Israel slams global wave of anti-Semitism

Israel on Monday expressed concern over "a wave of anti-Semitism" spreading across the world in the wake of its deadly offensive against the Islamist Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip that has so far killed more than 900 Palestinians.

Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni "has expressed Israel's concern about the current wave of anti-Semitic attacks in various parts of the world," her office said in a statement.

"We have received with great concern and revulsion many reports of physical, moral, verbal and other manifestations of anti-Semitic attacks towards Jews and Israeli citizens in many parts of the world," it said.

"Whatever one's opinion may be of this operation, it should never be used to legitimize hate and anti-Semitic incitement."

Israel's 17-day-old Gaza offensive has sparked many protests worldwide.

There have since been reports of anti-Semitic attacks in several countries, including France.

"Israel calls upon the leaders of the world to condemn, suppress and curb any and all forms of such incitement and hate.

"The dangers that lie within the Pandora's box that appears to have been opened with this current wave of anti-Semitism are known too well to humanity," the foreign ministry said.

Israel launched its air and ground offensive on Dec. 27 with the goal of halting ongoing Palestinian rocket fire into southern Israel that has since killed four people.

Whatever one's opinion may be of this operation, it should never be used to legitimize hate and anti-Semitic incitement,

Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni