Izmir – Etz Hayim synagogue in Izmir (Smyrna) was targeted in a racist attack, according to information received on October 28. The entrance facade of the synagogue, including the front door, was defaced with red spray paint graffiti saying “Killer Israel” in Turkish. Explanatory plaques next to the door were also vandalized with red paint, as reported by Avlaremoz.
The perpetrator was caught on security cameras and has been detained by police and remanded to the prosecutor’s office.
Although no longer actively used for worship, Etz Hayim serves as a community center. Concerns over security following the recent Israel-Hamas war had led to the cancellation of all events at Etz Hayim, as well as synagogues in Istanbul.
