Attacks on synagogues in Los Angeles. Photo: radiohamsin
In Los Angeles, a disturbing rise in antisemitism has emerged. Within just 30 minutes of a Hamas rally near the “Adas Torah” synagogue, the first assault on a Jewish individual took place. Yet, the local police did nothing to intervene.Channel 9 of Israel reported this
Delayed Police Response and Seizure of Synagogue Territory
An hour after the rally began, the police finally moved in, pushing back masked Hamas supporters from the synagogue entrance. However, by that time, the protestors had already initiated violence against local Jews. Chanting for “intifada” and the destruction of Israel, the demonstrators continued their march toward other synagogues, where Persian Jews, once refugees from Islamic terror in Iran, gathered.
Violence and Official Indifference
In the heart of the Jewish quarter, a small group of Hamas supporters aggressively used megaphones, issued threats, and assaulted passersby. Armed with pepper spray and metal objects, they confronted Jewish counter-protesters waving American and Israeli flags.
Despite the police presence, no measures were taken to protect peaceful citizens. It was only after several physical assaults that the police finally pushed the crowd away from the synagogue. The violence, however, spread to nearby areas, including attacks near a kosher restaurant and along residential streets.
Terror and Los Angeles’ New “Normal”
Violent protests in Los Angeles have become the city’s new normal. Attacks on Jewish schools, religious centers, and even parents bringing their children to school have become frequent. For eight months, the police have shown an inability to adequately respond to the violence. The issue is further complicated by media outlets like the Los Angeles Times and CNN, which often frame Jewish counter-protesters as the aggressors, rather than focusing on the violence initiated by terror supporters.
Political Support for Antisemitism?
The criticism against Los Angeles officials is growing. Mayor Karen Bass and other politicians not only passively observe these antisemitic protests but have openly supported some of their organizers. For example, the local Democratic council approved funding for legal support of those causing violence.
This rise in antisemitic sentiment in Los Angeles finds hidden support at the highest levels. The political system seems increasingly tolerant of radical groups that openly threaten Jewish communities.
The rise of antisemitism in Los Angeles is not just a public safety crisis but a political challenge. The inability of law enforcement to protect local communities, combined with the lack of strong political leadership, puts the city’s stability at risk. What began as isolated acts of violence is now becoming an integral part of the new reality.
