In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a 29-year-old man has pleaded guilty to federal charges after firing shots outside Temple Israel in Albany, New York, during Hanukkah in December 2023. The shocking act of violence, which took place in the early months of the Israel-Hamas war, has left the Jewish community in fear, marking a tragic moment for religious freedom in the region.
Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, an Iraqi-born U.S. citizen, admitted to firing two shots in the air outside the synagogue while shouting “Free Palestine!” His shotgun jammed before he could fire a third time, but the damage had already been done. Although no one was injured, the violence sent 61 children attending preschool into a state of lockdown, as law enforcement quickly responded to the scene.
The act was not only violent but also fueled by antisemitism, according to federal prosecutors. Alkhader’s disturbing attack targeted Temple Israel, the broader Jewish community, and the sacred right of every individual to practice their religion in safety. Under a plea deal, Alkhader pled guilty to obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by force, brandishing a firearm, and conspiring to illegally purchase a weapon.
In a heartbreaking show of resilience, Temple Israel’s Rabbi Wendy Love Anderson expressed that the community remains steadfast in its mission, despite the tragic incident. “While we’ve enhanced security, we continue to embrace our values of inclusion and welcome,” Anderson said.
Alkhader, who remains in custody, faces a sentence of at least seven years, with the possibility of life in prison. His sentencing is set for June 6. This tragic episode is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats faced by religious communities, highlighting the need for vigilance and unity in the face of hate.
