The Rabbinical Alliance of America—Igud HaRabbonim, representing over 950 American rabbis—condemns the brutal murder of Esther Horgan. Esther Horgan, 52, was violently attacked on December 20, 2020, during an afternoon jog in the forest near her home in the Samarian settlement of Tal Menashe. Police and the Shin Bet security agency suspect this was an act of terror and continue to investigate this tragic murder. Esther leaves behind a loving husband and six children.
Rabbi Mendy Mirocznik, executive vice-president of the Rabbinical Alliance of America, condemned this despicable act of terror. He said, “This terror attack is an outrage. Esther was a devoted wife, loving mother of 6 children. She was in the prime of her life, full of energy and optimism. What started as a normal day for her should never have ended in horror and tragedy. The Rabbinical Alliance of America appreciates that the Israeli authorities are seriously investigating this matter and knows that the authorities will take all necessary steps to apprehend and to bring to justice the terrorist(s) involved in this egregious crime. At the same time, we call upon all decent people around the world to join us in condemning this cowardly act of murder that left a husband without a wife and six children without a mother.
“Peace and security are fundamental rights that should be enjoyed by all people. Whenever an act of terror breaches the world’s tranquility or, Heaven forbid, extinguishes an innocent life, the entire world should mourn and erupt in an uproar. The world should condemn such a callous attitude toward life and instead reinforce the sanctity and importance of life. The only way we will put an end to needless bloodshed, terror and murder is when all peace-loving people come together in unity and declare that anything that obstructs peace and advocates terror and destruction will not be tolerated, forgiven nor forgotten. When the world states unequivocally that, as caring and compassionate people, we will hunt the cowards who attack innocent civilians and ensure they face appropriate punishment for the blood they have spilled.”
Mirocznik continued, “The Rabbinical Alliance of America calls on Jews world-over to engage in acts of compassion and generosity as a tribute in memory of Esther Horgan, HY”D. Let us act in a kinder fashion and deal more generously and gently with all the people with whom we interact. In that way, we will honor the memory of Esther Horgan in a respectful and dignified manner.
“We further pray that all who harbor evil in their hearts will realize the error of their ways and channel their negative energy in a positive direction to help make this world a better and more equitable place for all people. May He who makes Peace in His Heavens make peace on His Earth and may He decree that such acts of terror, bloodshed, and murder be no more.”