UPDATE: Beloved Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, was tragically killed during a terrorist attack at a Chanukah celebration in Bondi Beach on the evening of October 2023. The attack left 16 victims and has sent shockwaves through the Jewish community and beyond.
Rabbi Schlanger, who served as the assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, had recently penned an urgent letter to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, pleading for action against rising antisemitism. His words now resonate hauntingly as a prophetic warning that went unheeded.
In his letter, Rabbi Schlanger implored the Prime Minister, stating, “As a rabbi in Sydney, I beg you not to betray the Jewish people and not God himself.” He drew on historical precedence, reminding leaders of their moral duty to protect communities. The letter concluded with a hopeful message for courage and justice, tragically underscoring the stark contrast to the violence that unfolded during the community celebration.
Witnesses described the horrific scene as gunfire erupted, shattering a peaceful summer gathering. Arsen Ostrovsky, a lawyer who was grazed by a bullet, recounted a scene of chaotic terror, calling it “pure evil, just an absolute bloodbath.” Families enjoying the festivities were seen fleeing the water, leaving behind what was meant to be a celebration of light and community.
This devastating incident is now recognized as the deadliest act of violence in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. The attack has drawn swift condemnation from world leaders, with Prime Minister Albanese labeling it an “act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism, that has struck the heart of our nation.”
The personal impact of this tragedy on Rabbi Schlanger’s family is profound. He and his wife had just welcomed a newborn son, leaving the family mourning a father lost too soon. Rabbi Schlanger was not only a spiritual leader but also a central figure in community outreach and education, serving the Chabad-Lubavitch movement for 18 years. His death represents a devastating blow to the Jewish community in Sydney, where he played a pivotal role in creating a sense of belonging and support.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this attack, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of communities across Australia. The Schlanger family’s grief is echoed by many who attended the event, now forever marred by violence.
As the nation grapples with the implications of this tragedy, questions remain about how to combat the rising tide of antisemitism and protect vulnerable communities. The call for justice and accountability is louder than ever, and the memories of those lost will not be forgotten.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action against hate and violence, as communities rally to support one another in the face of unimaginable loss.
