The intifada is now globalized - opinion

The call to "globalize the intifada" following the October 7 events has seemingly been answered with a surge of violent incidents targeting Israelis and Jews across the globe, according to the author. Recent weeks have seen disturbing and violent occurrences against individuals perceived as Israeli or Hebrew speakers in locations ranging from Bangkok and Manila to Greece and Montenegro. The article contends that simply speaking Hebrew or being Israeli has become a liability, posing a danger to personal safety and professional opportunities.

This phenomenon is framed not as legitimate political protest or criticism of Israeli policies, but as "pure and plain antisemitism." The author points to the normalization of political anti-Zionism in the United States, particularly influenced by figures like NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, as a contributing factor to Israel's declining popularity and the rise in attacks. While acknowledging that blaming specific individuals solely for the attacks is unfair, the piece suggests that rhetoric from Mamdani and others fuels existing animosity.

The article highlights a significant increase in anti-Jewish attacks in New York City, with a 53% rise in July and an 8% increase overall by July 2026 compared to the previous year, occurring amidst a general crime decrease. This statistic is presented as evidence that the mayor's rhetoric on Israel has tangible consequences for the Jewish community in his city. The author argues that the slogan "Globalize the intifada" is more than just a call for Palestinian justice; it is an incitement to violent action against Jews and Israelis.

Consequently, the author insists that Mayor Mamdani's "refusal to use the expression himself" is insufficient. An outright denunciation of the slogan is deemed the minimum required response, as its call to action is reportedly being acted upon globally. The piece concludes by emphasizing the urgency to act against this trend.

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Globalize the intifada