Daijiworld Media Network – Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Apr 30: An attack on a nun near King David’s Tomb in Jerusalem has drawn strong condemnation from academic and government institutions, with authorities terming the incident a serious breach of the city’s values of religious coexistence.

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, in a statement on Thursday, described the assault as part of a “troubling pattern” of rising hostility toward the Christian community. It said such acts undermine Jerusalem’s long-standing identity as a city rooted in pluralism and open dialogue.

The nun, who is a researcher at the French School of Biblical and Archaeological Research (ÉBAF), was reportedly pushed to the ground and physically assaulted. The university termed the incident not just an attack on an individual but also on the global academic community.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the incident, calling it a “shameful act” that contradicts the principles of respect, coexistence and religious freedom. It expressed solidarity with the victim and the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem.

ÉBAF director Olivier Poquillon likewise denounced the attack, urging authorities to take swift and firm action.

Police said a 36-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the case and is being questioned for a suspected racially motivated assault. Authorities stressed that they maintain zero tolerance towards violence, particularly incidents targeting religious figures.

The incident comes amid growing concern over reported cases of discrimination against Christians in the region, prompting calls for stricter action to safeguard religious harmony.