State of the World from NPR Hanukkah Celebrations in Israel Clouded by an Attack Far Away
Dec 15, 2025
Jerome Sokolowski, an NPR correspondent based in Tel Aviv, discusses the impact of a tragic mass shooting at a Hanukkah event in Australia on celebrations in Israel. He highlights the mixed emotions of joy and sorrow as locals gather for revived public festivities following years of COVID and conflict. The podcast also features a Chabad menorah lighting where Rabbi Shul Reizes speaks of spreading light amid darkness. Additionally, it addresses rising anti-Semitism in Australia and the profound grief felt by the Jewish community.
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Faraway Attack Shadows Local Holiday
- The Bondi Beach massacre reverberated globally and profoundly affected Israeli public sentiment during Hanukkah.
- NPR frames the Sydney attack as casting a heavy shadow over celebrations in Israel.
Public Menorah Lighting Continues
- Rabbi Shul Reizes led a public menorah lighting with children singing and toys that glow, echoing global Chabad ceremonies.
- He said the Sydney attack won't stop their mission and they will bring more light despite attempts to spread darkness.
Families Celebrate After Cancellations
- Alice Eldar enjoyed celebrating Hanukkah with her toddlers and buying traditional sufganiyot after years of cancellations.
- She and others said it finally felt like the holiday could be celebrated again in public spaces.