Some synagogues canceled prayers during violent protests in France
Following violent protests across France involving approximately 550,000 people, some Jewish communities have canceled Shabbat services for security reasons and urged members to conceal their identities.
Protests held across France to demonstrate against the cost of living and disruptions in public services, which saw the participation of approximately 550,000 people, have turned violent, raising security concerns within the Jewish community. Following looting and clashes in cities such as Paris and Marseille, some synagogues have decided to cancel the Mincha prayer service held on Shabbat afternoon.
Members of the Jewish community in France have been warned to avoid clothing that identifies them as Jewish in public and to refrain from gathering around synagogues. Samuel Arrouas stated that many synagogues have canceled services due to security concerns and that community members have been advised to disperse immediately after worship.
Approximately 2,400 people have been detained during the protests held across the country, and President Emmanuel Macron has called for calm. The French Jewish community's security organization, SPCJ, reported that it is not yet clear whether Jewish properties were specifically targeted during the violent incidents and that the matter is under investigation.
Sources
- foxnews.com · Link