A Jewish passenger was slapped on a city bus and called a “genocidal Jew” by another passenger.
By Rachel Avraham
A disturbing antisemitic attack occurred in Ireland’s capital this week, when a Jewish passenger was slapped on a city bus and called a “genocidal Jew” by another passenger. The incident has sparked widespread concern among Jewish communities and human rights groups, who warn of the growing wave of antisemitism across Europe.
According to eyewitness reports, the assault happened in broad daylight on one of Dublin’s busy city bus routes. The victim, who was wearing a yarmulke (a traditional Jewish head covering), was verbally abused before being physically attacked.
The attacker allegedly shouted inflammatory accusations, blaming Jews for global conflicts, before striking the victim across the face. Several passengers witnessed the assault and immediately intervened. The bus driver notified authorities, and the suspect was detained by police shortly after the incident.
The Dublin Police have confirmed that the attack is being investigated as a hate crime. A Garda spokesperson stated: “This was a targeted attack motivated by antisemitic prejudice. We are taking this matter extremely seriously.” The suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.
The Jewish Representative Council of Ireland strongly condemned the incident, calling it “a stark reminder that antisemitism is alive and dangerous in modern Europe.” A spokesperson for the council commented: “No one should be attacked for wearing religious attire or expressing their identity. Such hatred must not be tolerated in Ireland or anywhere else.”
Human rights organizations note that antisemitic incidents have surged across Europe in recent years, often linked to tensions in the Middle East and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Synagogues, Jewish community centers, and individuals have increasingly become targets of harassment, threats, and physical attacks.
Experts warn that unchecked antisemitism could foster wider social divisions and embolden extremist ideologies. Ireland’s Minister for Justice issued a statement condemning the attack, pledging that hate crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The statement read: “Antisemitism has no place in our society. We stand with Ireland’s Jewish community and will ensure they feel safe and protected.”
Internationally, the Israeli Embassy in Dublin also condemned the assault and urged Irish authorities to take firm action. The incident has gained significant media attention, with coverage by The Irish Times, BBC, The Guardian, and Sky News. On social media, hashtags such as #NoToAntisemitism and #JusticeForJews have trended, with thousands expressing solidarity with the victim.
In recent times, Ireland has recorded a rise in antisemitic rhetoric online and in public discourse. Analysts attribute this trend partly to the influence of extremist groups and disinformation campaigns that exploit ongoing conflicts to spread hate.
The assault on a Jewish passenger in Dublin is not an isolated event but part of a broader and alarming pattern of antisemitic hostility across Europe. The attack underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of hate crime laws, public awareness campaigns, and stronger protections for vulnerable communities.
Photo from C. G. P. Grey: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_transport_in_Ireland#/media/File:Citadis_dublin.jpg
