TAMPA, Fla. — According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents are skyrocketing in the United States.

What You Need To Know

  • Anti-Defamation League says antisemitism incidents rose 140% from 2022 to 2023 in the United States

  • ADL says the quickest rise came after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel

  • Some USF students about rise in antisemitism

The ADL tracks incidents of antisemitic harassment, vandalism and assault in the country.

In 2023, it found nearly 8,900 incidents, and that there was a 140% jump from the previous year. The ADL also says that the biggest jump was just after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

On the campus of the University of South Florida, the war in Gaza and now the limited strikes between Israel and Iran are flaring tempers. Protesters on Thursday called for the halt of U.S. support of Israel and for a Palestinian state.

The protest against Israel was held outside of USF’s library and eventually made its way over to the student center.

Protesting is a cherished right in the United States, but some worry that protests like this go too far in their messaging.

USF senior Jacob Kamp stood near the protest and observed.

“I am all for yelling ‘Free Palestine’, but when you are chanting from the river to the sea or Intifada – those are highly antisemitic terms,” Kamp said.

However, those at the protest like sophomore Joseph Cherry disagreed. He says he wants peace between Palestinians and Israelis.

“No one here is being antisemitic – no on here is against Jewish people,” Cherry said.

War, land disputes, and history – all can lead to tempers flaring. No matter the side, both say it’s important to keep it peaceful.

USF said in a statement: “USF strives to provide an environment free from discrimination or harassment on any basis, including religious beliefs. As we have reaffirmed numerous times in recent months, antisemitism has no place in our society and will not be tolerated on our campuses. The safety and well-being of students, faculty and staff is our highest priority. USF police officers remain highly visible on and around campus, which includes a dedicated presence outside the Hillel building 24 hours a day. USF will continue to closely partner with members of our community to ensure that the university is a safe, supportive and welcoming place.”