Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Jewish Community Respondes to Ontario Synagogue Shooting
Following a shooting incident outside of an Ontario synagogue Sunday night, the eve of Yom Kippur. If "the police wasn't there ... it definitely would have been a massacre," witness Douglas Lobel told The Canadian Jewish News.
Lobel and his wife, alongside about two dozen congregants, attended the religious service at the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, when they heard three loud bangs.
He said that the shul's president, Norm Weddum, went to investigate and reported back that there was shooting outside. Lobel heard about 30 shots, 23 of which punctured the synagogue's stained glass windows.
Lobel and his wife, alongside about two dozen congregants, attended the religious service at the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, when they heard three loud bangs.
He said that the shul's president, Norm Weddum, went to investigate and reported back that there was shooting outside. Lobel heard about 30 shots, 23 of which punctured the synagogue's stained glass windows.
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UK police says it thwarted terror plot against Manchester Jewish community before Yom Kippur
One year after a deadly Yom Kippur attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Manchester in the United Kingdom, police arrested two men suspected of planning a terror attack targeting the Manchester Jewish community.
The men, both in their 20s, were arrested on Newton Street on Sunday “on suspicion of offenses under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000,” according to the Metropolitan Police. “The investigation relates to a suspected terrorist plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area.”
Vicki Evans, deputy assistant commissioner and senior national coordinator for counter terrorism policing, stated that “this has been a long-running proactive investigation which has led to the disruption of what we believe to be a plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area.”
“We are acutely aware this news will cause further concern to the Jewish community, as well as the wider public, especially given the significant High Holiday period,” Evans stated. “I want to reassure them we are working incredibly closely with colleagues in Greater Manchester Police and partners to ensure we’re doing everything we can to keep them and the wider public safe.”
The Community Security Trust called the news “utterly chilling, coming so close to the anniversary of the terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue last year.”
The arrests are “another reminder of the serious terrorist threat facing Jewish communities in this current time,” the trust stated.
Manchester Mayor Bev Craig and Deputy Mayor Kate Green released a joint statement, in which they said that they “know this will send a chill down the spine amongst Jewish communities in Greater Manchester, one year on from the evil antisemitic terrorist attack that took place on Yom Kippur, and at the holiest time in the calendar.”
“Officers will be stepping up visible patrols to provide security and reassurance and to engage with members of the public,” they stated.
The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester and Region stated that “security can only ever deal with the symptoms” and called on the government to “redouble its efforts to tackle the root causes of the hatred and extremism that are espoused in places of worship and other community spaces that continue to motivate people to target Jews.”
The men, both in their 20s, were arrested on Newton Street on Sunday “on suspicion of offenses under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000,” according to the Metropolitan Police. “The investigation relates to a suspected terrorist plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area.”
Vicki Evans, deputy assistant commissioner and senior national coordinator for counter terrorism policing, stated that “this has been a long-running proactive investigation which has led to the disruption of what we believe to be a plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area.”
“We are acutely aware this news will cause further concern to the Jewish community, as well as the wider public, especially given the significant High Holiday period,” Evans stated. “I want to reassure them we are working incredibly closely with colleagues in Greater Manchester Police and partners to ensure we’re doing everything we can to keep them and the wider public safe.”
The Community Security Trust called the news “utterly chilling, coming so close to the anniversary of the terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue last year.”
The arrests are “another reminder of the serious terrorist threat facing Jewish communities in this current time,” the trust stated.
Manchester Mayor Bev Craig and Deputy Mayor Kate Green released a joint statement, in which they said that they “know this will send a chill down the spine amongst Jewish communities in Greater Manchester, one year on from the evil antisemitic terrorist attack that took place on Yom Kippur, and at the holiest time in the calendar.”
“Officers will be stepping up visible patrols to provide security and reassurance and to engage with members of the public,” they stated.
The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester and Region stated that “security can only ever deal with the symptoms” and called on the government to “redouble its efforts to tackle the root causes of the hatred and extremism that are espoused in places of worship and other community spaces that continue to motivate people to target Jews.”
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Sunday, September 20, 2026
WNBA Player Rae Burrell Left Surprised After Jewish Man Asks Her Not to Touch Him Due to Religious Beliefs
A 22-second video posted by streamer N3on shows Los Angeles Sparks guard Rae Burrell putting her arm around a local rabbi on an indoor basketball court, then quickly removing it when he asks her not to touch him.
Dressed in a white crop top and gray sweatpants, Burrell could be seen standing beside the rabbi and N3on in the clip. After a very friendly moment, the situation quickly became awkward when she touched the Jewish man's shoulder. He politely requested:
"You can't put your hands on my shoulders."
Realizing the mistake, Burrell immediately took her hand away and said sorry.
"You can't put your hands on my shoulders."
Realizing the mistake, Burrell immediately took her hand away and said sorry.
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Tuesday, September 15, 2026
London police on the hunt for British man accused of assaulting 3 Jewish teens on bus
A man allegedly assaulted three Jewish teens on a north London bus last week in an incident that the Metropolitan Police is investigating as an antisemitic hate crime, the police department told JNS.
The three 14-year-old boys were traveling on a bus near Sanders Lane in Mill Hill at about 8:15 a.m. on Sept. 10, the day before Rosh Hashanah.
Officers from the Met’s new Community Protection Team spoke with the boys and took their accounts. Two of the boys said that they had been physically assaulted, and all three said they were targets of hate speech, the Met told JNS.
The three 14-year-old boys were traveling on a bus near Sanders Lane in Mill Hill at about 8:15 a.m. on Sept. 10, the day before Rosh Hashanah.
Officers from the Met’s new Community Protection Team spoke with the boys and took their accounts. Two of the boys said that they had been physically assaulted, and all three said they were targets of hate speech, the Met told JNS.
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Monday, September 14, 2026
Kansas man arrested in Florida for threatening Ben Shapiro and others
According to the arrest report, Korby Strube posted 23 threatening comments on "X" between July 31 and August 2.
Investigators said the messages repeatedly named Shapiro, referenced his Jewish faith, and counted down to a date around Yom Kippur.
Strube made dozens of violent threats, including one that said, "I'll give the world a boost by killing Ben for being Jewish," authorities said.
Officials also said Strube threatened former President Donald Trump and the Obamas.
He remains in jail on several charges.
Investigators said the messages repeatedly named Shapiro, referenced his Jewish faith, and counted down to a date around Yom Kippur.
Strube made dozens of violent threats, including one that said, "I'll give the world a boost by killing Ben for being Jewish," authorities said.
Officials also said Strube threatened former President Donald Trump and the Obamas.
He remains in jail on several charges.
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Thursday, September 10, 2026
Lower Manhattan Jews expect challenges when area shuts for 9/11 commemoration on eve of Rosh Hashanah
Rabbi Jonathan Glass had a moment of panic when he realized that the entire west side of lower Manhattan, where his Tribeca Synagogue is located, would be shut to traffic at 6 a.m. on Sept. 11, which is also the eve of Rosh Hashanah.
The Modern Orthodox synagogue is slated to host a large, festive Rosh Hashanah dinner on Friday night and to serve food throughout the two-day holidays on Saturday and Sunday. All of a sudden, he was unsure if delivery trucks would be able to get through police blockades.
"I’m going to have to let people know about this as soon as possible," he told JNS. "It could be a problem."
The Modern Orthodox synagogue is slated to host a large, festive Rosh Hashanah dinner on Friday night and to serve food throughout the two-day holidays on Saturday and Sunday. All of a sudden, he was unsure if delivery trucks would be able to get through police blockades.
"I’m going to have to let people know about this as soon as possible," he told JNS. "It could be a problem."
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Wednesday, September 09, 2026
UWS stabber sent antisemitic texts before attack, prosecutors say
Weeks after Raul Morales allegedly stabbed a man wearing a kippah outside the Jewish Center and an Asian man blocks away, investigators uncovered text messages on Morales’ phone “containing antisemitic statements,” prosecutors said.
The two victims were wounded and have difficulty breathing to this day, the New York Post reported. Morales pleaded not guilty to attempted murder as a hate crime for the July 23 attack.
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Tuesday, September 08, 2026
17-Year-Old Jewish Teen Launches Campaign To Save His Long Island Synagogue
At an age when most teenagers are focused on school, friends and what comes next, a 17-year-old Jewish boy on Long Island has taken on a very different challenge: trying to save his synagogue.
Binyamin, a young member of Young Israel of North Bellmore, has launched an online fundraising campaign and is using social media to appeal for help for the Orthodox synagogue that has served the North Bellmore Jewish community for six decades.
His campaign has begun appearing on Instagram, where the teenager is attempting to reach beyond the synagogue’s immediate membership and bring attention to the challenges facing the congregation.
TheJ.ca has confirmed the synagogue’s history and continuing operation through Young Israel of North Bellmore and National Council of Young Israel records. Details of Binyamin’s fundraising appeal, including the amount being sought and the synagogue’s current financial requirements, have not yet been independently confirmed.
What is clear is that Binyamin is trying to mobilize support for a congregation with deep roots in the community.
Binyamin, a young member of Young Israel of North Bellmore, has launched an online fundraising campaign and is using social media to appeal for help for the Orthodox synagogue that has served the North Bellmore Jewish community for six decades.
His campaign has begun appearing on Instagram, where the teenager is attempting to reach beyond the synagogue’s immediate membership and bring attention to the challenges facing the congregation.
TheJ.ca has confirmed the synagogue’s history and continuing operation through Young Israel of North Bellmore and National Council of Young Israel records. Details of Binyamin’s fundraising appeal, including the amount being sought and the synagogue’s current financial requirements, have not yet been independently confirmed.
What is clear is that Binyamin is trying to mobilize support for a congregation with deep roots in the community.
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Wednesday, September 02, 2026
South Bay man accused of threatening to shoot up Jewish community center
A South Bay man who previously served prison time after failing to complete a court-ordered anti-bias program has been ordered to stand trial on felony hate crime charges for allegedly threatening to shoot up a Jewish community center where hundreds of children were present, prosecutors announced Wednesday.
Paul Dean Andrews, 43, of Lomita pleaded not guilty to one felony count each of violation of civil rights as a hate crime, making criminal threats to a school and attempted criminal threats, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. The case was filed Aug. 18.
Prosecutors allege Andrews called the Jewish Community Center in Redondo Beach on Aug. 11 and made antisemitic statements.
Paul Dean Andrews, 43, of Lomita pleaded not guilty to one felony count each of violation of civil rights as a hate crime, making criminal threats to a school and attempted criminal threats, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. The case was filed Aug. 18.
Prosecutors allege Andrews called the Jewish Community Center in Redondo Beach on Aug. 11 and made antisemitic statements.
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Monday, August 31, 2026
Mamdani toady Brad Lander learns that ‘anti-Zionists’ hate him for being Jewish
Brad Lander was always going to learn the hard way.
The ex-NYC comptroller defeated incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman in a high-profile Democratic primary earlier this year that sent shockwaves through their party.
Both are progressive Jews and outspoken critics of Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
The ex-NYC comptroller defeated incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman in a high-profile Democratic primary earlier this year that sent shockwaves through their party.
Both are progressive Jews and outspoken critics of Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
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Sunday, August 30, 2026
How Jewish immigrants invented American childhood through classic toys, comics, and media
On Saturday mornings in the 1960s and ’70s, instead of going to synagogue, I watched cartoons.
Like millions of other American kids, I binged on Fat Albert, The Pink Panther Show, and H.R. Pufnstuf, while absorbing endless commercial breaks for games, action figures, model kits, and other marvels that might, if I played my cards right, be mine on Hanukkah.
But even if my family didn’t spend Saturdays in shul, kids’ television immersed me in an unspoken Jewish culture, as Michael Kimmel explains in his new book Toymakers: The Jewish Entrepreneurs Who Created the Toy Industry in America.
It’s a study of the mostly first-generation American Jews who led the toy industry in the 20th century, as well as the Jewish child psychologists, children’s book authors and comic book creators who, he asserts convincingly, invented the American idea of childhood.
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Friday, August 28, 2026
Four men admit arson attack on Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green
Four men have pleaded guilty to destroying four Jewish community ambulances in an arson attack that caused £1 million of damage in north London.
Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and 18-year-olds Judex Atshatshi and Saif Ali admitted a charge of destroying or damaging property being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.
Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and 18-year-olds Judex Atshatshi and Saif Ali admitted a charge of destroying or damaging property being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.
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Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Majority of 2028 Democrats silent on Hasan Piker’s claim Jewish Americans inviting violence by supporting Israel
The field of potential 2028 Democraticpresidential candidates has remained silent on Hasan Piker after his most recent inflammatory comments about American Jews, underscoring the influencer’s sway in courting progressive voters ahead of the looming primary.
Most recently, Piker has drawn criticism over comments he made while discussing Jeremy Moss, the Democratic nominee in Michigan’s 11th U.S. House district. The streamer suggested that American Jews are inviting violence upon themselves by voicing support for Israel.
Most recently, Piker has drawn criticism over comments he made while discussing Jeremy Moss, the Democratic nominee in Michigan’s 11th U.S. House district. The streamer suggested that American Jews are inviting violence upon themselves by voicing support for Israel.
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Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Police investigate after man photographed near Stamford Hill wearing t-shirt marking ancient attack on Jews
The police are investigating after a man was seen wearing a t-shirt marking a 7th century attack on Jews in a supermarket close to a Charedi area of London.
The garment, photographed by a Jewish man who had been shopping at the Haringey supermarket with his family, bore the Arabic “Khaybar Khaybar ya Yahud”.
The words are part of the well-known Arabic chant, “Khaybar, Khaybar ya Yahud, Jaish Mohammed Sauf Ya’ud”, which means “Watch out Jews, remember Khaybar, the Army of Mohammed is returning”.
The garment, photographed by a Jewish man who had been shopping at the Haringey supermarket with his family, bore the Arabic “Khaybar Khaybar ya Yahud”.
The words are part of the well-known Arabic chant, “Khaybar, Khaybar ya Yahud, Jaish Mohammed Sauf Ya’ud”, which means “Watch out Jews, remember Khaybar, the Army of Mohammed is returning”.
"Khaybar” refers to a battle that took place in the 600s when over 1,000 Muslim soldiers invaded a Jewish fortress in what is now modern-day Saudi Arabia.
Many of the Jews at the fortress had been deported from Medina by Muhammed but, as the then-century old Islamic state expanded, Khaybar was invaded.
The chant is widely considered to invoke a threat against Jews and is seen as antisemitic.
The Sainsbury’s supermarket on Williamson Road, Haringey, where the man was photographed, is only around 2km from Stamford Hill, the heavily Orthodox area of north London.
Many of the Jews at the fortress had been deported from Medina by Muhammed but, as the then-century old Islamic state expanded, Khaybar was invaded.
The chant is widely considered to invoke a threat against Jews and is seen as antisemitic.
The Sainsbury’s supermarket on Williamson Road, Haringey, where the man was photographed, is only around 2km from Stamford Hill, the heavily Orthodox area of north London.
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Monday, August 24, 2026
Lawmakers condemn Hasan Piker’s remarks targeting American Jews
Lawmakers condemned remarks by left-wing, anti-Israel influencer Hasan Piker that suggested American Jews could face violence because of their support for Israel, as Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic Senate nominee in Michigan, sought to distance his campaign from the streamer.
During a recent Twitch stream, Piker discussed Michigan state senator Jeremy Moss, a Jewish Democrat who won the Democratic primary for an open U.S. House seat in Michigan’s 11th Congressional District. Piker displayed a photo of Moss and said, “If Jews in America keep putting this idea out there that they are singularly invested in Israel, eventually someone is gonna come around and take action not against Israel, mind you, but against American Jews.”
In a statement on Monday, Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), vice chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, wrote that Piker’s “call for violence against American Jews, and directly naming a Michigan official (and future Congressional colleague) Jeremy Moss are unacceptable. Full stop.”
“Piker is a hack who thrives on hate, shock and awe because he lacks substance,” she stated. “It’s dangerous for everyone. We should all be calling out this disgusting rhetoric so it loses its grip on our politics once and for all.”
Piker responded, calling Scholten “an Israel 1st congresswoman” and claimed that anti-Zionism is a “90/10 issue.”
A July Pew Research Center survey found that 65% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents had a favorable view of the Israeli people, compared with 43% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents. The partisan divide was wider over the Israeli government: 51% of Republicans viewed it favorably, compared with 16% of Democrats.
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) stated that “the only one inciting violence against American Jews is Piker and his rhetoric.”
“For the future of our party, Democrats have to call out his hate and condemn these dangerous views,” Gottheimer said. “Anyone campaigning with him is part of the problem.”
Mike Rogers, the Republican Senate nominee in Michigan, associated Piker’s “call for violence” with the El-Sayed campaign.
“Absolutely disgusting,” Rogers said. “If Abdul El-Sayed had any courage at all, he would call this out and disavow Hasan Piker once and for all.”
El-Sayed campaigned with Piker during his successful Democratic primary bid, including appearances at campaign events and on Michigan college campuses. Piker was also among the guests at a Detroit pool party attended by El-Sayed on the eve of the Aug. 4 primary.
In a statement on Monday, El-Sayed addressed Piker’s remarks while stopping short of directly condemning the streamer.
“I believe all Americans deserve the right to advocate for what they believe without fear of violence,” El-Sayed stated. “This is particularly true for communities that have been intimidated for their beliefs in the past.”
“But I want to be crystal clear, nobody speaks for this campaign besides me and my campaign spokespeople,” El-Sayed wrote. “And while politicians and pundits try to make this race about a Twitch streamer, we’re going to be talking about gas, groceries, good schools and healthcare.”
The statement followed earlier criticism of El-Sayed’s relationship with Piker. El-Sayed previously said he was “less focused on folks who are campaigning with me” when asked whether he would renounce the streamer. He later explicitly disavowed Piker’s 2019 remark that the United States “deserved” the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Democrats for Mike Rogers, a group of Democrats supporting the Republican nominee, called El-Sayed’s latest statement a “fake condemnation.”
“Notice he never actually condemns Hasan Piker’s calls for violence against Jeremy Moss,” the group stated. “It’s shameful.”
During a recent Twitch stream, Piker discussed Michigan state senator Jeremy Moss, a Jewish Democrat who won the Democratic primary for an open U.S. House seat in Michigan’s 11th Congressional District. Piker displayed a photo of Moss and said, “If Jews in America keep putting this idea out there that they are singularly invested in Israel, eventually someone is gonna come around and take action not against Israel, mind you, but against American Jews.”
In a statement on Monday, Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), vice chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, wrote that Piker’s “call for violence against American Jews, and directly naming a Michigan official (and future Congressional colleague) Jeremy Moss are unacceptable. Full stop.”
“Piker is a hack who thrives on hate, shock and awe because he lacks substance,” she stated. “It’s dangerous for everyone. We should all be calling out this disgusting rhetoric so it loses its grip on our politics once and for all.”
Piker responded, calling Scholten “an Israel 1st congresswoman” and claimed that anti-Zionism is a “90/10 issue.”
A July Pew Research Center survey found that 65% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents had a favorable view of the Israeli people, compared with 43% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents. The partisan divide was wider over the Israeli government: 51% of Republicans viewed it favorably, compared with 16% of Democrats.
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) stated that “the only one inciting violence against American Jews is Piker and his rhetoric.”
“For the future of our party, Democrats have to call out his hate and condemn these dangerous views,” Gottheimer said. “Anyone campaigning with him is part of the problem.”
Mike Rogers, the Republican Senate nominee in Michigan, associated Piker’s “call for violence” with the El-Sayed campaign.
“Absolutely disgusting,” Rogers said. “If Abdul El-Sayed had any courage at all, he would call this out and disavow Hasan Piker once and for all.”
El-Sayed campaigned with Piker during his successful Democratic primary bid, including appearances at campaign events and on Michigan college campuses. Piker was also among the guests at a Detroit pool party attended by El-Sayed on the eve of the Aug. 4 primary.
In a statement on Monday, El-Sayed addressed Piker’s remarks while stopping short of directly condemning the streamer.
“I believe all Americans deserve the right to advocate for what they believe without fear of violence,” El-Sayed stated. “This is particularly true for communities that have been intimidated for their beliefs in the past.”
“But I want to be crystal clear, nobody speaks for this campaign besides me and my campaign spokespeople,” El-Sayed wrote. “And while politicians and pundits try to make this race about a Twitch streamer, we’re going to be talking about gas, groceries, good schools and healthcare.”
The statement followed earlier criticism of El-Sayed’s relationship with Piker. El-Sayed previously said he was “less focused on folks who are campaigning with me” when asked whether he would renounce the streamer. He later explicitly disavowed Piker’s 2019 remark that the United States “deserved” the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Democrats for Mike Rogers, a group of Democrats supporting the Republican nominee, called El-Sayed’s latest statement a “fake condemnation.”
“Notice he never actually condemns Hasan Piker’s calls for violence against Jeremy Moss,” the group stated. “It’s shameful.”
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Sunday, August 23, 2026
Jewish cemetery in Poland damaged by bulldozer during unsupervised repairs, org tells 'Post'
A bulldozer that entered the Jewish cemetery in Brzesko, Poland, as part of work to renovate a collapsed wall, drove over graves, smashed gravestones, and dug directly into graves without halachic supervision, Poland's Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich and Meir Bulka of the organization J-nerations told The Jerusalem Post on Sunday.
J-nerations works on several fronts to preserve Jewish heritage sites in the Diaspora, especially grave sites and cemeteries.
Brzesko cemetery is owned by the Jewish Religious Community of Krakow, which is therefore responsible for its maintenance.
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Monday, August 17, 2026
Bronx Man Faces 14 charges for Attack at Central Synagogue Shabbat Service
Officers arrested Larry Montes, 46, of the Bronx, on Friday night and charged him with 14 charges, including six hate crimes, after he allegedly hit a 63-year-old woman and spat upon and heat-butted a 65-year-old security guard at Central Synagogue in Manhattan on Friday night, the New York City Police Department told JNS.
The incident took place shortly after 6 p.m. during Shabbat services, and officers were told that the suspect “began acting irate and disrupted a service,” the NYPD said.
“As security was escorting the male out, he struck a 63-year-old female, causing a small laceration and pain to her lip and right forearm,” the department told JNS. “Additionally, the male spit on and head butted a 65-year-old security guard.”
The department’s hate crime task force is investigating the incident, and the man was charged with four counts of hate crime assault, two counts of assault, criminal mischief as a hate crime, criminal mischief, disrupting a religious service, criminal trespass as a hate crime, two counts of aggravated harassment and two counts of harassment, the NYPD told JNS.
Central Synagogue, a Reform congregation, stated that it was grateful to the many who “have reached out in support after the disturbing events during services.”
“Tonight at Shabbat services, a disturbed man stormed our bimah,” or dais, and “knocked over our Shabbat candles, screamed obscenities and assaulted a congregant,” the synagogue said. “In the face of this antisemitic hate, our security director heroically restrained and escorted the man out.”
The synagogue added that the cantor and musicians “did not let this stop the music.”
“Our rabbis reignited the candles, helped us breathe and found the words to respond to the moment in real time,” it said. “Our congregation refused to let hate extinguish our Shabbat light.”
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Sunday, August 16, 2026
UN study debunks Gaza malnutrition claim, but Labour presses on
There are lies, there are damned lies, and then there are United Nations statistics.
This time last year the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) scheme, a UN-supported outfit, declared a famine in Gaza.
There was some pushback from Israel at the time. To make a finding of famine, the rules require evidence that 30 per cent of under-fives are experiencing acute malnutrition.
There was no data available for the preferred metric (measuring the circumference of the upper arm), so the IPC used measurements for lower down the arm. Then they doubled them. The result was 15 per cent. The definition required 30 per cent. The result was multiplied by two.
All of a sudden, Jerusalem was starving the Palestinians. Except, this has now been debunked by another report, produced by the UN-backed Nutrition Cluster.
It shows that not only was Gaza’s upper-arm-measured acute malnutrition at the same rate, or lower, than before October 7, but that the Palestinians record lower levels of malnutrition than neighbouring countries including Egypt and Jordan.
As the researcher Dr Mark Zlochin observes in the JC, the data show that Gazan malnutrition is “exceptionally low by both regional and even Western standards”.
This time last year the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) scheme, a UN-supported outfit, declared a famine in Gaza.
There was some pushback from Israel at the time. To make a finding of famine, the rules require evidence that 30 per cent of under-fives are experiencing acute malnutrition.
There was no data available for the preferred metric (measuring the circumference of the upper arm), so the IPC used measurements for lower down the arm. Then they doubled them. The result was 15 per cent. The definition required 30 per cent. The result was multiplied by two.
All of a sudden, Jerusalem was starving the Palestinians. Except, this has now been debunked by another report, produced by the UN-backed Nutrition Cluster.
It shows that not only was Gaza’s upper-arm-measured acute malnutrition at the same rate, or lower, than before October 7, but that the Palestinians record lower levels of malnutrition than neighbouring countries including Egypt and Jordan.
As the researcher Dr Mark Zlochin observes in the JC, the data show that Gazan malnutrition is “exceptionally low by both regional and even Western standards”.
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Friday, August 14, 2026
Hitler's 'Mein Kampf' in Arabic found on sale at newly opened bookstore
Public outrage has erupted in Britain over the sale of Arabic-language copies of "Mein Kampf," Adolf Hitler's antisemitic book, at a new bookstore in London.
Several copies were found at Aafaq in Edgware, which opened Aug. 1.
The discovery drew condemnation from Jewish community representatives and organizations combating antisemitism, which called for the books to be removed from the store.
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Thursday, August 13, 2026
NYC’s Park East Synagogue partners with local Chabad
A local Chabad chapter and New York City’s Park East Synagogue have announced a partnership, highlighting the Chabad Hasidic movement’s growing influence and marking a step forward for the prominent Modern Orthodox synagogue.
Park East, founded in 1890 and located on the Upper East Side, and Chabad of the Upper East Side announced the collaboration in Friday statements to members.
Park East, founded in 1890 and located on the Upper East Side, and Chabad of the Upper East Side announced the collaboration in Friday statements to members.
Park East will host most of Chabad of the Upper East Side’s activities, Chabad’s Rabbi Ben Tzion Krasnianski will serve as an associate rabbi at the synagogue and Rabbi Yosef Wilhelm, who directs Chabad Young Professionals Upper East Side, will be an assistant rabbi.
The synagogue’s Rabbi Arthur Schneier and president, Les Lieberman, said in a message to members that “this collaboration brings together two vibrant Jewish communities with a shared commitment to Torah, prayer, education, and acts of kindness.”
The message hailed the collaboration as an “important new chapter” for the synagogue.
The partnership will offer “enhanced” Shabbat programming, classes, lectures, holiday celebrations and opportunities for young professionals, the message said.
The synagogue’s Rabbi Arthur Schneier and president, Les Lieberman, said in a message to members that “this collaboration brings together two vibrant Jewish communities with a shared commitment to Torah, prayer, education, and acts of kindness.”
The message hailed the collaboration as an “important new chapter” for the synagogue.
The partnership will offer “enhanced” Shabbat programming, classes, lectures, holiday celebrations and opportunities for young professionals, the message said.
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Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Federal appeals court revives Hasidic inmate’s claims over alleged Iowa prison religious violations
An inmate who identifies as a Hasidic Jew will get another chance to pursue several claims that Iowa prison officials failed to accommodate his religious practices after a federal appeals court revived parts of his lawsuit.
Lawrence Hamby, who was incarcerated at the Iowa State Penitentiary from June 2009 to February 2023, alleged that the Iowa Department of Corrections denied requests for kosher meals, candles to light before Shabbat and Jewish holidays, access to a mikveh for ritual cleansing and the use of religious funds for attorney fees.
After exhausting the prison system’s internal grievance process, Hamby sued the department and several officials under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, alleging violations of his religious rights.
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa dismissed all of Hamby’s claims, finding that his grievances were untimely, improperly submitted, lacked merit or were moot because Hamby, by that time, had been transferred to a different prison.
In a decision issued this week, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit reversed key portions of that ruling, holding that Iowa waived sovereign immunity for claims brought under RLUIPA by accepting federal funding. The panel also found that the district court improperly concluded Hamby had failed to exhaust administrative remedies, saying the record showed he completed the required grievance process, including review by the department’s religious coordinator and appeals to the Statewide Religion Review Committee.
The appeals court also ruled that some of Hamby’s claims for prospective relief against state officials remain viable, while affirming the lower court’s dismissal of other claims.
The case was remanded to the district court for further proceedings consistent with the appeals court’s opinion.
Lawrence Hamby, who was incarcerated at the Iowa State Penitentiary from June 2009 to February 2023, alleged that the Iowa Department of Corrections denied requests for kosher meals, candles to light before Shabbat and Jewish holidays, access to a mikveh for ritual cleansing and the use of religious funds for attorney fees.
After exhausting the prison system’s internal grievance process, Hamby sued the department and several officials under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, alleging violations of his religious rights.
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa dismissed all of Hamby’s claims, finding that his grievances were untimely, improperly submitted, lacked merit or were moot because Hamby, by that time, had been transferred to a different prison.
In a decision issued this week, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit reversed key portions of that ruling, holding that Iowa waived sovereign immunity for claims brought under RLUIPA by accepting federal funding. The panel also found that the district court improperly concluded Hamby had failed to exhaust administrative remedies, saying the record showed he completed the required grievance process, including review by the department’s religious coordinator and appeals to the Statewide Religion Review Committee.
The appeals court also ruled that some of Hamby’s claims for prospective relief against state officials remain viable, while affirming the lower court’s dismissal of other claims.
The case was remanded to the district court for further proceedings consistent with the appeals court’s opinion.
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Wednesday, August 05, 2026
Ukraine's MFA warns Hasidic pilgrims of security risks ahead of Uman visit
Amid Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Hasidic pilgrims planning to travel to Uman to take into account that the Ukrainian authorities cannot guarantee the full safety of foreign nationals.
According to Ukrinform, the warning was issued in a statement by the Foreign Ministry.
In light of Russia's ongoing large-scale missile attacks, the ministry urged those who choose to visit Uman despite official warnings to be aware that martial law remains in effect across Ukraine. The legal regime includes restrictions on freedom of movement, curfews, enhanced security patrols, a ban on mass gatherings and public events, as well as the possibility of compulsory measures against individuals who fail to comply with the established restrictions.
The ministry also advised pilgrims to take into consideration the heavy congestion at Ukraine's land border crossings and possible travel delays, as well as the limited availability of bomb shelters and medical personnel.
According to Ukrinform, the warning was issued in a statement by the Foreign Ministry.
In light of Russia's ongoing large-scale missile attacks, the ministry urged those who choose to visit Uman despite official warnings to be aware that martial law remains in effect across Ukraine. The legal regime includes restrictions on freedom of movement, curfews, enhanced security patrols, a ban on mass gatherings and public events, as well as the possibility of compulsory measures against individuals who fail to comply with the established restrictions.
The ministry also advised pilgrims to take into consideration the heavy congestion at Ukraine's land border crossings and possible travel delays, as well as the limited availability of bomb shelters and medical personnel.
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Tuesday, August 04, 2026
Jews targeted in 70% of all NYC hate crimes last month, NYPD data shows
Jews were targeted in 70% of all hate crimes in New York City in July, according to NYPD data released on Monday, as the number of hate crimes against Jews and other groups continued to increase since New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani took office at the start of the year.
Since January 1, 2026, overall hate crimes were up 9.4% compared to the same period last year — from 329 last year to 360 this year.
Since January 1, 2026, overall hate crimes were up 9.4% compared to the same period last year — from 329 last year to 360 this year.
Confirmed anti-Jewish hate crimes have increased 8.5% in 2026, with 205 so far this year compared to 189 during the same period last year.
The figure for this year amounts, on average, to an antisemitic hate crime in the city every 25 hours. Jewish security officials and hate crimes experts say that many or most hate crimes are not reported to police.
Jews have been targeted in 57% of all hate crimes in the city so far this year, according to the NYPD. Jews make up around 10% of the city’s population.
The figure is similar to the proportion last year, before Mamdani took office.
The figure for this year amounts, on average, to an antisemitic hate crime in the city every 25 hours. Jewish security officials and hate crimes experts say that many or most hate crimes are not reported to police.
Jews have been targeted in 57% of all hate crimes in the city so far this year, according to the NYPD. Jews make up around 10% of the city’s population.
The figure is similar to the proportion last year, before Mamdani took office.
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Monday, August 03, 2026
NY man who killed Jewish writer in car crash charged with vandalizing kosher shop
A New York City district attorney on Friday arraigned a suspect on hate crimes charges for antisemitic vandalism, weeks after the man was indicted on manslaughter charges for the death of a Jewish journalist.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said that Dawood Faisal, 22, had been arraigned on hate crimes charges for destroying property in May at a kosher bagel shop that had Israeli flags outside.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said that Dawood Faisal, 22, had been arraigned on hate crimes charges for destroying property in May at a kosher bagel shop that had Israeli flags outside.
On May 15, Faisal upended nine plant stands outside the shop, Bagels & Co., spilling dirt and plants on the sidewalk in front of the business. He then threw fistfuls of the dirt at the shop, Katz said.
A week later, Faisal knocked over 11 plant stands at the shop, picked up the plant pots, and emptied the pots onto the sidewalk. Some pots were too large to knock over, so he ripped the plants out of them, Katz said.
Neighborhood residents and Jewish community activists rallied at the shop after the vandalism in a show of solidarity.
Faisal was charged with criminal mischief in the third degree as a hate crime, criminal mischief in the fourth degree as a hate crime, criminal mischief in the third degree, and criminal mischief in the fourth degree.
A week later, Faisal knocked over 11 plant stands at the shop, picked up the plant pots, and emptied the pots onto the sidewalk. Some pots were too large to knock over, so he ripped the plants out of them, Katz said.
Neighborhood residents and Jewish community activists rallied at the shop after the vandalism in a show of solidarity.
Faisal was charged with criminal mischief in the third degree as a hate crime, criminal mischief in the fourth degree as a hate crime, criminal mischief in the third degree, and criminal mischief in the fourth degree.
He faces a maximum of seven years in prison if convicted.
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Sunday, August 02, 2026
Israel-bashing activist who collaborated with Rama Duwaji rants about Jewish people ‘whining’ about the Holocaust: ‘Lost its meaning’
An Israel-bashing activist who collaborated on an art project with the city’s first lady Rama Duwaji mocked Jewish people for “whining” about the Holocaust.
Susan Abulhawa unleashed an unhinged rant on social media in response to the news that Mayor Zohran Mamdani was facing backlash for not appointing one Jewish person to his 18-member judicial screening panel.
“Europe’s holocaust has lost its meaning to the point that the whole world is sick of hearing about it,” Albuhawa said in a July 31 statement on X. “These clowns invoke that genocide with every perceived slight (even as they are committing or supporting a contemporary genocide).
Susan Abulhawa unleashed an unhinged rant on social media in response to the news that Mayor Zohran Mamdani was facing backlash for not appointing one Jewish person to his 18-member judicial screening panel.
“Europe’s holocaust has lost its meaning to the point that the whole world is sick of hearing about it,” Albuhawa said in a July 31 statement on X. “These clowns invoke that genocide with every perceived slight (even as they are committing or supporting a contemporary genocide).
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Thursday, July 30, 2026
Orthodox synagogue sues Maryland county over firearms restrictions near houses of worship
The Silver Spring Jewish Center has sued Montgomery County, Md., on Thursday over a new firearms ordinance that restricts congregants and volunteers from carrying guns in houses of worship and other designated “places of public assembly.”
The Orthodox synagogue and Rabbi J. Menashe Shapiro, a student at the Georgetown University Law Center, filed the federal lawsuit against the county, County Executive Marc Elrich, Police Chief Marc Yamada and State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
The lawsuit challenges Expedited Bill 23-26, which prohibits carrying firearms “in or within 100 yards of a place of public assembly,” including houses of worship, schools, parks, libraries, hospitals and government buildings. The measure allows paid security personnel to carry firearms but bars volunteers and private individuals from doing so, according to the complaint. Elrich signed legislationon Monday.
Shapiro told JNS that the restrictions are “extremely disruptive” to the synagogue’s security plans.
“I serve on the security committee of my synagogue, and it is important that we be able to protect ourselves,” he said. “Especially since Oct. 7, but as recent as last month, we’ve faced threats. This law makes it impossible to be prepared.”
The synagogue formed an armed volunteer security team after the Hamas-led attacks in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, according to the complaint. It also cites an October 2024 attack on a visibly Jewish congregant outside the synagogue and an attempted entry into the building by an unknown person on June 9.
“Our lawsuit specifically challenges two things: the ban on carrying in houses of worship and the 100-yard perimeter,” Shapiro told JNS, adding that the ordinance “also violates our religious beliefs.”
“Jewish law requires Jews to provide for their own security, and that means carrying firearms when necessary,” he told JNS. “I wish it weren’t necessary, but it is and we must.”
Shapiro, who lives in Silver Spring with his wife and four children, noted that the ordinance’s 100-yard zone creates a second issue: legally carrying firearms while walking.
“As a personal example, in order for me to get from my house to the synagogue at which I usually daven, I pass within 100 yards of two public schools, one private school, two parks and three other houses of worship,” he said.
Shapiro told JNS that the bill was “ill-conceived” and “designed to score points in an election year, even though the County Council and executive know it is going to be struck down by the courts.”
“Members of the Jewish community pleaded with them that this presented a fundamental threat to our safety, but it fell on deaf ears,” he said. “Now we turn to the courts for relief.”
The Orthodox synagogue and Rabbi J. Menashe Shapiro, a student at the Georgetown University Law Center, filed the federal lawsuit against the county, County Executive Marc Elrich, Police Chief Marc Yamada and State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
The lawsuit challenges Expedited Bill 23-26, which prohibits carrying firearms “in or within 100 yards of a place of public assembly,” including houses of worship, schools, parks, libraries, hospitals and government buildings. The measure allows paid security personnel to carry firearms but bars volunteers and private individuals from doing so, according to the complaint. Elrich signed legislationon Monday.
Shapiro told JNS that the restrictions are “extremely disruptive” to the synagogue’s security plans.
“I serve on the security committee of my synagogue, and it is important that we be able to protect ourselves,” he said. “Especially since Oct. 7, but as recent as last month, we’ve faced threats. This law makes it impossible to be prepared.”
The synagogue formed an armed volunteer security team after the Hamas-led attacks in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, according to the complaint. It also cites an October 2024 attack on a visibly Jewish congregant outside the synagogue and an attempted entry into the building by an unknown person on June 9.
“Our lawsuit specifically challenges two things: the ban on carrying in houses of worship and the 100-yard perimeter,” Shapiro told JNS, adding that the ordinance “also violates our religious beliefs.”
“Jewish law requires Jews to provide for their own security, and that means carrying firearms when necessary,” he told JNS. “I wish it weren’t necessary, but it is and we must.”
Shapiro, who lives in Silver Spring with his wife and four children, noted that the ordinance’s 100-yard zone creates a second issue: legally carrying firearms while walking.
“As a personal example, in order for me to get from my house to the synagogue at which I usually daven, I pass within 100 yards of two public schools, one private school, two parks and three other houses of worship,” he said.
Shapiro told JNS that the bill was “ill-conceived” and “designed to score points in an election year, even though the County Council and executive know it is going to be struck down by the courts.”
“Members of the Jewish community pleaded with them that this presented a fundamental threat to our safety, but it fell on deaf ears,” he said. “Now we turn to the courts for relief.”
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Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Montreal police investigate report of antisemitic abuse toward Jewish family at La Fontaine Park
Montreal police are investigating a report that a Jewish family was subjected to antisemitic abuse during a confrontation at La Fontaine Park on Sunday.
The episode began after the father asked a woman to remove her dogs from a children’s playground, where animals were prohibited, according to a video of the confrontation.
The footage shows the woman swearing at the family and saying in French: “Jews aren’t allowed here.”
“Are you trying to scare me or something?” she continued. “That’s called intimidation.”
The episode began after the father asked a woman to remove her dogs from a children’s playground, where animals were prohibited, according to a video of the confrontation.
The footage shows the woman swearing at the family and saying in French: “Jews aren’t allowed here.”
“Are you trying to scare me or something?” she continued. “That’s called intimidation.”
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Tuesday, July 28, 2026
8-year-old boy injured after man with hammer follows woman to Queens school: NYPD
An 8-year-old boy was shoved into a fence at a Queens school Tuesday morning as a security guard was protecting a woman who was being followed, police said.
Police received a 911 call around 10:50 a.m. about a disorderly man armed with a hammer following a 19-year-old woman.
Police received a 911 call around 10:50 a.m. about a disorderly man armed with a hammer following a 19-year-old woman.
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Sunday, July 26, 2026
Antisemitic Terror Wave Hits Jewish Bakery Chain
In yet another series of antisemitic attacks in Toronto, masked vandals shot up and smashedthe windows of two Jewish-owned bakeries on Saturday, the latest gut-punch in a relentless run of anti-Jewish violence terrorizing Canada’s largest city.
Cops confirmed evidence of gunfire at the beloved bakery Kiva’s Yonge and St. Clair outpost, while a second location near Bathurst and Steeles also had its window busted out — though without shots fired there. Miraculously, nobody was hurt in either attack.
The kosher-style bagel shop, a Jewish community fixture since 1979, has three GTA locations and is currently run by brothers Ben, Elan and Steve Rafael. Police say they’re probing whether the two hits are connected.
Cops confirmed evidence of gunfire at the beloved bakery Kiva’s Yonge and St. Clair outpost, while a second location near Bathurst and Steeles also had its window busted out — though without shots fired there. Miraculously, nobody was hurt in either attack.
The kosher-style bagel shop, a Jewish community fixture since 1979, has three GTA locations and is currently run by brothers Ben, Elan and Steve Rafael. Police say they’re probing whether the two hits are connected.
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Friday, July 24, 2026
NYC Jewish leaders call on Mamdani to stop ‘fanning flames of hatred and division’ after UWS stabbings
City Jewish leaders Friday demanded Mayor Zohran Mamdani “stop fanning the flames of hatred and division” after a nut stabbed a religious man in a suspected antisemitic hate crime on the Upper West Side — but Hizzoner offered nothing more than a canned tepid response.
Raul Morales, 51, allegedly yelled “Allahu Akbar!” as he attacked the two victims — Moshe Yezhak Grunhaus, a 50-year-old Jewish man, and Chok Sung, a 57-year-old Asian man — in vicious separate attacks blocks from Central Park and minutes apart Thursday afternoon, police said.
“We’re horrified and heartbroken by yesterday’s attacks. But to be clear, we’re no longer surprised,” said UJA-Federation of New York CEO Eric Goldstein at a press conference Friday.
Raul Morales, 51, allegedly yelled “Allahu Akbar!” as he attacked the two victims — Moshe Yezhak Grunhaus, a 50-year-old Jewish man, and Chok Sung, a 57-year-old Asian man — in vicious separate attacks blocks from Central Park and minutes apart Thursday afternoon, police said.
“We’re horrified and heartbroken by yesterday’s attacks. But to be clear, we’re no longer surprised,” said UJA-Federation of New York CEO Eric Goldstein at a press conference Friday.
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Thursday, July 23, 2026
Jewish Gun Group Lox & Loaded and NRA Gain National Media Attention
We recently posted Frank Miniter’s conversation with Lox & Loaded COO & co-founder Gayle Pearlstein, who launced the Jewish-owned-and-operated gun club that about a year ago—which now boasts 50 chapters around the United States. Pearlstein created the organization after the October 7 atrocities in Israel.
Here’s what she told Frank: “ ... After October 7 happened, it destroyed me and I’m still having trouble grasping what happened on October 7. When that happened, I was a firearms instructor in Chicago and I wanted to do something. I wanted to just not send charity to Israel or just not jump online and write something. I wanted to physically do something. And the only thing that I could think of that I could actually make a difference is [to give] free basic pistol lessons to the community. I partnered with the Chicago Jewish Alliance, which is now the American Jewish Alliance, and I said, ‘I’m going to donate everything.’ I said, ‘I’m happy to do this if you guys want to schedule this and help me get the word out. My time is completely free. My ammunition is free. Just help me get help me pay for the range and I’ll take care of everybody.’”
Pearlstein’s cause is garnering national attention. In fact, Pearlstein and NRA CEO & EVP Doug Hamlin were the focus of in an in-depth segment on ABC News Live's "Prime Focus" series.
Here’s what she told Frank: “ ... After October 7 happened, it destroyed me and I’m still having trouble grasping what happened on October 7. When that happened, I was a firearms instructor in Chicago and I wanted to do something. I wanted to just not send charity to Israel or just not jump online and write something. I wanted to physically do something. And the only thing that I could think of that I could actually make a difference is [to give] free basic pistol lessons to the community. I partnered with the Chicago Jewish Alliance, which is now the American Jewish Alliance, and I said, ‘I’m going to donate everything.’ I said, ‘I’m happy to do this if you guys want to schedule this and help me get the word out. My time is completely free. My ammunition is free. Just help me get help me pay for the range and I’ll take care of everybody.’”
Pearlstein’s cause is garnering national attention. In fact, Pearlstein and NRA CEO & EVP Doug Hamlin were the focus of in an in-depth segment on ABC News Live's "Prime Focus" series.
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Wednesday, July 22, 2026
United Jewish Teachers urges increased NYPD security for Tisha B’Av attendees after Mamdani video
Moshe Spern, president of United Jewish Teachers, urged New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch on Wednesday to increase police patrols and security at Jewish institutions during Tisha B’Av, saying a recent video by Mayor Zohran Mamdani has heightened concerns within the city’s Jewish community.
In the video, Mamdani called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal,” said he had explored all legal avenues but lacked the authority to arrest him, and concluded by urging viewers to “examine every tool we have to defend the humanity and dignity of all people.”
Spern told JNS the mayor’s remarks contribute “to a dangerous atmosphere for New York’s Jewish community.”
“Just in the past week we’ve seen attacks on two synagogues in Queens, on top of rising antisemitic incidents, vandalism, protests targeting Jewish sites and harassment since he took office,” he said.
With Tisha B’Av beginning Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday, Spern said thousands of Jews would be gathering at synagogues, schools and camps, making the need for visible security especially urgent. Tisha B’Av, the annual Jewish day of mourning, commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem and other tragedies in Jewish history.
“Tisha B’Av historically has been a day of tragedy for the Jewish people,” Spern told JNS. “I’m nervous that the community will face threats specifically on this day.
“I urgently call on NYPD Commissioner Tisch to implement heightened patrols and visible security at all Jewish facilities immediately,” he said. “The Jewish community simply wants to feel safe practicing our faith without fear from those being incited by the mayor’s rhetoric.”
In a letter to Tisch, Spern wrote that Mamdani’s video, “disseminated through official channels, has heightened fears within the Jewish community.”
He asked the NYPD to provide “extra rounds by uniformed officers and coordination with NYPD Special Ops” at synagogues, Jewish schools, summer camps and community centers, and requested that the department treat the appeal as “a time-sensitive matter.”
In the video, Mamdani called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal,” said he had explored all legal avenues but lacked the authority to arrest him, and concluded by urging viewers to “examine every tool we have to defend the humanity and dignity of all people.”
Spern told JNS the mayor’s remarks contribute “to a dangerous atmosphere for New York’s Jewish community.”
“Just in the past week we’ve seen attacks on two synagogues in Queens, on top of rising antisemitic incidents, vandalism, protests targeting Jewish sites and harassment since he took office,” he said.
With Tisha B’Av beginning Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday, Spern said thousands of Jews would be gathering at synagogues, schools and camps, making the need for visible security especially urgent. Tisha B’Av, the annual Jewish day of mourning, commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem and other tragedies in Jewish history.
“Tisha B’Av historically has been a day of tragedy for the Jewish people,” Spern told JNS. “I’m nervous that the community will face threats specifically on this day.
“I urgently call on NYPD Commissioner Tisch to implement heightened patrols and visible security at all Jewish facilities immediately,” he said. “The Jewish community simply wants to feel safe practicing our faith without fear from those being incited by the mayor’s rhetoric.”
In a letter to Tisch, Spern wrote that Mamdani’s video, “disseminated through official channels, has heightened fears within the Jewish community.”
He asked the NYPD to provide “extra rounds by uniformed officers and coordination with NYPD Special Ops” at synagogues, Jewish schools, summer camps and community centers, and requested that the department treat the appeal as “a time-sensitive matter.”
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Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Abuse prompts Jewish congregants to conceal identity
Jewish Australians are concealing signs of their own religious identity to avoid abuse, a senior rabbi has told a royal commission investigating anti-Semitism.
Rabbi Moshe Kahn, president of the Rabbinical Council of Victoria, said personal safety had significantly deteriorated in the past year, with many in the community falling victim to hatred and violence.
Rabbi Moshe Kahn, president of the Rabbinical Council of Victoria, said personal safety had significantly deteriorated in the past year, with many in the community falling victim to hatred and violence.
The commission heard evidence on Tuesday that 90 per cent of rabbis surveyed by the council in April had observed congregants concealing or minimising outward signs of their Jewish identity.
Of the rabbis surveyed, 85 per cent had personally experienced anti-Semitic conduct.
"Rabbis are very visibly Jewish ... and many live in communities which they are the only visibly Orthodox people, therefore are easily identifiable," Mr Kahn said.
"Rabbis are very visibly Jewish ... and many live in communities which they are the only visibly Orthodox people, therefore are easily identifiable," Mr Kahn said.
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Auschwitz survivor, 96, in NYC forced to hide Star of David as he gives Dems history lesson on antisemitism
It’s a dire case of deja vu!
A 96-year-old Auschwitz survivor said he now hides his Star of David chain because of spiraling antisemitism in the Big Apple as he gave Democrats a brutal history lesson about anti-Jewish hatred.
Jerry Wartski said the Democratic Party and the liberal Democratic Socialists of America are being infiltrated by antisemites who are fueling an environment that has Jews feeling unsafe in the streets as if it were Europe during the rise of the Third Reich.
A 96-year-old Auschwitz survivor said he now hides his Star of David chain because of spiraling antisemitism in the Big Apple as he gave Democrats a brutal history lesson about anti-Jewish hatred.
Jerry Wartski said the Democratic Party and the liberal Democratic Socialists of America are being infiltrated by antisemites who are fueling an environment that has Jews feeling unsafe in the streets as if it were Europe during the rise of the Third Reich.
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Sunday, July 19, 2026
Montreal police make arrests in connection with incidents targeting Hasidic Jews
The Montreal police have arrested two suspects in connection with a string of incidents targeting Hasidic Jewish men in the city’s Outremont and Mile End neighbourhoods.
According to the community, several men were accosted and harassed as they left synagogues on the evening of July 3. At least three had their traditional fur hats, or shtreimels, stolen from them.
“Such acts have no place in Montreal, in Quebec, or anywhere,” the Jewish Hasidic Council of Quebec said in a statement Wednesday. “While these arrests mark an important milestone, the judicial process must now take its course.”
According to the community, several men were accosted and harassed as they left synagogues on the evening of July 3. At least three had their traditional fur hats, or shtreimels, stolen from them.
“Such acts have no place in Montreal, in Quebec, or anywhere,” the Jewish Hasidic Council of Quebec said in a statement Wednesday. “While these arrests mark an important milestone, the judicial process must now take its course.”
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