Staff Reports
In December, Mufid Fawaz Alkhader ruthlessly and brazenly attacked a synagogue in Albany, New York with a shotgun. The man screamed “Free Palestine” as he committed his atrocious act of hate. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the intent and malice behind it was crystal clear. Alkhader fired two shots, abandoned the shotgun, and tried to escape, but thankfully a bystander intervened and held him until authorities arrived.
It’s an all-too-familiar story of unprovoked violence and anti-Semitism. It’s sickening that such an appalling attack could happen on American soil. This was a deliberate act of domestic terrorism, plain and simple. Alkhader finally admitted that his actions were motivated by the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The “Free Palestine” declaration was a glaring indicator of his mindset, yet the mainstream media seemed hesitant to accurately report on the details of his interview with law enforcement. It’s a shame how some outlets try to downplay or dance around the truth.
So, That's What Motivated a Muslim Man to Open Fire on a Synagogue in New York https://t.co/VhpC45HrPm
— J. Metz (@Metz1245John) January 19, 2024
One can’t help but notice the stark contrast between the treatment of pro-Israel supporters and the violence inflicted on them by pro-Palestinian extremists. Take the tragedy in Los Angeles, for instance, where a pro-Israel demonstrator, Paul Kessler, was killed by a pro-Palestinian protestor who brutally attacked him with a megaphone. The double standard is mind-boggling. It’s high time we call out these acts for what they are – despicable acts of hate and terrorism.
Furthermore, Alkhader has been hit with additional charges for lying in order to obtain the shotgun used in the attack. He paid a friend to purchase the firearm on his behalf, fully aware that he was ineligible to procure it due to a prior order of protection or restraining order. This devious scheme resulted in a dangerous situation, causing a lockdown of the temple and nearby Saint Peter’s Hospital. With these new charges added to his initial arrest for possession of a firearm while using marijuana, Alkhader could be facing up to 20 years in prison. And rightly so. Lock him up and throw away the key.
People like Alkhader have no place in a civilized society, and they must be held accountable for their heinous actions. It’s time to stand up against terrorism and protect our communities from those who seek to do us harm.
