Hundreds protest at Chicago synagogue over former Israeli defense chief's visit
Hundreds protest at Chicago synagogue over former Israeli defense chief's visit
Hundreds of Palestinian supporters demonstrated outside a synagogue in the Lake View neighborhood Thursday night in response to the appearance of Israel’s former defense minister.
CHICAGO - Hundreds of Palestinian supporters demonstrated outside a synagogue in the Lake View neighborhood Thursday night in response to the appearance of Israel’s former defense minister.
What we know:
The demonstrators included Palestinians, their supporters and members of the Jewish faith, including some who worship at Anshe Emet Synagogue, which hosted Yoav Gallant.
"I was horrified and disgusted last week when I learned that my synagogue was going to be inviting Yoav Gallant," said Lev Gray, a congregant of Anshe Emet.
The crowds protested the appearance of Gallant, a former top Israeli leader who served as the Minister of Defense between 2022 and 2024.
"We want to make it clear that he should not be out speaking. He should not be going on a tour doing some genocide apology," said Husam Marajda, the Chicago chapter co-chair of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network.
Gallant was fired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in November. That same month, the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest on charges of war crimes.
"War criminals like himself and Netanyahu should be behind bars, and we demand that the United States adhere and follow international law," said Marajda.
The crowds from outside the Anshe Emet Synagogue called for his arrest and demanded he leave the city.
Gray said he’s been going to this synagogue for six years and he voiced concerns about Gallant coming as a speaker to synagogue leaders.
"They said they wanted to hear his point of view. I would also like to hear his point of view when he testifies in front of the International Criminal Courts, but not here – not at my synagogue, not where I pray and not as an honor," said Gray.
What's next:
FOX 32 reached out to the synagogue for comment about the protest and haven't heard back.
Also on Thursday, President Donald Trump, using an executive order, announced he would be imposing sanctions against the International Criminal Court over investigations of Israel and its leaders.