The United States has experienced a sharp rise in reported antisemitic incidents since October 7, surpassing any two-month period in the past 45 years, according to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Preliminary data released by the ADL reveals that there were 2,031 antisemitic incidents reported between October 7 and December 7, compared to 465 incidents during the same period in 2022, marking a staggering 337% increase. This number is nearly triple the previous high of 741 incidents recorded in October and November of last year. The ADL described the increase as "unprecedented." The incidents include 40 physical assaults, 337 instances of vandalism, 749 incidents of harassment, and 905 rallies with antisemitic rhetoric and support for terrorism against Israel.

ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt expressed concern over the relentless pattern of antisemitic attacks and stated that Jewish communities across the country are being overwhelmed by hate. He urged public officials and college leaders to take decisive action to show that this behavior is unacceptable and prevent further violence. The ADL also highlighted the case of Paul Kessler, a Jewish man and pro-Israel supporter who was killed during a clash with a pro-Palestinian protester in California last month. Although a suspect has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter, hate-crime charges have not been filed.

Of the reported incidents, approximately 1,411 are believed to be connected to the Israel-Hamas war, which has sparked tense protests regarding Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Jewish institutions, including synagogues and campus Hillels, have been targeted in about 250 incidents. Additionally, there has been a significant increase in antisemitic incidents on college campuses, with 400 incidents reported during the two-month period, compared to only 33 incidents during the same time last year. The ADL also noted a rise in vandalism and harassment of Jewish or Israeli-owned businesses.

The rise in antisemitic incidents is occurring alongside an increase in reported anti-Arab and anti-Muslim hate in the United States, according to data from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). The ADL's findings align with CAIR's data, which demonstrates a wave of anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian hate incidents. CAIR has received 2,171 complaints of bias incidents or requests for help since October 2. The organization expressed concern that both Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism will continue to escalate until the violence in Gaza stops and bigotry is rejected in the United States.

The recent surge in antisemitic incidents has prompted responses from political figures. Vice President Kamala Harris's husband, Doug Emhoff, stated at the lighting of a menorah outside the White House that American Jews are feeling alone and in pain. US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also issued a warning about a spike in antisemitism, attributing it to pro-Hamas “dogwhistles” at protests condemning Israel.

The ADL's data highlights the urgent need for action to address the rising tide of hate and extremism in the United States. Jewish communities are calling for increased security measures, solidarity from public officials, and a denunciation of antisemitism. The White House previously announced a national strategy in May to combat antisemitism, and it is crucial for these efforts to be implemented effectively to ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish communities across the country.