Antisemitic incident at New York synagogue: the attacker - a pro-Israel supporter who opposed the Reform movement

Larry Montes, 46, was arrested after attacking a worshipper and a guard at the Central Synagogue in New York. According to the Forward, he is a non-Jewish Israel supporter who opposed the Reform movement and shouted 'fake Jews'. He posted videos against Mayor Mamdani. Israel's consul, Ofir Akunis, linked the attack to Mamdani's incitement.

Larry Montes, 46, was arrested after attacking a worshipper and a guard at the Central Synagogue in New York. According to a report in the Forward, Montes, who is not Jewish, holds pro-Israel views and opposes the Reform movement, which is why he shouted at worshippers that they were 'fake Jews'. He posted videos criticizing Mayor Mamdani, even comparing him to Ayatollah Khomeini, and praised evangelical Christians who support Israel. The attack on Friday evening drew condemnation, and Israel's consul in New York, Ofir Akunis, wrote that it was 'a direct result of the incitement' by Mamdani. Footage shows the suspect hitting a worshipper, spitting on a security guard, and headbutting him.

Antisemitic incident at New York synagogue: the attacker - a pro-Israel supporter who opposed the Reform movement