Jerusalem Reform synagogue vandalized, Pride flags torn down in latest attack

Vandals broke into the Kol HaNeshamah Reform synagogue in Jerusalem's Baka neighborhood over the weekend, smashing a window, damaging artwork, and tearing down Pride flags. Security footage shows at least three people entering after midnight; no congregants were present. Rabbi Debi Shoua Haim told JTA the congregation turned over footage to police, who opened an investigation. MK Gilad Kariv called the perpetrators "incited hooligans" and accused the government of contributing to hostility toward liberal Jewish denominations. No suspects or motive have been announced.

Vandals broke into the Kol HaNeshamah Reform synagogue in Jerusalem's Baka neighborhood over the weekend, damaging the building and artwork and tearing down Pride flags displayed by the congregation. Shortly after midnight, a group of youths entered the grounds, smashed a window, and made their way into the prayer hall. Security footage released by the Reform movement shows at least three people at the site; no congregants were present at the time. Rabbi Debi Shoua Haim told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that the congregation turned over the footage to police, who opened an investigation through Jerusalem's Moriah station. A detective visited the synagogue on Saturday to examine the footage and collect fingerprints. The synagogue has been targeted before over its LGBTQ+ support, including a 2018 rock-throwing incident during Simchat Torah celebrations and two break-ins in June 2023 in which Pride flags were torn down. MK Gilad Kariv, a Reform rabbi from the Democrats party, called those responsible "incited hooligans" and accused the Israeli government of contributing to hostility toward Reform and other liberal Jewish denominations. Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio described the incident as part of a "wave of hate crimes against the LGBTQ community in Jerusalem." Police have not publicly identified the perpetrators or declared a motive, and no arrests have been announced.