Full Breakdown
Vandalism at Kol HaNeshamah Synagogue in Jerusalem
8/18/2026, 11:44:21 PM
Break-in and Vandalism
Late Saturday night a group of youths entered the Reform congregation Kol HaNeshamah in Jerusalem’s Baka neighborhood. Security footage released by the movement shows at least three individuals smashing a window, moving into the prayer hall, damaging a work of art and removing Pride flags that had been displayed. No congregants were present and no items were reported stolen. Police from Jerusalem’s Moriah station opened an investigation, sent a detective to collect fingerprints, and have not publicly identified suspects or announced arrests.
History of Attacks on the Congregation
Kol HaNeshamah, founded in 1984, has been targeted repeatedly because of its support for LGBTQ inclusion. In 2018 a large rock was hurled into its courtyard during Simchat Torah celebrations, prompting a police complaint. In June 2023 the synagogue suffered two break-ins within weeks; Pride flags displayed for Pride Month were torn down, and intruders entered the sanctuary through a kitchen window, kicking objects and pulling down the flag.
Official Statements & Responses
The Jerusalem police continue to investigate but have not released further details. Mayor Moshe Lion has not commented publicly on the latest break-in.
Criticism of Government Response
Reform rabbi and Knesset member Gilad Kariv labeled the perpetrators “incited hooligans” and accused the Israeli government of fostering hostility toward Reform and other liberal Jewish denominations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This past weekend we experienced a serious incident at our synagogue, when unknown individuals broke into the compound, damaged the building, vandalized a work of art and tore down the Pride flags that represent the community’s values of inclusion and acceptance,” — Debi Shoua Haim, a rabbi at Kol HaNeshamah
- “Precisely during the month of mercy and forgiveness, it is painful to see displays of hatred and violence that have no place in a properly functioning society,” — Shoua Haim, a rabbi at Kol HaNeshamah
- “A hate crime is not a ‘prank,’” — Yossi Havilio, jerusalem deputy mayor
