Belgian Jews Forced to Hide Their Religion as Activists Raise Chants of “Intifada”
27th May 2025
Thousands are reported to have taken to the streets in Ghent over the weekend at demonstrations in which Gaza activists repeatedly chanted “Viva viva intifada”—that is, praising violent attacks against Israel. City Liberal Mayor Mathias De Clercq is understood to have taken part in the protest, prompting anger from the local Jewish population.
Belgian campaign group Stop Antisemitism complained that “we have the feeling that the politicians do not care about our situation.”
It added that Jewish residents are so fearful of activist activities that even the most devout “do not dare to walk around with their kippah,” while others are considering leaving the city altogether.