Reform Synagogue in Jerusalem Vandalized on Yom Kippur

A Reform synagogue in Jerusalem's Baka neighborhood, "Kol HaNeshama," was vandalized on Yom Kippur, with a Pride flag torn down shortly after the Kol Nidre service. This marks the second time a Pride flag has been removed from the premises and the fourth incident targeting the synagogue in just one month. The series of attacks began on August 16, when teenagers broke a window, entered the building, and stole a Pride flag for the first time. On September 13, during Rosh Hashanah, an individual threw eggs at worshippers leaving the synagogue. The following week, on the eve of Yom Kippur, a burglar cut through a window screen to the men's restroom and threw a glass object inside, which shattered.

Complaints have been filed with the police in all instances, and security camera footage has been provided. However, according to the Israeli Movement for Progressive Judaism, no suspects have been apprehended. "Precisely on the night of Yom Kippur, after the Kol Nidre service, they broke into our synagogue and violently tore down the Pride flag," stated Rabbi Maya Leibson, CEO of the Israeli Movement for Progressive Judaism. "This is the fourth time in a month that our community has been attacked, and the police have yet to identify those responsible. This violence is fueled by systematic incitement against Reform Jews, including from elected officials. Those who portray us as traitors to Judaism embolden those who break into our synagogue."

The movement is calling on the police and authorities to treat the incidents seriously, protect the communities, and bring the perpetrators to justice. "We will not be deterred: our synagogues will remain open to everyone, and egalitarian prayer will continue," Leibson added.