WATCH: Times Square menorah defies hate amid surging antisemitism in the US

In a year marked by unprecedented antisemitic incidents, Times Square's towering Hanukkah menorah stands as a bold counter to growing hatred, with its lights illuminating America's most iconic intersection.

The ADL reports record-breaking antisemitic incidents in 2023-24, with sharp increases in university harassment, synagogue vandalism, and hate crimes across major cities. Jewish institutions face mounting security concerns as both far-right and far-left antisemitic rhetoric intensifies.

Campus tensions have particularly escalated since October 7th, sparking heated debates over the line between anti-Zionism and antisemitism. Law enforcement data confirms significant spikes in hate crimes targeting Jewish communities in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

Meanwhile, social media platforms have seen an alarming surge in antisemitic content and conspiracy theories, contributing to what experts call unprecedented levels of online radicalization.

The Times Square menorah lighting, traditionally a celebration of religious freedom, has taken on new significance amid these challenges.