Brussels, 30 October 2023 (dpa/MIA) - EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has criticized anti-Semitic actions in Europe.

Commenting on demonstrations and posts on social media networks, von der Leyen told Germany's Bild newspaper in comments published on Monday: "Cheering for terrorism, anti-Semitism or violence against minorities is vile and has no place in Europe."

The EU commission president went on to say: "Our open democratic societies are Europe's great strength."

However, openness also makes us vulnerable. "That is why we must fight the beginnings wherever hatred against those who think differently shows itself, whether on the net or on our streets," von der Leyen said.

There were large pro-Palestinian demonstrations in several European capitals at the weekend, amid mounting criticism of Israel's continued bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

Photo: EPA