An Israeli journalist revealed that one of the victims of the Sydney attack on Sunday was a Jewish rabbi who had recently visited Israel and met with soldiers to encourage them to continue the war in Gaza.
اضافة اعلان
Israeli activist and journalist Hanokh Daum posted on Instagram: “Among the victims of the attack is Rabbi Eli Shlenger, a Chabad emissary.”
Daum noted that following October 7, 2023, Shlenger visited Israel to offer support and encouragement in reference to the Gaza conflict.
The Israeli site Ynet published a photo of Shlenger (41) sitting among Israeli soldiers on a military vehicle, though it is unclear if it was in Gaza or elsewhere. Shlenger reportedly used this image as his profile picture on Facebook and Instagram, reflecting his support for the Israeli army.
Shlenger had served as a Chabad emissary in Sydney since 2008 and was married with five children, the youngest being only a few months old.
Months ago, he had stated: “Since October 7, weekly demonstrations have been held across the city. These protests have not reached our areas. I am proud of my Judaism.”
He also wrote to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, criticizing the Labor government’s recognition of a Palestinian state, urging: “Do not betray the Jewish people. This land was given by God to Abraham, then to his son Isaac, then to Jacob, to be the eternal homeland of the Jewish people.”
Shlenger added: “Throughout history, Jews were repeatedly uprooted from their land by leaders now scorned in history. You have a chance to stand with truth and justice. By canceling this treacherous act, you will not only honor the Jewish people and our heritage, but also uphold God’s word.”
Notably, Chabad movement rejects recognition of Palestinian rights and opposes any settlement granting them parts of their lands.
