UPDATE: A devastating attack during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, has left at least 15 people dead and sent shockwaves throughout Jewish communities worldwide. San Diego rabbi Yaron Alford reflects on the tragedy, sharing the deep emotional toll it has taken on his congregation and the wider community.
Yesterday, gunmen opened fire at a public Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, sparking chaos and fear. Among the victims was the nephew of Rabbi Israel Goldstein, who survived the Chabad of Poway shooting in 2019, highlighting the ongoing threat of anti-Semitic violence.
In an exclusive interview, Rabbi Alford, director of Chabad at La Costa and Coastal Chabad in Carlsbad, expressed his sorrow, stating, “When I woke up to celebrate Hanukkah, I felt like I got punched in the gut.” The attack, he said, not only affects the local community but also represents a broader assault on Western civilization and freedom of faith.
As the news broke, San Diego County officials announced increased security measures at synagogues and public events, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the face of rising anti-Semitism. Mayor Todd Gloria reaffirmed the city’s commitment to protecting its Jewish community.
Rabbi Alford shared a personal connection to the tragedy, revealing that his wife’s cousin was present at the event in Sydney. She initially mistook the gunfire for part of the celebration. “She thought it was fireworks,” he recounted, “but then screams erupted, and she had to flee with her baby, leaving everything behind.” This harrowing account underscores the very real fear and trauma that incidents of violence bring to communities.
In response to the attack, Rabbi Alford is calling for resilience and strength. “The proper response to darkness is to add light,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of community unity during such challenging times. He plans to enhance public Hanukkah observances, encouraging others to join in spreading goodness and hope.
Local law enforcement is already working closely with community leaders, including Rabbi Alford, to ensure safety at upcoming events. “We have a sophisticated security plan in place,” he said, stressing the importance of feeling secure without compromising the celebratory spirit of the holiday.
As this tragedy resonates across the globe, Rabbi Alford urges the community to connect and support one another. “Join together with caring, loving people,” he advised, highlighting that unity can provide comfort and strength in difficult times.
With heightened awareness of security and personal safety, Rabbi Alford and community leaders are determined not to let fear overshadow the message of Hanukkah: hope, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging vigilance and support for one another. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities everywhere in the pursuit of safety and peace.
