What’s Next for Europe?

On the eve of Kristallnacht’s 86th anniversary, I woke up to horrifying news: a violent pogrom had taken place in Amsterdam, targeting Jews. The incident felt like a tragic echo of Europe’s darkest days. To gain insight into what’s happening across Europe—and, in particular, in Germany—I turned to my friend Paushali Lass, a dedicated supporter of Israel and the Jewish people, whom I had recently visited in Düsseldorf. Together, we delved into the troubling rise of antisemitism and the uncomfortable realities facing Europe today.

Yair (left) and Paushali (right) stand together, holding an Israeli flag in solidarity at the Stuttgart rally in Germany on October 6th.

Yair: Paushali, when you first heard about the violence in Amsterdam, what went through your mind?

Paushali: I was devastated but, sadly, not surprised. With everything that has happened since October 7 last year, it felt like Europe was bracing for a wave of antisemitic violence. Amsterdam is only 230 kilometers from here, and to think that such hatred is so close to home is chilling. Dr. Oded Horowitz from the Jewish community here recently said that Germany’s Jews live in a “state of emergency.” Seeing what happened in Amsterdam makes that reality all too clear.

Yair: The tension you describe in Germany—it seems like it’s partly tied to sensitivities around immigration. Do you think the country’s migrant policies contribute to rising antisemitism?

Paushali: Yes, and this is a difficult subject for Germans to address openly. Our commitment to welcoming refugees is something I deeply respect. But there are challenges. Many refugees are sincere asylum seekers, but some bring extremist ideologies with them. And voicing concerns about this often leads to accusations of Islamophobia. Yet ignoring these issues is even riskier, as we’re now experiencing.

Hearing this, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of her words. Germany’s struggle to balance compassion and safety is a delicate one, with a clear impact on Jewish communities.

Yair: Do Germans, in general, grasp how these issues impact Jewish communities?

Paushali: Not really. Many Germans—especially those who see themselves as “progressive”—assume all refugees are oppressed and need their help, without understanding the mindset some bring with them. I’ve been mistaken for an Arab refugee who “surprisingly” speaks fluent German. But unlike some of these privileged activists, I have spent hours with Syrian families, welcomed them into my home, shared in their pain. I am not against refugees; I am against those who exploit our openness to spread hatred, especially against Jews and Israel.

Yair: Has this stance cost you friendships?

Paushali: Yes, it has. Some people don’t like that I stand for Israel or that I speak against antisemitism. I’ve had to distance myself from acquaintances who justify antisemitic rhetoric or downplay Israel’s right to defend itself. This has only strengthened my resolve to remain, as I say, “unapologetically Zionist.”

Listening to her, I felt grateful for Paushali’s courage. In today’s climate, standing up for Israel and against hate takes a rare strength.

Yair: What actions can you take personally in response to antisemitic events like Amsterdam?

Paushali: I can’t move mountains, but I’m doing what I can. I encourage my friends and colleagues to check in on their Jewish friends, to start discussions about the risks of radical ideology. I urge my Christian friends, too, to speak out against Jew-hatred. After all, they follow the one who is a Jew. And I refuse to ignore what’s happening. I won’t stand idly by while hatred against Jews becomes “normal” in Europe.

Yair: What are your biggest concerns as you see Europe change?

Paushali: Honestly, I worry about my children’s safety. The streets feel different from a decade ago. People driven by hatred roam freely, and history tells us this violence doesn’t stop with the Jewish community. Eventually, it threatens everyone. I don’t oppose any group based on nationality or race, but I believe those who refuse to respect our laws should be held accountable. Our politicians need to take real action. Words and speeches won’t protect my Jewish friends, nor will they reassure parents like me who worry for their children.

Yair: Given these circumstances, how do you view Israel’s role today?

Paushali: I’m profoundly grateful that Israel exists as a refuge for Jews worldwide. But while Jews remain in Europe, I’ll continue to advocate for their safety and for our leaders to confront uncomfortable issues. Why do we allow known criminals to stay here? Liberal politicians must realize their lenient approach harms genuine asylum seekers and foreign workers by fueling anti-immigrant sentiments among parts of the population.

Yair: Do you think mainstream German media contributes to the problem?

Paushali: Absolutely. German media often pushes a narrow, anti-Israel narrative. If I hadn’t visited Israel multiple times, I might have been swayed. The media here fails to provide a balanced view of the Israel-Palestine conflict. I urge my friends to break free from the “Free Palestine” movement, which, in reality, seeks to drive Jews out of their homeland. Action is needed—any action. It must start now.

In our conversation, Paushali’s commitment and candor brought me hope and a renewed sense of purpose. She reminded me that even in the face of rising antisemitism, there are voices in Europe who refuse to stay silent. Together, we must amplify these voices and push for real change before the echoes of the past become an irreversible part of Europe’s present.

About Paushali Lass
Paushali Lass is an international speaker, writer, and activist focused on strengthening ties between Germany and Israel. Her work bridges Jewish and Christian communities, with a focus on education and faith-based initiatives. Her commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation has made her a powerful advocate for both the Jewish community and Israel in Germany and beyond.