Shabbos Kestenbaum: "Buy a Gun - No One is Coming to Save You"

Prominent Jewish activist and political commentator Shabbos Kestenbaum announced on Monday that he plans to purchase a firearm, encouraging other Americans to do the same in light of rising threats against Jewish communities.

His statement comes one day after the deadly terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach, which claimed at least 15 lives.

In a widely shared post on X (formerly Twitter), Kestenbaum wrote: "Here is a sentence I never once thought in my wildest, deluded dreams I would ever say. It almost pains me to have to write it: I am planning on buying a gun. I encourage most Americans to do the same. No one is coming to protect you except you. Any advice is appreciated."

The post reflects growing concerns among some Jewish Americans about personal safety amid a surge in antisemitic incidents globally.

While Kestenbaum did not explicitly reference the Bondi Beach shooting in the post, timed just hours after the attack, it's obviously connected to the broader context of the massacre, where unarmed civilians were unable to defend themselves against two gunmen targeting the Chabd Hanukkah Party.

The Bondi attack, declared an act of antisemitic terrorism by Australian authorities, has sparked international outrage and debates over self-defense. In Australia, strict gun laws left attendees vulnerable, with bystanders resorting to heroic but unarmed interventions. Kestenbaum's call echoes sentiments from pro-Second Amendment advocates who argue that armed civilians can serve as the first line of defense in these kind of attacks.

Kestenbaum, known for his lawsuit against Harvard University over alleged antisemitism and his speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention, has been vocal about threats facing Jewish communities.

His decision marks a personal shift, highlighting what he describes as the harsh reality that individuals must take responsibility for their own protection.

Responses to his post poured in from supporters offering firearm recommendations, training advice, and encouragement, including suggestions for models like the Glock 19 and calls to seek professional instruction.

As Jewish organizations worldwide increase security for Hanukkah events, Kestenbaum's message accents a debate in the U.S. over gun ownership as a means of self-protection against hate-driven violence.