SHOCKWAVES have reverberated through Zurich's Jewish community after a brutal knife attack left four people injured during evening prayers at a local synagogue.
The terrifying incident unfolded on Tuesday night when an assailant stormed the religious building, targeting worshippers in what authorities are treating as a potential act of terrorism.
Chaos During Evening Prayers
According to eyewitness accounts, the attack occurred around 8:30 PM local time as community members gathered for traditional prayers. The assailant, described as a 15-year-old Swiss national, allegedly entered the synagogue armed with a large knife before launching the frenzied assault.
"We heard screaming and then saw people running," one local resident told reporters. "It was complete chaos - nobody expected something like this to happen in our peaceful neighbourhood."
Emergency Response and Arrest
Swiss police responded within minutes of receiving emergency calls, swiftly apprehending the teenage suspect near the scene. All four victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, with authorities confirming two sustained serious injuries while two others suffered less severe wounds.
Zurich police spokesperson stated: "We have launched a full investigation into this attack and are treating it with the utmost seriousness. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time."
Community in Mourning
The attack has left Switzerland's Jewish community, numbering approximately 18,000 people, in a state of shock and mourning. Security around Jewish institutions across the country has been immediately heightened.
Jonathan Kreutner, secretary general of the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities, expressed the community's distress: "We are horrified by this violence. Our synagogues should be places of peace and prayer, not fear and bloodshed."
Swiss President Viola Amherd condemned the attack, stating: "There is no place for such acts of hatred in our society. We stand united with the Jewish community against this violence."
International Condemnation
The attack has drawn international condemnation, with Jewish organisations worldwide expressing solidarity with the Zurich community. The incident comes amid growing concerns about rising antisemitism across Europe following recent conflicts in the Middle East.
Local authorities have promised a thorough investigation and increased security measures for religious institutions as the community begins the difficult process of healing from this traumatic event.
