In July 2024, the Jewish community in Buenos Aires, Argentina, will commemorate 30 years since the devastating terrorist attack on the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish Community Center. Eli Cohen, The Jewish Agency’s Shaliach (Israeli emissary) to South America at the time, recalled the dramatic days following the bombing and the community’s long recovery process.
On July 18, 1994, a truck loaded with explosives detonated outside the AMIA building, killing 85 people and injuring hundreds. The attack, attributed to Hezbollah and Iranian operatives, left an indelible mark on Argentina’s Jewish community and the world, and came two years after an attack on the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires. Despite extensive investigations, the perpetrators of the AMIA bombing have never been brought to justice.
Eli, who arrived in Argentina in 1993, was on-site within hours of the explosion. He and other Jewish Agency emissaries, along with community members, aided in rescue efforts until the arrival of Israeli emergency teams. The attack profoundly shook the community, instilling deep fears of antisemitism and terror. Many considered abandoning Jewish institutions, creating a significant trust crisis between community members and leaders.
The Jewish Agency played a crucial role in the recovery of the Argentinian Jewish community. They aimed to restore normalcy swiftly, resuming youth movement activities to rebuild trust. Specialists from Israel were brought in to create educational programs, and both The Jewish Agency and Keren Hayesod contributed to constructing a new community building.
As the community marks 30 years since the bombing, Eli emphasized the ongoing struggles today against antisemitism and terrorism, drawing parallels between the AMIA bombing and recent attacks. He stressed the importance of remembering these events and continuing the fight for Jewish and Zionist values.
On the morning of July 18, 2024, the Jewish community in Buenos Aires held a memorial ceremony at the attack site, honoring the victims and hoping for a safer future.
