Afghan Man Accused of Arson Attack on German Synagogue

A synagogue in Wuppertal, western Germany, was targeted in an arson attack on Thursday by a man of Afghan origin. Local police reported that the synagogue's staff quickly extinguished the fire, resulting in minor damage to the building and no injuries.

Initial investigations suggest the 37-year-old suspect attempted to set fire to a side entrance of the synagogue. The chairman of the Jewish community in Wuppertal confirmed the incident. The suspect is currently being questioned as the investigation continues. The synagogue is under constant police protection, which may have aided in the swift identification of the suspect, whose identity has not been released.

Israel's Embassy in Germany reacted to the incident on X, stating, "Thank God no one was hurt. This is a direct result of media coverage against Israel and incitement against Jews. Those doing the dirty work are not interested in academic discussions about the difference between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism. They know exactly whom they hate and act accordingly. What we need now is a firewall against anti-Semitism and zero tolerance for incidents of this kind."