Palestinian arsonists scorch the biblical heartland of Israel

Arab arsonists set fire to the ancient Susya archaeological site in Judea during Tisha B'Av.

"This is among the activities of our 'peaceful neighbors' when they aren't building on our land," said Natalie Sopinsky, a resident of Susya.

The fire spread threatening the old synagogue ruins. Israel firefighters battled the blaze and saved the synagogue, which had a special place in Jewish history. It served as a refuge for Jews following the revolt against Romans, led by Bar Kochva.

The archaeological finds at the site revealed what Jewish life was like in the post-Temple era.