85 Jewish graves damaged in Belgian cemetery

The Belgian city of Charleroi on Thursday condemned anti-Semitic vandalism after at least 85 Jewish graves in one of its cemeteries were damaged and objects stolen.

A gravedigger in a cemetery in the Marcinelle neighbourhood of the southern city discovered the damage in plots for Jewish tombs on Wednesday. An investigation has since been opened.

"The place chosen and the theft of many Stars of David leave little doubt on the anti-Semitic nature of the intentions," Charleroi mayor Paul Magnette said.

"In the name of the city, I fully condemn these abject acts," he added, saying he asked the city's administration to notify each family.

Only the cemetery's Jewish section was affected, suggesting the anti-Semitic nature of the vandalism.

Belgium has registered a rise in reported anti-Semitic acts and comments since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7.

Police are monitoring more closely Jewish schools and places of worship.