Jews Under Fire: A Growing Threat

The Rise of Antisemitism and Political Violence in the U.S. and Around the World

In recent years, antisemitism and political violence have surged across the United States and globally, sparking concern among Jewish communities and human rights organizations. The situation has escalated dramatically since the outbreak of the Israel–Hamas war in October 2023. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), anti-Semitic incidents in the U.S. rose by a staggering 361% in the three months following the conflict’s start. Unfortunately, the wave of hatred has not subsided and continues to impact Jewish individuals and communities throughout the country and the world.

The State of Antisemitism in America 2024 report, published in February 2025, revealed troubling data. One in three American Jews (33%) reported being personally targeted by antisemitism, either in person or online, within the past year. Alarmingly, 56% said they had modified their behavior out of fear — a significant increase from 46% in 2023 and 38% in 2022. Much of the rise in anti-Semitic sentiment, especially among younger populations, has been linked to the spread of hate speech on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, which are particularly influential among younger users.

Commentators and scholars point to multiple factors behind this rise. “No society survives free and liberal when Jews are under attack. Virulent antisemitism is always a sign that the autocrats are coming,” said one analyst. “Certainly, the increased tolerance for open expressions of bigotry — primarily but not exclusively from the political right — has emboldened many who harbor anti-Semitic views. Meanwhile, elements of the political left, through excessive ideological purity, ‘cancel culture,’ and identity politics, have also contributed to a climate of division and hostility.” In this dynamic, Jews are frequently mischaracterized as part of a privileged, ‘oppressor’ class — a dangerous oversimplification that ignores the complexities of Jewish identity.

Social media is arguably the most powerful and damaging accelerant. Where extremists once had only street corners to distribute flyers, they now have platforms to reach millions instantly. Old anti-Semitic tropes — such as Jews controlling the media or global finance — are being recycled and spread online with disturbing frequency. “Why does it always seem to be the Jews’ fault?” many ask in frustration. “We’re blamed when we don’t have a state, and blamed when we do. We’re accused of controlling the media — even as the media bashes us daily.” These tired, false accusations echo the rhetoric that led to some of history’s darkest chapters, including the Holocaust.

However, the Jewish response today is markedly different. As the late Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin once said, “We are not the Jew that shakes at our knees anymore.” There is a growing sense among Jews in the diaspora — from the United States to France, Canada, and Australia — that a reckoning is near. “We now have a homeland, and many of us may need it sooner than we expected,” one voice warned. “There is a new generation of Jews who will not back down from a fight. But we must face this not as fragmented tribes, but as one united nation. If we do not stand up to our bullies, they will never stop. And we are done being silent.”

“Never Again” Must Start Now – Before It’s Too Late

The phrase “Never Again” must become more than just a slogan — it must become a call to action. With the rise in antisemitism and targeted violence against Jews across the globe, every Jewish man, woman, and child must begin taking their personal safety seriously.

Now is the time to learn how to defend yourself. Organizations like Chai Defense in New York are already helping our community by teaching Krav Maga, self-defense techniques, and situational awareness — all essential tools in today’s world. In addition, clubs like Guns and Moses (GunsnMosesNJ), with active chapters in New Jersey and New York, are empowering Jews by offering safe, responsible firearms training and education.

I firmly believe it’s better to be trained and never need to use these skills than to find yourself in a moment of danger and wish you had them.

If you or someone you know is looking for a place to train, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Email me directly — I will help you find a safe, reputable location near you to begin your training.

The time is now. Our strength is our unity, and our safety begins with preparedness.