The Israeli-American Council (IAC) headquarters in Los Angeles was targeted with antisemitic vandalism over the weekend, prompting a hate crime investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The disturbing graffiti, which included swastikas, SS symbols, and the word ‘burn,’ was found outside the Shepher Community Center in Woodland Hills, a location that houses the IAC’s L.A. regional offices. This center also serves as a hub for local Israeli-American and American Jewish communities, making the attack particularly alarming.
Additional vandalism was noted near Highway 101, where a barrier was tagged with an expletive-laced anti-Israel message referencing the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Swastikas were also found scattered throughout the area, further escalating the severity of the incident. The IAC has stated that security video from the scene captured an image of a possible suspect, which has been turned over to the authorities for further investigation.
In a statement, IAC CEO Elan S. Carr, once the U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, condemned the act in strong terms, calling it ‘vile’ and emphasizing the need to ‘fight it and ensure that history does not repeat itself.’ Carr noted the rise in antisemitism nationwide and highlighted the organization’s commitment to combating such acts. ‘This incident will not intimidate or deter us – on the contrary, it fuels our determination to stand even stronger against antisemitism and to protect and strengthen our community for generations to come,’ he said.
The attack occurred amid a reported increase in antisemitic incidents across the United States, as stated by advocacy groups. Law enforcement has not yet identified a suspect, but the IAC is working closely with the LAPD’s Topanga Division, and the investigation continues. This incident is part of a broader pattern of hate crimes, including the recent vandalism of an AOC campaign office with an anti-Israel message following a vote on a Republican amendment, which was also investigated as a possible hate crime. The FBI has also been involved in the investigation of a ‘horrific antisemitic attack’ on an American who served in the Israeli army, underscoring the widespread concern and potential escalation of such incidents.