Netanya Residents Protest Demolition Order Near Murdered Rabbi's Grave

Residents of Netanya are protesting a demolition order issued for a compound built near the grave of Rabbi Amos Guetta, who was murdered in the city. An urgent petition has been launched, calling for the regularization of the site, which has become a daily pilgrimage destination for hundreds of people seeking prayer, study, and solace.

The petitioners argue that the structures were erected to provide shelter from the elements and basic amenities for visitors, and that the compound is not used for commercial purposes but solely for religious observance and commemorating the rabbi. They claim that the demolition, ordered by the Israel Land Authority due to extensive, unlicensed construction on approximately 1,400 square meters of land designated for public burial, would be devastating.

Rabbi Guetta was fatally stabbed in Netanya approximately four hours before his attacker was apprehended. His funeral was attended by thousands, reflecting his significant influence as a spiritual leader and counselor to a diverse group of people, including members of the Libyan community and individuals from across the country seeking guidance and blessings.

The petition emphasizes that the demolition should not proceed before dialogue is exhausted, as it could deepen the crisis among his followers and family. The signatories are not seeking to circumvent the law but are requesting leniency and a reasonable timeframe to find a legal solution. They are appealing for a delay to allow negotiations between the Israel Land Authority, the Netanya municipality, the rabbi's family, and his students to find a resolution that permits continued prayer at the site while respecting land use regulations and the law.