TABGHA, Israel (AP) β A fire has ripped through one of the most famous Catholic churches in the Holy Land, damaging the roof and burning prayer books in what authorities believe is an attack by Jewish extremists.
Israel police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld says the fire broke out at the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish in the middle of the night, causing extensive damage to the inside and outside of the building.
A passage from a Jewish prayer, calling for the elimination of idol worship, was found in red spray paint on a wall outside the church.
Police said they initially arrested 16 youths, all religious Jewish seminary students from West Bank settlements, but released them shortly thereafter.
The church is one of the most popular stops for Christians visiting the Holy Land, marking the traditional spot of Jesus feeding thousands of people with a few loaves and fish.
Sound: Upcoming
