A historic synagogue in Philadelphia, Congregation Mikveh Israel, was the target of arson, vandalism, and an attempted burglary in three separate incidents that occurred within hours of each other on Tuesday. The Philadelphia Police Department and the FBI are currently investigating the incidents, but there is no indication that they are connected. Video footage showed a man setting a dumpster fire near the synagogue in the early morning, as well as two suspects attempting to break into the synagogue later in the morning. A damaged religious statue with profanity was also discovered. While authorities have not deemed the incidents as an act of hate, local Jewish leaders have called them antisemitic and condemned the vandalism.
Rabbi Yosef Zarnighian, who has been at the synagogue since September 2021, mentioned that the synagogue had not experienced serious attacks in the last three years. Increased antisemitic incidents have been reported in recent years, with a surge following the deadly October 7, 2023, Hamas attack in southern Israel. The Anti-Defamation League documented 8,873 antisemitic incidents across the U.S. in 2023.
Congregation Mikveh Israel, established in 1740, is one of the oldest synagogues in the U.S. and holds a distinguished place in history. It is known as the “Synagogue of the American Revolution” and has deep ties to Philadelphia’s and the nation’s founding. The synagogue, a Spanish and Portuguese congregation, is the oldest formal congregation in Philadelphia.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
