In a shocking turn of events, New York building officials have issued emergency work orders to stabilize a historic synagogue and its neighboring structures after the discovery of an illicit underground tunnel beneath the sanctuary. The tunnel, which stretches for 60 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 5 feet in height, was found underneath the global headquarters of the Chabad Lubavitch movement, an important Jewish site. The tunnel extends under several buildings in the vicinity, causing concern for the stability of the structures above.

The investigation conducted by the city's Department of Buildings revealed that the tunnel was built without approval or permits from the city. City inspectors found dirt, tools, and debris inside the tunnel, indicating that it was a recent construction. The excavation work to create the tunnel has caused structural issues in two single-story buildings, resulting in partial evacuation orders for safety reasons. Additionally, a full vacate order has been issued for a two-story brick building located behind the synagogue.

The discovery of the tunnel has sparked controversy within the Chabad Lubavitch community. Supporters of the tunnel claim that they were carrying out an “expansion” plan envisioned by the former head of the Chabad movement, Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson. However, the spokesperson for Chabad, Rabbi Motti Seligson, condemned the tunnel as a rogue act of vandalism committed by a group of misguided young men. He expressed his disapproval of the "extremists who broke through the wall to the synagogue, vandalizing the sanctuary, in an effort to preserve their unauthorized access."

The situation escalated on Monday when the group's leaders attempted to seal off the tunnel. Supporters of the tunnel staged a protest that turned violent as police intervened and made several arrests. Footage captured the chaotic scene, with individuals shoving officers, throwing desks, and scattering prayer books. One officer was seen deploying an irritating spray to control the crowd.

The Chabad-Lubavitch world headquarters in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, is a deeply revered site that attracts thousands of visitors each year, including international students and religious leaders. The building's Gothic Revival facade, which is immediately recognizable to adherents of the Chabad movement, has inspired replicas worldwide. The discovery of the tunnel and the subsequent unrest has deeply distressed the Lubavitch movement and the Jewish community worldwide. The building has been closed pending a structural safety review, and efforts are underway to restore the sanctity and decorum of the holy place.

The owners of the buildings have already engaged an architect, engineer, and contractor to address the structural issues caused by the tunnel. The city's Department of Buildings has also taken enforcement actions against the property owners for the illegal work. Andrew Rudansky, a spokesperson for the buildings department, emphasized the importance of occupant safety and the need to stabilize the buildings above the tunnel.

This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by historic sites and the importance of adhering to proper building regulations. The investigation into the tunnel's construction and the subsequent actions taken by the city's Department of Buildings will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Chabad Lubavitch movement and its global headquarters in New York City.