The city of Chicago is increasing patrols and putting “extra attention” on the Jewish community after an antisemitic attack that killed two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, stated Chicago alderman Debra Silverstein, a member of the 50th ward of the Chicago City Council.
Silverstein, who is Jewish, said she was “deeply concerned” that the alleged shooter came from Chicago, adding that police commanders say “there is no known threat” to the local Jewish community. However, there will be increased security “out of an abundance of caution.”
“I ask for law enforcement to investigate any ties to local extremist groups and to act swiftly to make sure the Jewish community in Chicago is kept safe,” she stated. “It is time for us to stop allowing antisemitism to masquerade as violent, anti-Israel action. It is time for our elected leaders to keep our local communities safe.”
“Horrified” by the attack, she said her “thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire Jewish and Israeli communities as they deal with the aftermath of this horrific attack.”
Silverstein recently criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson for appointing Ishan Daya, who was fired from his job after being caught tearing down hostage posters, to a new budget working group. Daya stepped down just hours after his appointment.