For the 38th consecutive year, the traditional “Chanukah Live” celebration took place at the beginning of Chanukah, connecting tens of thousands from the Kosel Plaza in Yerushalayim to the Eiffel Tower in Paris and 770 Eastern Parkway in New York.

The event was organized by Rabbi Noam Roth and led by Rabbi Naftali Roth, chairman of TZACH in Yerushalayim, who was also honored to light the first Chanukah candle.

In his address, Rabbi Roth shared words of chizuk, particularly for the Jewish community in Sydney, Australia. He honored the memory of Rabbi Eli Schlanger HYD, tragically murdered in the recent terror attack, and highlighted the power of the light of Chanukah to shine even in the darkest times.

The lighting was broadcast live on the internet, reaching hundreds of thousands of Jews worldwide. Simultaneously, menorahs were lit at the Rebbe’s room at 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, and a large menorah was lit at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, under the leadership of shliach Rabbi Mendel Azimov.

The Paris ceremony drew thousands of attendees and included distinguished guests, including Rachida Dati, France’s Minister of Culture; leaders of the Central Consistory, the Paris Consistory, the FSJU, and the CRIF; as well as Rabbi Michel Gugenheim, Chief Rabbi of Paris.

Musical accompaniment was provided by the Yosef Barmi Orchestra, featuring singer Shamil.

A strong security presence ensured the safety of all attendees. Despite recent events and challenging circumstances, a large crowd gathered, demonstrating the eternal commitment of Jews worldwide not to be discouraged by the darkness.

Photo: Mordechai Lubecki – Tzach of Eretz Yisroel

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