Vandalism Damages Sacred Books and Fixtures at Central Tzfat Synagogue

A serious act of vandalism occurred on Sunday at the Ridbaz Synagogue in Tzfat, the main synagogue of the Lithuanian community in the city's southern area. An unidentified individual entered the synagogue around 1:30 PM, damaging sacred books, breaking light fixtures, smashing chairs, and causing extensive destruction throughout the premises, including the synagogue's shelter and restrooms.

Shmuel Levi, the synagogue's caretaker, recounted discovering the damage around 2:15 PM after being alerted by yeshiva students from "Rabbot Ephraim" who heard shouting and found the destruction. The students began cleaning before Levi arrived. Initial community investigations suspect a 16-year-old boy previously involved in a similar vandalism incident at another synagogue in Tzfat.

No police complaint has been filed yet as the community seeks to confirm the suspect's identity before deciding on further action. The community expressed shock over the desecration of the synagogue and the damage to the holy books, hoping the perpetrator will be found soon.