Man shouting ‘Free Palestine’ fires shots at Jewish synagogue
Shots Fired at Jewish Synagogue by Man Who Shouted ‘Free Palestine’
The man arrested after a shotgun was fired outside of an Albany, New York, synagogue hours before the start of Hanukkah on Thursday is being held without bail.
Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, 28, was called a “danger to the community” during his Friday arraignment in U.S. District Court, according to The New York Times.
Alkhader, a resident of Schenectady, is a U.S. citizen who was born in Iraq, according to the Albany Times-Union.
Who is Mufid Alkhader? Albany synagogue shooting suspect
JUST IN: The suspect who allegedly opened fire outside of a synagogue in Albany, New York, was identified as 28-year-old Mufid Fawaz Alkhader.
– https://t.co/VqCBHMvMbE pic.twitter.com/HL8ttBSvsv
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) December 8, 2023
Alkhader shouted “Free Palestine” during the incident, in which two rounds from a shotgun were fired outside of Temple Israel, Albany police said.
He later told officials with the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco & Explosives that “events in the Middle East have impacted him,” according to a criminal complaint.
Albany Police Chief Eric Hawkins said shell casings were located on the stairway at the synagogue’s front entrance of the synagogue.
Hawkins said the building was not damaged, according to Newsweek.
Police are investigating the incident as a hate crime, Hawkins said Alkhader told police he was feeling victimized.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the incident took place “with at least two dozen children, preschoolers, who were on the premises,” according to the Times of Israel.
Alkhader is being charged, for now, under federal law with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person due to his admission of marijuana use, the Times-Union reported.
The incident took place as anti-Semitic incidents are on the rise due to the Israel-Hamas war.
“After this press conference, we’re going to be lighting Hanukkah candles — because we need light in darkness,” Temple Israel Rabbi Wendy Love Anderson said.
A statement from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York called for vigilance and courage.
“During this time of rising antisemitism throughout our country and the world we encourage our community to be especially vigilant and aware of potential threats,” the statement said. “At the same time, we can not succumb to fear and intimidation and we must remain proud of our Jewish heritage and traditions.”
“In these challenging times, our unwavering spirit shines as a beacon of hope, proving that even in the darkest of moments, our light remains undimmed,” Temple Israel posted on its Facebook page.
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How can we differentiate between legitimate criticism of Israeli policies and anti-Semitism?
According to The New York Times. She condemned the act of violence and expressed her support for the Jewish community in Albany.
The shooting at the Jewish synagogue has raised concerns about the rise of anti-Semitic incidents in the United States. Anti-Semitism has been a persistent issue throughout history, and it continues to pose a threat to Jewish communities around the world.
The fact that the shooter shouted “Free Palestine” during the incident suggests that this act of violence could be politically motivated. However, it is important to differentiate between legitimate criticism of Israeli policies and anti-Semitism. Criticizing the policies of the Israeli government is not inherently anti-Semitic, but using that criticism to justify acts of violence against Jews is.
The incident in Albany highlights the need for increased security measures at places of worship and a comprehensive approach to combating hate crimes. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate this incident and hold the perpetrator accountable for their actions.
As individuals, we also have a role to play in promoting tolerance and understanding. We must condemn acts of hatred and discrimination in all forms and stand in solidarity with targeted communities. Education and awareness are key to combatting prejudice and fostering a more inclusive society.
Authorities should also focus on addressing the underlying causes of extremism and radicalization. This includes addressing grievances and working towards peaceful resolutions to conflicts. It is essential to create an environment where people feel heard and respected, regardless of their background or beliefs.
In times like these, it is important to remember the power of unity and solidarity. We must come together as a society to reject hatred and violence in all its forms. Only through collective action can we create a better and more inclusive world, where everyone can practice their faith freely and without fear.
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