Molotov Cocktail Thrown at Kryvyi Rih Chabad Synagogue in Ukraine
The Jewish community of Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, is experiencing a troubling wave of antisemitic incidents. On the night following the Passover holiday, a Molotov cocktail was thrown at the local Chabad synagogue.
This marks the second targeted act within a week, following the vandalism of a community vehicle earlier. Thankfully, advanced security measures installed by Chabad’s CWA (Chabad World Assistance) recently helped avert a major disaster. Ukrainian security forces have launched an investigation, and the community is calling for increased protection.
The first incident occurred at the beginning of last week, when a vehicle belonging to the community—clearly marked with Jewish symbols—was intentionally vandalized. The car’s tires were slashed, its symbols defaced, and paint was poured over the car. “This was a deliberate attempt to harm us as a Jewish community,” said Rabbi Liron Edri, Chabad emissary and chief rabbi of Kryvyi Rih.
The more severe incident happened after Passover ended, when Molotov cocktails were hurled at the synagogue. Rabbi Edri was alerted by the CWA’s head of security in Ukraine.
“Thanks to the protective window barriers installed in recent months, a major fire was prevented,” said Rabbi Edri. The reinforced glass, along with cameras and alarm systems installed by CWA, prevented the firebombs from penetrating the building and causing serious damage.
Rabbi Edri noted that the method of attack resembles a recent antisemitic incident in Mykolaiv, where Molotov cocktails were also thrown at a synagogue. “We fear this is part of a coordinated campaign targeting Jewish communities,” he added.
Local security authorities have opened an investigation, and the community is awaiting updates. These incidents are part of a disturbing rise in antisemitic acts across Ukraine, amid the ongoing tension and increasing extremist rhetoric in Eastern Europe.
Eliyahu Goldberg, CWA’s head of security, emphasized the importance of preparedness: “The protection and security we implemented, with the help of the Jewish Agency’s Security Assistance Fund, saved the synagogue. We are continuing to work closely with the community to ensure their safety.”
Despite the threats, the Chabad community in Kryvyi Rih remains steadfast. “We will not let fear stop us,” said Rabbi Edri. “Light will drive out the darkness.”
Rabbi Edri expressed gratitude to the police and government for taking the incident seriously. “They arrived at the synagogue promptly, promised to investigate thoroughly, and committed to catching those responsible,” he said.
