The flames quickly spread to paper containers stored outside and scorched parts of the building’s exterior, including a rolling shutter and the front gate. No injuries were reported.
By Shula Rosen
A man was arrested in the German city of Giessen after a fire was set at the entrance of the local synagogue late Friday in what authorities say appears to be another antisemitic attack, German media reported.
Police detained the 32-year-old suspect near the building shortly after the blaze was reported around 8:35 p.m., and firefighters prevented the flames from spreading inside the synagogue.
Security footage reviewed by investigators shows the man approaching the site, splashing what appears to be an accelerant near the entrance and igniting it.
The same video records him raising his arm in a Nazi salute moments before the fire took hold. The flames quickly spread to paper containers stored outside and scorched parts of the building’s exterior, including a rolling shutter and the front gate. No injuries were reported.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes after a witness contacted local services. Firefighters extinguished the blaze before it reached the interior of the synagogue, while police secured the area and arrested a suspect at the scene.
Authorities said early findings indicate he acted alone, though they cautioned that the full motive is still under examination. Investigators have not yet assessed the total damage.
The incident drew an immediate reaction from the city’s Jewish leadership. Lawrence de Donges, deputy head of the Giessen Jewish community, sharply criticized the authorities’ handling of rising threats.
“An arson attempt occurred Friday night at our synagogue in Giessen,” he said. “We are requesting the interior minister’s help. What do we get besides hot air? Nothing! They wrap the fight against antisemitism, racism, and homophobia in warm words, but there are no actions. It looks like we are returning to 1933.”
German officials have been warning for months about growing assaults on Jewish institutions amid heightened tensions across the country. Law enforcement said additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of the investigation and that the suspect’s background and motivations remain under review.
Police continue to treat the case as potentially part of a wider extremist pattern as they examine whether the man intended to cause more extensive damage.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!