Advocates for human rights have observed an escalation in
anti-Muslim sentiment
and prejudice against Palestinians in the US and beyond following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations has reported a significant uptick in anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian sentiment in the United States, with a 178% increase in complaints in the final quarter of 2023 compared to the same timeframe the previous year. This increase occurred in the wake of the conflict between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7, which also saw a marked
rise
in antisemitism.
The organization documented 3,578 complaints, with the majority related to employment discrimination, hate crimes, and discrimination in educational settings.
Notable incidents included the shooting of three Palestinian students in Vermont and the tragic stabbing of a 6-year-old Palestinian American child in Illinois, highlighting the heightened religious and ethnic tensions.
Earlier this month, the Anti-Defamation League reported a 360% increase in antisemitic incidents in the US following October 7. The government has responded by issuing security guidelines for faith-based communities and addressing the growing antisemitism and Islamophobia. President Joe Biden has publicly denounced both antisemitism and Islamophobia, reflecting the administration's commitment to addressing these critical issues.
The conflict has had devastating consequences, with the UN reporting significant displacement in Gaza and a substantial death toll. The US Justice Department is closely monitoring threats against Jews and Muslims, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the need for comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and harmony of communities.
President Joe Biden has condemned rising antisemitism and Islamophobia in the US.
(With inputs from agencies)
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