As the destruction of Israeli flags in Vienna, Linz and Salzburg shows, anti-Semitic incidents are also increasing in this country as a result of the escalation in the Middle East. In this context, sociologist Kenan Güngör noted that there is resentment and hostility against Israelis and Jews, especially among the Muslim Arab population, but that the incidents so far are not organized attacks.
There are latently violent, aggressive young people from the Islamic Arab population who would not commit a terrorist attack, but would tear down flags. While other conflicts often result in material damage, there are also other targets here due to anti-Semitism, Güngör warned.
This could also lead to physical attacks on Jewish people. The more intense the conflict in the Middle East, the greater the risk. However, compared to Germany, Sweden or France, the incidents in this country are still manageable.
Anti-Semitism beyond the conflict in the Middle East
But even outside the conflict, anti-Semitism exists within the Muslim population. Because in most Islamic, Arab countries there is an anti-Jewish, anti-Israeli attitude, which is also noticeable in all media there, according to Güngör. This will be further promoted via social media. They would fuel hostility, provide only one-sided information and spread fake news.
He called for a stronger stop to such propaganda at EU level. However, children in schools must also learn to deal critically with content on social media. In German-speaking countries, Güngör can also imagine that counter-narratives are consciously introduced into such channels.
The raising of the Israeli flag on Ballhausplatz as an important signal
The raising of the Israeli flag on the Federal Chancellery after the attack was an important sign. However, due to the rapid succession of events, the flag has now taken on a different meaning; it can also be interpreted as meaning that what is happening in Gaza is considered correct. Güngör suggested that the Palestinian flag should also be raised to draw attention to the suffering on both sides and to call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Güngör would also find it positive that “more cautious Palestinians” participate in the media discussions.
In any case, Güngör warned against one-sidedness in the public discussion: the killing of civilians must be condemned from both sides. Many Muslim Arab people feel that their suffering is less talked about than that of Israelis and that there is no solidarity with the dead in Gaza, Güngör said. They would feel that Europe and the West are ‘in cahoots with Israel’ – ‘against us’. This feeling is an “ideal breeding ground for Islamists and an accelerator,” the sociologist warned.
The Jewish community fears a change in mood
“The willingness to use violence that is now directed against property could quickly spread to people,” Elie Rosen, president of the Jewish Community in Graz, warned on Tuesday. Chief Rabbi Jaron Engelmayer of the Jewish Community (IKG) Vienna also sees attacks on people as a possible next step.
Rosen observes a “regression” in the lives of Jewish people in the country. The mood can change at any moment. Due to the increasing attacks on Israeli symbols, many no longer feel safe and avoid vulnerable places or the synagogue.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
