President Isaac Herzog backed Jerusalem’s Kol Haneshama Reform community after four reported synagogue incidents in just over a month, telling its leaders before Sukkot he would discuss them with police. Three minors were arrested on suspicion of causing damage.
The incidents began Aug. 16, when youths broke a window, entered the prayer hall, damaged artwork and removed pride flags. Eggs were thrown at worshipers on Sept. 13; around Yom Kippur, intruders threw a glass object inside and later removed another pride flag. No injuries were reported in the egg-throwing incident. The congregation said it filed police complaints and provided security footage.
Herzog’s office said he stressed the importance of freedom of worship, and the community said he asked about the police investigation and its sense of security. The Reform movement alleged the incidents were fueled by incitement against Reform Jews; its director-general, Anna Kislanski, said its synagogues would remain open to all. The congregation said repeated pride-flag removals led it to believe its religious identity and support for LGBTQ inclusion were targeted.
