Thursday, October 1, 2026
As Jewish communities around the world prepared to light the first candles of Hanukkah, a terrorist attack in Sydney, Australia, cast a shadow over the holiday, leaving 15 people dead and at least 32 injured, including a relative of a Rabbi Zalman Wolowik of the Chabad of the Five Towns, who remains in critical condition.
The attack, which targeted members of the Jewish community, sent shockwaves through synagogues and Jewish institutions internationally, prompting vigils, prayers and renewed calls for unity and resilience as Hanukkah began.
The tragedy struck close to home for some in the Five Towns.
“I am very saddened by the horrific terrorist attack murdering 15 innocent victims and injuring 32,” Wolowik said. “Including my cousin, who is fighting for his life. We pray for all the injured to have a full, miraculous recovery. Our hearts go out to the affected families and the community in Sydney, Australia.”
He emphasized that the message of Hanukkah — the triumph of light over darkness — takes on heightened meaning in moments of tragedy.
“We are taught that we are all one unit,” he said. “We will not only stay strong, but we will live the message of Chanukah: that light prevails over darkness. Every day we add an additional candle, lighting up the darkness.”
Local rabbis across Nassau County and the Five Towns urged residents not to retreat in fear, but to respond through public celebration, faith and community engagement.
“Darkness will not win,” Rabbi Nochem Tenenboim of the Chabad of Hewlett said. “We will celebrate Chanukah. We respond with more light. Be a Maccabee.”
Those killed ranged in age and background and included community members who had gathered in what was meant to be a safe, communal space. Officials have not yet released all of the victims’ names, pending family notifications, but Jewish leaders confirmed that among the dead was a rabbi widely known for his outreach and dedication to community service. Several of the injured remain hospitalized, some in critical condition.
Community menorah lightings and Hanukkah events are continuing as planned, with additional security measures in place. Wolowik said these gatherings are intended not only as celebrations, but as statements of Jewish pride and perseverance.
“With the Chanukah holiday beginning we hold profound sadness and deep pain in our hearts as we stand in solidarity with the Australian Jewish community,” Rabbi Galina Makaveyev of Temple Israel of Lawrence wrote in a statement. “When we light the candles of the chanukiyah, the flames inspire us that even in darkness, our response must be courage, commitment and pride.”
Wolowik also expressed gratitude to county and town officials and law enforcement for heightened security efforts, while reaffirming hope that the holiday’s message will resonate far beyond this moment.
“We pray that very soon darkness will be transformed into ultimate light,” Wolowik added. “Beginning with the holiday of Chanukah.”
