What’s Happening
The site of the 2015 Hyper Cacher massacre in Paris’ 20th arrondissement has been targeted in a suspected act of arson. Early on March 20, 2025, the façade of the Hyper Cacher Jewish supermarket was set ablaze, causing concern and alarm within the French Jewish community and beyond.
Why It Matters
This incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats and challenges faced by Jewish communities around the world. Coming on the heels of the massacre’s tenth anniversary, it underscores the persistent nature of antisemitism and the urgent need for vigilance and action against such acts of hatred.
Local and Political Reactions
Paris 20th arrondissement Mayor Éric Pliez emphasized the seriousness of combating antisemitism and expressed unwavering support for the Hyper Cacher team. France’s Equality Minister Aurore Berge has announced a thorough investigation, aiming to bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly.
Condemnation has echoed from various political figures, including Ile-De-France President Valerie Pecresse, who called the incident a disgrace and extended her solidarity to the affected staff and community members.
The Bigger Picture
The European Jewish Congress (EJC), speaking on X, highlighted the need for justice and vigilance due to the recurring threats that Jewish communities still face. This attack closely follows high-profile tributes and memorials for the victims of related extremist attacks in January, ensuring that global attention remains focused on fully understanding and combating antisemitism.
Background and Historical Context
The tragic day in 2015 saw a Jihadist gunman’s rampage as part of orchestrated attacks across Paris, which led to the deaths of Philippe Braham, Yohan Cohen, Yoav Hattab, François-Michel Saada, and others. Nearly a decade later, incidents like the recent arson serve as chilling reminders of that dark day, reaffirming global commitments to fight hatred and remember history to prevent repetition.
Continuing Challenges
The recent attack in Paris is not isolated; days prior, symbols of hate appeared in the area, suggesting persistent tensions and the necessity for communities worldwide to unite in denouncing antisemitism.
This story was first published on jpost.com.