Antwerp police have arrested two minors following the deliberate arson of a car near the city’s Jewish quarter. The incident, which occurred late Monday night, has ignited concerns about escalating antisemitism across Europe and prompted increased security measures in Belgium.

This incident is not isolated. Recent weeks have seen a disturbing rise in attacks targeting Jewish communities and institutions throughout Europe. Explosions have occurred at synagogues in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and a suspicious situation involving teenagers near a Jewish institution was reported in Heemstede. A similar explosion targeted a synagogue in Liège, Belgium, just last week.

The arson in Antwerp has been claimed by a self-proclaimed organization called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI), translating to ‘islamic movement of the righteous’. This group has similarly taken responsibility for several other recent attacks, including the explosion in Liège. HAYI appears to be actively disseminating its message via the Telegram messaging platform.

In response to the growing threat, Belgium has bolstered security around Jewish buildings in Antwerp. This includes the deployment of military personnel to patrol the streets, supporting local police forces. The move follows a broader decision to increase security in Brussels and Liège as well.

The attack has left the local Jewish community shaken. The owner of the burned vehicle, an Antwerp woman of Moroccan descent, expressed her shock and fear, reporting the theft of a sentimental bracelet gifted by her father. She stated she no longer feels safe.

The Antwerp public prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the arson. The two suspects are currently being questioned, and authorities have stated that a motive for the attack remains unknown at this time. Police are reviewing footage of the incident, which appears to show the Ford Fiesta being intentionally set ablaze.

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