News reports suggest that a gunman opened fire on a crowd entering the Brussels Jewish Museum, killing at least three people and injuring one. Below is a statement from Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Federations of North America, Michael Siegal.
“On behalf of North American Jewry I want to express how saddened we are by the loss of innocent lives, and send our heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims. We stand behind the citizens of Belgium and others from around the world who abhor such senseless violence.
“At a time when we are receiving reports of rising anti-Semitism throughout Europe it is understandable that there would be increased anxiety in our community. There is no place in the civilized world for crimes motivated by hate. We are hopeful that the perpetrators of this violent act are speedily brought to justice.”