After being buried in a Jewish cemetery in Alsace, France’s head of state Emmanuel Macron has pledged to take decisive action against anti-Semitism. „We will take action (…) and we will punish,“ Macron said yesterday during his short-term visit to Quatzenheim, northwest of Strasbourg. That will also be reflected in laws.
According to prefecture, about 80 graves were violated. The French news agency AFP spoke of even 96 graves. TV pictures showed colored swastikas on tombs. The facts remained open. Prefect Jean-Luc Marx spoke of a „vile anti-Semitic act“.
Netanyahu called Europe to action
There was also protest from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the desecration of the graves by „wild anti-Semites“ shocking. He called on the leaders of France and Europe in a communication to act decisively against anti-Semitism. „It is a plague that endangers everyone, not just us, and it must be condemned wherever or whenever it appears.“
Israeli Minister of Immigration Joav Gallant said the desecration of graves in the Jewish cemetery in France is reminiscent of dark days in the history of the Jewish people. „I strongly condemn anti-Semitism in France and call on the Jews: come home, emigrate to Israel.“
In the evening, thousands demonstrated against anti-Semitism in Paris and other provinces. The rally in the capital was attended by Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and many other members of the government.
