Burning of 10 Torah scrolls in Netanya • Police arrested suspect

The fire brigade and Israel Police estimate that the which fire broke out at the Shifat Revivim synagogue tonight in Netanya, in which 10 Torah scrolls were burned - was arson.

This morning the police arrested in a special operation, a 20-year old young man, suspected of involvement in the act. He was questioned by police and brought to court where he was remanded until Friday.

The fire broke out shortly after midnight at the synagogue located on Nordau Street, Netanya, opposite the Chabad neighborhood. The synagogue was set on fire and 10 Torah scrolls were burned, some severely.

There were no casualties.

Naftali David, chairman of United Hatzalah - Sharon told painfully to Behadrey Haredim: "Ichud Hatzalah paramedics living in the area received a report on the synagogue which caught fire - and quickly reached the scene.

"Fire crews arrived at the Ark rescued the Torah scrolls, but seven of them were burned down. Three other books were also badly damaged. It was painful to watch. Additionally, many Sifrei Kodesh that were in the synagogue went up in flames."

Fire fighters were able to extinguish the fire.

Police said the suspect of arson night, is suspected of igniting another synagogue two days ago in the area, on Zalman Shazar Street in Netanya.

Specifications which reached Behadrey Haredim indicate that he allegedly purchased flammable material from the Shahar gas station on Nordau Street, where he was documented by security cameras. The two synagogues and gas station are located in the same area.

MK Eli Yishai commented: "I was shocked. Today it was announced that ten Torah scrolls were burned in the city of Netanya, a disgraceful act that one cannot ignore. The police must do everything possible to prevent such incidents in the future. I hope the prosecution and the courts will meet out the law to the end, something which must deliver a message that burning Sifrei Torah is an unacceptable act, unlawful, and especially non-Jewish. I regret that in Israel such a thing passes relatively quietly and does not get publicity and condemnations as it should."

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!