NORTHAMPTON — An Israeli flag has been burned at a Northampton synagogue, the Daily Hampshire Gazette reports. The damage was reported around 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Congregation B'nai Israel at 253 Prospect St.

Police said the damage appeared to be from a direct flame, possibly from a cigarette lighter. A small portion of the flag, which was attached to a pole, burned, leaving the rest intact.

Northampton Police Detective Alan Borowski said there was no graffiti or message to indicate motivation, and that the matter is currently being investigated as a vandalism case, not a hate crime.

The damaged flag will be buried according to custom. Thursday a new, undamaged flag was seen flying over the synagogue's front lawn, the Gazette reports.

Rabbi Justin David on Thursday sent his congregation a message via email, which can be found below:

Dear Friends,

By now, you may have heard or seen that an attempt was made to burn our Israeli flag. The damage was minimal, another flag is being ordered, but the incident is disturbing.

We fly our flags as symbols and reminders of our relationships both to American society and the State of Israel. Such relationships comprise an array of feelings and positions, and they are relationships that evoke both a sense of pride and obligation.

Certainly, there are those in our community - in our synagogue community as well as Northampton generally - who are critical of Israel's war in Gaza. But while people are entitled to their opinions and welcome to express them, there is no excuse for committing damage to property. Critique is legitimate. Vandalism is criminal.

Our Executive Director, Ben Cuperman, has notified the police of this incident. The Northampton police has been patrolling our premises and now there will be additional surveillance by the police to keep an eye on the CBI building. We will insure that the building is secure so that CBI can be a place of joyful discovery and spiritual refuge.

We pray for peace in our community, in Israel, and for all humanity. May we see each other soon in a time of meaningful prayer, reflection and celebration.

B'shalom,

Rabbi Justin David