At time, what is omitted from the mainstream media is in itself a story and this appears to be the case regarding the fire in a shul on Nordau Street in Netanya. While graffiti attacks against mosques were rightfully condemned by politicians, clergy and national leaders, silence is the tone when it comes to an attack that resulted in the destruction of a shul and Sifrei Torah. President Peres and others remain silent despite their zealous response when they suspect “settlers” of a price tag attack – but apparently the destruction of a shul is not on their radar.

Police acted quickly, realizing soon after the blaze that it appeared to be an arson attack. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a young male buying gasoline in a station near the shul. Police on Tuesday 22 Menachem Av announced the arrest of a 23-year-old male, a resident of the city. It appears he is also suspected of involvement in another arson attack against a shul on Zalman Schneur Street. Police add the suspect allegedly stole the tzedaka money before setting the shul ablaze.

Ten Sifrei Torah were irreparably damaged or destroyed in the blaze R”L. MK (Yahadut Hatorah) Rav Yisrael Eichler lamented the destruction of the Sifrei Torah, questioning what can lead a young man to perpetrate such a heinous act.

The shul’s gabbai collapsed when he saw the building engulfed in flames. He was transported to Laniado Hospital.

The suspect was remanded on Tuesday and is being held in custody.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)