Nefesh B’Nefesh condemns ‘violent rhetoric’ outside NYC synagogue event

Nefesh B’Nefesh addresses the protest outside its synagogue event last week in New York City, condemning “violent rhetoric” from the protesters and pledging to remain committed to its goal of promoting and facilitating aliyah from North America.

The statement, issued Sunday, comes days after a crowd protested outside a Nefesh B’Nefesh open house held at Park East Synagogue, an Orthodox congregation on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

Protesters chanted “Death to the IDF” and “Resistance you make us proud, take another settler out,” and individual demonstrators shouted antisemitic epithets.

“We are deeply concerned by, and firmly condemn, the violent rhetoric and aggressive behavior that took place outside of the Park East Synagogue,” the Nefesh B’Nefesh statement says. “Our commitment remains unwavering. We will continue to serve Olim (immigrants to Israel) with professionalism, compassion, and the highest level of care, ensuring that every individual and family feels supported.”

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, and outgoing Mayor Eric Adams, condemned the antisemitism at the protest, as did several Jewish groups.

A spokesperson for mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a longtime harsh critic of Israel, said in a statement that he “has discouraged the language used” at the protest.

The statement added, “He believes every New Yorker should be free to enter a house of worship without intimidation, and that these sacred spaces should not be used to promote activities in violation of international law.”

In Response to the Recent Violent Protest Outside of Park East Synagogue, NYC:

For more than two decades, Nefesh B’Nefesh has been dedicated to supporting, educating, and advising individuals and families throughout their Aliyah (immigration to Israel) journey.

We are deeply… pic.twitter.com/22IE6ccKNI

— Nefesh B'Nefesh (@NefeshBNefesh) November 23, 2025