What's Happening?
The Chabad House in Kathmandu, Nepal, is being forced to relocate after its landlord evicted them due to fears of antisemitism and being associated with Israelis. According to Rabbi Chezky Lifshitz, co-director of Chabad of Nepal, the landlord was not
personally antisemitic but was concerned about potential attacks from antisemites due to the presence of Israelis. Initially, the landlord requested the removal of all Hebrew signs and indications of Israeli presence. Chani Lifshitz, co-director of Chabad of Nepal, mentioned that the landlord feared being suspected as a spy by the Islamic regime of Iran if there was a Jewish presence on his property. Over time, the demands increased, including higher rent, making it unsustainable for the Chabad House to remain. The Chabad emissaries have since moved out and are seeking a new location, although it is challenging to leave a place where they have hosted numerous Jewish events and built their community.
Why It's Important?
This development highlights the challenges faced by Jewish communities in regions where antisemitism or fear of association with Jews can lead to significant disruptions. The eviction of the Chabad House in Kathmandu underscores the precarious situation for Jewish organizations operating in areas with limited Jewish presence and support. The incident also reflects broader issues of religious intolerance and the impact of geopolitical tensions on local communities. The need for support from the global Jewish community is crucial for the Chabad House to establish a new home and continue its mission of serving Jewish travelers and residents in Nepal. This situation may also prompt discussions on how to better protect minority religious communities in similar contexts.
What's Next?
The Chabad House is actively seeking a new location to continue its operations in Nepal. The support from the global Jewish community will be essential in helping them rebuild and establish a new center. This situation may also lead to increased awareness and advocacy for the protection of religious minorities in regions where they face potential threats. The Chabad House's relocation efforts will likely involve negotiations with potential landlords who are more open to hosting a Jewish community center. Additionally, this incident may encourage other Jewish organizations to assess their security measures and community relations in similar environments.
