The synagogue where former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef prays was set on fire early Sunday in what authorities suspect is an antisemitic attack. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze and rescue sacred texts unharmed.
The incident occurred at the "Or Chaviv" synagogue on Yam Suf Street in Jerusalem's Sanhedria neighborhood. Christian symbols, including crosses, were spray-painted at the scene. Police and fire crews responded swiftly, and no injuries were reported.
Video: The arson attack in Jerusalem / Credit: Israel Police
The fire broke out around 4:15 a.m., with smoke detected emanating from the synagogue's acoustic ceiling. Shortly before, police received a report of a cross painted on a nearby home's door. Investigators are collecting evidence and eyewitness accounts.
Religious Affairs Minister Michael Malchieli called the incident "shocking" and urged leaders of all faiths to denounce such "heinous acts." He demanded that police act decisively against the perpetrators.
Fire commander Oren Avrahami said crews arrived within minutes and prevented the fire from spreading, ensuring minimal damage to property and no harm to religious artifacts.
Interior Minister Moshe Arbel echoed this sentiment, declaring, "This antisemitic attack on Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef's synagogue marks a dangerous escalation and strikes at a national symbol. We must unite to eradicate division and hatred. I have urged the Shin Bet to join the police in investigating this heinous crime."
Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the act, saying, "I unequivocally condemn the desecration of the Or Chaviv synagogue, where Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef prays. The police must act quickly to apprehend those responsible and ensure they face the full weight of the law."
Senior Chief Oren Avrahami, leading the firefighting efforts, stated, "We reached the scene in minutes, spotting smoke from the roof. Our team worked relentlessly to contain the fire, preserving the sacred texts with minimal damage to the property."
