Maccabee's Deli lights grand menorah on 1st night of Hanukkah, in midst of Israel-Hamas war

Israel's struggle with Hamas hung over the otherwise festive occasion as more than 100 people gathered in front of Maccabee's Kosher Deli in Des Moines to watch the annual lighting of the grand menorah in celebration of the first night of Hanukkah.

"We need a miracle and wonder like it was in those days," Rabbi Yossi Jacobson, the owner of Maccabee's, said at the Thursday event. "We really need it today more than ever."

Maccabee's is the only kosher deli in the state of Iowa, making it a hub of Jewish culture and community in the Des Moines metro.

Jacobson and representatives of Lubavitch of Iowa Torah Center explained the reasons why they celebrate the eight days of Hanukkah and why it matters to them, particularly now in the midst of the war.

"We begin with Israel," Jacobson told the crowd. "We will never forgive our enemies who forced our kids to kill theirs."

The grand menorah was lit by Joseph Cohen, who spoke in Hebrew, singing prayers high above the crowd in a bucket truck.

Maccabee's will have menorah lighting events on each of the eight nights of Hanukkah through Dec. 14 at 5:30 p.m., except for Sunday, when it will be at 4 p.m.

Additionally, hot latkes and donuts will be served each night for those who attend.

Kyle Werner is a reporter for the Register. Reach him at kwerner@dmreg.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Maccabee's Deli in Des Moines celebrates the first night of Hanukkah