An orthodox group called Gur Chassidim has been persecuting 30 messianic Jews in Arad. They have been insulted in public as Nazis, whores and dirty Christians. According to eyewitnesses the police have turned a blind eye or even sided with the persecutors. An assembly hall has been burnt down.

Leaders of the messianic congregation have written a letter of complaint to the police chief but received no answer. The mayor of Arad said he was dependent on the Gur Chassidim. He could not intervene unless there was bloodshed.

The Supreme Court has allowed the Gur Chassidim an annual demonstration in front of the pastor’s house with up to 100 participants.