Anti-Semitic Incidents in Davos Prompt Police Investigation

Authorities in the Swiss canton of Graubünden have launched an investigation following multiple reports of anti-Semitic harassment against Jewish tourists in the resort town of Davos. The incidents, which allegedly involved a single assailant, have been condemned by the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities (SIG) and have cast a shadow over the popular holiday destination, raising concerns about religious discrimination and the safety of tourists.

According to the SIG, two couples and a young man independently reported being targeted by a man on Tuesday evening. The alleged attacks, which included verbal insults, threats, pushing, and spitting, occurred in several public places, including a shop, by a lake, and on a bus. The victims described the assailant as a middle-aged man who spoke English and Arabic and made references to the 'war in Palestine'. Jonathan Kreutner, the SIG's General Secretary, stated that based on the descriptions, 'the assailant is probably the same person in all three cases.'

The Graubünden cantonal police have confirmed receipt of a report concerning the incidents and have officially opened an investigation. While law enforcement has not released further details, the SIG is actively encouraging all victims to come forward. 'One person has lodged a complaint. We recommend that everyone involved does so,' urged Kreutner, emphasizing that formal complaints are essential for the police to verify the facts and proceed with their investigation. The SIG has described the reports from the victims as credible.

Davos has long been a favored holiday spot for people of the Jewish faith, particularly for Orthodox Jewish families from around the world. However, the town has also seen sporadic instances of anti-Semitic behavior and cultural tensions. This is not the first time such an incident has made headlines. In August of the previous year, a 19-year-old Jewish man was assaulted by two asylum seekers. These recurring events highlight underlying friction in a town that is a microcosm of global tourism, where cultural and religious differences sometimes clash.