First Scientology centre in the Middle East opens in Israel

Dr Rimon Kasher, from the Department of Biblical Studies at Bar-Ilan university, said the centre made an important contribution to the region.

“I believe Scientology is the only religion that can create a connection or even affinity between the different faiths and the only one that can relieve the tension between religions.

“It is my hope that this will mark a turning point for not just the entire Israeli society, but for all of the Middle East.”

David Miscavage, Scientology's chairman of the Religious Technology Centre, spoke at the opening ceremony.

Israeli architect Eyal Ziv worked on the centre’s Alhambra theatre and called it a “Jaffa jewel.”