A Christian nun affiliated with the French School of Biblical and Archaeological Research was physically assaulted on Tuesday afternoon near the Cenacle in Jerusalem.
The incident occurred in the vicinity of King David’s Tomb, a site frequently visited by pilgrims and tourists.
According to reports from church officials and the al-Baidar Human Rights Organization, the nun was walking through the Bab al-Nabi Dawud area when she was approached and struck by an individual.
The physical attack resulted in injuries that necessitated immediate medical attention for the victim.
Israeli police confirmed they received reports of the assault shortly after it occurred.
By Wednesday, authorities announced the arrest of a 36-year-old Jerusalem resident suspected of carrying out the attack.
Law enforcement officials are currently investigating the incident as a potential hate crime, citing possible racial or religious motivations behind the violence.
While the suspect remains in custody, police have not yet released further details regarding his identity or specific background.
The assault has drawn sharp condemnation from various religious and human rights organizations.
Church leaders expressed deep concern, noting that Christian clergy and institutions in Jerusalem have faced a troubling increase in harassment, vandalism, and physical violence in recent years.
Advocacy groups argue that these incidents represent a recurring pattern of aggression directed toward religious minorities in the region.
They contend that the frequency of such attacks has created a pervasive climate of fear among the local Christian community.
Furthermore, critics suggest that a perceived lack of accountability for previous acts of violence has emboldened perpetrators.
The al-Baidar Human Rights Organization highlighted the event as part of a broader escalation of violations targeting civilians in and around the Old City.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry has officially condemned the assault and extended sympathies to the injured nun.
The ministry’s statement reflects the gravity with which the state is treating the incident amid rising regional tensions.
As the investigation continues, the safety of religious figures and the protection of historic sites remain central concerns for community leaders.
The incident underscores the ongoing fragility of coexistence in one of the world’s most contested cities.