Austria sees rise in anti-Semitic attacks against backdrop of Israel-Hamas war

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A sharp rise in anti-Semitic attacks in Austria over the past few weeks have sparked concerns of a spillover of the Israel-Hamas war in the central European nation.

Issued on: 05/11/2023 - 13:54Modified: 05/11/2023 - 13:55

1 min

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Austrians rally in support of Jewish communities in Vienna. © FRANCE 24

By: Anthony MILLS | Vianey LORIN

Days after an arson attack in the Jewish section of Vienna's central cemetery, thousands of people gathered in the Austian capital in a show of support for the local Jewish community.

On Wednesday night, a fire destroyed the entrance lobby to a ceremonial hall in the cemetery. Swastika symbols were also sprayed on external walls. There were no reported injuries.

"It's really a despicable act," said Oskar Deutsch, a community leader in Vienna.

Anti-Semitic acts have multiplied in Austria since the October 7 Hamas attack, according to Benjamin Nagele, secretary-general of the Jewish community in Vienna.

Austrian authorities have raised the country's terrorism alert level to "high" since October 18 and have increased protection of local Jewish institutions.

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