Missouri Hate Crime: “Death to IDF” Graffiti and Arson Near Jewish Soldier’s Home

A disturbing antisemitic incident occurred late Tuesday night in Clayton, Missouri, where three vehicles were set on fire and antisemitic graffiti was spray-painted on the road beside them, including the phrase “Death to the IDF.” Authorities believe the attack specifically targeted an Israeli-American soldier currently visiting family in the area.

The local police department, in coordination with the FBI, has launched an investigation into the attack, which they are treating as a suspected hate crime.

Leo Terrell, head of the U.S. Administration’s Task Force on Antisemitism, condemned the incident in a statement on X:

“This was a horrific antisemitic assault. The Israeli Embassy alerted me that an American citizen who served in the IDF became a target shortly after returning to his family’s home. I’m outraged. There is no place for antisemitic violence in America - certainly not in St. Louis, or anywhere else. We will explore every avenue to bring those responsible to justice.”

Bridget McAndrew, Mayor of Clayton, described the attack as a “deliberate and violent act of arson,” adding:

“We will not tolerate harassment, intimidation, or violence based on someone’s nationality, race, religion, or beliefs. Our commitment in Clayton is to foster a safe community for all residents. That’s not just an aspiration - it’s our civic duty.”

A Wider Pattern of Rising Antisemitism

The attack comes amid a broader rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States. On the same day, the FBI released its annual hate crime statistics for 2024, reporting 11,679 criminal incidents and 13,683 related offenses. Roughly a quarter of those crimes were motivated by religious bias, with Jews being the most frequently targeted group.

As Jewish communities around the world remain vigilant, this latest incident underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Jews—even in places long considered safe.