Security Stops Antisemitic Attack on Michigan Synagogue

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned an antisemitic attack on Temple Israel synagogue in West Bloomfield on Thursday, praising security personnel who neutralized the assailant and protected more than 140 children inside the building's early childhood center.

The incident unfolded in the afternoon when Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a 41-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen born in Lebanon, drove a truck loaded with explosives into the synagogue complex. The vehicle burst into flames upon impact, and Ghazali opened fire before being fatally shot by armed security guards. One guard sustained minor injuries, but no other casualties were reported. Temple Israel, the largest Reform synagogue in the country, confirmed that all students, staff, and teachers were safely evacuated, crediting the guards' quick actions and prior training for averting a larger tragedy.

During a Friday morning press conference at the site, Whitmer described the attack as "antisemitism. It was hate, plain and simple." She highlighted the security team's heroism, stating, "They were selfless in their courage and they saved lives. These heroes threw themselves in harm's way, engaging the suspect." Joined by U.S....