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Paris Synagogue Vandalized Amid Nationwide Riots in France
On the weekend of October 17–18, widespread riots across France resulted in the vandalization of the Ohalei Yaakov synagogue in Paris and looting of Jewish-owned shops in Marseille amid protests against the "high cost of living."
Media estimate nearly 800,000 people took to the streets across France, with approximately 2,000 shops vandalized or looted as demonstrators demanded better living conditions, higher wages, and improved public services.
Members of the Ohalei Yaakov synagogue in the 19th arrondissement found prayer books and tefillin scattered Sunday, though the committee reported no signs of forced entry or theft, and Torah scrolls remained unharmed.
The Jewish Community Protection Service urged caution, stating no evidence suggests targeted antisemitism, while French President Emmanuel Macron announced future demonstrations could be banned to protect public buildings and shops.
Interior minister Laurent Nunez blamed "far-left" protesters and looters for the disorder, as heightened safety fears place pressure on the government to restore order during nationwide unrest.