The SAJBD extends its full support and solidarity to the Bet Israel Congregation

The SAJBD extends its full support and solidarity to the Bet Israel Congregation of Jackson, Mississippi, and to the American Jewish community following the appalling arson attack in the early hours of the Sabbath.

Images of a burnt-out synagogue and destroyed Torah scrolls fill Jewish communities around the world with horror and dread.

Disturbingly, this attack is the latest in a global escalation of antisemitic violence. It follows, among many others, the brutal terror attack against the Sydney Jewish community celebrating Chanukah in Bondi just one month ago.

Bet Israel in Jackson, Mississippi, is the 21st synagogue to be set alight or targeted in an arson attack since October 7. Similar attacks have occurred in Germany, Canada, Russia, France, Australia, and Tunisia.

We unequivocally condemn this attack on Bet Israel and call on governments and law-enforcement authorities worldwide to treat antisemitic violence as an urgent global priority.