Police detained three Jerusalem residents on suspicion of involvement in repeated vandalism at the Kol HaNeshamah Reform synagogue in the Baka neighborhood. The most recent break-in took place during Yom Kippur between Kol Nidre and morning services, when a pride flag was removed and a window damaged. This was the fourth incident in about a month, following egg attacks during Rosh Hashanah; city officials have voiced shock and pledged support while the investigation continues.
Three Minors Detained After Fourth Vandalism Incident at Jerusalem's Kol HaNeshamah Synagogue
A view of "Kol Haneshama" synagogue building in Jerusalem on July 8, 2013. (photo credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)
Police announced on Wednesday that three minors were arrested on suspicion of taking part in a series of recent vandalism incidents at the Kol HaNeshamah Reform synagogue in Jerusalem's Baka neighborhood. Authorities said all three suspects are residents of Jerusalem and that the investigation is ongoing; investigators expected to ask a court later that day to extend the youths' detention.
Details of the Incidents
The most recent break-in occurred during Yom Kippur, sometime between the end of Kol Nidre services on Sunday night and the start of services on Monday morning. During that intrusion a pride flag that had been displayed in the sanctuary was removed and a window was damaged.
This episode was the fourth incident targeting the long-standing Reform congregation in roughly a month. About a week earlier, worshippers were pelted with eggs outside the synagogue during Rosh Hashanah services.
A damaged window at Kol HaNeshamah synagogue in Jerusalem. (credit: Courtesy of Debi Shoua Haim)
History And Context
Kol HaNeshamah, known for its visible support of the LGBTQ community, has been targeted previously. In 2018 a large rock was thrown into the synagogue courtyard while more than 200 people attended Simchat Torah celebrations; there were no reported injuries at that time.
Official Response
Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio addressed the congregation after Yom Kippur services to reaffirm municipal support. During Kol Nidre the previous night, Rabbi Oded Mazor read a message from Mayor Moshe Lion expressing shock at the attacks and pledging the city's assistance.
Police said the investigation remains active as officers gather evidence and pursue legal measures related to the suspected attacks.
JTA contributed to this report.
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