DC Shooting Signals Rising Antisemitism, Ex-Ambassador Warns

Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro has characterized the recent shooting deaths of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington D.C. as symptomatic of a broader and escalating surge in antisemitism. Speaking with NPR’s Mary Louise Kelly, Shapiro, now a distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council, suggested the incident isn’t isolated, but rather part of a disturbing “explosion” of antisemitic acts occurring both domestically and internationally. While details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, Shapiro’s comments highlight a growing concern about the safety of Jewish communities and institutions, and the potential for increased violence fueled by hateful ideologies. He implied a need for heightened vigilance and a comprehensive approach to combating antisemitism, extending beyond immediate security measures to address the underlying causes of prejudice. The incident, and Shapiro’s reaction, underscores a troubling trend that demands serious attention from policymakers and the public alike. It’s a stark reminder that antisemitism isn’t a relic of the past, but a present and dangerous reality.