A somber mood pervades Chabad–Lubavitch communities globally in the aftermath of Rabbi Zvi Kogan's murder, allegedly carried out by Uzbekistan–based assassins working at Iran's behest.
The movement, with its network of roughly 6,000 emissaries operating thousands of centers worldwide, maintains a visible Jewish presence through its recognizable gathering places and representatives' distinctive traditional attire. Yet today, one message resonates clearly: These devoted emissaries will persist in their mission, undeterred by this brutal act of violence.
"We are here to stay," declares Rabbi Nechemia Wilhelm, a 30-year veteran emissary in Bangkok, Thailand. "Undoubtedly, Rabbi Kogan's murder during his sacred work has deeply shaken us – both the profound loss and the sobering reality that such tragedy could strike anywhere demands our vigilance. Nevertheless, we remain steadfast. This commitment echoes across our global network of emissaries. Our mission never wavers. We bear responsibility as a sanctuary for Jews and Israelis seeking assistance, whether safeguarding their belongings, helping recover lost wallets, providing security among fellow Jews and Israelis, supporting those in distress, or offering space for prayer and religious observance."
"Daily, hundreds of Jews cross our threshold, each with unique needs. A Chabad House serves as an unparalleled institution within Jewish life – a universal haven where any Jew can pause for nourishment, support, or assistance before continuing their journey. This mission endures."
The National Security Council's extraordinary alert elevating Thailand's threat level following Kogan's murder reflects escalating concerns. Iranian attempts to target Jews and Israelis in Thailand have been repeatedly documented, with Thai police recently issuing a grave warning about threats to Israeli travelers.
A dozen years earlier, Iranian operatives' attempt to target Israeli diplomats was thwarted by their own operational failure. "Thailand itself harbors no inherent antisemitism or Jewish hatred – that's not our concern. However, we remain acutely aware of security threats, receiving intelligence from both Israeli and local authorities," Wilhelm notes.
"Security measures remain heightened, particularly since October 7, and beyond our prayers for the Jewish people's welfare, we employ numerous security personnel to maintain enhanced protection at all Chabad Houses nationwide. Round–the–clock police presence surrounds our Chabad House, with additional reinforcement during special events," he emphasizes.
"Our security operations run continuously, guided by an 'open but secure' policy – maintaining accessibility to every Jew while implementing necessary security measures. The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, taught that 'darkness is dispelled with light,' and current challenges only strengthen our resolve to enhance our positive impact. This isn't mere rhetoric – it's our foundational principle."
In Warsaw, where Poland's relative security might invite complacency, Chabad emissary Rabbi Shalom Ber Stambler maintains unwavering vigilance. "Since the horrific attack on Simchat Torah, we've witnessed an alarming surge in antisemitism, manifesting primarily through pro-Palestinian rhetoric that challenges Jewish existence in Israel," explains Stambler, who has dedicated 19 years to his Warsaw mission alongside his wife and eight children.
"The recent vandalization of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising memorial, a summer Molotov cocktail attack on a synagogue, and recurring incidents raise concerns. Poland's apparent calm might breed false security, suggesting immunity from such threats," the rabbi observes.
"Post–October 7, we've had constant police presence, and we've intensified security protocols – screening visitors, monitoring unexpected arrivals, and enhancing protection during events or periods of heightened tension following developments in Israel or globally."
Stambler articulates their unwavering commitment: "Abandoning our mission remains unthinkable. Indeed, 'as they afflicted them, so they multiplied and spread.' Each report of global adversity strengthens our resolve to expand positive initiatives for the Jewish community, albeit with enhanced security measures. Our mission here carries profound significance despite considerable challenges."
He recounts a telling incident. "During last Hanukkah's parliament menorah lighting, antisemitic parliament member and far-right leader Grzegorz Braun extinguished our menorah with a fire extinguisher, injuring those who intervened. One person required several days of hospitalization after attempting to prevent this act," he says. "The Polish Parliament's response proved exemplary – implementing maximum sanctions against the antisemitic member and hosting another candle–lighting ceremony with senior officials two days later. However, this same parliament member's subsequent election to the European Parliament with substantial support signals a deeply troubling undercurrent. The Amsterdam incident should serve as a crucial warning across Europe, though I fear European nations may not fully grasp the situation's gravity. We remain hopeful nonetheless."
Amsterdam's Chabad community, no stranger to challenges, faces this latest tragedy with characteristic resilience. "We share the profound grief of our fellow emissaries over the murder of our beloved Rabbi Kogan, may God avenge his blood," says Rabbi Akiva Camissar, Chabad emissary and leader of the Netherlands' Israeli community. "Despite this challenging year, we remain committed to our divinely appointed mission, following the Lubavitcher Rebbe's directive to increase light that dispels darkness. We'll respond by intensifying our Jewish activities, spreading Torah teachings, and acts of kindness."
In Abuja, Nigeria's capital, circumstances differ markedly. "Our interfaith relationships, particularly with the Muslim community, remain positive. Nevertheless, we maintain comprehensive security measures, coordinating closely with relevant authorities to ensure our Jewish guests' safety," explains Rabbi Israel Uzan, Chabad's Abuja emissary. Their work has fostered meaningful interfaith bonds through various initiatives, including Rabbi Uzan's humanitarian organization serving local residents. "Vigilance remains constant. Our focus centers on enabling Jewish life in Nigeria, providing comprehensive support from educational facilities to holiday celebrations and daily religious services. Our thriving capital city Chabad House has led to establishing another center elsewhere in the country. Our humanitarian outreach continues showing Nigerians Judaism's charitable essence."
