Extremists Disrupt Public Prayer Service in Bnei Brak, Cut Power

A public prayer service organized by the Religious Council in Bnei Brak devolved into chaos Tuesday night when extremist elements clashed with attendees and disrupted the event. The service, held at the "Chanichei Hayeshivot" synagogue and study hall in the city's Sofrim complex, featured cantor and liturgical poet Asher Ben David.

During the prayers, some attendees attempted to film the proceedings. According to reports, a group of extremists confronted the videographers, shouting and attempting to block the filming. The confrontation escalated when these individuals cut the synagogue's electricity, plunging the venue into darkness and forcing the continuation of the prayers in the dark.

Eyewitnesses stated that the power remained out for an extended period, significantly disrupting the service. Concurrently, a separate group of yeshiva students and married students left the synagogue during the prayers, reportedly displeased with the musical arrangements incorporated into the service. This group proceeded to hold their own separate prayer service outside the building.

Advocate Shimon Shemueli, who attended the event, condemned the actions, stating, "Never give in to extremists, do not fear them under any circumstances." He described the disruption, including the cutting of power and the subsequent separate prayer service, as the actions of "delusional, injured people." He emphasized that the event was intended as a public gathering.