Washington, D.C. – Today, the House passed H. Res. 354, introduced by U.S. Rep. Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ), which encourages European countries to protect the security of their Jewish populations in the face of rising anti-Semitism.  U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on the resolution’s passage:

“Anti-Semitism in Europe tragically is on the rise.  Jewish communities there are on edge, fearing this rise in hatred toward them may signal a return to Europe’s darkest days.
 
“We all recall the horrific attacks on the Charlie Hebdo offices and the grocery in Paris, and the later attacks at a synagogue and café in Copenhagen.  Just last month in Manchester, four Jewish youths were attacked by thugs who shouted their hatred of Jews.
 
“Targeted violence against the Jewish people or any other religious or minority group is repugnant.  Leaders of free societies everywhere must expose these prejudices for the danger they pose to their communities.
 
“This resolution shines a light on this critical issue.  It sends a clear message to Jewish communities in Europe that we stand with them as they face this persecution, and the U.S. will work with European allies to improve their security and safety.”

###