Local Rabbi reacts to Iran attack on Israel
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Virginia Beach Rabbi Israel Zoberman fears the unknown after Iran launched a wave of drones and missiles at Israel on Saturday.
“Truly these are fateful hours for the state of Israel, for the Jewish people, and I daresay the entire world,” he told 10 On Your Side.
Previous Coverage: The Latest | Iran launches its first direct military attack against Israel
The attack comes weeks after a strike on an Iranian building in Syria’s capital. Israel didn’t claim responsibility for it, but Tehran suspected they were behind it.
Zoberman thought back to the shock and horror he felt upon hearing the news of Saturday night’s attack.
“I have butterflies in my stomach,” Zoberman said. “I think this is the most dangerous moment for the state of Israel and for the Middle East since Israel became a state in 1948. I grew up in Israel, and we never thought this moment will come, that ballistic missiles are aiming to hit Israel right now.”
President Joe Biden released a statement partially saying, “Our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran is iron clad.”
Gov. Glenn Youngkin also took to social media and said his thoughts and prayers are with Israel and the Jewish community.
“During this time of great peril, our prayers are with Israel and all our jewish community. We must stand strong with our allies and strong against Iran.”
United States officials announced that the U.S. shot down Iranian-launched drones targeting Israel.
“The United States is standing with us thank God,” Zoberman said.
He told 10 On Your Side his sister and family in Israel gathered, fearful of what will happen.
“Everyone is nervous, obviously, you know try to imagine young and old, assembled in shelters, not knowing what the next couple of hours might bring,” he said. “Let us continue to pray and to act and to hope that one day peace will follow these very, very difficult hours.”
Check with WAVY.com for more updates.
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