#HolyLand #Jerusalem – A Catholic nun was violently assaulted on Tuesday afternoon on April 28th, 2026, near King David’s Tomb on Mount Zion in Jerusalem’s Old City.
The nun, a researcher affiliated with the French School of Biblical and Archaeological Research (École Biblique), was walking in the area when a man approached her from behind. He pushed her, causing her to fall and hit her head, then allegedly kicked her while she was on the ground. The victim sustained a visible bruise / injury to her forehead / temple that required medical attention.
Israeli police responded quickly, arresting a 36-year-old Jerusalem resident the same day/evening. He is being held and questioned on suspicion of racist (hate-motivated) assault. Police released footage of the arrest and emphasized that they treat violence against religious figures with the “utmost seriousness.”
The director of her institute, Olivier Poquillon, described it as an “unprovoked assault” and referred to it as “sectarian violence.” Israeli authorities, including the Foreign Ministry, condemned the attack, reaffirmed commitment to religious freedom and coexistence in Jerusalem, and extended sympathies to the nun and the Latin Patriarchate.
This incident has highlighted ongoing tensions regarding the safety of Christians and clergy in Jerusalem. Reports from Christian institutions and some media note a pattern of harassment, spitting incidents, and occasional violence against Christiana, especially in certain ultranationalist and Zionist areas, which has increased in recent years amid broader regional conflicts.
The police investigation remains ongoing, and the suspect’s detention has been extended at this time.
Image: The Old City of Jerusalem in 2014.
