This year, for the very first time, a menorah was erected in front of the Peace Palace in The Hague for the duration of Chanukah.

With The Hague so often in the news as the home of the International Court of Justice, it felt especially meaningful to bring a different message to the forefront this time, one of light and Jewish pride.

Just moments after we finished setting up the menorah this morning, we received the devastating news from Sydney.

Although no formal celebration had been planned at this menorah, a spontaneous gathering took place tonight. Dozens of people, members of the Jewish community alongside non-Jewish friends and supporters, came together as Rabbi Shmuel Katzman lit the first candle.

The Australian Ambassador honored the moment with words of condolences, encouragement and a Chanukah song.

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