Jerusalem Officials Demolish Rabbi's Sukkah Overnight Amid Dispute

Jerusalem municipal inspectors, accompanied by Border Police, demolished a large sukkah erected near the historic windmill in the Yemin Moshe neighborhood early Monday morning. The sukkah was used by Rabbi Shlomo Yehuda Beri, known as "The Yanuka," and his followers for prayers and study sessions.

According to sources close to the rabbi, inspectors arrived around 1:30 AM on the first night of the Sukkot holiday and began dismantling the structure without providing a clear explanation. Attempts by those present to explain that the sukkah had received necessary approvals were reportedly ignored.

Supporters of the rabbi claim the demolition caused significant damage, breaking parts of the sukkah beyond repair. They also allege that inspectors confiscated additional items, including tables and chairs, which were not part of the structure itself.

Sources close to the rabbi stated that prior to erecting the sukkah, they had contacted relevant parties, including the Jerusalem Foundation and neighborhood representatives, and believed they had obtained the required permissions. They expressed confusion and anger over the late-night demolition, questioning the authority and basis for the action.

The Jerusalem Municipality stated that the matter is under review by their professional staff. They confirmed that permission for a sukkah in Yemin Moshe was not granted for the current Sukkot holiday, citing resident complaints received after the sukkah was erected last year. The municipality added that they would enforce the prohibition using all available means if it were violated.

It is unclear if a specific resident complaint preceded the demolition, though sources close to the rabbi raised this possibility.