France: Teenager arrested for kicking Jewish rabbi in Paris Metro

In response to broader worries about a recent rise in antisemitism in France, a prosecutor said on Thursday that a teenager who kicked a rabbi in the back in the Paris Metro has been arrested and is being investigated for assault.

The possibility of an antisemitic motive, according to the prosecutor at the Bobigny Tribunal, made the potential charges more serious.

The victim, who was dressed in a black suit and hat—apparel frequently worn by Jewish rabbis—was attacked at midday on Wednesday, according to the prosecutor.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced on Wednesday that there have been 1,159 antisemitic incidents in France since Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7. This is almost three times the total number of incidents that occurred in 2022.

Jewish community members in France have expressed fear of leaving the house when wearing obvious religious symbols, like the skullcap (kippah) worn by some Jewish men. They also think twice before attending a synagogue because some have more stringent security measures.

In response to antisemitism, President Emmanuel Macron declared on Wednesday that France would “be ruthless against those who carry that hatred.”

Sunday’s anti-antisemitism march has been organised by the leaders of both houses of parliament. Parties are split on whether or not to attend the march following the announcement that the far-right National Rally would take part.

Elisabeth Borne, the prime minister, has declared her participation.

The CGT trade union, which has declared that it will not take part in the march on Sunday, has called for an independent march against xenophobia, antisemitism, and the far right to take place in Paris on Thursday night.

(With agency inputs)