The European Jewish Congress strongly condemns an antisemitic attack that wounded one outside a synagogue in Hamburg. The attack occurred at the Hohe Weide synagogue in the northern German city, where a Jewish youth event was being held on the holiday of Sukkot.
The attacker, who was wearing military gear, had attempted to enter the synagogue, but was prevented from doing so by security staff. He then proceeded to assault a young man with a shovel outside the synagogue. The attacker was immediately apprehended by police.
“We are relieved that a tragedy was avoided, and we are grateful to the security who immediately identified the attacker and prevented him from entering the premises, “said EJC President Dr. Moshe Kantor.
“This incident, which took place two days after the ransacking of a kosher restaurant in Paris and just a few days away from the anniversary of the deadly Halle attack shows that the threat against Jewish communities in Europe is still imminent and that we cannot let our guard down.”
Dr. Kantor added. “Governments must remain vigilant and continue strengthening the security of Jewish communities.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jewish community of Hamburg and with the young victim of this serious incident. We wish him a speedy recovery.”