Battle Over Bnei Brak's Biggest Synagogue Reaches Breaking Point

Police forces arrived this morning at the Kiryat Herzog synagogue complex, escalating fears among Bnei Brak's synagogue administrators about the imminent demolition of dozens of religious buildings. The complex, which received 28 demolition orders in recent months, includes the 'Ziv Yehuda' synagogue, known as "The Itzkowitz of the North" - a major prayer center serving thousands of worshippers daily.

At the heart of the controversy is a land dispute where authorities claim the synagogue was built on "green space." Synagogue officials counter that before construction, the area was a crime hotspot and nuisance to local residents. While administrators previously agreed to remove planned permanent structure columns, the site continues to operate using large tents that serve the community around the clock.

"It's absurd that in a Jewish state we have to fear such persecution," says Shimon, a local resident. "What did we ask for? A place to pray and study. This is our community's lifeline."

Under rabbinical guidance, community members are preparing to prevent any demolition attempts. "We're watching children cry in front of police officers, asking why their prayer space is being closed," one administrator shared. "If you move forward with aggressive unilateral actions, the public will fight this to the end."

Community leaders have appealed to ultra-Orthodox political parties and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to intervene: "In a Jewish state, destroying holy places is unthinkable. If you don't step in now, public trust will be irreparably damaged."

The synagogue administration has indicated willingness to negotiate if authorities pursue dialogue, but warns of determined resistance against any unilateral demolition attempts.

Behadrei Haredim contributed to this article.