French Shluchim’s Home Destroyed in Arson Attack

A Shliach and his family’s apartment in Grenoble, France, was completely destroyed in a suspected arson attack on Shabbos, July 5, their daughter told Radio Judaica.

In a shocking and deeply disturbing act of antisemitic violence, Rabbi Ye’hia Lahiany and his family, devoted Shluchim in Grenoble, France, for over 45 years, were targeted in what can only be described as an attempted assassination, their daughter said.

Rabbi Ye’hia Lahiani and Rebbetzin Batcheva Lahiani had left for Shul with the rest of their family when, less than 10 minutes later, three successive explosions were heard in the apartment. There is nothing left of the family’s home.

Their daughter, Sarah Perets Lahiani, told Radio Shalom, “Someone tried to murder my family.” She said it was a miracle that no one was home at the time.

She explained that the investigation is still ongoing, and that police had found traces of accelerant, which they believe is kerosene, on the stones outside the house. She said that while the police have called the fire an arson attack, they refuse to label it an act of antisemitism.

The Shluchim’s entire house was burned to the ground, and they are left homeless.

This heinous attack was not only against them personally, but against the values and light they bring to the community every single day.

In just moments, a lifetime was reduced to ashes — furniture, Tefilin, clothing, appliances, Seforim, Torah books, family heirlooms… everything is gone.

Baruch Hashem, the family miraculously escaped unharmed, but they are now left homeless, along with their beloved son Maïmon, who lives with a disability.

For over 45 years, the Lahiany family has given their hearts and souls as the Rebbe’s Shluchim in Grenoble, opening their home and lives to every Jew in need.
Now, in their darkest hour, they need us.

Their apartment is completely destroyed and uninhabitable.
They urgently need a safe place to live, clothing, essentials, and the means to begin again, from nothing.

An emergency fund has been set up to help them rebuild with dignity.

Tax-deductible donation (CERFA) receipts available.

Please give generously:
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Let us come together as one heart to show them they are not alone.

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