Concerns over possible threats as Hanukkah begins tonight

Reporter: Tiffany Rizzo Writer: Nicholas Karsen
Published: Updated:
Hanukkah
Credit: WINK

Hanukkah begins at sundown; however, families celebrating the holiday are uneasy about the influx of terror threats being directed at the Jewish community.

According to FBI Director Christopher Wray, the war in Gaza has encouraged terrorist groups to take action.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a state of emergency, which will provide extra law enforcement for Jewish communities across the state.

Police presence at the Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida. Credit: WINK

As people prepare for Hanukkah celebrations, Thursday, concerns arise about possible threats as the FBI warns about local celebrations being soft targets.

WINK News spoke with Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz about safety concerns, as the Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida prepares for Hannukah.

“There’s darkness, and we’re going to bring light, and therefore I would encourage everyone in honor of Hanukkah, take out a match, you got a candle, make the blessings, light the candle and bring light into your home, into your lives to your family and friends, because light is the key that will dispel all the darkness. Happy Hanukkah,” said Minkowicz.

Former FBI employee Bob Foley said acts of terror could happen anywhere, but we’re in a much better place today than in 2001.

The celebration starts at 4:30 p.m. at the Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida in Naples.

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