German Chancellor Lights Menorah, Affirms Jewish Support Amidst Turmoil

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lit the first candle of Hanukkah in Berlin, emphasizing solidarity with the Jewish community during challenging times marked by trauma and conflict.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz demonstrated his unwavering support for the Jewish community by lighting the first candle of Hanukkah on a grand menorah situated in front of Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate. Wearing a black velvet skullcap, Scholz conveyed his heartfelt wishes for the Hanukkah candle's radiance to extend beyond the immediate vicinity and endure well past the eight days of the festival.

Hanukkah: A Festival of Hope and Resilience

Hanukkah, also known as Judaism's festival of lights, commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem during the 2nd century BCE. This significant event followed the liberation of the temple from occupying foreign forces by a valiant group of Jewish fighters. This year's Hanukkah celebration takes place amidst a backdrop of trauma experienced by many Jews due to the deadly Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in the tragic loss of 1,200 lives and the capture of approximately 240 individuals as hostages.

Condemnation of Hamas Terror and Call for Unity

In light of the recent Hamas terror attack on Israel, Chancellor Scholz emphasized the profound impact it had on society and the urgent need for collective opposition to such acts of terror. He reiterated his unwavering support for Israel and its right to defend itself against the militant Hamas group.

Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal, a prominent figure in Berlin's Jewish community, whose great-grandfather fell victim to the Nazis during the Holocaust, urged both Jews and non-Jews to confront hatred with love. He advocated for increased light, joy, and Jewish consciousness as a response to the prevailing challenges.

Rise in Antisemitic Crimes in Germany

Regrettably, Germany has witnessed a significant surge in antisemitic crimes since October 7. Berlin security officials reported a staggering 1,372 crimes with an anti-Israel context and 133 crimes with an anti-Palestinian connection in the two months since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas war.

Remembering Kristallnacht and Embracing Freedom

Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner took the opportunity to remind those present at the ceremony of the tragic events that transpired 85 years ago on November 9, 1938, known as Kristallnacht or the "Night of Broken Glass." During this dark period, Nazis unleashed terror upon Jews throughout Germany and Austria. Mayor Wegner highlighted the significance of Brandenburg Gate as a symbol of freedom and democracy, representing Berlin's unwavering commitment to these ideals.