El Paso synagogues targeted with anti-Semitic vandalism

Update: The InterFaith Alliance of the Southwest says that Temple Mt. Sinai was also targeted with vandalism. The rabbi at Temple Mt. Sinai also confirmed the vandalism.

The alliance also issued a statement on the vandalism. Read the full statement below:

"The InterFaith Alliance of the Southwest is deeply saddened and troubled by the recent vandalism targeted at Temple Mt. Sinai and Congregation B’nai Zion. We want to express our unwavering support and stand in solidarity with them during this challenging time. Acts of hate, such as these, are both profoundly disturbing and completely unacceptable. As an interfaith community, we unequivocally reject any form of violence or intolerance directed at anyone.

Our organization is dedicated to promoting mutual respect, understanding, and compassion across all faiths. We firmly believe that every individual should have the right to live and worship in peace, free from fear of hate, discrimination, or violence. The recent attack on Temple Mt. Sinai and Congregation B’nai Zion is a direct violation of these core values, and we strongly condemn such actions.

It is through unity and compassion that we will overcome hatred and continue to build a stronger, more peaceful community in El Paso. The InterFaith Alliance of the Southwest is committed to supporting anyone impacted by similar acts of hate. We stand for fostering a society that is inclusive, safe, and respectful of all faiths. Together, we will work toward a future where all faith communities can thrive in harmony and peace."

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- A synagogue in West El Paso was found vandalized with graffiti of a swastika drawn on top a Star of David on a sign out on the front.

A photo circulated social media early Thursday morning, where people commented, showing their outrage over vandalism like this happening in El Paso. 

Neighbors say it's unusual to see something like this in the community.

One woman saw the sign on her way to drop off her kids at a bus stop and she said she even teared up because she could not believe what she had seen. 

"It's not okay to teach this to our children, and this I don't condone this in our community, and I don't want this in our community," said Amy Daoud. "I don't believe El Paso stands for this, like I grew up here. I was born and raised here, growing up here, it was never like this."

ABC-7 also spoke with the Anti-Defamation League, which is worried about the rise in antisemitism across the country. 

"When we see what happened here today in El Paso, we've seen what happens when good people stay silent. Right?" said Peter Svarzbein, El Paso community engagement manager for ADL Southwest. "You can disagree with policies in countries, but should never resort to real world violence. And it should never resort to the kind of vandalism and hate that we saw here today."

B'Nai Zion Synagogue President Bill Carbajal released a statement regarding the incident:

"An incident of antisemitic vandalism was discovered on our property today. We reported it to the El Paso Police Department and the FBI, who are actively investigating. Additionally, we are coordinating with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Secure Community Network to ensure a comprehensive response. The safety and security of our congregation remain our highest priority." - Bill Carbajal, President, B'nai Zion Synagogue.

El Paso Police and FBI are currently investigating the incident to see if this could potentially be a hate crime.