CLEVELAND (WJW) – Local Jewish leaders and organizations are condemning the attacks on Israel by Iran.
More than 100 rockets were launched and fired upon Israel Tuesday that seemed to cover the entire nation state.
“Dozens and dozens and dozens of missiles lighting up the sky,” said Amy Kaplan, a board member with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.
As the missiles were being launched, many in the Jewish community locally were horrified watching it happen in real-time on cell phone apps like TZOFAR and Red Alert.
“The entire country was covered in red,” said Daniel Blain, CEO of Jewish-Akron. “Thankfully Israel has the Iron Dome.”
In response, Blain organized a demonstration Tuesday afternoon at Will Christy Park in Akron.
Blain said many in the area have family and friends overseas, including his own brother and seven nieces and nephews.
“Their spirits are good but of course it’s concerning,” he said. “Taking care of children while in a bomb shelter or safe room is an added challenge.”
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland released a statement in conjunction with the Jewish Federations that said, in part, “Our communities are in complete solidarity with the people of Israel and the IDF as they work to defend themselves from these attacks, and we pray for their safety.”
Police were posted outside of the federation’s Cleveland location.
Cleveland Heights police said they are increasing patrols in predominantly Jewish neighborhoods.
Additional security is also being added at a number of synagogues across Northeast Ohio. Although they aren’t giving specifics, they say safety is a top priority.
“We were obviously very concerned,” said Kaplan, who was actually in Israel when Iran attacked last April. “That was a very tense night so I can only imagine the terror that people were feeling today.”
The latest attacks happened just days ahead of the Oct. 7 anniversary of the Music Festival Massacre in Israel and also the day before the start of the Jewish New Year Rosh Hashanah.
“We knew this Rosh Hashanah would be difficult no matter,” she said. “So for this to happen now and with the Oct. 7 anniversary coming up next week, it seems even more painful and cruel and evil.”
“They have one goal in mind,” said Elizabeth Hartley. “Death to Israel and death to the United States.”
However, they all say the holiday will go forward and they won’t let the attacks stop them from celebrating their New Year and heritage.
“We’re praying for a healthy, happy new year and we’re also praying for peace. We’re praying for peace for Israel and everyone in that region,” said Kaplan.
“It is strange because Rosh Hashanah is a festive holiday,” said Blain. “We’re still going to do that but it’s with half a heart because for a lot of us, it’s hard not to be thinking about what’s going on in Israel and if there are threats, safety and security comes first every time.”
Suzanne Stratford
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