Hundreds March in Prague to Protest Anti-Semitism and Support Israel Amid Iranian Attacks

Hundreds of people marched in Prague on Tuesday to protest against anti-Semitism and show support for Israel amid recent attacks by Iran. The protesters marched from Old Town Square to near Prague Castle, with the Czech Senate deputy speaker and a senior cabinet minister also joining the demonstration.

The march was organized in response to a series of attacks launched by Iran against Israel in recent days. Iran has vowed to avenge the deaths of seven members of its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) who were killed in a suspected Israeli strike in Syria last week. Iranian officials have threatened retaliation against Israel, with the IRGC commander saying "no move by any enemy against our sacred system goes unanswered."

Israel reportedly struck targets inside Iran in what appears to be a limited retaliation for the unprecedented air attack by Iran on Israeli soil. The explosions occurred near the central city of Isfahan, though reports are unclear over the exact cause. Iran's state media said air defenses shot down three drones in the area, while the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed there was no damage to Iran's nuclear sites.

The attack by Iran on Israel marked the first direct attack by one country on the other's soil instead of through proxy forces. In response, the U.S. has announced new sanctions on Iran targeting its drone production capabilities.

Why this matters: The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel risk sparking a wider regional conflict. The unprecedented direct attacks by each side on the other's territory mark a dangerous new phase in their long-running hostilities that could draw in other powers.

The protesters in Prague expressed their solidarity with Israel and condemned the rising tide of anti-Semitism. Carrying Israeli flags and chanting slogans in support of the Jewish state, the demonstrators aimed to raise awareness about the threats faced by Israel and to call for an end to anti-Semitism in the region and around the world. The march served as a powerful statement against hatred and a show of support for Israel in the face of Iranian aggression.

Key Takeaways

• Hundreds marched in Prague to protest anti-Semitism and support Israel amid Iran attacks.
• Iran vowed retaliation for deaths of 7 IRGC members in suspected Israeli strike in Syria.
• Israel reportedly struck targets inside Iran in limited retaliation for Iran's attack on Israel.
• U.S. announced new sanctions on Iran targeting its drone production capabilities.
• Protesters expressed solidarity with Israel and condemned rising anti-Semitism in the region.