Escalating assaults on Christians in East Jerusalem reflect a broader trend of intolerance and violence amid rising Israeli nationalism. In the first three months of 2026, Christians reported 31 incidents of harassment in Israel and East Jerusalem.
Approximately 180,000 Christians live in Israel, with about 10,000 residing in East Jerusalem. Last year, there were 113 known attacks on individuals and church property across the region. Among these, 61 physical assaults specifically targeted visible members of the clergy, including monks, nuns, friars, and priests.
Hana Bendcowsky, programme director at the Jerusalem Center for Jewish-Christian Relations, noted, “It’s definitely increased in the last three years.” This increase coincides with allegations from Palestinian Christians that Israeli policies aim to pressure them to leave their land.
Recent incidents include an attack on a French nun that drew condemnation from Israeli officials, who labeled it as “despicable” and stated it has “no place” in Israeli society. However, many Palestinian Christians argue that such statements do not translate into effective protection.
The situation is further complicated by ongoing demolitions of Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem. One recent demolition displaced a family and heightened tensions among local residents. Observers note that Israeli military actions against Christian churches in Gaza and Lebanon are often acknowledged only when international sympathy for Israel is at risk.
Palestinian Christian Shadi Awad remarked, “These practices represent a clear violation of freedom of worship.” Mazen Ghandoor, another Palestinian Christian from Ramallah, added that the situation provokes outrage among Christians globally. George Zeina echoed these sentiments by stating that Israeli policies are designed to force Palestinians out.
As the conflict continues to evolve, many fear for the future of Christianity in Israel. The international community remains watchful for further developments regarding religious freedoms and Palestinian rights.