Outrage over Desecration of Menorah with Palestinian Flag Sparks Condemnation and Rally

Faith leaders, city officials, and state lawmakers in New Haven, Connecticut, have condemned the desecration of a Hanukkah menorah on the New Haven Green. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has been described as deeply painful and evoking years of trauma for the Jewish community. Mayor Justin Elicker and U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal joined Jewish leaders in denouncing hate and antisemitism, calling on the community to speak up against such acts. Yale University also issued a statement condemning the incident and has asked the police to investigate. The New Haven Jewish community had recently celebrated the start of Hanukkah with a public menorah lighting festival.