(Based on information released by the Israel Security Agency)

An investigation by the Israel Security Agency (ISA) and Israel Police led to the indictment of two people for involvement in the 18 June 2015 arson on the premises of the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes at Tabgha on the Sea of Galilee, as well as for additional hate crimes.

The arson, which caused damage to a book storage room, offices and an event hall, was widely condemned by Israeli leaders . That same day, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed ISA Director Yoram Cohen to conduct a full and speedy investigation, noting: “This morning’s outrageous arson attack on a church is an attack on us all. In Israel, freedom of worship is one of our core values and is guaranteed under the law. Those responsible for this despicable crime will face the full force of the law. Hate and intolerance have no place in our society.” President Reuven Rivlin stated (18 July) that “Israel, as a state and a society, is obligated to protect and preserve the holy sites, for all faiths. I can assure you that the relevant authorities will investigate this crime and make every effort to bring those responsible to justice.”

Those indicted are Yinon Reuveni (b. 1995, resident of Ofakim) and Yehuda Asraf (b. 1996, resident of Elad).

Israel views with utmost gravity any intent or action to attack religious sites in the State of Israel.