Teenager Arrested for Vandalizing Synagogue in Afula

The Northern District Prosecutor's Office has filed an indictment against a 15-year-old minor from Afula, who is suspected of breaking into a synagogue and vandalizing holy books. According to the indictment, the minor acted out of animosity towards the Jewish public following an argument with his family. The incident occurred on October 19, when police received a report from someone who opened the synagogue and discovered extensive damage and smoke. Responding officers found holy books strewn on the floor with liquids spilled on them, toilet paper rolls ignited in the bathroom, and the synagogue's charity box stolen. Police quickly identified and arrested the 15-year-old suspect, a resident of Afula. During his interrogation, it was revealed that the motive stemmed from anger towards his family members with whom he had argued shortly before the incident. The police stated the minor committed the acts out of animosity towards the Jewish public. The indictment includes charges of trespassing, intentional property damage motivated by racism, and theft. This incident in Afula follows a series of attacks on synagogues across the country, including an attempted demolition in Rishon LeZion and suspected arson attempts in Netanya. The police emphasized their continued commitment to combating those who harm holy sites and religious symbols.