans Arms Shipment to Israel Amid Calls for Gaza Ceasefire

Biden Plans Weapons Shipment to Israel Amid Gaza Ceasefire Efforts