On a bustling Wednesday morning, San Francisco International Airport became the center stage for a powerful demonstration. Protesters, united in their call for a ceasefire in Gaza, gathered in significant numbers, making their voices heard.
In the heart of San Francisco, a former rideshare driver faced federal charges. This was in response to an antisemitic assault on a passenger at San Francisco International Airport in 2023. The attack came in the wake of the Hamas-led incursion into Israel on October 7, igniting the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.
The individual, a 39-year-old man, found himself under arrest on Wednesday. During his initial court appearance, he learned of the serious charges against him. He stands accused of committing a federal hate crime, with potential penalties including up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The incident unfolded on October 26, 2023. According to federal prosecutors, the man confronted the victim at a pickup location. He inquired about the victim’s Jewish or Israeli identity, declaring his refusal to serve anyone from these backgrounds. Following his words, he physically assaulted the victim, landing a punch to their face.
Interestingly, the indictment does not clarify whether the victim was indeed Jewish or Israeli. It only highlights the attacker’s perception.
On the day of the arrest, the defendant’s federal public defender chose not to comment on the matter.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll, particularly in Gaza. According to the territory’s Health Ministry, over 30,000 Palestinians have lost their lives. The count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. However, it is noted that women and children constitute two-thirds of the fatalities. Meanwhile, the October 7 attack has resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals, mostly civilians, in southern Israel. Furthermore, about 250 people were kidnapped, with Hamas believed to be holding around 100 hostages still.