NEW YORK, NY – On the one year anniversary of the Hama terror attack on Israel, Donald Trump made a notable visit to the Ohel of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson in Cambria Heights, New York. For those who aren’t familiar, the Ohel is the resting place of Rabbi Schneerson, a beloved spiritual leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement whose teachings continue to influence Jewish life worldwide. It’s a place people visit for prayer and reflection, seeking spiritual guidance or blessings.
Trump wasn’t alone on this meaningful visit. He was joined by some incredibly special guests, including 94-year-old Auschwitz survivor Jerry Wartski. Talk about living history—Wartski’s presence was a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive. The Alexander family was also there; their son has been held captive by Hamas for a year, adding a poignant layer to the day.
Adding to the mix were students who have faced antisemitism on their college campuses, as well as other members of the Jewish community. It wasn’t just a visit; it was a powerful convergence of people with unique, yet interconnected stories.
The visit held weight for multiple reasons. Schneerson’s influence extends far beyond Chabad, impacting Jewish thought, education, and even politics. Plus, the timing of this visit is noteworthy, occurring amid rising tensions in the Middle East and increasing concerns about antisemitism in the U.S.
Trump’s appearance at the Ohel sent a message to the Jewish community about solidarity, remembrance, and ongoing struggles for justice and peace. Whether you see it as a symbolic gesture, a strategic move, or something in between, there’s no doubt it struck a chord at a crucial moment.
