Zurich, Switzerland – An Orthodox Jewish man was critically injured in a suspected antisemitic attack in the Selnau area of Zurich shortly after sundown on Saturday. The victim, a 50-year-old man, was stabbed by a 15-year-old Swiss assailant, who was promptly arrested by police at the scene. Initial reports indicated that there was an altercation involving multiple individuals prior to the stabbing, drawing attention to the potential hate crime nature of the incident.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the attack, considering the possibility of antisemitism playing a role in the violent assault. Eyewitnesses reported disturbing details, with some accounts suggesting that the alleged perpetrator displayed a lack of remorse, even laughing after the attack. Additionally, there were claims that the assailant shouted derogatory statements towards Jews and Israel during the violent encounter.
In response to the attack, the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities (SIG) announced that security measures within the Jewish community were being reassessed. While there is a belief that there is currently no immediate threat to community members, caution is advised as investigations continue. The SIG expressed shock over the incident, noting that physical attacks on Jews in Switzerland are uncommon, emphasizing the need for vigilance moving forward.
European Jewish organizations have strongly condemned the attack, highlighting the rise in antisemitic incidents following recent violent events. The incident has prompted discussions on the roots of incitement and the need for increased surveillance in communities where such sentiments may be cultivated.
Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, president of the Conference of European Rabbis, raised concerns about the escalation of antisemitism and called for a closer examination of sources of radicalization. Goldschmidt emphasized the urgency for European leaders to address the issue, recognizing the danger of unchecked incitement and its potential consequences.