The Jewish community of Kazakhstan remains unaffected by the widespread clashes in the country

The mass clashes on the streets of Kazakh cities have not affected the lives of the local Jewish community. The Chief Rabbi of Kazakhstan, Yeshaya Cohen, informed the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress (EAJC) press service of this on Thursday, January 6. According to him, the current events mainly impact regions where the Jewish population is not concentrated. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone for their solidarity, prayers, and well wishes.

The leadership of the EAJC is closely monitoring the situation in the Republic of Kazakhstan, particularly regarding the safety and well-being of the local Jewish community. In light of the ongoing events in the country, EAJC President Dr. Michael Mirilashvili recalled the history of the 20th century, specifically the Second World War, when the Kazakh people provided refuge to Jews on their land.

“We remember that the Kazakhs are a people who took in many Jews during the war—people who fled with nothing but their documents and a single suitcase per family. When, after a grueling journey filled with bombings, hunger, and disease, they reached Kazakh villages, it felt like paradise. The traditions of the nation and the centuries-old laws of hospitality, which dictate sharing everything with a guest—especially one fleeing persecution—lived on. We remember this kindness, we cannot remain indifferent to the events unfolding in Kazakhstan, and we sincerely wish the people of Kazakhstan a peaceful resolution to their conflicts, tranquility, and prosperity,” Dr. Mirilashvili stated.