Los Angeles’ Jewish community is grappling with profound grief and anxiety as they watch the devastating attacks unfold in Israel. The scale and scope of the attack, described as a coordinated and organized invasion, have left many feeling helpless and heartbroken.
Echoes of 9/11: A Coordinated Invasion
For Rabbi David Baron of Beverly Hills Temple of the Arts, the unfolding events in Israel reminded him of the horrors of 9/11. He noted that as hours passed, it became evident that this was not a simple act of terrorism but a large-scale invasion and attack. Rabbi Baron’s connections in Israel emphasized the massive and bold nature of this assault, sparing no one.
Personal Connections to the Crisis
Many members of Los Angeles’ Jewish community have close ties to Israel. Rabbi Baron himself had recently visited Israel for weddings and bar mitzvahs. His friends and relatives in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv painted a grim picture of the situation, with one friend’s wife forced to stay close to missile-struck areas while their daughters were safely away in Cyprus. The halt of flights to Israel adds to the uncertainty, preventing many from returning to their homeland.
Mourning Amid the Holidays
As Los Angeles’ Jewish community observes Simchat Torah, a holiday usually filled with celebration, the mood is somber. Pico-Robertson streets, typically bustling with festivities, are subdued. Rebecca Wizman, expressing the collective sentiment, stated, "It will forever be a day of memorial and sadness." Many are dreading the moment when they can finally check their phones for updates, expecting a rising death toll.
Mixed Emotions and Determination
While some, like Yossie Ziff, are determined to maintain a sense of jubilation amid the sadness, others find it challenging to celebrate during these trying times. Nathan Pazooky expressed his struggle, saying, "It’s our duty to celebrate, but I don’t know how." The congregation grapples with mixed emotions as they attempt to honor the holiday’s spirit while their hearts are heavy with grief.
A Plea for Peace
The grief and anxiety extend beyond Los Angeles. In Anaheim’s Little Arabia neighborhood, similar fear and uncertainty prevail. Aref Mohammad, owner of Al Baraka restaurant, stays in constant touch with his siblings in Gaza to ensure their safety. Meanwhile, a Palestinian man named Nazeeh points a finger at both the Israeli and U.S. governments, holding them partly responsible for the tragedy due to their inability to find a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict.
The Los Angeles’ Jewish community, the second-largest outside of Israel, stands in solidarity with their homeland, mourning the loss of innocent lives and yearning for peace amidst the turmoil. As the crisis unfolds, they continue to grapple with the emotional toll of the ongoing attacks in Israel.
This article is a testament to the heartache and determination of Los Angeles’ Jewish community in the face of adversity as they watch their beloved Israel endure a devastating attack.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the provided reference content and does not contain additional or up-to-date information beyond the knowledge cutoff date of September 2021.
Understanding the Regional Ramifications
How many Palestinian civilians have been killed by Israel?
According to Palestinian authorities, Israeli counterattacks in Gaza have resulted in the reported deaths of over 300 fighters and civilians. Additionally, both sides have reported thousands of wounded. The conflict’s toll on Palestinian civilians continues to raise concerns globally, highlighting the urgent need for peace and resolution in the region.
What holiday was Israel attacked on?
The attack on Israel occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. This significant event unfolded on October 6, 1973, with sirens sounding across the country. It’s important to note that many Israelis had originally planned to celebrate the holiday of Simchat Torah on that Saturday.
Why are Hamas and Israel fighting?
The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel was prompted by long-standing tensions, with one key issue being a dispute over the sacred Al-Aqsa Mosque, revered by both Muslims and Jews. These simmering disputes have contributed to the escalation of hostilities.
Why did Gaza attack Israel?
The assault on Israel, named "Al-Aqsa Storm" by Hamas military commander Muhammad Al-Deif, was initiated in response to a series of provocations. These provocations included attacks on women, the desecration of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, and the persistent siege of Gaza. Gaza’s attack was driven by a combination of these factors.
How many Palestinians died from war?
In the latest conflict between Hamas and the Israeli military, the reported death toll surpasses 1,000 people, with 413 Palestinians among the casualties. It is worth noting that Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip over the past 15 years have tragically claimed the lives of thousands of Palestinians, including women, children, and the elderly.
How many Palestinians were killed in 2023?
According to the U.N. Mideast envoy, the year 2023 has witnessed a significant toll in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with over 200 Palestinians and nearly 30 Israelis losing their lives. This grim statistic not only surpasses the previous year’s figures but also marks the highest death toll since 2005.
