A violent incident occurred at a makeshift migrant shelter on Randall’s Island, resulting in the death of a man who was stabbed on Saturday evening. Meanwhile, in Queens, a historic synagogue became the center of attention as tensions flared over the discovery of an underground tunnel. The tunnel was reportedly dug by a small group of Orthodox Hasidic students who believed they were fulfilling a religious calling to expand the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.
The excavation of the underground space was carried out without a permit, leading to a clash between the students and a growing crowd of agitators. As the situation escalated, the NYPD was called in to restore order, but clashes between the officers and the rabble-rousers were caught on camera and went viral. Nine students were eventually arrested, while others were issued summonses.
The students, referred to as “extremists” by Chabad spokesperson Motti Seligson, claimed they were following the vision of the former head of the Chabad movement, Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson. However, community leaders and rabbis criticized the students for going too far in their actions. The tunnel project, which initially involved digging with crude instruments and hands, eventually hired migrant workers to complete the job. The tunnel was discovered and first reported in late December.
The illegal excavation caused structural concerns, resulting in the temporary closure of the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters and a neighboring building. The NYC Department of Buildings found the tunnel to be approximately 60 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 5 feet high. The investigation revealed inadequate shoring and wall openings in adjacent buildings, leading to violations.
While many rabbis condemned the students’ actions, they expressed hope that the students would receive the help they needed. Rabbi Shaul Wertheimer, who witnessed the destruction of the synagogue, expressed sadness and emphasized the significance of the building and its spiritual importance.
The incident has raised concerns within the Jewish community and triggered discussions about rising antisemitism. The NYPD and the NYC Department of Buildings are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary actions to stabilize the illegal excavation.
In conclusion, the clash at the underground tunnel in the NYC synagogue highlights the tensions that arose from an unauthorized excavation carried out by a group of Orthodox Hasidic students. The incident has brought attention to the significance of the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters and sparked discussions about the need for support and intervention for those involved.
