Rabbi attacked in antisemitic assault in France
- Rabbi Arié Engelberg was assaulted while walking home from synagogue with his son.
- The suspect, a 16-year-old, was arrested and treated in a psychiatric facility.
- This attack highlights the issue of rising antisemitism in France and has garnered significant condemnation from authorities.
In France, an antisemitic attack occurred on Saturday evening in the city of Orléans, targeting Rabbi Arié Engelberg. The assault took place as the rabbi was walking home from synagogue with his nine-year-old son, during which he was beaten, kicked, and bitten by a young man who also hurled antisemitic insults at him. Local authorities responded swiftly, arresting the 16-year-old suspect, who was subsequently taken to a psychiatric facility. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack on social media, expressing solidarity with the rabbi and the Jewish community, while emphasizing the need for action against rising antisemitism in the country. The incident has drawn attention to the increasing incidents of antisemitic hate crimes in France, especially following recent political tensions and international conflicts that have exacerbated antisemitism within its borders. Macron's condemnation reflects a widespread concern among French leaders and citizens regarding the safety of the Jewish population, which is the largest in Western Europe. Statistics released by the French Interior Ministry noted a concerning rise in antisemitic acts in recent years, with the latest figures indicating substantial ongoing hostility toward Jewish individuals and communities.