Chabad House in Sri Lanka Attacked Over Shabbos
A newly opened Chabad House in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka, was targeted by violent attacks and antisemitic harassment over Shabbos, leaving the shluchim and Israeli tourists trapped inside as police intervened.
The Chabad House, opened two weeks ago by Rabbi Yossi Gabai, quickly became a destination for Israeli and Jewish travelers. False rumors and antisemitic comments soon spread online, while organized protesters were brought to the area in tuk-tuks, using loudspeakers to threaten Israelis and local employees.
On Friday night, as hundreds gathered for the Shabbos meal, protesters intimidated people entering the building before throwing firecrackers into the compound and stones that shattered windows. No one was injured. Police dispersed the group, but it returned in larger numbers on Motzaei Shabbos, again threatening people, throwing objects and using loudspeakers to incite against the Chabad House.
Rabbi Gabai said the protests appear organized and funded and may be linked to internal political tensions. He noted that Sri Lanka’s government strongly supports Israel and that the countries maintain close ties.
He called on senior Israeli officials to urgently intervene with Sri Lankan authorities to provide permanent security, arrest those financing and inciting the protests, and prevent a tragedy.
Following the incidents, Israeli MK Avi Maoz appealed to Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar for immediate intervention, warning the situation could deteriorate.
Maoz stressed the critical role of Chabad shluchim for Jewish travelers, particularly where Israel has no permanent presence, and urged the government to protect them so they can continue their work safely.
