Antisemitic incidents surge to record levels in the US
- Antisemitic incidents in the United States have risen for four consecutive years, totaling 9,354 reported instances in 2024.
- A significant correlation exists between antisemitic incidents and rising tensions related to Israel, especially at anti-Israel protests.
- Leaders stress that these increasing levels of antisemitism indicate a pressing societal issue that needs to be actively addressed.
In the United States, antisemitic incidents reached a historic high in 2024, as reported by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) in their annual audit. This report noted a troubling increase for the fourth consecutive year, with the total number rising to 9,354 incidents, a 5% increase from the previous year. The audit revealed that the majority of these incidents—over 6,500—were classified as harassment, while vandalism and assaults comprised the remaining categories. The ADL emphasized that a significant portion of the incidents, particularly concerning the targeting of Jewish individuals, were linked to discussions surrounding Israel and Zionism following the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023. Furthermore, college campuses emerged as notable hotspots for antisemitism, showing an alarming 84% increase in reported cases, which now account for 18% of all incidents recorded. The growing antisemitism has been characterized by the ADL as a persistent reality rather than a temporary uptick, signaling a deeper societal issue that requires immediate attention and action. The overwhelming majority of perpetrators did not face any legal consequences, indicating a need for enhanced awareness and preventative measures within communities and institutions against hate crimes, particularly as the incidents continue to escalate in frequency and public visibility. This report has prompted responses from leaders within Jewish communities and advocacy groups, who highlight the necessity for communal vigilance and a determined stand against hate.