Synagogue of former chief rabbi targeted by arsonists
A Jerusalem synagogue frequented by former Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef was deliberately set ablaze early Sunday morning in what authorities are investigating as an antisemitic hate crime.
The fire erupted at approximately 4:15 a.m. at the “Or Chaviv” synagogue in the city’s Sanhedria neighbourhood. Firefighters responded rapidly, containing the blaze and successfully preserving sacred texts with minimal property damage. No injuries were reported.
The arson investigation intensified when police discovered Christian crosses spray-painted on the synagogue premises and a nearby residential building door shortly before the fire.
Fire and Rescue Services commander Oren Avrahami said his crews “reached the scene in minutes, spotting smoke from the roof” and “worked relentlessly to contain the fire.” He emphasised
Israel’s then-Chief Sephardi Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef at a Holocaust Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Day in Jerusalem on April 17, 2023. Photo by Yoav Dudkevitch/TPS
they preserved the sacred texts, with firefighters confirming, “The holy books were rescued intact.”
Rabbi Yosef, who served as Israel’s Chief Sephardic Rabbi from 2013-2024, regularly prays at this synagogue. Reports indicate that his personal chair was among the items damaged in the fire.
The incident prompted swift condemnation from across Israel’s political spectrum. Religious Affairs Minister Michael Malchieli called the events “shocking scenes with antisemitic signs in the synagogue where Maran Rishon LeZion, Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef Shlita, prays.” He urged that “all the various religious leaders” condemn such acts and demanded police “apply the severity of the law against the criminals.”
Interior Minister Moshe Arbel declared: “This antisemitic attack on Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef’s synagogue marks a dangerous escalation and strikes at a national symbol. We must unite to eradicate division and hatred.” He said that the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) would join the investigation of “this heinous crime.”
Opposition leader Yair Lapid stated: “I unequivocally condemn the desecration of the Or Chaviv synagogue, where Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef prays. The police must act quickly to apprehend those responsible and ensure they face the full weight of the law.”
The Jerusalem District Criminal Investigation Department has opened an investigation. The Police said they are treating both the arson and vandalism as interconnected hate crimes.
