What It’s About

Three women in Herzliya were arrested for conspiracy and trespassing after distributing pamphlets in a synagogue. These pamphlets depicted hostages and included the message “Let my people go.” The synagogue is frequented by prominent public figures, including Likud MK Yuli Edelstein.

Why It Matters

This incident underscores the tension between activism and security protocols in Israel. The arrests highlight the challenges facing security measures amid public demonstrations, even in places of worship.

Details

The police detained the women, handcuffing them and bringing them in for interrogation. The initial charges were conspiracy and breaking and entering, later adjusted to trespassing. Despite an initial request for house arrest, the women were released but barred from approaching Edelstein’s home or synagogue for 15 days.

Community Response

Dozens of supporters gathered outside the Gillot police station to protest the arrests, labeling them as political. One of the detainees expressed concern over the incident’s handling, noting that they were merely advocating for the hostages’ release.

Voices from the Scene

“We put up the pamphlets, talked to people, and left,” said one of the arrested women. “It’s scary when you enter a synagogue and get persecuted.” Despite the ordeal, she stated it wouldn’t deter future lawful protests for the hostages’ release.

Public and Organizational Reactions

Several organizations and activists condemned the arrests, describing them as political and a threat to democratic practices. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum also criticized the use of police forces in suppressing advocacy efforts for hostages. Calls were made for a careful review of police conduct and emphasized continued support for the families of hostages.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.