Durham rabbi says Michigan attack reflects 'frightening time' for Jewish community

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Jewish communities across the country are on high alert Friday after an attack in Michigan that authorities called a "targeted act of antisemitism."

The attack unfolded when, according to authorities, 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali rammed a truck into a synagogue with more than 100 preschoolers inside before being killed in a shootout with a security guard.

In Durham, Rabbi Daniel Greyber of Beth El Synagogue said it's a reality they have to live with these days.

"It's religious violence. It's anti-Jewish violence. And it is intended to make Jews feel that they cannot practice their traditions, practice their religion, come together as Jews in modern America. And that should be terrifying for all of us," he said.

Gov. Josh Stein also reacted to the attack in Michigan, saying in a statement:

"The attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, is reprehensible. Children were gathered for preschool there in the largest Reform synagogue in the U.S. I thank the security guard and local law enforcement for acting quickly to protect these kids from harm. Antisemitism has no place in our nation."

Greyber said he wants people to look in the mirror and confront the root causes of rising antisemitic violence in the U.S. He added that the congregation has already taken steps to increase security.

"I have parents who are scared to bring their children to our synagogue because they feel that the synagogue is a target. And, you know, it's an extremely frightening time for Jews in America," he said.

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