Israeli President Isaac Herzog recently spoke with leaders of Jerusalem's Kol HaNeshama Reform synagogue to express his solidarity and support following a series of attacks against the congregation. The call was made on the eve of the Sukkot holiday, and Herzog stressed the importance of freedom of worship for all in Israel. The synagogue had been targeted by vandals and harassers over recent weeks, including break-ins, vandalism, and homophobic comments.
The attacks on Kol HaNeshama began in August when vandals broke into the synagogue, smashed a window, and tore down a Pride flag. The incidents continued over the holidays, with youths throwing eggs at worshippers on Rosh Hashanah and plates being thrown through a window around Yom Kippur. An intruder also broke in and tore down a Pride flag and a rainbow-coloured sign. The congregation welcomed Herzog's call and his condemnation of the attacks.
Jerusalem police arrested three minors suspected of involvement in the incidents and charged them with property damage and insult to religion. Herzog's office confirmed that he had spoken with the police commander and was assured that the investigation was being taken seriously. The police are examining whether someone else was behind the youths' actions. The congregation was grateful for Herzog's concern and appreciation.
Rabbi Oded Mazor of Kol HaNeshama described Herzog's call as a welcome show of support. Mazor contrasted Herzog's actions with those of Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion, who had not spoken out publicly against the attacks. Mazor expressed disappointment that the mayor had not condemned the incidents, suggesting that it may reflect the mayor's political considerations given the influence of Haredi parties in Jerusalem politics.
Mayor Lion's office rejected the suggestion that political considerations explained his failure to condemn the attacks publicly. The office stated that the city had deliberately avoided drawing attention to the synagogue to prevent escalation. Lion did contact the Jerusalem district police commander to request additional forces for the synagogue and issued a statement on Sunday condemning recent violence in the city.
The congregation invited Herzog to a solidarity event at Kol HaNeshama on Wednesday, organised with Jerusalem communities from across the Jewish denominational spectrum. The gathering aimed to express support for the congregation and opposition to violence and fanaticism. Rabbi Shoua Haim of Kol HaNeshama echoed Mazor's call for public statements from both the government and Jerusalem's leadership to stop incitement.
The incidents at Kol HaNeshama have sparked widespread condemnation. Herzog's expression of solidarity with the congregation was seen as a significant show of support. The event on Wednesday aims to promote unity and opposition to violence.
Key points
- President Herzog condemns attacks on Jerusalem's Kol HaNeshama Reform synagogue.
- Three minors arrested for involvement in incidents targeting the synagogue.
- Congregation welcomes Herzog's show of support amid attacks.
