New York Jewish Leaders Demand Increased Security After Synagogue Attack
Following a violent antisemitic attack at Manhattan's central synagogue, Jewish leaders, public officials, and community representatives in New York City gathered for a protest rally titled "This Will Not Pass in Silence." The event called for an end to the rising wave of antisemitism in the city and demanded significantly enhanced security around synagogues and Jewish institutions. During Shabbat prayers, 46-year-old Larry Montes broke into the synagogue, shouted antisemitic slurs, vandalized property, assaulted worshippers, and rammed a security guard attempting to stop him. Federal hate crime charges have been filed against Montes.
Speakers at the rally emphasized that this attack is part of a broader pattern of assaults, threats, and vandalism targeting Jews and Jewish institutions across New York and other U.S. cities. Daniel Rosen, president of the organization Impact, stated the Jewish community will now remain vigilant against all antisemitic incidents, highlighting that the threat extends beyond the single synagogue to all Jewish sites amid escalating violence.
New York State Assembly member David Weprin urged a strong response to every act of hatred against Jews, stressing that combating antisemitism transcends political divides. Other speakers warned about the dangerous public atmosphere and rhetoric that may embolden hate crimes. The rally also spotlighted concerns over inadequate security funding for Jewish institutions, demanding authorities allocate more resources to protect synagogues, educational centers, and community hubs.
According to New York Police Department data presented at the event, hate crimes against Jews in the city increased by 8.5 percent over the past year and now constitute over 56 percent of all reported hate crimes, despite Jews comprising only about 10 percent of the city's population. Representatives from other communities also attended to express solidarity. Organizers underscored that Jewish communities cannot continue living under constant threat and that the fight against antisemitism requires decisive and sustained action.
