In the wake of the suspected arson attacks on a synagogue in Brussels, the European Jewish Congress (EJC) is calling on the relevant authorities to ensure greater security for Jewish institutions.

“While it is unclear who was behind the attack, what is clear is that synagogues and other Jewish institutions have been placed on the front lines,” Dr. Moshe Kantor, President of the EJC, said.

“This attack demonstrates once again that attacks against Jews is not because of what we say or support, but simply because we are Jews. “

“I hope the police will not just find the perpetrators but that the authorities will give them a severe punishment to act as a serious deterrent to others who see Jewish communities as legitimate targets.”

According to reports, one or more people managed to enter the building which houses the synagogue and set several fires. The synagogue is located in Anderlecht, an area in the south west of
Brussels with a high Muslim population.

The attack in Brussels follows a recent attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Wuppertal, Germany, and the arrest of two Muslim girls who planned to blow up the Great Synagogue in Lyon, France.

These attacks demonstrate the depth of the poisonous atmosphere against Jews in parts of Europe and the urgent need to immediately strengthen security at all Jewish institutions,” Dr. Kantor continued. “Additionally, the threat against Jews, which rarely ends with Jews, necessitates the creation of a pan-European intelligence sharing body which will find ways to stop those intent on waging religious war in Europe, not at the gates of the synagogue, but while they plan their attempts at murder and destruction.”

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)