Hanukkah Celebrated Amid Rising Antisemitism and Fear

Jewish Communities Worldwide Show Resilience and Unity in the Face of Increased Hate Crimes and Ongoing Conflict

Jews worldwide are celebrating Hanukkah amid a rise in antisemitism and fear, following the brutal attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 240 hostages taken.
Public menorah lightings are being cancelled around the world due to fear of violence and a desire to be 'inclusive', leading to initiatives like 'Project Menorah' which encourages non-Jews to light candles for Hanukkah in a show of support.
Despite the fear, many Jewish communities are finding ways to celebrate Hanukkah, with events such as the 'Infinite Light Festival' in Los Angeles selling out faster than any other year, and public menorah lightings taking place in locations like Berlin's Brandenburg Gate.
Antisemitic crimes have increased since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, with 1,372 crimes with an anti-Israel context reported in Berlin alone in the two months following the start of the conflict.
Despite the fear and rise in hate crimes, Jewish leaders are encouraging their communities to embrace their heritage and celebrate Hanukkah as an act of strength and determination in the face of adversity.