Sri Lanka Chabad House Under Attack: Jewish Resilience in the Face of Antisemitism
In the coastal town of Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka, a newly established Chabad House has become the target of violent protests, harassment, and false accusations. The facility, which opened just two weeks ago to serve Israeli and Jewish travelers with kosher food, Shabbat meals, and community services, has faced an organized campaign of intimidation from a small but vocal group of local antisemites and Buddhist monks.
What happened at the Chabad House in Hiriketiya?
On Friday night, approximately one hundred demonstrators gathered outside the center, carrying signs and shouting accusations that Jews are 'destroying the tourism' in the region. The protest escalated throughout the evening, with demonstrators blocking access to the facility, launching drones and firecrackers, and playing loud music to disrupt the sacred Friday night dinner.
Rabbi Yossi Gabai, who leads the center, provided a clear account of the situation:
“There are a few antisemitic people, most of the local residents actually love us and welcome us. But there are a few local antisemites who are really bothered by the fact that there is a Chabad House here, with the presence of Jews and Israelis who are here. They claim that Jews here are 'destroying the tourism,' which is of course the opposite.”
Violence escalates during Shabbat
David Sarosi, an Israeli traveler staying near the center, witnessed the aggression firsthand. He described how a group of men approached him with the explicit intention of physical harm, and police had to intervene to pull him inside the facility. During the Friday night meal, protesters hurled a large rock that shattered a window, sending a chilling message to the Jewish community gathered inside.
Many of those attending were military reservists who had recently served in the Israel Defense Forces. Sarosi noted the cruel irony: “All these booms really bothered us.” For men who had just returned from defending the Jewish state, the fireworks and explosions were a painful reminder of the threats Jews face worldwide.
Attacks continue after Shabbat
The violence did not end with the Sabbath. On Saturday night, the mob returned with renewed fury, throwing stones and fireworks at the building. Sarosi recounted a harrowing escape: “Someone from the demonstration came and started beating me and his wife immediately grabbed him.” He retreated inside as the crowd launched projectiles at the facility, and it took police approximately ten minutes to secure the area.
In a disturbing twist, false accusations were then circulated on local social media, claiming Sarosi had threatened women with a stick. A fabricated police complaint was filed against him, a classic pattern of antisemitic blood libel that has followed the Jewish people throughout history.
Israel's response and the Jewish people's enduring strength
Rabbi Gabai confirmed that the Chabad House is in direct contact with Israel's Foreign Ministry and has met with the Israeli consul. Additional security measures are being coordinated with local authorities to protect the Jewish community in Sri Lanka.
This incident is yet another reminder of the challenges Jews face in the Diaspora. Yet, as the Book of Psalms teaches us, “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 118:6). The Jewish people have survived far greater threats than a mob in Sri Lanka, and our presence in every corner of the world is a testament to our resilience and our divine mandate.
Chabad Houses are beacons of light in the darkest places, bringing kosher food, community, and Jewish warmth to travelers far from home. No amount of stones, fireworks, or false accusations will extinguish that light. Am Yisrael Chai, the people of Israel live.
Frequently asked questions about the Sri Lanka Chabad House protests
Why are protesters targeting the Chabad House in Sri Lanka?
A small group of local antisemites and Buddhist monks are protesting the presence of Jewish travelers in Hiriketiya, falsely claiming that Jews are 'destroying tourism.' The majority of local residents reportedly welcome the Chabad House and its visitors.
Were any Israelis injured in the attacks?
An Israeli traveler, David Sarosi, reported being physically assaulted by a demonstrator but managed to retreat safely inside the facility. Police eventually secured the area, allowing those inside to leave without further harm.
How is Israel responding to the attacks?
Israel's Foreign Ministry has been notified, and the Israeli consul has met with Rabbi Gabai. Additional security coordination with local authorities is underway to ensure the safety of the Jewish community in Sri Lanka.